Gigabyte Z790 AERO G Motherboard review Wi-Fi 6E performance and DDR5 speed

Description

Sleek Design and Enhanced Build Quality

The Gigabyte Z790 AERO G Motherboard immediately impresses with its sleek, modern design. Its aesthetic appeal combines simplicity and functionality, making it a standout choice for professionals and enthusiasts looking to build a clean and visually appealing rig. I particularly appreciated the EZ-Latch Plus feature, which simplifies the process of installing and removing M.2 drives without the hassle of screws. This small yet impactful feature shows that Gigabyte really thinks about user convenience. The thermal design, including the M.2 Thermal Guard III, ensures stable performance, even when pushing the limits of high-end components.

Performance That Packs a Punch

Testing this motherboard with Intel’s 13th Gen processors, I was blown away by the raw power and seamless performance. The dual-channel DDR5 support, with up to 7600MHz (OC), really unleashes top-tier memory speeds, which is a dream for gamers and content creators alike. The inclusion of 1x PCIe 5.0 alongside 4x PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots means that storage expansion and transfer speeds are unbeatable. I noticed lightning-fast boot and load times, thanks to the PCIe 5.0 x4 slot, which supports next-generation SSDs.

Connectivity Options Galore

The connectivity options on this motherboard are phenomenal. It boasts Intel 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring rapid and stable network speeds, whether you’re gaming online or transferring large files. The VisionLINK USB-C port is another standout feature. Not only does it support data transfer, but it also handles video output and charging, making it incredibly versatile for creative professionals using multiple devices. The inclusion of front USB-C 20Gb/s support is a nice touch, as it ensures compatibility with the latest peripherals.

Smart Features for a Modern Build

The Q-Flash Plus feature is a lifesaver. You can update the BIOS without even installing a CPU, memory, or graphics card. This came in handy during testing, saving me from potential compatibility headaches. Additionally, the Smart Fan 6 technology is a game-changer. It uses multiple temperature sensors and hybrid fan headers to keep the system cool. I tested this by running demanding tasks for hours, and the system stayed cool and quiet, which is impressive.

Pluses of the Gigabyte Z790 AERO G

• Supports the latest Intel processors, making it future-proof.
• PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support deliver cutting-edge performance.
• EZ-Latch Plus simplifies the installation of M.2 drives.
• VisionLINK USB-C port caters to power users and creators.
• Smart Fan 6 technology ensures efficient cooling and quiet operation.

Caveats You Should Know

• The price point might feel steep for casual users.
• Lack of RGB lighting may disappoint those who prefer flashy builds.
• Some might find the advanced features overwhelming if they’re new to PC building.

Competitive Options to Consider

While the Z790 AERO G excels in performance and features, there are a few rivals worth mentioning. The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E, for example, offers similar PCIe 5.0 support and Wi-Fi 6E but comes with more RGB customization options. However, it lacks the EZ-Latch Plus feature, making drive installation less user-friendly.

Another competitor, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi, also supports DDR5 and includes robust cooling solutions. Still, its software suite feels less refined compared to the Gigabyte Control Center, which I found intuitive and easy to navigate. The Z790 AERO G strikes an excellent balance between usability and high-end features, making it my preferred choice for professionals who value efficiency and performance over flashy extras.

Value for Money Assessment

This motherboard positions itself as a premium choice, and I believe it delivers on that promise. The combination of cutting-edge technology, thoughtful design elements, and user-friendly features makes it worth every penny for those who need a powerful and versatile platform. While it may not appeal to budget-conscious users, it offers a fantastic price-to-quality ratio for enthusiasts and professionals looking to build a system that can handle intensive workloads and future upgrades.