Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX DDR4 Motherboard review Intel LGA 1700 performance

Description

Advantages of the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX DDR4

Testing the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX DDR4 motherboard was a genuinely exciting experience as someone who frequently builds PCs for gaming and work. Right out of the box, the ATX form factor caught my attention. It’s designed for users who need something robust yet versatile for high-performance setups. With support for the 13th and 12th Generation Intel processors, it ensures compatibility with Intel’s latest CPUs, which is always a plus when you’re aiming for longevity in your build.

One of the key benefits of this motherboard lies in its memory support. The 4 DDR DIMM sockets, capable of handling up to 128 GB, make it a dream for multitaskers and gamers alike. I tested it with DDR4 4800 MHz memory modules, and the performance was buttery smooth. The inclusion of Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) support is another strong plus, allowing you to get the most out of your RAM with just a few tweaks.

The connectivity options were another highlight for me. Having 1 USB Type-C port with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support, along with multiple USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 ports, ensures you have plenty of options for peripherals. Additionally, the 4x M.2 slots for SSDs provide ample storage flexibility, which is critical for gamers and creators working with large files. I loved how easy it was to install my NVMe drives, thanks to the straightforward layout.

Good Points

• Supports 13th and 12th Generation Intel processors, future-proofing your build.
• Memory capacity of up to 128 GB, ideal for power users.
• Wide range of USB ports, including USB-C with Gen 2×2 support.
• 4x M.2 slots, enabling versatile and high-speed storage options.
• PCIe 5.0 support for the latest GPUs, ensuring cutting-edge graphics performance.

Areas for Improvement

While the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX DDR4 shines in many areas, it’s not without its weaknesses. One thing that stood out immediately was the lack of integrated Wi-Fi 6E or higher. I found this surprising, especially given how common it is in motherboards within this price range. While the onboard Ethernet works flawlessly, I had to rely on an external Wi-Fi adapter for wireless connectivity, which felt like an unnecessary step.

Another downside was the somewhat complicated BIOS interface. While functional, navigating through the settings wasn’t as intuitive as I had hoped. As someone who regularly tweaks performance settings, I found myself wishing for a more user-friendly experience.

Bad Points

• No integrated Wi-Fi 6E, requiring additional hardware for wireless connectivity.
• BIOS interface could be more intuitive, especially for less experienced users.
• Limited onboard RGB lighting, which might disappoint users seeking a visually striking build.

Design and Build Quality

The design of this motherboard definitely leans towards practicality over flashiness. While it lacks extensive RGB lighting, the sleek black and silver finish gives it a professional look that blends well with most cases. The ATX form factor, at 30.5cm x 24.4cm, fits comfortably in standard cases, and the layout ensures easy access to all slots and connectors. I appreciated the reinforced PCIe x16 slots, which provided peace of mind when installing a bulky GPU.

The build quality is solid, and the heat sinks on the VRM and M.2 slots are particularly impressive. They do a fantastic job of keeping temperatures in check during extended gaming or rendering sessions. If you’re someone who values durability and thermal efficiency, this motherboard delivers on both fronts.

Performance Under Load

Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or handling complex workloads, this motherboard performs admirably. I paired it with an Intel Core i7-13700K processor and a high-end GPU, and the system handled everything I threw at it without breaking a sweat. The dual-channel memory architecture and PCIe 5.0 support ensure that data transfer speeds and graphics performance are top-notch. Running 4K games felt seamless, and I didn’t notice any thermal throttling thanks to the excellent cooling design.

One feature that really stood out was the HDMI 2.0 port, which supports resolutions up to 4096×2160 at 60 Hz. This is a huge plus for users who want to connect multiple high-resolution displays or work in creative fields where visual fidelity matters.

Competing Products

When compared to ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX DDR4 holds its own in terms of performance but falls short in features like integrated Wi-Fi and RGB customization. On the other hand, it surpasses the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi in terms of storage flexibility, thanks to its 4x M.2 slots. If you’re prioritizing raw performance and storage options, this motherboard is a clear winner. However, users who want a more feature-rich experience might lean towards competitors.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering the features it offers, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX DDR4 provides solid value for its price range. While it lacks some premium features like Wi-Fi 6E and advanced RGB lighting, its performance and build quality more than make up for it. If you’re looking for a motherboard that delivers high-end performance at a relatively affordable cost, this is a strong contender. Spending a bit more on additional features, however, might be worth it for some users depending on their specific needs.

This motherboard is a fantastic option for users who prioritize stability, performance, and storage flexibility over bells and whistles. It’s ideal for gamers, content creators, and professionals who need a reliable foundation for their PC builds. At the end of the day, it’s a cost-effective choice that doesn’t compromise on core performance.

Additional information