What To Know
- The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro boasts a 16+1+2 phase VRM, while the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk employs a 16+2+1 phase VRM.
- The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk provides a slightly fewer number of USB ports, with a total of eight, including two USB 3.
- While the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk is a solid option at a slightly lower price point, the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro’s superior features and performance make it the clear winner for demanding applications.
In the realm of high-performance computing, motherboards play a pivotal role in unlocking the full potential of your system. When it comes to Intel’s latest 12th-generation “Alder Lake” CPUs, two standout contenders emerge: the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro and the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of these two motherboards, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and which one reigns supreme.
Performance and Features
CPU Support and Overclocking
Both motherboards support Intel’s 12th-generation CPUs, including the flagship Core i9-12900K. They feature robust power delivery systems to ensure stable operation under demanding workloads. The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro boasts a 16+1+2 phase VRM, while the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk employs a 16+2+1 phase VRM. Both designs provide ample headroom for overclocking.
Memory Compatibility and Speed
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro supports up to 128GB of DDR5 memory at speeds of up to 6600MHz (OC). The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk, on the other hand, supports up to 128GB of DDR5 memory at speeds of up to 5600MHz (OC). Both motherboards offer ample capacity and bandwidth for demanding applications.
Storage Options
Both motherboards provide a comprehensive range of storage options. The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro features six SATA III ports and four M.2 slots, including one PCIe 5.0 x4 slot. The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk also offers six SATA III ports but has only three M.2 slots, including one PCIe 4.0 x4 slot and two PCIe 3.0 x4 slots.
Connectivity and Expansion
Networking
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro boasts Intel‘s latest 2.5GbE LAN controller, providing high-speed wired connectivity. The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk, however, relies on a Realtek 2.5GbE LAN controller. Both motherboards include Wi-Fi 6E for wireless connectivity.
USB Ports
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro offers a total of 10 USB ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, four USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, and two USB 2.0 ports. The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk provides a slightly fewer number of USB ports, with a total of eight, including two USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and four USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports.
PCIe Expansion Slots
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro features three PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, one PCIe 4.0 x1 slot, and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot. The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk offers two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, one PCIe 4.0 x1 slot, and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. Both motherboards provide ample expansion options for graphics cards, storage devices, and other peripherals.
Design and Aesthetics
Form Factor
Both motherboards adhere to the ATX form factor, making them suitable for mid-tower and full-tower cases.
Aesthetics
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro showcases a striking black and silver design with RGB lighting accents. The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk, on the other hand, features a more understated black and gray design with subtle RGB lighting.
BIOS and Software
BIOS
Both motherboards come with user-friendly BIOS interfaces that offer extensive customization options. The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro‘s BIOS is particularly well-regarded for its intuitive layout and advanced features.
Software
Gigabyte provides a comprehensive suite of software, including App Center, RGB Fusion, and EasyTune, for controlling various aspects of the motherboard’s functionality. MSI offers Dragon Center, which provides similar functionality.
Pricing and Availability
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro is currently priced around $320, while the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk is slightly more affordable at around $280. Both motherboards are widely available from major retailers.
Verdict: The Victor Emerges
After a thorough comparison, the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro emerges as the superior choice for high-performance computing enthusiasts. It offers a more robust power delivery system, faster memory support, and a wider range of connectivity and expansion options. While the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk is a solid option at a slightly lower price point, the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro’s superior features and performance make it the clear winner for demanding applications.
What You Need to Know
Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro has a slightly better power delivery system and BIOS options for overclocking.
Which motherboard has more USB ports?
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro offers a total of 10 USB ports, while the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk has eight.
Which motherboard has more PCIe expansion slots?
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro has a total of six PCIe expansion slots, while the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk has five.
Which motherboard has better BIOS and software?
Both motherboards have user-friendly BIOS interfaces and comprehensive software suites. However, the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro‘s BIOS is particularly well-regarded for its advanced features.
Which motherboard is better for gaming?
Both motherboards are well-suited for gaming, but the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro‘s superior connectivity and expansion options make it a slightly better choice for high-end gaming rigs.
