Asus Prime Z690-A vs Gigabyte B550I AORUS PRO AX

Verdict

Overall, the Asus Prime Z690-A motherboard has received mixed reviews. Some users have praised its features, such as its multiple M.2 slots and future-proof design, while others have experienced issues with overclocking and freezing. The lack of integrated WiFi and slow boot times have also been mentioned as drawbacks. However, the board's compatibility with LGA1200 coolers and AI Overclocking have been appreciated by some users. It is important to note that the board only supports DDR5 and may require a BIOS update for use with 13th generation CPUs. Linux support has also been noted as lacking.

Verdict

Overall, the Gigabyte B550I AORUS PRO AX is a solid choice for those looking for a mini ITX motherboard with good features and performance. The VRM heatsinks are chunky and the BIOS is easy to navigate, but there are some minor drawbacks such as the lack of a front Type C header and only one front USB 3 header. It is recommended to update the BIOS to avoid CPU temperature spikes and to ensure compatibility with Windows 11 in the future. It is also important to note that some users have experienced issues with used or older models, so thorough physical inspection is recommended.