Looking Beyond the GIGABYTE Gaming X AX DDR4 Motherboard? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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Looking beyond the gigabyte b660m gaming x ax alternatives? You might want to explore other options that share its core specifications. The original board supports 12th Gen Intel CPUs on the LGA 1700 socket. It uses DDR4 memory and offers a compact M-ATX form factor. It also includes WiFi 6E and 2.5GbE networking. These specs make it a strong choice for small builds that need modern connectivity.
However, you may prefer a different size or feature set. Some builders need DDR5 support or more M.2 slots. Others might want an ATX layout for easier component installation. This list of 6 alternatives was chosen because their published specs overlap with the original motherboard. Each option offers a distinct combination of chipset, memory type, and connectivity. You can compare these choices to find the best fit for your specific build requirements.
Our top pick: GIGABYTE Gaming X AX DDR4 Motherboard.
Alternatives to the Gaming X AX
ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS TUF Z790-Plus WiFi moves you from DDR4 to DDR5 memory. It also upgrades the chipset to Z790, which supports PCIe 5.0 for both GPU and storage. This board keeps the 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6 found on the Gigabyte. However, it uses a standard ATX form factor instead of the compact M-ATX size. You gain four M.2 slots compared to the original two. Choose this if you need faster RAM and more storage capacity. You should avoid it if your case only fits smaller boards or if you already own DDR4 modules.
GIGABYTE AORUS Mini-ITX DDR4 Motherboard
The Gigabyte B660I Aorus Pro keeps the LGA 1700 socket and DDR4 support but shrinks the footprint to Mini-ITX. It maintains the 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. This board sacrifices expansion slots to fit into small cases. You get a more compact build without switching memory types. It is ideal for tight spaces where the original M-ATX board will not fit. The power delivery remains robust for 12th Gen chips. Pick this alternative if space is your primary constraint. You should stick with the original if you need more PCIe slots for additional cards.
GIGABYTE AORUS Elite ATX Motherboard
This Gigabyte B550 Aorus Elite switches the platform entirely to AMD AM4 sockets. It supports Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series processors instead of Intel 12th Gen. The board retains DDR4 memory and PCIe 4.0 support. It also includes 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6. You move away from the Intel ecosystem to AMD. This is a practical choice if you prefer Ryzen CPUs. The form factor remains standard ATX. Choose this if you want an AMD build with similar connectivity. Avoid it if you already have an Intel CPU or need LGA 1700 compatibility.
GIGABYTE Aorus Ultra DDR5 ATX Motherboard
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Ultra upgrades the chipset from B660 to Z690. It switches from DDR4 to DDR5 memory for higher bandwidth. The board supports PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing graphics and storage. It keeps the 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6 standard. The form factor is standard ATX, which is larger than the original M-ATX. You gain more features and faster memory speeds. Select this if you need overclocking capabilities and DDR5 performance. You should skip it if you want to save costs or already possess DDR4 RAM.
ASUS TUF Gaming B550-Plus WiFi II ATX Motherboard
The ASUS TUF B550-Plus WiFi II also uses the AMD AM4 socket. It supports DDR4 memory and PCIe 4.0 technology. The board includes 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6 for networking. It is an ATX board, similar in size to the original but for a different CPU platform. This option is suitable for Ryzen users who want reliable gaming performance. It does not support Intel 12th Gen processors. Choose this if you are building with AMD. Avoid it if you need an Intel motherboard or the specific LGA 1700 socket.
ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The ASUS TUF Z690-Plus WiFi DDR5 uses the LGA 1700 socket like the original. It upgrades to DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 support. The board maintains 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. It is a standard ATX form factor, which is larger than the compact M-ATX design. You gain faster memory speeds and newer interface standards. Pick this if you want a modern Intel build with DDR5. You should consider the original if you need a smaller board or want to use existing DDR4 modules.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
GIGABYTE Gaming X AX DDR4 Motherboard
Best for: compact 12th Gen Intel builds with DDR4
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- B660
- Form Factor
- M-ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- M.2 Slots
- 2
This M-ATX motherboard supports 12th Gen Intel Core processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It uses DDR4 memory across four DIMM slots and features a robust 8+1+1 VRM design. You get dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots, WiFi 6E, and 2.5GbE LAN. The compact form factor fits smaller cases while retaining essential connectivity for modern builds.
Pros
- Supports 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs on LGA 1700 socket
- Dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for fast storage
- WiFi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN for modern networking
- 8+1+1 hybrid digital VRM design for stable power
Cons
- Limited to DDR4 memory instead of newer DDR5
- M-ATX form factor offers less expansion than full ATX boards
- Only two M.2 slots compared to quad options on Z-series boards
Good fit if
- You need a compact M-ATX build for 12th Gen Intel processors
- You prefer DDR4 memory to keep costs lower
- You want WiFi 6E and 2.5GbE without a full ATX footprint
Skip if
- You require DDR5 memory support for future-proofing
- You need multiple M.2 slots beyond the two provided
- You are building a high-end Z690 system with extensive expansion needs
Verdict: GIGABYTE B660M Gaming X AX DDR4 delivers solid performance for compact 12th Gen Intel builds. It suits users who prioritize DDR4 compatibility and modern networking in a smaller form factor.
ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard
Best for: DDR5 builds needing four M.2 slots
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is an ATX motherboard for Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen CPUs. It uses the Z790 chipset and supports DDR5 memory. You get four M.2 slots and PCIe 5.0 support. Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5GbE Ethernet are included. This board suits gamers who want future-proof connectivity and ample storage options.
Pros
- Z790 chipset for high-end features
- Supports DDR5 memory
- Four M.2 slots
- PCIe 5.0 ready
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6
Cons
- Requires DDR5 RAM
- ATX size may not fit small cases
- Limited to Wi-Fi 6 speeds
Good fit if
- You need four M.2 drives
- You are building with DDR5
- You want PCIe 5.0 support
Skip if
- You only have DDR4 RAM
- You need Mini-ITX form factor
- You require Wi-Fi 6E
Verdict: ASUS TUF Z790 DDR5 Gaming is a solid choice for builders prioritizing storage capacity and modern standards. It fits those ready to upgrade to DDR5 and maximize their M.2 drive count.
GIGABYTE AORUS Mini-ITX DDR4 Motherboard
Best for: compact ITX gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- B660
- Form Factor
- Mini-ITX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- M.2 Slots
- 1
This Gigabyte B660I AORUS PRO is a Mini-ITX motherboard designed for compact builds. It supports 12th Gen Intel Core processors via the LGA 1700 socket and uses DDR4 memory. The board features an 8+1+1 phase VRM design for stable power delivery. It includes Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5, and 2.5GbE LAN for fast connectivity. The compact 8.94 by 9.25 inch footprint makes it ideal for small form factor cases.
Pros
- Mini-ITX form factor saves space in small cases
- 8+1+1 phase digital VRM with 90A SPS for stable power
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 for modern wireless connectivity
- 2.5GbE LAN for faster wired networking speeds
Cons
- Only one M.2 slot for storage drives
- Mini-ITX size limits expansion slots compared to ATX boards
- Smaller PCB restricts component placement options
Good fit if
- You are building a compact PC in a small case
- You need Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 without add-on cards
- You want a stable power delivery system for 12th Gen Intel CPUs
Skip if
- You need multiple M.2 drives for storage
- You require the expansion slots of an ATX board
- You plan to use DDR5 memory modules
Verdict: Gigabyte B660I Mini-ITX Motherboard fits users who prioritize a small footprint and modern wireless features. It is a solid choice for compact gaming builds that need reliable power delivery.
GIGABYTE AORUS Elite ATX Motherboard
Best for: AMD Ryzen 3000/5000 mid-range builds
- CPU Socket
- AM4
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
This ATX motherboard uses the AMD B550 chipset and AM4 socket for Ryzen processors. It features a 12+2 power phase design and DDR4 memory support. You get Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5 GbE Ethernet for fast networking. Two M.2 slots offer storage flexibility. This board suits users building a mid-range AMD system who need reliable power delivery and modern connectivity.
Pros
- Digital Twin 12+2 power phase design for steady power delivery
- Supports PCIe 4.0 for faster data transfer speeds
- Includes Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5 GbE Ethernet
- Dual M.2 slots with Thermal Guard protection
Cons
- Limited to DDR4 memory instead of newer DDR5
- Uses the older AM4 socket platform
- Only one PCIe 4.0 x16 slot available
Good fit if
- You are building a PC with AMD Ryzen 3000 or 5000 series CPUs
- You need Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5 GbE connectivity
- You prefer the standard ATX form factor
Skip if
- You require DDR5 memory support
- You are using an Intel processor
- You need PCIe 5.0 compatibility
Verdict: GIGABYTE B550 AORUS Elite ATX delivers solid power and connectivity for AMD Ryzen builders. It is a practical option for those prioritizing DDR4 stability and modern networking over the latest platform features.
GIGABYTE Aorus Ultra DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th Gen DDR5 builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Intel Z690
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
This ATX motherboard uses the Intel Z690 chipset and LGA 1700 socket for 12th Gen processors. It supports DDR5 memory and features PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing. The board includes four M.2 slots and WiFi 6 connectivity. You should choose this if you need robust power delivery with 16+1+2 phases. It suits builders seeking high-speed data transfer via USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory for higher bandwidth
- Includes PCIe 5.0 for next-gen GPUs
- Offers four M.2 slots for storage
- Features 16+1+2 phase power design
Cons
- Requires DDR5 RAM, not DDR4
- Limited to WiFi 6 standard
- Lacks USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 on rear I/O
Good fit if
- You want PCIe 5.0 support
- You plan to use DDR5 memory
- You need four M.2 storage slots
Skip if
- You only have DDR4 RAM
- You prefer a Mini-ITX form factor
- You need WiFi 6E connectivity
Verdict: GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS Ultra ATX delivers strong performance for Intel 12th Gen users. It fits those prioritizing DDR5 speeds and extensive storage options.
ASUS TUF Gaming B550-Plus WiFi II ATX Motherboard
Best for: AMD Ryzen gaming builds with DDR4
- CPU Socket
- AM4
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
View on Amazon: ASUS TUF Gaming B550-Plus WiFi II ATX Motherboard
This ATX motherboard pairs AMD AM4 sockets with DDR4 memory and PCIe 4.0 support. It includes Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5 GbE LAN for modern networking. The 8+2 power stages handle high-core CPUs. You get dual M.2 slots and HDMI 2.1 outputs. It suits gamers building on the Ryzen platform who need reliable connectivity and thermal management.
Pros
- AM4 socket supports 3rd Gen Ryzen CPUs
- Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5 GbE LAN
- 8+2 DrMOS power stages for stable power
- Dual M.2 slots with PCIe 4.0 support
- HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.2 outputs
Cons
- Limited to DDR4 memory only
- No Thunderbolt 3 expansion header listed in key specs
- AM4 platform is previous generation compared to LGA 1700 options
Good fit if
- You are building a system with AMD Ryzen processors
- You need built-in Wi-Fi 6 and fast LAN
- You prefer DDR4 memory for cost efficiency
Skip if
- You require the latest Intel LGA 1700 socket
- You need DDR5 memory support
- You want PCIe 5.0 connectivity for future GPUs
Verdict: ASUS TUF B550-Plus WiFi II AM4 ATX delivers solid AM4 performance with modern networking. It is a practical choice for Ryzen users who do not need DDR5 or Intel platforms.
ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: 12th Gen Intel gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 6
This ATX motherboard uses the LGA 1700 socket for 12th Gen Intel processors. It supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 for fast data transfer. The board includes four M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs. It features WiFi 6 and a 2.5Gb LAN port for networking. The 14+2 power phases provide stable power for gaming tasks.
Pros
- LGA 1700 socket supports 12th Gen Intel Core processors
- Four M.2 slots for NVMe SSD storage
- WiFi 6 and 2.5Gb LAN connectivity
- 14+2 DrMOS power stages for durability
- PCIe 5.0 support for future expansion
Cons
- Limited to 12th Gen Intel processors
- Requires DDR5 memory modules
- No mention of Thunderbolt 4 implementation
Good fit if
- You are building a new PC with 12th Gen Intel CPUs
- You need multiple M.2 storage drives
- You want DDR5 memory performance
Skip if
- You already own DDR4 memory sticks
- You are using older AM4 or LGA 1200 CPUs
- You need Mini-ITX form factor
Verdict: ASUS TUF Z690-Plus WiFi DDR5 ATX fits gamers who need fast storage and networking with 12th Gen Intel processors. It is a solid choice for new DDR5 builds.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | GIGABYTE Gaming X AX DDR4 Motherboard | ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard | GIGABYTE AORUS Mini-ITX DDR4 Motherboard | GIGABYTE AORUS Elite ATX Motherboard | GIGABYTE Aorus Ultra DDR5 ATX Motherboard | ASUS TUF Gaming B550-Plus WiFi II ATX Motherboard | ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | AM4 | LGA 1700 | AM4 | LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | B660 | Z790 | B660 | not specified | Intel Z690 | not specified | not specified |
| Form Factor | M-ATX | ATX | Mini-ITX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR5 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR5 | DDR4 | DDR5 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 2 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 4 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | WiFi 6E | not specified | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | WiFi 6 |
| Ethernet Speed | 2.5GbE | not specified | 2.5 GbE | 2.5 GbE | 2.5 GbE | 2.5 GbE | 2.5Gb LAN |
| Power Phases | 8+1+1 | 16+1 | 8+1+1 | 12+2 | 16+1+2 | 8+2 | 14+2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Use Case | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | not specified | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 10.6 × 10.6 × 2.67 inches | 10.7 × 2.75 × 14 inches | 9.25 × 8.94 × 3.74 inches | 10.6 × 3.14 × 13.2 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | 10.8 × 2.75 × 13.5 inches | 8.66 × 3.15 × 1.18 inches |
| Weight | not specified | 2.91 pounds | not specified | not specified | 2.2 pounds | 1.27 pounds | 2 pounds |
| Size | B660M GAMING X AX DDR4 | not specified | B660I AORUS PRO DDR4 | ATX | Z690 AORUS ULTRA | B550-Plus|M.2x2|D4|WiFi6 | not specified |
| Color | black | BLACK | black | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Model | B660M | TUF GAMING Z790-PLUS WIFI | B660I | B550 AORUS ELITE AX V2 | Z690 | TUFGAMINGB550-PLUSWIFIII | TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use DDR5 memory with the Gigabyte Gaming X AX?
No, this motherboard only supports DDR4 memory. If you need DDR5, look at the ASUS TUF Z790 or the GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS Ultra. Both boards use the LGA 1700 socket but are built for the newer memory standard. They offer faster data rates for modern gaming and productivity tasks.
What is the best AMD alternative to this Intel board?
The GIGABYTE B550 AORUS Elite is a strong option for AMD Ryzen users. It uses the AM4 socket and supports PCIe 4.0. Like the original, it includes Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5GbE LAN. It is ideal for mid-range builds that do not require the latest Intel platform features.
Is there a smaller form factor option available?
Yes, the GIGABYTE B660I AORUS PRO is a Mini-ITX board. It measures 9.25 by 8.94 inches, fitting in compact cases. It also supports 12th Gen Intel CPUs and DDR4 memory. This choice suits builders who want a small footprint without sacrificing modern connectivity like Wi-Fi 6.
Which board offers the most M.2 slots for storage?
The ASUS TUF Z790-Plus WiFi is designed for high storage capacity. It supports four M.2 slots, allowing you to install multiple NVMe drives. This board uses DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0, making it a practical choice for users who need extensive storage for large files or games.
Does the ASUS TUF Z690-Plus support DDR5?
Yes, the ASUS TUF Z690-Plus WiFi uses DDR5 memory. It features an LGA 1700 socket for 12th Gen Intel processors. The board includes PCIe 5.0 support and Wi-Fi 6. It is a solid choice for new builds that prioritize modern memory standards and fast storage connectivity.
Can I upgrade from AM4 to LGA 1700 easily?
No, you cannot upgrade between these sockets because they are physically different. The AM4 socket is used by AMD Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series CPUs. The LGA 1700 socket is for Intel 12th Gen and newer. You would need a new motherboard to switch platforms.
Do these alternatives also include 2.5GbE LAN?
Yes, all listed alternatives feature 2.5GbE LAN ports. This provides faster wired network speeds compared to standard 1GbE ports. Whether you choose an Intel or AMD board, you get improved connectivity for gaming and large file transfers without needing additional network adapters.