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The Gigabyte B760 Aorus Elite AX motherboard is a mid-range ATX board designed for users seeking a balance of performance, features, and affordability. It supports the latest 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core processors, boasts advanced thermal cooling, and comes equipped with Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN for speedy networking. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or everyday PC user, here’s what you need to know about this versatile motherboard:
The Gigabyte B760 Aorus Elite AX offers compatibility with a range of 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors, but some nuances exist depending on your specific needs:
Supported Processors:
13th Gen Intel Core Processors (Raptor Lake):
- Supports all i3, i5, i7, and i9 processors with LGA 1700 socket.
- Full overclocking support: Take advantage of the board’s robust power delivery and BIOS options to push your CPU for extra performance.
12th Gen Intel Core Processors (Alder Lake):
- Supports all i3, i5, i7, and i9 processors with LGA 1700 socket.
Overclocking:
- K-series processors (e.g., i5-12600K) offer full overclocking capabilities.
- Non-K processors have limited overclocking options, typically restricted to memory overclocking.
Chipset Compatibility:
This mid-range chipset provides:
- PCIe 4.0 lanes for graphics cards, storage, and other peripherals.
- Support for DDR5 memory with XMP 3.0 overclocking profiles.
- Limited overclocking capabilities compared to the higher-end Z790 chipset.
- If you require cutting-edge PCIe 5.0 bandwidth for future graphics cards or storage devices, consider Z790 motherboards instead.
Considerations:
Ensure your motherboard BIOS is up-to-date for optimal compatibility and performance with your chosen processor. Gigabyte regularly releases BIOS updates to address bugs and improve support for new processors. While the B760 Aorus Elite AX boasts a robust 12 + 1 + 1 phase VRM, high-end i9 processors or heavy overclocking might benefit from the more powerful VRMs found in Z790 motherboards.
If you plan to upgrade to future high-performance processors, a Z790 board might be a better investment due to its wider overclocking support and PCIe 5.0 compatibility.
Power Delivery:
The Gigabyte B760 Aorus Elite AX boasts a twin 12 + 1 + 1 phase digital VRM, a crucial aspect for power delivery and overall system performance. Let’s break down what this means and explore its implications:
Power Delivery Breakdown:
12 phases: Dedicated to delivering power to the CPU itself.
1 phase: Supplies power to the integrated graphics unit (IGPU).
1 phase: Handles additional CPU core voltage regulation.
This configuration promises stable and efficient power delivery even for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and high-performance gaming. However, understanding its limitations is crucial:
Performance Considerations:
Base Clock vs. Overclocking:
- Base Clock: At stock CPU speeds, the 12 + 1 + 1 VRM is likely sufficient for most users.
- Overclocking: If you plan to push your CPU beyond its base limits, the VRM’s capabilities become more critical. The 12 + 1 + 1 configuration can handle moderate overclocks on most K-series processors, but extreme overclocking or high-end i9 chips might benefit from a more robust VRM found in Z790 motherboards.
Thermal Management: The included large aluminum heatsinks play a vital role in dissipating heat generated by the VRM during demanding workloads. Ensure your case has adequate airflow to prevent overheating and potential throttling.
Also Read: TOP 5 MOTHERBOARDS FOR YOUR INTEL GAMING PC
Performance Benchmarks:
While specific benchmarks vary depending on individual components and configurations, reviews generally show the B760 Aorus Elite AX delivering:
- Matches or slightly surpasses similar B760 boards in CPU-intensive tasks.
- Handles moderate overclocks on K-series processors without issue.
- Heatsinks effectively manage VRM thermals under typical workloads.
CPU load test – Default BIOS settings.
Picture Credit: DalraeMyo
Who is it For?
This motherboard caters to users who:
- Value stable and reliable performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming.
- Might explore moderate CPU overclocking.
- Don’t require the extreme overclocking potential or PCIe 5.0 support offered by Z790 boards.
Network and Connectivity:
The Gigabyte B760 Aorus Elite AX boasts a comprehensive network and connectivity package, catering to both wired and wireless needs for various user groups. Let’s explore its key features and potential benefits:
Wired Networking:
2.5GbE LAN: This high-speed Ethernet port delivers up to 2.5 times faster data transfer speeds compared to traditional Gigabit Ethernet (1 Gbps). This translates to:
- Ideal for content creators working with large files like videos and images.
- Enjoy smoother gameplay and improved responsiveness.
- Benefit from quicker software updates and online content access.
Multi-Gig (10/100/1000/2500Mbps) support: Ensures compatibility with various internet service provider (ISP) speeds and future upgrades.
Wireless Networking:
Integrated Wi-Fi 6E: Leverages the latest Wi-Fi standard, offering:
- Experience faster wireless connectivity than previous generations, even exceeding some wired connections.
- Enjoy smoother performance for online gaming and other latency-sensitive applications.
- Less congestion improving performance in crowded Wi-Fi environments.
AORUS Antenna with smart antenna function: The custom antenna design promises:
- Wider coverage and stronger connections throughout your home.
- Eliminating weak signal areas for a more consistent wireless experience.
Additional Connectivity:
Multiple USB ports (Rare Panel):
- 4x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (10 Gbps)
- 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (5 Gbps)
- 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20 Gbps)
Multiple USB ports (Front panel):
- 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20 Gbps)
- 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (5 Gbps)
Display outputs: HDMI and DisplayPort for connecting multiple monitors.
Gigabit Ethernet port: Although overshadowed by the 2.5GbE port, it provides a reliable wired backup option.
Things To Consider:
While the previous sections addressed key aspects of the Gigabyte B760 Aorus Elite AX, here are some deeper considerations to help you make an informed purchase decision:
Cooling and Thermal Management:
Ensure your chosen case has adequate airflow and clearance for the motherboard’s large heatsinks, especially if you plan to overclock. The board offers multiple fan headers, but consider if you need more for specific cooling configurations. The board supports various water cooling solutions, allowing for further thermal control if needed.
BIOS and Overclocking:
Gigabyte’s BIOS offers overclocking controls, performance tweaks, and fan curve adjustments. Research if it meets your desired level of customization. While the board handles moderate overclocks well, stability varies based on your specific CPU and cooling setup. Understand Gigabyte’s warranty policies and overclocking limitations to avoid potential issues.
Aesthetics and Customization:
The board features RGB Fusion 2.0 for customizing lighting effects. Consider if this appeals to you and if your case and peripherals support RGB synchronization. ATX form factor offers ample space for expansion but might not fit smaller cases. Measure your case dimensions for compatibility.
Additional Features:
Onboard audio is decent but may not satisfy audiophiles. Consider a dedicated sound card for enhanced audio performance. This simplifies installation but check if it aligns with your case’s I/O panel cutouts.
Specs Table:
| Feature | Specification |
| Socket | LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | Intel B760 |
| Supported Processors | 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core Processors (i3, i5, i7, i9) |
| Memory | 4x DDR5 DIMM slots, up to 128GB, XMP 3.0 support |
| Storage | 3x PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, 6x SATA III ports |
| Networking | 2.5GbE LAN, Integrated Wi-Fi 6E |
| USB | Rear panel: 4x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (10 Gbps), 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (5 Gbps), 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20 Gbps) |
| Video Outputs | HDMI, DisplayPort |
| Audio | Realtek ALC1220 Codec |
| Power Delivery | Twin 12 + 1 + 1 phase digital VRM |
| Cooling | Large aluminum heatsinks, multiple fan headers |
| RGB Lighting | RGB Fusion 2.0 |
| Form Factor | ATX |
| Dimensions | 305 x 244 mm (12.0 x 9.6 in) |
The Gigabyte B760 Aorus Elite AX goes beyond basic network capabilities, offering a powerful combination of 2.5GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 6E, and diverse connectivity options. Whether you’re a demanding gamer, a content creator, or simply a user who appreciates fast and reliable network connections, this motherboard delivers a compelling package. Remember to consider your specific needs and internet infrastructure to determine if these features align with your usage.