GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi DDR4 LGA 1700 vs GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX
Updated August 2026 — GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX leads on power and storage.
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX offers superior features and performance, making it the better choice for enthusiasts. However, the B760M Gaming Plus provides excellent value for budget-conscious gamers.
Why GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi DDR4 LGA 1700 is better
Price
B760M is $50 cheaper
Basic Features
Adequate for most gaming needs
Memory Support
Compatible with DDR4
Why GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX is better
Power Design
16+1+2 phases for better performance
Memory Support
Supports faster DDR5 memory
Connectivity
More M.2 slots and USB options
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi DDR4 LGA 1700 | GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX |
|---|---|---|
| Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 |
| Power Phases | 4+1+1 | 16+1+2 |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR5 |
| M.2 Slots | 2 | 4 |
| USB Type-C | 3.2 Gen 1 | 3.2 Gen 2x2 |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi and GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX
The GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi is priced at $139.99, making it about 26% cheaper than the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX, which retails for $189.99. While both motherboards support Intel's LGA 1700 socket and are designed for high-performance gaming, they cater to different segments of the market. The B760M Gaming Plus focuses on solid performance at a more accessible price, while the Z790 AORUS Elite AX offers advanced features for enthusiasts willing to invest more.
Power Design and Performance
The GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi features a hybrid digital 4+1+1 power phase design, which is adequate for most gaming needs. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX boasts a more robust 16+1+2 power phase configuration. This enhanced power delivery is ideal for overclocking and ensures stable performance during intense gaming sessions. The difference in power design indicates that the Z790 AORUS Elite AX is better suited for users who demand maximum performance from their components.
Memory Support and Compatibility
In terms of memory support, the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi is compatible with DDR4 memory, allowing for up to 64GB across four DIMM slots. On the other hand, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX supports the newer DDR5 memory standard, which can also utilize four DIMM slots but offers higher speeds and better performance efficiency. This distinction makes the Z790 AORUS Elite AX a more future-proof option for gamers looking to build high-performance systems.
Storage Options and Connectivity
Both motherboards provide excellent storage options, but the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX takes the lead with four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots compared to the B760M Gaming Plus's two. This allows for greater flexibility in configuring high-speed storage solutions, which is essential for gamers and content creators. Additionally, the Z790 AORUS Elite AX features USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C connectivity, while the B760M Gaming Plus includes a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port. The superior connectivity options on the Z790 AORUS Elite AX enhance overall system performance.
Thermal Management
Thermal management is crucial for maintaining performance and longevity in gaming systems. The GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi includes enlarged MOSFET heatsinks to aid in heat dissipation. However, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX goes further with M.2 Thermal Guard III and fully covered MOSFET heatsinks, providing superior thermal management. This means that during long gaming sessions, the Z790 AORUS Elite AX is better equipped to handle heat, allowing for sustained performance without throttling.
Networking Features
Networking capabilities differ significantly between the two motherboards. The GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi includes 6 GbE LAN, which is suitable for most gamers. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX features 2.5GbE LAN and WiFi 6E, offering faster wired and wireless connections. This advancement is particularly beneficial for online gamers who require low latency and high bandwidth, making the Z790 AORUS Elite AX the better choice for competitive gaming environments.
Aesthetic and Design Elements
While both motherboards are designed with aesthetics in mind, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX includes RGB Fusion technology, allowing users to customize their build's lighting effects. The B760M Gaming Plus, while visually appealing, does not offer this level of customization. For gamers who value aesthetics and want a visually stunning build, the Z790 AORUS Elite AX provides additional options to enhance their setup.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi and the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. The B760M Gaming Plus WiFi offers excellent value for those looking for solid performance without breaking the bank, priced at $139.99. However, for enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge features, higher power delivery, DDR5 support, and superior thermal management, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX at $189.99 justifies its higher price tag. If budget allows, the enhanced capabilities of the Z790 AORUS Elite AX make it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers.