Gigabyte Z790 AERO G Motherboard review featuring DDR5, PCIe 5.0, and Wi-Fi 6E

Description

Unboxing and First Impressions

The GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G Motherboard immediately impressed me with its sleek black and white design. The color scheme feels contemporary and versatile, blending seamlessly into a variety of PC builds. Weighing just 2.64 pounds and measuring 9.61 x 12.01 x 1.38 inches, it’s compact yet robust. While handling it for the first time, I noticed the build quality felt premium, with a sturdy frame and a well-laid-out PCB. This motherboard clearly aims to provide a balance of functionality and aesthetics, and it does so effortlessly.

Performance and Features: A Content Creator’s Dream

One standout feature of this motherboard is its support for Intel’s 13th and 12th Gen Core Series Processors. Whether you’re pushing the limits of gaming or editing high-resolution videos, the versatility here is clear. The DDR5 RAM support, with speeds reaching up to 7600MHz (OC), was a game-changer for me. Multitasking between Adobe Premiere Pro, Photoshop, and a dozen Chrome tabs was seamless, and I could feel the power this board brought to my setup.

The inclusion of VisionLINK, a USB-C port that handles video, data transfer, and charging simultaneously, is nothing short of genius. For those of us juggling multiple peripherals, this feature is a lifesaver. Additionally, the PCIe 5.0 x4 slot and four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 connectors make this motherboard future-proof, ensuring compatibility with next-generation storage solutions. Gaming and rendering performance were both snappy, benefiting from reduced load times and faster data access.

Thermal Management: Staying Cool Under Pressure

Thermal design on this motherboard is a major highlight. The Advanced Thermal Design paired with M.2 Thermal Guard III ensures that VRM power delivery remains stable even under heavy workloads. I tested it during a gaming marathon and later while rendering a 4K video, and the temperatures stayed well within safe limits. The Smart Fan 6 system, featuring multiple temperature sensors and hybrid fan headers, adds an extra layer of control. I particularly appreciated the FAN STOP feature, which kept the noise levels down during lighter tasks.

Upsides

• Supports Intel’s Latest Processors: Ensures long-term compatibility and exceptional performance.
• High-Speed DDR5 RAM Support: Multitasking is effortless with speeds up to 7600MHz (OC).
• VisionLINK USB-C Port: Combines video, data, and charging in one port.
• Advanced Thermal Design: Keeps the system cool during demanding tasks.

Areas for Improvement

• Limited USB 2.0 Ports: With only two USB 2.0 ports, I had to rely on a hub for older peripherals.
• Price Point: While the features are impressive, it might feel steep for casual users.
• Wi-Fi 6E Performance: Although decent, the connection occasionally dropped under heavy streaming.

Competitive Options

Comparing the Z790 AERO G to other motherboards, like the ASUS ROG STRIX Z790-E, the differences are noticeable. The ASUS model offers more USB ports and a slightly more intuitive BIOS interface. However, the GIGABYTE board excels in thermal management and PCIe 5.0 support, making it a better choice for those focusing on next-gen storage. Versus the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi, the AERO G’s VisionLINK feature is a unique advantage, but MSI’s board edges out with slightly better Wi-Fi stability.

Bang for the Buck

Considering its features, this motherboard offers great value for serious users. While it might not be the most budget-friendly option, the high-speed RAM support, PCIe 5.0 compatibility, and VisionLINK port justify the cost. For gamers and content creators alike, the investment feels worthwhile. However, if you’re building a basic PC, you might find more affordable options with fewer features.

Testing the GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G Motherboard in my own setup revealed its strengths and a few quirks. This is not your entry-level motherboard, but if you’re aiming for a future-proof, high-performance build, it deserves a spot on your shortlist.

Additional information