ASUS TUF Gaming B650 vs GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX

Introduction to the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi and GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX

When considering a new motherboard, both the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi and the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX stand out for their exceptional features. The ASUS TUF motherboard is priced at $144.00, while the GIGABYTE option comes in at $189.99, making it about 32% more expensive. Both motherboards cater to different processor families, with ASUS targeting AMD Ryzen and GIGABYTE designed for Intel Core processors. This article will delve into various aspects of both products to help you determine which motherboard fits your needs better.

Compatibility with Processors

The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi is designed to support the AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors, making it an excellent choice for AMD enthusiasts. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX supports Intel's 14th, 13th, and 12th generation Core processors. This distinction is crucial for consumers as it directly influences the choice of CPU they can pair with the motherboard. The compatibility with different processor families can also affect performance and user experience, with each brand offering unique advantages in gaming and productivity tasks.

Power Delivery and Design

Power delivery is crucial for stability and performance, especially during intensive tasks like gaming. The ASUS TUF features a robust 12 plus 2 teamed power stages designed for stable power delivery, which is ideal for gaming. The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX takes it a step further with a commanding 16+1+2 Power Phase design, ensuring a strong and consistent power supply to the CPU. This means that while both motherboards are equipped to handle demanding processes, the GIGABYTE option may provide slightly better power management, particularly for overclocking enthusiasts.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another significant consideration, and both motherboards offer impressive next-gen features. The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi includes M.2 PCIe 5.0, USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, and WiFi 6, along with 2.5 Gb Ethernet for fast networking. On the other hand, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX also includes PCIe 5.0 and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C, but it features four M.2 slots for enhanced storage capability. This means that if you are looking for extensive storage options, the GIGABYTE motherboard could be the better choice due to its additional M.2 slots.

Cooling Solutions

Both motherboards emphasize effective cooling solutions, but they approach it differently. The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi comes equipped with enlarged VRM and PCH heatsinks, hybrid fan headers, and a comprehensive cooling system that includes Fan Xpert 2 plus utility. This design ensures that the motherboard remains cool even under load, which is essential for maintaining performance. Conversely, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX features a cutting-edge thermal design with M.2 Thermal Guard III and fully covered MOSFET heatsinks, ensuring that heat distribution is effectively managed. Both provide excellent cooling, but GIGABYTE's design may offer slightly enhanced thermal management for high-performance builds.

Gaming Features

For gamers, both motherboards come packed with features designed to enhance the gaming experience. The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi includes two-way AI Noise Cancelation for clearer communication and encompasses gaming-centric technologies such as TUF LANGuard. Meanwhile, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX focuses on delivering superior gaming performance, emphasizing its upgraded power design and connectivity options that can elevate the gaming experience. While both options cater to gamers, the ASUS motherboard includes features specifically aimed at improving communication during gaming sessions.

Aesthetic and RGB Features

Aesthetics can be an important factor for many PC builders, and both motherboards offer appealing designs. The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi features Aura Sync RGB effects, allowing users to customize their lighting for a personalized look. The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX also includes RGB Fusion, enabling users to synchronize lighting across their gaming setup. While both motherboards provide RGB customization, the ASUS board's stylish edge lighting design may appeal more to those who prioritize visual flair in their builds.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi and the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX is notable, with the former priced at $144.00 and the latter at $189.99. This means that the ASUS option is approximately 17% cheaper than the GIGABYTE motherboard. For budget-conscious consumers or those who do not require the additional features of the GIGABYTE board, the ASUS TUF offers excellent value without sacrificing essential functionalities.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you are an AMD user seeking solid performance and gaming features at a lower price, the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi is a compelling choice. However, if you prefer Intel processors and require additional connectivity options and superior thermal management, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX offers a more feature-rich experience, albeit at a higher price. Assess your priorities and make an informed decision based on which features matter most to your build.