ASUS TUF Gaming A520M vs ASUS TUF Gaming Z790

Overview of ASUS TUF Gaming A520M-PLUS and ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi

The ASUS TUF Gaming A520M-PLUS is priced at $99.99, making it about 50% cheaper than the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi, which costs $199.99. Both motherboards are engineered for gaming but cater to different user needs and preferences. The A520M-PLUS is built for AMD processors while the Z790-Plus targets Intel CPUs, highlighting their distinct architectures and capabilities.

Performance Comparison

In terms of performance, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is designed for the latest Intel 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors, offering features like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory support. The A520M-PLUS, on the other hand, supports AMD's 3rd Gen Ryzen processors, making it suitable for users who prefer AMD's architecture. The Z790-Plus is equipped with an enhanced power solution featuring a 16+1 DrMOS layout, ensuring maximum durability and performance during intense gaming sessions, while the A520M-PLUS provides solid performance with military-grade components.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling is crucial for maintaining performance during extended gaming sessions. The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi excels with an advanced cooling system, including a VRM heatsink, fanless PCH heatsink, and M.2 heatsink. This robust setup allows for efficient heat dissipation, thereby enhancing stability. In contrast, the A520M-PLUS includes a large VRM heatsink and Fan Xpert 2+ technology, providing adequate cooling but not to the extent of the more advanced Z790-Plus.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity options play a vital role in a gaming motherboard's usability. The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi boasts superior connectivity with four M.2 slots and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C support, alongside Thunderbolt 4 (USB4) compatibility. This makes it highly adaptable for high-speed storage solutions and peripherals. Meanwhile, the A520M-PLUS offers a more basic setup with one M.2 slot and USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, which may limit future upgrade options for users seeking extensive connectivity.

Gaming Features

When it comes to gaming-centric features, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi includes WiFi 6 and 2.5Gb LAN for ultra-fast networking capabilities, essential for competitive gaming. The A520M-PLUS also supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi, but lacks the speed and efficiency of WiFi 6, which can provide a noticeable difference in online gaming. Both motherboards feature TUF LANGuard and TurboLAN technology, enhancing network stability, but the Z790-Plus offers a more comprehensive set of gaming features.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetic design can enhance the overall build experience. The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi showcases a modern geometric design with customizable Aura RGB lighting, appealing to gamers who prioritize aesthetics. The A520M-PLUS also includes Aura Sync RGB lighting, but its design is more utilitarian compared to the Z790-Plus. Gamers looking for a visually striking build may prefer the Z790-Plus for its more refined and contemporary look.

Price Comparison

The price disparity between the two motherboards is significant, with the ASUS TUF Gaming A520M-PLUS retailing at $99.99, while the Z790-Plus is priced at $199.99, making it about 100% more expensive. This price difference reflects the advanced features and capabilities of the Z790-Plus, aimed at high-end gaming setups. However, for budget-conscious users or those building entry-level systems, the A520M-PLUS offers excellent value without compromising essential gaming features.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the ASUS TUF Gaming A520M-PLUS and the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi ultimately hinges on your specific needs. If you're looking for an economical choice that supports AMD's Ryzen processors and provides solid performance, the A520M-PLUS is a great option at $99.99. However, if you're aiming for the latest technology with outstanding performance capabilities for Intel’s latest CPUs, and don’t mind spending $199.99, the Z790-Plus is well worth the investment.