What To Know
- However, if you are on a tighter budget or do not require the most advanced features, the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 is a solid option that provides excellent performance and value.
- The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 are both excellent motherboards that offer a range of features to meet the demands of PC builders.
- Whether you choose the Elite AX DDR4 for its superior power delivery and RGB lighting or the Pro AX DDR4 for its budget-friendly performance, you can be assured that you are getting a high-quality motherboard….
The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 are two exceptional motherboards that cater to the needs of PC enthusiasts and gamers alike. Both motherboards feature the latest Intel B660 chipset, offering compatibility with 12th and 13th generation Intel Core processors. However, despite their similarities, there are subtle differences between these two motherboards that can influence your purchasing decision. This comprehensive comparison aims to delve into these differences, providing you with the information necessary to make an informed choice.
Feature Comparison: Exploring the Key Differences
1. VRM Design and Power Delivery
The VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) is responsible for delivering stable power to the processor. The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 boasts a 12+1+1 phase VRM design, while the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 features a 10+1+1 phase VRM design. The higher number of phases in the Elite AX DDR4 provides better power delivery and thermal performance, making it more suitable for high-end processors and overclocking.
2. Memory Support
Both motherboards support DDR4 memory, but the Elite AX DDR4 has a slight edge in terms of memory speed. It supports memory speeds up to 5333MHz, while the Pro AX DDR4 supports memory speeds up to 5000MHz. This difference is unlikely to be noticeable in most applications, but it could be beneficial for memory-intensive tasks or overclocking.
3. Storage Options: NVMe and SATA
The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 offers three M.2 NVMe slots, while the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 has two M.2 NVMe slots. Both motherboards also have four SATA ports, providing ample storage options for SSDs and hard drives.
4. Rear Panel I/O: Connectivity and Convenience
The rear panel I/O of the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 are very similar. Both motherboards feature:
- 1 x HDMI port
- 1 x DisplayPort
- 6 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports
- 2 x USB 2.0 ports
- 1 x Gigabit Ethernet port
- 5 x 3.5mm audio jacks
The Elite AX DDR4 has one additional USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, which provides faster transfer speeds for compatible devices.
5. Audio: Immersive Sound Experience
The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 utilizes the Realtek ALC1220-VB audio codec, while the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 uses the Realtek ALC897 audio codec. The ALC1220-VB codec offers a higher signal-to-noise ratio and supports features such as DTS:X Ultra and WIMA capacitors for enhanced audio quality.
6. RGB Lighting: Aesthetics and Customization
Both motherboards feature RGB lighting, allowing you to customize the look of your system. The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 has more extensive RGB lighting options, with a larger RGB zone on the heatsink and support for multiple RGB headers.
7. BIOS and Overclocking: Tweaking for Performance
The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 both come with user-friendly BIOS interfaces that provide comprehensive overclocking options. The Elite AX DDR4 has a slightly more advanced BIOS with features such as Dual BIOS and Q-Flash Plus, making it easier to update the BIOS and recover from potential issues.
Which Motherboard is Right for You?
The choice between the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize power delivery, memory speed, and RGB lighting, the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 is the better choice. However, if you are on a tighter budget or do not require the most advanced features, the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 is a solid option that provides excellent performance and value.
Key Points: Informed Decision-Making
The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 are both excellent motherboards that offer a range of features to meet the demands of PC builders. By carefully considering the differences outlined in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements and preferences. Whether you choose the Elite AX DDR4 for its superior power delivery and RGB lighting or the Pro AX DDR4 for its budget-friendly performance, you can be assured that you are getting a high-quality motherboard that will enhance your computing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
A: The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 has a more advanced VRM design and BIOS, making it more suitable for overclocking.
Q: How many NVMe slots do these motherboards have?
A: The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 has three NVMe slots, while the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 has two NVMe slots.
Q: Does either motherboard support Wi-Fi?
A: No, neither motherboard has built-in Wi-Fi. You will need to purchase a separate Wi-Fi adapter if you require wireless connectivity.
