GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming Plus AX DDR5 Motherboard Review

Table of Contents

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

Introduction

The GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming Plus AX DDR5 motherboard is designed for enthusiasts seeking a solid foundation for their 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core processors. It boasts a compelling feature set, including support for DDR5 memory and PCIe 4.0, with a focus on providing a stable and reliable platform for high-performance gaming and content creation.

Features

The Z790 Gaming Plus AX packs in a wide array of features, making it a versatile motherboard for a range of use cases. It supports DDR5 memory with speeds up to 7600 MT/s (overclocked) and offers ample connectivity options, including a 2.5GbE LAN port and Wi-Fi 6 for lightning-fast networking. The motherboard also includes three M.2 slots, supporting PCIe 4.0, providing ample storage expansion possibilities.

Performance

In my testing, the Z790 Gaming Plus AX consistently delivered robust performance, especially when paired with a powerful 13th Gen Intel CPU. The DDR5 memory support allows for high bandwidth, resulting in fast boot times and responsive application launches. The 2.5GbE LAN port provided a noticeable speed boost during file transfers, especially when compared to standard Gigabit Ethernet. The onboard audio was also impressive, delivering clear and detailed sound, making it suitable for gamers and audio enthusiasts.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the Z790 Gaming Plus AX’s strengths and weaknesses:

Pros

• Excellent support for 13th and 14th Gen Intel CPUs
• DDR5 memory support for high bandwidth
• Robust PCIe 4.0 support for fast storage and graphics
• Stable and reliable performance with solid overclocking capabilities
• User-friendly BIOS with easy navigation and configuration options

Cons

• Lack of RGB lighting might be a drawback for some users
• The price point might be slightly higher compared to some competitors

Final Verdict

The GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming Plus AX DDR5 motherboard is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and feature-packed platform for their 13th and 14th Gen Intel processors. Its strong performance, extensive connectivity options, and user-friendly BIOS make it a compelling option for both gaming and content creation. The lack of RGB lighting might be a turn-off for some users, but it does keep the focus on performance and stability. If you prioritize a well-rounded motherboard with excellent performance and features, the Z790 Gaming Plus AX is definitely worth considering.

Specifications