Unleash the Power with Gigabyte X670 AORUS ELITE AX

Unleash the Power with Gigabyte X670 AORUS ELITE AX

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Design and Build Quality
3. VRM Performance
4. Memory and Storage Support
5. PCI Express Slots and GPU Compatibility
6. Chipset and IO Features
7. Cooling System
8. Troubleshooting and Troubleshooting Tools
9. Price and Value for Money
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this review, we'll be taking an in-depth look at the Gigabyte X670 Aorus Elite Ax motherboard. As an entry-level board, the X670 Aorus Elite Ax aims to redefine what can be expected from a motherboard in this price range. With its impressive design, robust build quality, and a range of features that rival premium offerings, Gigabyte has certainly made a statement with this board.

Design and Build Quality

The X670 Aorus Elite Ax boasts a premium design with its sleek metallic finish and geometric lines. The eight-layered PCB with two thick copper plates ensures enhanced durability and improved heat dissipation. It's worth noting that having an eight-layered PCB is a significant upgrade for an entry-level board, as it brings several fundamental improvements such as better VRM heat dissipation, PCIe 4.0 signal isolation, and extended lifespan.

VRM Performance

One of the standout features of the X670 Aorus Elite Ax is its impressive VRM design. With 12 phases and a total of 1,420 amps, this VRM setup provides more than enough power for even the most demanding CPUs. In fact, the VRM is overkill for current Ryzen 7000 CPUs, making it well-prepared for future generations. The two-stage cooling blocks, connected by a copper heat pipe, ensure optimal thermal performance under heavy loads.

Memory and Storage Support

The X670 Aorus Elite Ax supports up to 128GB of DDR5 RAM, clockable to an impressive 6.4GHz. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers and content creators who require high-speed memory for their tasks. Additionally, the motherboard features four M.2 slots, one of which is PCIe 5.0 compliant, offering data transfer speeds of up to 128 gigabits per Second. The remaining three M.2 slots are PCIe 4.0 compliant, providing ample storage options.

PCI Express Slots and GPU Compatibility

With three PCIe x16 slots, the X670 Aorus Elite Ax offers flexibility in terms of GPU configuration. The primary slot, running at PCIe 4.0 x16, is ideal for optimal GPU performance. The second slot supports PCIe 4.0 x4, allowing for the potential use of a second GPU. The third slot, however, only runs at PCIe 3.0 x2 and is primarily intended for accessories such as a capture card. This configuration is in line with current market demands and offers future-proofing.

Chipset and IO Features

The X670 Aorus Elite Ax features the X670 chipset, which offers improved USB support over the previous generation. The rear IO includes USB 2.0, USB 3.2 Gen 1, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and a 20Gbps Type-C USB port. Additionally, it provides a 2.5G LAN port and a decent Realtek audio codec. One notable feature is the Thunderbolt 4 card connector, offering up to 40Gbps transfer rates, making it ideal for content creators and those requiring high-speed data transfer.

Cooling System

The X670 Aorus Elite Ax excels in terms of cooling. With five hybrid fan connectors, the motherboard can support various cooling solutions, including PWM fans, water pumps, and flow sensors. The VRM cooling system, consisting of two-stage cooling blocks and thick alloy walls, keeps the VRMs running at a temperature of around 45 degrees Celsius even under heavy loads. The thermal-padded heat shields for the M.2 slots also play a significant role in preventing thermal throttling.

Troubleshooting and Troubleshooting Tools

Gigabyte has integrated several troubleshooting features into the X670 Aorus Elite Ax. These include an easy debugger for first-aid guidance and three soldered buttons for power, reset, and clear CMOS. These buttons simplify the troubleshooting process and provide an added level of convenience, especially for entry-level motherboards.

Price and Value for Money

Priced at $290 before taxes, the X670 Aorus Elite Ax offers exceptional value for money. The board's premium features, superior power delivery, and robust build quality make it a worthy investment. Its competitive pricing in the entry-level market sets a new standard, and other manufacturers should take Notice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Gigabyte X670 Aorus Elite Ax is a Game-changer in the entry-level motherboard segment. Its premium design, robust build quality, and impressive features make it stand out from the competition. The VRM performance, memory and storage support, PCIe slots, cooling system, and troubleshooting tools all contribute to an exceptional user experience. With its attractive pricing, this motherboard is a solid choice for gamers and content creators alike.

Highlights

• Premium eight-layered PCB design with improved heat dissipation
• Impressive VRM performance with 12 phases and over 1,400 amps of CPU-centric power
• Support for up to 128GB of DDR5 RAM and high-speed memory clocking
• Ample storage options with four M.2 slots, including one PCIe 5.0 compliant slot
• Flexible GPU configuration with three PCIe x16 slots
• Thunderbolt 4 card connector for high-speed data transfer
• Excellent cooling system with hybrid fan connectors and thermal-padded heat shields
• Convenient troubleshooting tools, including easy debugger and soldered buttons
• Exceptional value for money at $290 before taxes

FAQ

Q: Does the X670 Aorus Elite Ax support DDR4 memory? A: No, the X670 Aorus Elite Ax only supports DDR5 memory. None of the X670-powered motherboards support DDR4 memory.

Q: Can the X670 Aorus Elite Ax run multiple GPUs? A: Yes, the motherboard supports multiple GPUs. The primary PCIe x16 slot is ideal for optimal GPU performance, while the second slot can run a second GPU decently. The third slot is best suited for accessories such as a capture card.

Q: What is the cooling performance of the X670 Aorus Elite Ax? A: The X670 Aorus Elite Ax features a robust cooling system. The VRMs stay at a temperature of around 45 degrees Celsius even under heavy loads, thanks to the two-stage cooling blocks and thick alloy walls. The thermal-padded heat shields for the M.2 slots also help prevent thermal throttling.

Q: Is the X670 Aorus Elite Ax compatible with Thunderbolt devices? A: Yes, the X670 Aorus Elite Ax has a Thunderbolt 4 card connector, which allows for high-speed data transfer up to 40Gbps. This feature makes it suitable for content creators and those requiring fast data transfer speeds.

Q: What troubleshooting tools does the X670 Aorus Elite Ax have? A: The X670 Aorus Elite Ax features an easy debugger for first-aid guidance. Additionally, there are three soldered buttons for power, reset, and clear CMOS, making the troubleshooting process easier and more convenient.

Resources:

• Gigabyte X670 Aorus Elite Ax product page: https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/X670-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-10#kf