What To Know
- The Aorus Pro features a Gigabit Ethernet port, while the Aorus AX goes a step further with an Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 module for wireless connectivity.
- For the additional cost, the Aorus AX offers a few extra features, including Wi-Fi 6, an ESS Sabre DAC, and a second PCIe 4.
- If you’re looking for a solid micro-ATX motherboard with a focus on affordability, the Aorus Pro is an excellent option.
In the realm of PC building, selecting the right motherboard is crucial for unlocking the full potential of your system. Two exceptional options that stand out are the Gigabyte B560M Aorus Pro and the Gigabyte B560M Aorus AX. Both motherboards offer a comprehensive feature set, but each caters to specific needs. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two ATX motherboards, helping you make an informed choice for your next build.
Form Factor and Design
Both the Gigabyte B560M Aorus Pro and the B560M Aorus AX share the same micro-ATX form factor, making them suitable for compact and mid-tower cases. However, their design aesthetics differ. The Aorus Pro features a sleek black PCB with silver accents, while the Aorus AX boasts a more vibrant black and orange color scheme.
Chipset and Socket
At the heart of these motherboards lie the Intel B560 chipset, which supports 10th and 11th generation Intel Core processors. Both motherboards feature an LGA 1200 socket, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of CPUs.
Memory and Storage
When it comes to memory, both motherboards support up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM across four DIMM slots. The Aorus Pro supports memory speeds up to 5000MHz, while the Aorus AX can handle up to 4800MHz. In terms of storage, both motherboards offer multiple M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs and SATA ports for traditional hard drives.
Expansion Slots
For expansion cards, the Aorus Pro provides a single PCIe 4.0 x16 slot and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. The Aorus AX, on the other hand, features two PCIe 4.0 x16 slots and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot, offering more flexibility for multi-GPU configurations or other peripherals.
Connectivity
Network connectivity is a key consideration for many users. The Aorus Pro features a Gigabit Ethernet port, while the Aorus AX goes a step further with an Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 module for wireless connectivity. Additionally, both motherboards offer multiple USB ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 ports.
Audio
For audio enthusiasts, the Aorus Pro and Aorus AX both feature Realtek ALC1220-VB audio codecs. However, the Aorus AX includes an additional ESS Sabre DAC for enhanced audio quality.
BIOS and Features
Both motherboards come equipped with the latest UEFI BIOS, offering a user-friendly interface for configuring your system. They also support a range of features, such as RGB lighting control, overclocking capabilities, and fan control.
Price and Value
The Gigabyte B560M Aorus Pro typically retails for around $120, while the Gigabyte B560M Aorus AX comes in at around $150. For the additional cost, the Aorus AX offers a few extra features, including Wi-Fi 6, an ESS Sabre DAC, and a second PCIe 4.0 x16 slot.
Which Motherboard is Right for You?
The choice between the Gigabyte B560M Aorus Pro and the Gigabyte B560M Aorus AX ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a solid micro-ATX motherboard with a focus on affordability, the Aorus Pro is an excellent option. However, if you value wireless connectivity, enhanced audio, or the flexibility of additional PCIe 4.0 slots, the Aorus AX is the better choice.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
A: Both motherboards support overclocking, but the Aorus AX may offer slightly better overclocking headroom due to its improved VRM design.
Q: Can I use both M.2 slots on the Aorus Pro and Aorus AX?
A: Yes, both motherboards support simultaneous use of both M.2 slots. However, using both slots may disable some SATA ports.
Q: Which motherboard is better for gaming?
A: Both motherboards are suitable for gaming, but the Aorus AX‘s additional PCIe 4.0 slot may provide a slight edge in performance for high-end graphics cards.
Q: Can I use an AIO cooler with either motherboard?
A: Yes, both motherboards feature AIO pump headers for easy installation and control of all-in-one liquid coolers.
Q: Which motherboard has better RGB lighting options?
A: Both motherboards offer RGB lighting control, but the Aorus AX has a slightly more extensive range of lighting zones and effects.
