GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ATX Motherboard, DDR5, LGA 1700

CPU socket

Memory generation

Memory slots

Physical storage positions

Match the Processor and BIOS

The board supports compatible 12th, 13th and 14th Generation Intel Core processors, subject to the exact CPU-support list and required BIOS. Check the exact processor entry and required BIOS version before installation, especially when updating an existing system. The primary graphics slot supports PCIe 5.0 x16. Two additional physical x16 slots each provide PCIe 4.0 x4. Plan the graphics card and other expansion devices around those connections, keeping the processor’s capabilities and the motherboard’s physical slot layout together as one platform.

4 Slots for DDR5 Memory

The board uses 4 DDR5 DIMM slots with dual-channel support. Select a compatible kit from the manufacturer’s memory guidance and fit the modules in the recommended positions. Memory profiles and attainable speed depend on the CPU, installed BIOS and module arrangement; a kit’s advertised profile does not guarantee the same operating speed with every system configuration.

Plan the Storage Positions

Four onboard M.2 positions support PCIe 4.0 x4. M2A_CPU connects directly to the CPU; M2P_SB, M2Q_SB and M2M_SB connect to the chipset. M2M_SB additionally accepts SATA M.2 drives. Check the manual’s connector-sharing table when arranging that position with the SATA connections. The board also provides 6 SATA 6Gb/s ports. Check the slot-sharing conditions before choosing the positions for the boot SSD, additional storage and expansion cards. The number of physical connectors should be considered alongside any shared lanes or processor-generation requirements in the board’s supported configuration.

Network Connections for the Desk

Realtek 2.5Gbps Ethernet provides the wired network connection. Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth are included; 6 GHz operation requires compatible operating-system, router and local regulatory support. The available connection speed also depends on the surrounding network, connected router or switch, operating system and driver support. Choose the network path around the system’s intended use, leaving access to the rear connectors and any wireless antennas in the completed desk arrangement.

Display, USB and Audio Connections

The board provides HDMI and DisplayPort. The motherboard display outputs require a supported processor with integrated graphics. 1 × USB 20Gbps Type-C, 2 × USB 10Gbps Type-A, 3 × USB 5Gbps Type-A and 4 × USB 2.0 Type-A are available on the rear panel. Realtek High Definition Audio supplies onboard audio. Match each external device with the port’s supported function, including the display cable, audio connection and data interface needed for the equipment being used.

Motherboard

GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX

Chipset

Z790

CPU socket

LGA1700

Which processors can be installed?

compatible 12th, 13th and 14th Generation Intel Core processors, subject to the exact CPU-support list and required BIOS. Check the exact CPU-support list and required BIOS.

Which memory generation is required?

DDR5 desktop DIMMs, with 4 slots and dual-channel support. The kit must be compatible with the CPU and motherboard.

How is M.2 storage configured?

Four onboard M.2 positions support PCIe 4.0 x4. M2A_CPU connects directly to the CPU; M2P_SB, M2Q_SB and M2M_SB connect to the chipset. M2M_SB additionally accepts SATA M.2 drives. Check the manual’s connector-sharing table when arranging that position with the SATA connections.

What network connections are included?

Realtek 2.5Gbps Ethernet. Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth are included; 6 GHz operation requires compatible operating-system, router and local regulatory support.

Can every supported CPU use the display outputs?

No. The motherboard’s display outputs require a supported CPU with integrated graphics.