What To Know
- The Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro boasts a 12+2+1 phase VRM with 50A power stages, while the Elite has a slightly downgraded 10+3 phase VRM with 40A power stages.
- The Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro features a sleek black PCB with RGB lighting accents, while the Elite has a more subdued gray PCB with fewer RGB elements.
- If you prefer a more affordable option with a solid feature set, the Elite is a good choice.
The Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro and Elite motherboards are two formidable contenders in the mid-range segment for AMD Ryzen processors. Both boards offer a robust feature set, but subtle differences set them apart. This comprehensive guide delves into the key aspects of these motherboards, helping you make an informed decision.
Features Comparison
Socket and Chipset
Both the Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro and Elite feature the AMD AM4 socket, compatible with all Ryzen 5000, 4000, and 3000 series processors. They also share the B550 chipset, providing support for PCIe 4.0 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity.
VRM and Power Delivery
The Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro boasts a 12+2+1 phase VRM with 50A power stages, while the Elite has a slightly downgraded 10+3 phase VRM with 40A power stages. This difference translates into better power delivery and overclocking potential for the Pro.
Memory Support
Both motherboards support up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM, with speeds up to 5400MHz (OC). However, the Pro offers more granular memory voltage control, providing enthusiasts with greater flexibility.
Storage Connectivity
The Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro features six SATA III ports and two PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 slots, while the Elite has four SATA III ports and two PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 slots. The Pro’s additional M.2 slot and PCIe 4.0 support give it an edge in storage performance.
Expansion Slots
Both motherboards offer a single PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for graphics cards and one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot for other expansion cards. They also have two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots and one M.2 E-key slot for Wi-Fi/Bluetooth modules.
Connectivity
The Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro and Elite provide comprehensive connectivity options, including 2.5GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, multiple USB ports (including USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C), and audio jacks.
Aesthetics and Build Quality
The Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro features a sleek black PCB with RGB lighting accents, while the Elite has a more subdued gray PCB with fewer RGB elements. Both motherboards have high-quality construction with durable components.
Performance and Overclocking
In terms of performance, both motherboards deliver solid results with Ryzen processors. However, the Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro‘s superior VRM and power delivery allow for better overclocking headroom. Enthusiasts can push their processors to higher frequencies and voltages with greater stability.
Value for Money
The Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro has a slightly higher price than the Elite. However, its improved VRM, additional M.2 slot, and better overclocking capabilities justify the premium. For users prioritizing performance and flexibility, the Pro is the better value.
Choosing the Right Motherboard
The choice between the Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro and Elite depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize power delivery, overclocking potential, and storage performance, the Pro is the superior choice. If you prefer a more affordable option with a solid feature set, the Elite is a good choice.
Summary: The Ultimate Verdict
Both the Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro and Elite are excellent motherboards for AMD Ryzen processors. However, the Pro’s superior VRM, additional M.2 slot, and better overclocking capabilities make it the clear winner for enthusiasts and performance-seekers.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which motherboard has better power delivery?
A: Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro
Q: Which motherboard has more M.2 slots?
A: Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro
Q: Which motherboard has support for PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2?
A: Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro
Q: Which motherboard has more USB ports?
A: Both motherboards have the same number of USB ports.
Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking potential?
