GIGABYTE B650M AORUS Elite AX mATX DDR5
The GIGABYTE B650M AORUS Elite AX is a Micro-ATX gaming motherboard designed for the AMD AM5 socket, supporting the latest AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors. It features DDR5 memory support with a maximum capacity of 256 GB and offers dual-channel architecture for enhanced performance.
Popularity: Medium
Specifications:
Model: GIGABYTE B650M AORUS Elite AX mATX DDR5
Chipset: AMD B650
Form Factor: Micro ATX Form Factor; 24.4cm x 24.4cm
CPU Compatibility: AMD Socket AM5, support for: AMD Ryzen™ 7000 / Ryzen™ 8000 / Ryzen™ 9000 Series Processors
Memory Support: Support for DDR5 8000(OC)/ 7800(OC)/ 7600(OC)/ 7200(OC)/ 7000(OC)/ 6800(OC)/ 6666(OC)/ 6600(OC)/ 6400(OC)/ 6200(OC)/ 6000(OC)/ 5600(OC)/ 5200/ 4800/ 4400 MT/s memory modules, 4 x DDR5 DIMM sockets supporting up to 256 GB (64 GB single DIMM capacity)
Maximum Memory Capacity: 256 GB
Memory Speed: DDR5 8000(OC) - 4800 MT/s
Memory Features: Dual channel memory architecture, Support for non-ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8/1Rx16, Support for AMD EXtended Profiles for Overclocking (AMD EXPO™) and Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)
RAM Slots: 4.0
Graphics Output: 1 x DisplayPort (3840x2160@144 Hz), 1 x HDMI port (4096x2160@60 Hz)
Expansion Slots: 1 x PCI Express x16 slot (PCIEX16), 1 x PCI Express x16 slot (PCIEX4)
Storage Options: 1 x M.2 connector (M2A_CPU), 1 x M.2 connector (M2B_CPU), 4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
Ethernet: Realtek® 2.5GbE LAN chip (2.5 Gbps/1 Gbps/100 Mbps)
Wireless Bluetooth: AMD Wi-Fi 6E RZ616 (MT7922A22M) and Intel® Wi-Fi 6E AX210, BLUETOOTH 5.2 and 5.3
USB Ports (Rear): 1 x USB Type-C® port, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports (red), 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports, 5 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports
USB Ports (Front): 1 x USB Type-C® header, with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support, 2 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
Audio: Realtek® Audio CODEC, High Definition Audio, 2/4/5.1/7.1-channel, Support for S/PDIF Out
Back Panel I/O Ports: 1 x Q-Flash Plus button, 2 x SMA antenna connectors, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI port, 1 x USB Type-C® port, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, 5 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports, 1 x RJ-45 port, 1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector, 2 x audio jacks
Internal I/O Connectors: 1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector, 1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector, 1 x CPU fan header, 1 x water cooling CPU fan header, 3 x system fan headers, 1 x front panel header, 1 x USB Type-C® header, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header
Cooling Headers: 1 x CPU fan header, 1 x water cooling CPU fan header, 3 x system fan headers, 1 x system fan/water cooling pump header
Power Connectors: 1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector, 1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
BIOS: 1 x 256 Mbit flash, Use of licensed AMI UEFI BIOS
Manufacturer Page: Link
Review
The GIGABYTE B650M AORUS Elite AX represents a compelling choice for PC builders focused on balancing affordability with robust performance. As a micro-ATX motherboard designed for the latest AMD AM5 chipset, it accommodates AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series CPUs. This effectively positions it as a forward-looking solution for users who are eager to adopt the latest in processing technology without pushing their budget to extremes.
Design and Build Quality
The GIGABYTE B650M AORUS Elite AX steals the show with its sleek black PCB accompanied by grey and black heatsinks. The subtle integration of RGB lighting on the chipset heatsink adds a touch of flair without overpowering the design. Its form factor is compact due to the micro-ATX structure, which can easily fit into a range of cases, providing flexibility for smaller builds. The robust build quality is evidenced by the solid VRM cooling system and the use of an 8-layer PCB, enhancing thermal performance and stability[Latest in Tech].
Performance Features
- Memory and Overclocking: Support for DDR5 memory up to 256 GB across four DIMM slots provides ample space for creating a high-performance setup. The inclusion of AMD EXPO and Intel XMP for memory overclocking illustrates Gigabyte's dedication to catering to enthusiasts[Latest in Tech].
- Storage Capabilities: The motherboard features two M.2 slots supporting PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0, which facilitates diverse high-speed storage configurations. This is coupled with four additional SATA 6Gb/s ports for conventional HDDs and SSDs[Primeabgb].
- Connectivity and Networking: With WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 and options for Intel WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, networking and wireless connectivity hits top gear for both gaming and productivity needs. The inclusion of Intel 2.5GbE LAN significantly boosts the wired networking capabilities, affording users the luxury of high-speed, stable connections[Latest in Tech].
Cooling and Thermal Performance
The thermal design is enhanced with the integration of the TMOS, a single-piece heatsink that expands its surface area significantly, improving heat dissipation efficiency. The Smart Fan 6 technology deserves mention as it provides numerous fan headers, supporting both PWM and DC fans, thereby allowing for customizable cooling strategies[Latest in Tech].
Audio and Additional Features
Audio connectivity does not lag, with the GIGABYTE B650M AORUS Elite AX using Realtek's high definition audio codec that supports a variety of audio setups. It is complemented with high-end capacitors for realistic sound reproduction, essential for an immersive gaming or multimedia experience[Latest in Tech].
Conclusion
Overall, the GIGABYTE B650M AORUS Elite AX motherboard deftly balances price and performance, making it suitable for both enthusiasts and mainstream users looking to build powerful, future-proof PCs. It shines in connectivity, storage support, and thermal efficiency, making it a wise investment for the future[Gigabyte]. For those intent on modernizing their setup while keeping costs in check, the B650M AORUS Elite AX is highly recommended.