GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX Gaming Motherboard review with DDR5 and WiFi 6E

Description

Sleek Design and Build Quality

The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX immediately caught my attention with its sturdy and premium-looking ATX form factor. Its clean black PCB with silver accents feels like it was crafted for gamers who appreciate aesthetics. The fully covered MOSFET heatsinks and M.2 Thermal Guard III not only add to the visual appeal but also ensure effective heat dissipation. I noticed how the PCIe Ultra Durable Armor gave the motherboard an extra layer of protection, which feels reassuring during heavy use or frequent upgrades. The EZ-Latch design, which allows for a quick release of PCIe components, is a small but impactful feature that makes swapping out GPUs or M.2 drives super convenient.

Outstanding Performance Capabilities

This motherboard doesn’t just look good—it delivers. With support for 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core Series Processors, I tested it with a high-end CPU, and it handled multitasking like a champ. The DDR5 compatibility is a game-changer, especially with the XMP 3.0 memory module support, which made overclocking a breeze. The 16+1+2 phases digital VRM solution with 70A power stages provided a stable power supply, even during intense gaming sessions. I pushed it hard with demanding tasks, and the 6-layer PCB design ensured robust signal quality throughout.

Next-Gen Connectivity Features

One of the features I didn’t realize I needed until I had it was the USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C port. Transferring files from my external SSD was lightning-fast. The SMD PCIe 5.0 slot is another standout feature, future-proofing the motherboard for next-gen GPUs. I installed four M.2 drives in the PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, and the read/write speeds were jaw-dropping. The Intel WiFi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN were reliable, making online gaming and large downloads seamless. The AORUS antenna also helped maintain a strong and stable wireless connection throughout.

Dynamic Audio and RGB Customization

The audio quality on this motherboard is no joke. I didn’t expect much, but the high-end audio capacitors and audiophile-grade WIMA capacitors delivered crisp and immersive sound. It felt like I was using a dedicated sound card. On the visual side, the RGB FUSION 2.0 was a treat. Customizing the lighting was easy, and I could sync it with my other peripherals. The support for addressable LED and RGB LED strips added an extra layer of personalization, and the result was a gaming setup that looked as good as it performed.

Key Benefits

• Solid build quality with thermal solutions like M.2 Thermal Guard III and covered MOSFET heatsinks.
• Exceptional performance thanks to DDR5 support and 16+1+2 VRM phases.
• Next-gen connectivity with PCIe 5.0, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, and multiple M.2 slots.
• User-friendly features like EZ-Latch design for quick component swaps.
• Immersive audio quality with top-tier capacitors and customizable RGB lighting.

Areas for Improvement

• The BIOS interface could feel a bit overwhelming for beginners, and I had to spend extra time exploring all the settings.
• Limited PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots might feel restrictive for users who want more flexibility with storage solutions.
• WiFi 6E compatibility, while excellent, might not be fully utilized by users without a compatible router.

Competing Products

Comparing this motherboard to options like the ASUS ROG STRIX Z790-E, I found that the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX holds its own in terms of performance and features. The ASUS model does offer a slightly more intuitive BIOS interface, but it lacks the EZ-Latch design, which I found incredibly helpful. Another competitor, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi, boasts a similar feature set but comes at a higher price point, which might not justify the additional cost for some users. While the GIGABYTE motherboard doesn’t boast as many PCIe 5.0 slots as pricier alternatives, its thermal design and connectivity options make it a solid contender in its price range.

Smart Spending

For its features and overall performance, this motherboard offers excellent value for the price. The inclusion of future-proof technologies like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support ensures you won’t feel the need to upgrade anytime soon. The combination of high-end performance, thoughtful design, and user-friendly features makes it a great pick for both enthusiasts and gamers looking to build a powerful system without breaking the bank. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, you truly get a premium experience that’s worth the investment.