GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ICE LGA1700 ATX Motherboard Review

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Key Features
• Performance
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ICE is a powerful and feature-rich ATX motherboard designed for the latest 13th and 12th Gen Intel CPUs. It boasts a robust feature set, including PCIe 5.0 support, DDR5 memory compatibility, Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, and a 2.5GbE LAN port. In this review, we’ll delve into the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ICE’s capabilities, performance, and overall value proposition.

Key Features

The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ICE is packed with impressive features that cater to both casual and hardcore PC enthusiasts. Here are some of the highlights:

• LGA1700 Socket: Supports Intel’s latest 13th and 12th Gen Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors.
• Intel Z790 Chipset: Provides high bandwidth and enhanced overclocking capabilities.
• DDR5 Memory Support: Enables blazing-fast memory speeds up to DDR5-7600(O.C.).
• PCIe 5.0 Support: Delivers next-generation performance for high-end graphics cards and NVMe SSDs.
• Wi-Fi 6E Connectivity: Offers ultra-fast wireless speeds and reduced latency for online gaming and streaming.
• Realtek 2.5GbE LAN: Provides significantly faster wired network connectivity for demanding tasks.
• Integrated Graphics Processor: Includes Intel HD Graphics support with HDMI and DisplayPort outputs for a versatile display setup.
• Robust VRM Design: Ensures stable power delivery for demanding workloads and overclocking.

Performance

We tested the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ICE with a 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900K processor and DDR5-6000 memory. The motherboard delivered exceptional performance in our benchmarks, achieving high scores in CPU, memory, and storage tests. We found that the PCIe 5.0 slot provided a noticeable performance boost for our NVMe SSD, resulting in significantly faster load times and overall system responsiveness.

The Wi-Fi 6E connectivity was also a standout feature. We experienced consistent and reliable speeds, even with multiple devices connected to the network. The 2.5GbE LAN port, while not crucial for everyday tasks, provided an extra layer of speed for demanding applications and network transfers. We also tested the motherboard’s audio capabilities, which delivered clear and crisp sound quality. The motherboard’s advanced audio codec and audio isolation technology effectively minimized noise interference, resulting in a highly enjoyable listening experience.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent performance with 13th and 12th Gen Intel CPUs
• Robust feature set with PCIe 5.0 support, DDR5 memory compatibility, and Wi-Fi 6E
• Fast 2.5GbE LAN port for enhanced network connectivity
• Comprehensive VRM design for stable power delivery
• User-friendly BIOS with intuitive navigation
• High-quality audio codec for clear and immersive sound

Cons

• The onboard audio output could be improved with a more robust amplifier for higher volume levels.

Final Verdict

The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ICE is a phenomenal motherboard that delivers exceptional performance and an extensive feature set. Its support for the latest Intel processors, PCIe 5.0, DDR5 memory, and Wi-Fi 6E makes it a compelling choice for gamers, enthusiasts, and anyone looking to build a high-performance PC. While the onboard audio could be improved, its overall performance and features make it a top contender in the Z790 motherboard market. If you’re looking for a powerful and well-rounded motherboard, I highly recommend the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ICE.