ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W – AMD B650 AM5 ATX vs GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX

Overview of the ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W

The ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W is priced at $149.99, making it an attractive option for gamers and PC builders looking for a feature-rich motherboard at a competitive price. This motherboard is designed for the future of AI computing, supporting AMD's latest Ryzen processors with an AM5 socket. With a robust power design of 8+2+1 phases and a six-layer PCB, it ensures stable performance under load. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E and PCIe 5.0 technology offers ultrafast connectivity, and the board comes equipped with multiple USB ports, including USB 10Gbps Type-C.

Overview of the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX

The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX is available for $189.99, representing a higher price point than the ASUS board. This motherboard supports Intel's latest 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen Core processors, making it a versatile option for Intel users. It features a commanding power design with a 16+1+2 phase digital VRM solution that enhances stability and performance. Like the ASUS option, it also supports PCIe 5.0 and has advanced connectivity features, including USB-C 3.2 and Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring it meets the demands of modern gaming and computing.

Performance Comparison

In terms of performance, both motherboards are designed to handle high-demand applications and gaming. The ASUS B650E MAX features an 8+2+1 phase power design, which provides stable power delivery for demanding activities. On the other hand, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS boasts a more robust 16+1+2 phase power design, potentially offering better thermal management and efficiency during intense gaming sessions. Both motherboards support DDR5 memory, allowing for faster data rates and improved performance. However, the GIGABYTE may have an edge in power management due to its superior VRM design.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is a crucial factor for modern motherboards, and both the ASUS and GIGABYTE boards excel in this area. The ASUS B650E MAX comes equipped with Wi-Fi 6E and a Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet port, alongside multiple USB 10Gbps Type-A and Type-C ports, ensuring users can connect various devices without hassle. Meanwhile, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS also features Wi-Fi 6E but includes USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C, offering excellent data transfer rates. Both motherboards provide ample M.2 slots for high-speed storage, with the ASUS offering three PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and the GIGABYTE having four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots.

Cooling Solutions

Effective cooling solutions are vital for maintaining optimal performance in gaming systems. The ASUS B650E MAX has comprehensive cooling features, including VRM and M.2 heatsinks, along with hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 2+ for customizable cooling management. The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS also emphasizes thermal management with its M.2 Thermal Guard III and fully covered MOSFET heatsinks, which should help keep temperatures in check during high-performance scenarios. Both motherboards are designed to ensure that users can push their systems without overheating.

Aesthetics and Design

Aesthetics can play a significant role in a build, and both motherboards have their unique design elements. The ASUS B650E MAX features a striking white PCB that can enhance the look of a build, especially when paired with RGB lighting. It also includes three addressable RGB Gen 2 headers that can be synced with ASUS Aura Sync for a cohesive lighting experience. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS features RGB Fusion lighting, which also allows for customization but may appeal to those who prefer a darker color scheme. Ultimately, the choice may come down to personal taste in design.

Price Comparison

When comparing prices, the ASUS B650E MAX at $149.99 is about 21% cheaper than the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX, which retails for $189.99. This price difference makes the ASUS board a more budget-friendly option, especially for those who may not need the additional features offered by the GIGABYTE model. However, if the extra power phases and connectivity options of the GIGABYTE justify the cost for your specific needs, it may be worth the investment.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W and the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX ultimately depends on your needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution with excellent features for AMD processors, the ASUS B650E MAX is a fantastic choice at $149.99. Conversely, if you prefer Intel's latest processors and seek more powerful VRM capabilities and additional connectivity options, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS at $189.99 might be worth the extra investment. Consider your processor preference, budget, and specific feature needs when making your decision.