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ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero vs GIGABYTE B650 AORUS ELITE AX

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Product A: ASUS

ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

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B

Product B: GIGABYTE

B650 AORUS ELITE AX

64 of 78 known

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Only differences

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

BGIGABYTE B650 AORUS ELITE AX

General

3 of 9 differ

Series

ROG Crosshair2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026ROG Crosshair is the ASUS line in the product name. The page sits in the ROG Crosshair family.

AORUS1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Manual cover: B650 AORUS ELITE AX. AORUS is the GIGABYTE brand line in the name.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

ROG CROSSHAIR X870E DARK HERO, 90MB1NT0-M0EAY01Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The page names the model as ROG CROSSHAIR X870E DARK HERO. The part number 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0 comes from the retailer listings below.10Retailer pageasusbymacman.es/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-placa-base-11567.htmlRead 15 October 2026The excerpt shows the part number 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0 for the ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero.11Retailer pageshop.avoira.com/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-amd-x870e-socket-am5-atx-90mb1nt0-m0eay0.htmlRead 15 October 2026The URL and excerpt carry the part number 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0.

B650 AORUS ELITE AX1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Manual cover: B650 AORUS ELITE AX (rev. 1.0 and 1.1 in section 2-2). B650 AORUS ELITE AX V2 and B650 AORUS ELITE AX ICE are separate GIGABYTE models and are not stored here.

GTIN / EAN

471163639867110Retailer pageasusbymacman.es/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-placa-base-11567.htmlRead 15 October 2026A web search excerpt of this page shows P/N 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0 with EAN 4711636398671. The page returns HTTP 403 to agents, so only the excerpt was read. The Avoira page below shows the same EAN and SKU. The EAN check digit is valid.11Retailer pageshop.avoira.com/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-amd-x870e-socket-am5-atx-90mb1nt0-m0eay0.htmlRead 15 October 2026A web search excerpt of this page shows EAN 4711636398671 and SKU 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0. The page returns HTTP 403 to agents, so only the excerpt was read.

4719331849375, 8895230336234Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BH7GTY9CRead 15 October 2026Item details list UPC 889523033623 for the B650 AORUS ELITE AX (ASIN B0BH7GTY9C).8Retailer pageebay.de/p/12057269341Read 15 October 2026Product identifiers: EAN 4719331849375, manufacturer number B650 AORUS ELITE AX, listing item titled rev. 1.0. Single source for the EAN.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

Not available

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Status

Available3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review page shows current retailer prices for the board on 2026-10-15.

Available4Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BH7GTY9CRead 15 October 2026Listed and in stock at 172.99 USD on 2026-10-15.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

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SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

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Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$699.993Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review names the board at $699.99. US price, excl. sales tax, from a reviewer and not a statement by ASUS. pchardware.org also gives a launch MSRP of 699.99 USD.8Spec databasepchardware.org/motherboards/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Launch MSRP 699.99 USD. The database lists manufacturer part number 90MB1NT0-M0VAY0 for it.

Not available

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

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ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Not available

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SegmentiThe maker's own product category, e.g. ASUS ProArt is Creator. It is not assigned from price or features. Maker lines that are not gaming, creator or workstation lines, such as ASUS PRIME, MSI PRO and ASRock Pro, are mainstream.

Gaming2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The page sits under ROG gaming motherboards (breadcrumb Gaming Motherboards).

Gaming2Press releaseaap.com.au/aapreleases/cision20221010ae89280Read 15 October 2026The release calls the AORUS B650E and B650 boards gaming motherboards.

Board revisioniThe maker's revision name, e.g. rev. 1.1, for variant rows of revisions that keep the board's name and model number. Leave it out when the maker names no revision.

Not available

rev. 1.01Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2 names PCB rev. 1.0 and PCB rev. 1.1. The maker's site adds rev. 1.2 as a separate page. Rev. 1.0 is the base row.

Platform

1 of 4 differ

CPU socketiSocket name without spaces, e.g. AM5 or LGA1851.

AM51Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

AM51Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: AMD Socket AM5.

ChipsetiChipset with its brand and without the word chipset, e.g. AMD B850, AMD X870E or Intel Z890. Same form as desktop PCs and as compatible chipsets on CPUs.

AMD X870E1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

AMD B6501Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: AMD B650.

Supported processorsiProcessor series the maker lists for the board, one item per series in the chip maker's name. BIOS updates can add series later.

AMD Ryzen 9000 Series, AMD Ryzen 8000 Series, AMD Ryzen 7000 Series1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026AM5 for Ryzen 9000, 8000 and 7000 Series. The page refers to the ASUS download center for the CPU support list. Read on 2026-10-15.

AMD Ryzen 9000 Series, AMD Ryzen 8000 Series, AMD Ryzen 7000 Series4Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BH7GTY9CRead 15 October 2026About this item and the compatible processors row: AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000 and 7000 Series.10Maker product pagegigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-1xRead 15 October 2026Search excerpt of the maker's page: AMD Socket AM5 for Ryzen 9000, 8000 and 7000 Series. Read on 2026-10-15. BIOS updates can add series later.

CPU overclockingiThe board allows multiplier overclocking of an unlocked CPU. Memory overclocking alone does not count.

Yes2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The page describes AI Overclocking, Core Flex, Dynamic OC Switcher and an asynchronous clock generator for CPU overclocking.9Maker product pageamd.com/en/products/processors/chipsets/am5.htmlRead 15 October 2026AMD's chipset page describes the X870E chipset with robust overclocking capabilities. This is the chip maker's page and not the board maker's.

Yes9Press articletomshardware.com/features/x670-motherboard-overviewRead 15 October 2026AMD X670/B650 launch overview: B650E and B650 chipsets both support overclocking the processor and memory. Its chipset table lists Overclocking: Yes for the B650. This is the chipset maker's feature, not a board spec.

Board

0 of 5 differ

Form factoriThe maker's stated board standard. Other covers sizes such as XL-ATX or Mini-DTX.

ATX1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

ATX1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: ATX Form Factor.

Board dimensionsiSize of the board itself. Height runs along the rear I/O edge, as the board stands in a tower case. ATX is 244 mm wide and 305 mm high. Micro ATX is 244 mm high and up to 244 mm wide. A size with a cover that reaches past the board, as NZXT prints, is not used when the maker also states the board size.

Width244Height305mm(9.6 × 12 in)1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ATX form factor, 12 inch x 9.6 inch (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm).

Width244Height305mm(9.6 × 12 in)1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: ATX Form Factor, 30.5cm x 24.4cm.

PCB layersiCopper layers in the circuit board as published.

82Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Overview page: a server-grade eight-layer design with two-ounce copper power planes.

84Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BH7GTY9CRead 15 October 2026About this item: 8-Layer 2X Copper PCB. SHI's reseller page, seen in search results, adds 2oz copper.

Back-connect designiPower, fan and front-panel connectors sit on the back of the board to hide the cables, e.g. ASUS BTF, MSI Project Zero or GIGABYTE Stealth. It needs a case made for it.

No2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The 24-pin and CPU power connectors sit at the top and right edge of the board, as the connector lists and the Tom's Hardware walk-through show. The AIO Q-Connector is a hub for compatible AIO coolers. The board is not a back-connect design.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The walk-through places the 24-pin ATX power connector, the 8-pin PCIe connector and the fan headers on the front side of the board.

No1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026The section 1-1 layout and section 2-8 list show the usual front-side power, fan and front-panel connectors.

RGB lighting on the boardiLEDs on the board itself. Headers for external lighting are counted under Internal connectors. True only when the maker's spec or feature list names lighting on the board. A single small LED that a reviewer sees does not count.

Yes2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The page describes Polymo Lighting II on the board with an I/O zone and addressable Gen2 headers. Tom's Hardware describes Polymo Lighting II RGBs with ROG branding on the VRM heatsinks.5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026The Dark Hero replaces the Glacial's LCD with an RGB-lit area with Aura Sync support.

Yes3Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The chipset cover integrates RGB elements. The review calls this the only area on the board with RGB lighting. The maker's manual does not describe onboard lighting, and the product photo shows lit LEDs near the chipset.

Power delivery

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Power stage layoutiAs the maker publishes it, e.g. 18+2+2. The first number is the CPU core (Vcore) rail. Makers group the other rails differently, so compare the first number. Doubled or teamed stages are written as the maker prints them, such as MSI's 12+2+1 Duet Rail. A review's count of real phases goes in the source note.

20+2+22Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026ROG Ultimate Power Solution 20(110A)+2(110A)+2(80A) power stages: 20 Vcore, 2 SoC and 2 MISC.7Reviewtechgaming.nl/review-asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 202620x 110A for Vcore, 2x 110A for SoC and 2x 80A for Misc.

14+2+13Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Box back lists 14+2+1 Power Phases. Gigabyte writes it as Twin 14+2+1 Phases Digital VRM (a 7+7 parallel design).4Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BH7GTY9CRead 15 October 2026About this item: Twin 14+2+1 Phases.6Retailer pagearvutitark.ee/en/pc-components/motherboards/mb-amd-b650-sam5-atxb650-aorus-elite-ax-gigabyte-1150579Read 15 October 2026Copy of GIGABYTE's feature text: Twin 14+2+1 Phases Digital VRM Solution.

CPU core (Vcore) power stagesiPower stages on the Vcore rail. Makers call them phases or power stages. A doubled design has more stages than controller phases. Use the first number of the maker's layout, such as 14 for MSI's 14+2+1 Duet Rail. A review's different count goes in the source note.

202Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The VRM features 20+2+2 power stages, each rated up to 110 amps for Vcore.

143Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review counts 14 phases in parallel (not direct) for the VCore, which it calls a doubler design, with Infineon TDA21472 stages. Gigabyte's 7+7 parallel design means 14 power stages on the Vcore rail. The 2 SoC stages are ON NCP303160 60A and the 1 MISC stage is Renesas ISL99390 30A.

Vcore power stage ratingiCurrent rating of each Vcore power stage. Only a figure the maker or a copy of the maker's text states. A review's reading of the chip markings is not enough.

110A2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Each Vcore power stage is rated 110 A. The SoC stages are 110 A and the MISC stages 80 A.

70A4Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BH7GTY9CRead 15 October 2026About this item (GIGABYTE's text): Twin 14+2+1 Phases with 70A Power Stage Digital VRM Solution. A Gigabyte footnote ties the 70A to the VCORE phases.

VRM controlleriPWM controller chip with maker, e.g. MPS MP2857. One name: the maker's when published, otherwise the one name a review uses. No parentheses. Other names go in the source note. Use the part number without the date code in the chip marking.

ASUS ASP22053Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Power flows from the EPS connectors to the Digi+ EPU (ASP2205) voltage regulator, then to Infineon PMC41420 110A power stages. The image captions credit Realtek with the VRM controller, but the text names the ASP2205. Single review.

Infineon XDPE192C3B3Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review names the Infineon VRM controller XDPE192C3B for all three MOSFET types. It is the only review that names a controller.

CPU power connectorsiEPS 12 V connectors for the CPU as pin counts, e.g. 8+8 pin, 8+4 pin or 8 pin.

8+8 pin1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Internal connectors: 2 x 8-pin +12V CPU power connectors and the 24-pin main power connector.

8+4 pin1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: 1 x 8-pin ATX 12V and 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector, plus the 24-pin ATX connector.3Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review says Gigabyte provides 1x 8-pin and 1x 4-pin EPS connectors.

Extra slot power connectoriA PCIe or other power connector on the board that feeds the expansion slots. The 24-pin and CPU connectors do not count. A connector the maker ties only to a front USB-C header does not count.

No1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The list has 1 x 8-pin PCIe power connector. The page ties it only to the front USB Type-C port: for 60W the cable must go to it, or else only 27W is supported. The 24-pin and CPU connectors do not count. The help text does not count a connector that feeds only a front USB-C header, so the value is false. No ASUS text says it feeds the expansion slots.

No1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026The section 2-2 internal connector list has no extra slot power connector.

Memory

2 of 6 differ

Memory type

DDR51Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

DDR51Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: DDR5 DIMM sockets.

Memory slotsiDIMM slots on the board.

41Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

41Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: 4 x DDR5 DIMM sockets.

Max memoryiMaximum total capacity the maker states for the board. The maker's product page wins over an older manual, since a BIOS update can raise the value.

256GB1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 20264 x DIMM slots, max. 256GB, DDR5.6Reviewguru3d.com/review/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 4x DDR5 DIMM, up to 256 GB.

256GB7Spec databasemaxmybuild.com/motherboards/gigabyte-b650-aorus-elite-axRead 15 October 2026Memory row: max capacity 256 GB. This agrees with the 256 GB (64 GB per DIMM) in the search excerpt of GIGABYTE's rev. 1.0/1.1 and rev. 1.2 pages. The 2022 manual says 128 GB and a later retailer copy also says 128 GB. A BIOS update raised it, so the maker's product page is used.10Maker product pagegigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-1xRead 15 October 2026Search excerpt: 4 x DDR5 DIMM sockets supporting up to 256 GB (64 GB single DIMM capacity).

Max memory speed (overclocked)iHighest overclocked speed the maker lists for one module per channel, with the newest CPU family the board is sold for, e.g. Ryzen 9000 or Core Ultra 200S. Ryzen 8000 values are never used. The source note names the family and the other module setups. It is not the CPU's official speed. A JEDEC-only list such as 5600/4800 is not this value. When the maker lists a manual overclock and a memory profile speed, the higher one is stored. The maker's product page wins over an older manual, since a BIOS update can raise the value. A table that names the CPU family wins over a headline speed that names none.

8,600MT/s1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Ryzen 9000: up to 8600+ MT/s (OC) for max manual overclocking and 8200+ MT/s (OC) for XMP, EXPO and AEMP profiles, which can be impacted when four DIMM slots are used. Ryzen 8000: 9600+ and 9200+. Ryzen 7000: 8000+ for both. The Ryzen 9000 manual overclocking value is stored. The page gives no table for other module setups.

6,666MT/s5Retailer pagestartech.com.bd/gigabyte-b650-aorus-elite-ax-motherboardRead 15 October 2026Copy of GIGABYTE's specification: Supported Memory 6666(OC) / 6600(OC) / 6400(OC) / 6200(OC) / 6000(OC) / 5600(OC) / 5200 / 4800 / 4400 MT/s. The copy is from the Ryzen 8000 and 7000 era. The 6666 value is the highest listed overclock.

ECC memoryiThe board runs unbuffered ECC modules with ECC active. A board that runs ECC modules in non-ECC mode does not count. DDR5 on-die ECC does not count. A maker list of ECC and non-ECC unbuffered memory with no non-ECC mode qualifier counts as true, as on ASUS and ASRock AM5 boards. A note that ECC mode depends on the CPU, as ASUS writes for AM4 boards, still counts as true.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Page: supports ECC and Non-ECC, Un-buffered DIMM. It says supported memory types and speeds vary with the CPU and memory configuration. The maker does not say how ECC works with each CPU.

No1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: support for non-ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8/1Rx16 memory modules.

CUDIMM supportiThe board runs clocked unbuffered DIMMs (CUDIMM) with the clock driver active. Clock driver bypass mode only does not count. A plain "Supports CUDIMM" with no bypass limit, as ASRock and ASUS write it, counts as true.

Not available

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Expansion slots

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Expansion slotsiPhysical card slots. Storage M.2 slots are listed under Storage. The M.2 slot of a pre-installed Wi-Fi module is not listed. A full-length slot wired for x4 is PCIe x16 with 4 lanes.

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

Physical slot	Electrical lanes	PCIe generation	Connected to	Count
PCIe x16	16	5	CPU	1
PCIe x16	8	5	CPU	1

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Ryzen 9000 and 7000: 2 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (x16 or x8/x8 modes). When PCIEX16_1 runs at PCIe 5.0 x16, PCIEX16_2 runs at PCIe 3.0 x4. The bandwidth can be changed in the BIOS. With Ryzen 8000 the slots run at PCIe 4.0. Both slots connect to the CPU, per Tom's Hardware.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Both reinforced PCIe slots connect through the CPU at PCIe 5.0. The top slot runs at x16 and the bottom slot is limited to x8. When PCIEX16_1 runs at x16, the second slot runs at PCIe 3.0 x4.

BGIGABYTE B650 AORUS ELITE AX

Physical slot	Electrical lanes	PCIe generation	Connected to	Count
PCIe x16	16	4	CPU	1
PCIe x16	1	3	Chipset	2

Source1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2 and the section 1-1 layout: PCIEX16 is from the CPU, PCIe 4.0 running at x16. PCIEX1_1 and PCIEX1_2 are full-length slots on the chipset, PCIe 3.0 running at x1. The M2_WIFI socket for the Wi-Fi module is not listed. The lane figures are for a CPU with the full x16 link, such as Ryzen 7000. The manual lists no slower links for other CPU families.

Full-length PCIe slotsiCounts full-length slots, whatever their lane count.

2=CalculatedFrom Expansion slots

3=CalculatedFrom Expansion slots

Fastest PCIe x16 slot generationiHighest PCIe generation of a full-length slot. This is normally the graphics card slot.

5=CalculatedFrom Expansion slots

4=CalculatedFrom Expansion slots

Storage

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M.2 storage slotsiOne row per M key storage slot on the board, front or back. Slots on an included add-in card are not listed. Values are with the CPU family that gives the board its full connectivity. A slot listed for 25110 counts as M.2 22110. A slot listed for 2260 counts as M.2 2280.

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

Slot	PCIe generation	PCIe lanes	Connected to	Longest drive	Takes SATA drives	Heatsink	Shares lanes with
M.2_1	5	4	CPU	M.2 22110	No	Yes	Not available
M.2_2	5	4	CPU	M.2 2280	No	Yes	The USB4 40Gbps ports. A drive in M.2_2 makes both run at x2. Setting M.2_2 to x4 in the BIOS turns the USB4 ports off
M.2_3	4	4	Chipset	M.2 2280	No	Yes	Not available
M.2_4	4	4	Chipset	M.2 2280	No	Yes	Not available
M.2_5	4	2	Chipset	M.2 2230	No	Yes	Not available

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Ryzen 9000 and 7000: M.2_1 (Key M) 2242/2260/2280/22110 at PCIe 5.0 x4 and M.2_2 (Key M) 2242/2260/2280 at PCIe 5.0 x4. Both connect to the CPU. AMD X870E chipset: M.2_3 and M.2_4 at 2242/2260/2280 and PCIe 4.0 x4, M.2_5 at 2230 and PCIe 4.0 x2. 2280 is stored for the 2242/2260/2280 slots. With Ryzen 8000 the CPU slots run at PCIe 4.0 and M.2_2 is not supported on the 8500 and 8300 series. The USB4 40Gbps ports and M.2_2 share bandwidth: with a device in M.2_2 both run at up to x2, and M.2_2 can run at x4 when the BIOS setting turns the USB4 ports off. The page lists every slot with PCIe modes only and gives no SATA mode for any of them, so sata is false. Heatsink: the overview page says five M.2 slots with heatsinks, backplates and thermal pads.

BGIGABYTE B650 AORUS ELITE AX

Slot	PCIe generation	PCIe lanes	Connected to	Longest drive	Takes SATA drives	Heatsink
M2A_CPU	5	4	CPU	M.2 22110	No	Yes
M2B_CPU	4	4	CPU	M.2 22110	No	Yes
M2C_SB	4	4	Chipset	M.2 22110	No	Yes

Source1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: M2A_CPU is PCIe 5.0 x4/x2 (the note says actual support may vary by CPU), M2B_CPU is PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 and M2C_SB is on the chipset at PCIe 4.0 x4/x2. All three take 25110/2280 modules. Section 2-8 says the board supports M.2 PCIe SSDs only, and its table marks M.2 SATA SSD as not supported for every slot. No lane sharing is stated. The heatsink flags come from Tech4Gamers and the Amazon listing.3Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The top M.2 slot has its own heatsink with a thermal pad. The lower two slots have covers with pre-applied thermal pads. All three are covered. The review says the top slot runs PCIe 5.0 and the lower two PCIe 4.0 x4.4Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BH7GTY9CRead 15 October 2026About this item: M.2 Thermal Guard and 1 PCIe 5.0 NVMe x4 M.2 connector.6Retailer pagearvutitark.ee/en/pc-components/motherboards/mb-amd-b650-sam5-atxb650-aorus-elite-ax-gigabyte-1150579Read 15 October 2026Fully covered heatpipe and M.2 Thermal Guard. 1 PCIe 5.0 x4 and 2 PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 connectors.7Spec databasemaxmybuild.com/motherboards/gigabyte-b650-aorus-elite-axRead 15 October 2026M.2 heatsinks: all slots.

M.2 slots

5=CalculatedFrom M.2 storage slots

3=CalculatedFrom M.2 storage slots

PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots

2=CalculatedFrom M.2 storage slots

1=CalculatedFrom M.2 storage slots

SATA portsiSATA 6Gb/s connectors on the board. SlimSAS connectors and M.2 slots that take SATA drives do not count.

41Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Storage: 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports. Two are on the AMD X870E chipset and two on an ASMedia ASM1162 controller.

41Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: 4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors.

Rear ports

5 of 5 differ

Rear portsiPhysical connectors on the rear I/O panel. Wi-Fi antenna connectors and buttons are not ports. 3.5 mm audio counts analog jacks of any role. A video input, such as the DisplayPort In of a Thunderbolt board, is Other.

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

Type	Version	Count	Max link rate (Gbps)	Thunderbolt or USB4	DP Alt Mode
USB-C	USB4	2	40	USB4	Yes
USB-C	USB 3.2 Gen 2	3	10	Not available	Not available
USB-A	USB 3.2 Gen 2	6	10	Not available	Not available
HDMI	HDMI 2.1	1	Not available	Not available	Not available
Ethernet (RJ45)	Not available	1	10	Not available	Not available
Ethernet (RJ45)	Not available	1	5	Not available	Not available
3.5 mm audio	Not available	2	Not available	Not available	Not available
Optical S/PDIF	Not available	1	Not available	Not available	Not available

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Back panel list: 2 x USB4 (40Gbps) Type-C ports with display output, 9 x USB 10Gbps (6 Type-A and 3 Type-C), 1 x HDMI (4K@60Hz as specified in HDMI 2.1), 1 x Realtek 10Gb Ethernet, 1 x Realtek 5Gb Ethernet, 2 x gold-plated audio jacks and 1 x optical S/PDIF out. ASUS names USB by speed, so 10Gbps is stored as USB 3.2 Gen 2. The Wi-Fi module and the two buttons are not ports. The page does not state display output for the 10Gbps Type-C ports or a USB power output for the rear ports.

BGIGABYTE B650 AORUS ELITE AX

Type	Version	Count	Max link rate (Gbps)
USB-C	USB 3.2 Gen 2	1	10
USB-A	USB 3.2 Gen 2	2	10
USB-A	USB 3.2 Gen 1	5	5
USB-A	USB 2.0	4	0.48
HDMI	HDMI 2.1	1	Not available
DisplayPort	DisplayPort 1.4	1	Not available
Ethernet (RJ45)	Not available	1	2.5
3.5 mm audio	Not available	3	Not available

Source1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2 back panel list: DisplayPort, HDMI, 1 USB Type-C Gen 2, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 5 USB 3.2 Gen 1, 4 USB 2.0/1.1, 1 RJ-45, 3 audio jacks, 1 Q-Flash Plus button and 2 SMA antenna connectors. The RJ-45 port is 2.5 Gbps. The manual states no DisplayPort mode and no power output for the USB-C port, so those columns are left out. The manual writes HDMI 2.0. The later GIGABYTE text in the Startech copy says HDMI 2.1 with TMDS-compatible ports, which is stored.5Retailer pagestartech.com.bd/gigabyte-b650-aorus-elite-ax-motherboardRead 15 October 2026Copy of GIGABYTE's graphics row: Support for HDMI 2.1 version and HDCP 2.3, native HDMI 2.1 TMDS compatible ports, and DisplayPort 1.4 with HDR.

Rear USB ports

11=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

12=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Rear USB-C portsiIncludes Thunderbolt and USB4 ports.

5=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

1=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Fastest rear USB port

40Gbps=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

10Gbps=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

ThunderboltiThunderbolt on the rear panel. A header for an add-in card does not count.

No=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Not available

Internal connectors

4 of 5 differ

Internal USB headersiHeaders for front-panel USB ports. The header count may be left out when the maker states only the front ports served.

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

Header	Max data rate (Gbps)	Headers	Front ports served	Power out (W)
USB-C header	20	1	1	60
USB-C header	20	1	1	15
USB 3 header (19-pin)	5	2	4	Not available
USB 2.0 header (9-pin)	0.48	3	6	Not available

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Front USB: 1 x USB 20Gbps connector (USB Type-C, up to 60W PD/QC4+: 5/9/15/20V max 3A, PPS 3.3-21V max 3A) and 1 x USB 20Gbps connector (USB Type-C, max 5V/3A, stored as 15 W). The 60 W needs the cable on the 8-pin PCIe power connector, or only 27 W is supported. Also 2 x USB 5Gbps headers for 4 ports and 3 x USB 2.0 headers for 6 ports.

BGIGABYTE B650 AORUS ELITE AX

Header	Max data rate (Gbps)	Headers	Front ports served
USB-C header	20	1	1
USB 3 header (19-pin)	5	1	2
USB 2.0 header (9-pin)	0.48	2	4

Source1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2 and 2-8: 1 USB Type-C header with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (one port), 1 USB 3.2 Gen 1 header (two ports) and 2 USB 2.0/1.1 headers (four ports). No Power Delivery output is stated.

Front USB-C header speed

20Gbps=CalculatedFrom Internal USB headers

20Gbps=CalculatedFrom Internal USB headers

Fan headersiAll fan and pump headers on the board, including CPU, CPU optional, AIO pump and chassis fan headers. Combination connectors that carry fan power together with other lines, such as MSI EZ Conn, do not count. A header that drives several fans, such as GIGABYTE 3_FANS, counts once. Headers on a hub that ships with the board and plugs into it, such as MSI's EZ CONTROL HUB, count. The source note splits board and hub.

81Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026CPU fan, CPU OPT fan, AIO pump, 4 chassis fan headers and 1 W_PUMP+ header, all 4-pin, make 8. The AIO Q-Connector is a combination connector and is not counted.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 7 four-pin fan headers, 1 W_PUMP+ header and 1 AIO Q-Connector. The text says the board has eight standard 4-pin fan headers.7Reviewtechgaming.nl/review-asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Text: a total of eight 4-pin fan connectors.

61Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2 and 2-8: 1 CPU fan header, 1 water cooling CPU fan header (CPU_OPT), 3 system fan headers and 1 system fan/water cooling pump header make 6.

ARGB headersi3-pin 5 V addressable RGB headers. Combination connectors do not count. Headers on a hub that ships with the board and plugs into it, such as MSI's EZ CONTROL HUB, count. The source note splits board and hub.

31Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 20263 x Addressable Gen2 headers. Tom's Hardware writes one 6-pin header that serves two ARGB Gen2 channels plus two 3-pin headers, which is the same three channels.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: one 6-pin ARGB Gen2 header that supports 2 headers and two 3-pin ARGB Gen2 headers.

21Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-8: D_LED1 and D_LED2 are addressable LED strip headers.

RGB headersi4-pin 12 V RGB headers. Headers on a hub that ships with the board and plugs into it, such as MSI's EZ CONTROL HUB, count. The source note splits board and hub.

01Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The internal connector list is complete and has no 4-pin 12 V RGB header.

31Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-8: CPU_LED is a 12V CPU cooler or RGB LED strip header, and LED_C1 and LED_C2 are 12V RGB LED strip headers. All three are 4-pin 12V headers.

Networking

7 of 9 differ

Ethernet controllersiOne item per Ethernet chip, as maker plus chip family without suffix letters, e.g. Realtek RTL8126 or Realtek RTL8125. Suffixes and revisions go in the source note. Leave it empty when no maker document or review names the chip. A Killer chip is written with Intel as its maker, such as Intel Killer E3100G.

Realtek RTL8127, Realtek RTL81263Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Realtek 8127 (10 GbE) and Realtek 8126 (5 GbE). The maker writes only Realtek 10Gb and 5Gb Ethernet.

Realtek RTL81257Spec databasemaxmybuild.com/motherboards/gigabyte-b650-aorus-elite-axRead 15 October 2026Ethernet row: Realtek RTL8125BG, 2.5 GbE. The maker writes only a Realtek 2.5GbE LAN chip. Stored as the chip family RTL8125, suffix BG left out. Single source for the chip name.

Ethernet ports

2=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

1=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Ethernet speediFastest Ethernet port.

10Gbps=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Wi-Fi includediA Wi-Fi module comes installed. A board sold with and without Wi-Fi is two products.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026A Wi-Fi module is listed on the back panel (1 x Wi-Fi module).

Yes1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: the wireless module is marked Only for B650 AORUS ELITE AX, and the box contents list an antenna.

Wi-Fi standard

Wi-Fi 71Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Wi-Fi 7 (MediaTek MT7927), 2x2 Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be).

Wi-Fi 6E1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: Wi-Fi 6E, 802.11a, b, g, n, ac, ax.

Wi-Fi bandsiBands the installed module supports.

2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Supports the 2.4/5/6GHz frequency bands. The page says 6 GHz availability varies by country.

2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: 2.4/5/6 GHz carrier frequency bands.

Max Wi-Fi channel widthiWidest channel the installed module supports, e.g. 320 or 160. It follows the Wi-Fi module, so a board revision can change it.

320MHz1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Supports Wi-Fi 7 320MHz bandwidth.

160MHz1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: support for the 11ax 160MHz wireless standard, on both the rev. 1.0 and the rev. 1.1 module.

Wi-Fi moduleiChip as published. A board revision can change the chip. One name: the maker's when published, otherwise the one name a review uses. No parentheses. Other names go in the source note. Use the chip's part number with its maker when any source gives it, such as Qualcomm QCNCM865 for a module also written NCM865. A platform name such as FastConnect 7800 is used only when no part number is published.

MediaTek MT79271Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The page names the module as MediaTek MT7927.6Reviewguru3d.com/review/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Wi-Fi 7 (MediaTek MT7927, 2x2, 2.4/5/6 GHz) with Bluetooth 5.4.

MediaTek MT79221Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: AMD Wi-Fi 6E RZ616 (MT7922A22M) for PCB rev. 1.0 and Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210 for PCB rev. 1.1. Tech4Gamers also names MediaTek MT7922 (RZ616). The MediaTek chip is the base value, stored as MT7922.3Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Networking page: an Intel-branded module using the MediaTek MT7922 (RZ616) for Wi-Fi 6E. The review says Bluetooth 5.3, the manual says 5.2 for rev. 1.0, and the manual is used.

BluetoothiVersion of the Bluetooth radio on the Wi-Fi module.

5.41Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Bluetooth v5.4 with LE Audio. The page says the version may vary and refers to the Wi-Fi module maker.

5.21Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2: Bluetooth 5.2 for PCB rev. 1.0 and Bluetooth 5.3 for PCB rev. 1.1.

Audio

2 of 2 differ

Audio codeciMaker and model, e.g. Realtek ALC4080. A board revision can change the codec.

Realtek ALC40821Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ROG SupremeFX 7.1 Surround Sound High Definition Audio CODEC ALC4082.6Reviewguru3d.com/review/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: ROG SupremeFX 7.1 HD Audio (ALC4082) with an ESS ES9219 QUAD DAC.

Realtek ALC8973Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Audio page text and chip photo: Realtek ALC897-VB. The review's spec table writes ALC1220-VB, but that table also lists an X570 chipset and DDR4, so it is a copied template and is not used. The maker's manual names only a Realtek Audio CODEC and links GIGABYTE's realtek897 audio software page. MaxMyBuild also lists ALC897.7Spec databasemaxmybuild.com/motherboards/gigabyte-b650-aorus-elite-axRead 15 October 2026Audio codec row: ALC897.

DAC chipiA separate DAC chip next to the codec, e.g. ESS ES9219. Maker plus part number as the maker writes it, with suffix letters, e.g. ESS ES9219Q. A marketing name that stands for a part number is written as the part number, so ESS SABRE9219 is ESS ES9219 and the maker wording goes in the source note. Leave it empty on boards with only a codec.

ESS ES92191Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Audio features list ESS ES9219 QUAD DAC. ASUS writes no suffix letters. Tom's Hardware writes ESS 9219Q.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Text: an ESS 9219Q DAC/HPA under the black metal shroud.6Reviewguru3d.com/review/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-reviewRead 15 October 2026Same table: ESS ES9219 QUAD DAC.

Not available

Features

5 of 7 differ

BIOS flashbackiA button that updates the BIOS from a USB drive without a CPU or memory installed. Maker names include BIOS FlashBack, Flash BIOS Button and Q-Flash Plus.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 20261 x BIOS FlashBack button on the back panel.5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026Both boards include a switch for BIOS update.

Yes1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Back panel list and section 2-6: Q-Flash Plus button updates the BIOS with the system off.6Retailer pagearvutitark.ee/en/pc-components/motherboards/mb-amd-b650-sam5-atxb650-aorus-elite-ax-gigabyte-1150579Read 15 October 2026Q-Flash Plus: update the BIOS without installing the CPU, memory and graphics card.

Clear CMOS button (rear)iA button on the rear panel that resets the BIOS settings. A jumper or header does not count. A board whose only clear CMOS button sits on the board itself is false.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 20261 x Clear CMOS button on the back panel.5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026Both boards include a switch for Clear CMOS.

No1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026The back panel list has no clear CMOS button. Section 2-8 lists a Clear CMOS jumper (CLR_CMOS).

POST code displayiA two-digit display that shows boot codes, e.g. ASUS Q-Code or ASRock Dr. Debug. Single status LEDs do not count. Taken from the maker's spec or manual only. A review spec table is not enough.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ASUS Q-Design lists Q-Code. The overview page says the on-board LED panel shows 2-digit diagnostic codes.2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The page says the on-board LED panel shows 2-digit diagnostic codes (Q-Code).5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026Both boards include onboard debug and recovery controls such as a POST display.

No1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-7 lists only status LEDs for CPU, DRAM, VGA and BOOT. There is no two-digit code display.3Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Cons list: No Debug LED. The board has only CPU, DRAM, VGA and BOOT status LEDs.

Power button on the boardiA power or start button on the board itself, for use outside a case. A button with another label counts when the maker says it can turn the PC on, such as GIGABYTE's quick button labelled RESET. A button on the rear I/O panel counts. A button on a module that ships fitted to the board, such as MSI's EZ BRIDGE, counts.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The internal connector list has a Start button.5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026Both boards include a power button.

Yes1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-7: the Quick Button (RST_SW) is a reset button that lets users quickly turn the computer on or off in an open-case environment.

Dual BIOSiTwo BIOS chips, so the board can start from the second chip after a failed update. Two flash chips alone do not count.

Not available

No1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-2 BIOS row: 1 x 256 Mbit flash. No second BIOS is listed.

Pre-installed I/O shieldiThe rear I/O shield is fixed to the board.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ASUS EZ DIY list: Pre-mounted I/O shield.

Not available

Tool-free featuresiM.2 latch holds a drive without a screw. M.2 heatsink comes off without a tool. PCIe slot release is a button or lever that frees the graphics card. Push-on antenna connector fits the Wi-Fi antenna without screwing.

Tool-free M.2 latch, Tool-free M.2 heatsink, PCIe slot release, Push-on antenna connector1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ASUS Q-Design: M.2 Q-Latch (tool-free SSD latch), M.2 Q-Release (removes the M.2 heatsink), M.2 Q-Slide, PCIe Slot Q-Release (with PCIe SafeSlot) and Q-Antenna (Wi-Fi antenna snaps into place).2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Q-Release for the M.2 heatsink, M.2 Q-Latch, PCIe Slot Q-Release and Q-Antenna are described and shown.

Tool-free M.2 latch, PCIe slot release1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2-8 item 12 describes the M.2 EZ-Latch clip. The PCIe EZ-Latch comes from Tech4Gamers and the Amazon listing. The M.2 heatsinks are held by screws, so no tool-free heatsink option is set.3Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Pros list EZ-Latch on the PCIe slot and EZ-Latch on the M.2 ports.4Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BH7GTY9CRead 15 October 2026The title lists EZ-Latch. About this item lists PCIe Ultra Durable Armor.6Retailer pagearvutitark.ee/en/pc-components/motherboards/mb-amd-b650-sam5-atxb650-aorus-elite-ax-gigabyte-1150579Read 15 October 2026EZ-Latch: PCIe x16 slot and M.2 connectors with quick release and screwless design.

Measured

3 of 3 differ

VRM temperature under CPU loadiHighest VRM temperature a reviewer measured during a sustained all-core CPU stress test at stock settings. Compare only results from the same reviewer and CPU. The reviewer's probe reading when given, otherwise the board sensor. The sensor and the CPU package power during the test go in the source note.

51°C4Measurementtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-review/3Read 15 October 2026CPU at stock, AIDA64 System Stability Test on all threads for 30 minutes, about 25 C ambient. The test system on page 2 is a Ryzen 9 9900X with an Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420. The CPU drew about 145 W by the chart. The review says the VRM peaked at just under 51 C on the reviewer's sensor (thermocouples) and 57 C on the ASUS internal sensor. The thermocouple reading is stored as 51. The exact value under 51 is not printed.

42.2°C3Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Thermal imaging page: Hti HT18 thermal camera on the VRM area during the Cinebench R23 System Stability test (30 minutes). The MOSFETs ran at 42.2 C at 31 C ambient. The onboard sensor read 41 C. Test system: Ryzen 7 7700X at stock settings (package power 123.187 W), DeepCool LS720 with fans and pump at full speed, 32GB DDR5-4800, RTX 3090, a 120 mm fan blowing at the socket, UEFI on auto. BIOS version not stated.

Power draw idleiWhole test system at the wall at idle, measured by a reviewer. Compare only results from the same reviewer and CPU. A chart of CPU and board power without a wall meter does not count.

93W4Measurementtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-review/3Read 15 October 2026Whole test system idle at the wall with a Kill-A-Watt meter, Windows Balanced power plan. The review used a DDR5-7200 kit. Chart: idle 93 W.

Not available

Power draw CPU stressiWhole test system at the wall at the peak of a CPU stress test, measured by a reviewer. The graphics card is not loaded. Compare only results from the same reviewer and CPU. A chart of CPU and board power without a wall meter does not count.

269W4Measurementtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-review/3Read 15 October 2026Peak of the whole test system at the wall (Kill-A-Watt) during the AIDA64 System Stability Test with Stress CPU, FPU, cache and Memory enabled. The graphics card was not stressed. Stock settings. Chart: load 269 W, average of idle and load 181 W.

Not available

In the box

1 of 1 differ

In the boxiItems as the maker lists them.

4 x SATA 6Gb/s cables, 1 x DDR5 fan holder, 1 x ROG assistant fan (60mm), 1 x Screw package for cooling kit, 1 x Thermal pad for M.2 22110, 1 x ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna, 1 x Q-connector, 3 x M.2 Q-Slide package, 5 x M.2 backplate rubber packages, 1 x ROG stickers, 1 x ROG VIP card, 1 x ROG Bottle Opener, 1 x Quick start guide1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Accessories list on the specification page.

Antenna, 2 x SATA cables, M.2 screw and standoff, G Connector1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 1-3: antenna (only for the AX), two SATA cables, M.2 screw/standoff and one G Connector. The manual also lists a User's Manual, but Tech4Gamers says there is no printed manual in the box, so it is left out. The list is for reference and actual items can differ.3Reviewtech4gamers.com/gigabyte-b650-aorus-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Contents section: no user manual is provided in the box.

Links

Not compared

Product page

rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026

www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-1x10Maker product pagegigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-1xRead 15 October 2026The link appears in web search results for this model. gigabyte.com blocks agents, so the page was not opened. Its text was read only as search excerpts, which say Ryzen 9000, 8000 and 7000 and 256 GB (64 GB per DIMM). The Rev. 1.2 board has a separate page at .../B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-12.

Spec sheet

rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/spec1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-10-11/sp10Maker product pagegigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-1xRead 15 October 2026The maker's specification tab for the rev. 1.0/1.1 board, as listed in web search results. It was not opened.

Manual

Not available

www.trovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdf1Owner's manualtrovaprezzi.it/manuali/gigabyte_b650_aorus_elite_ax.pdfRead 15 October 2026GIGABYTE User's Manual Rev. 1101 for B650 AORUS ELITE AX and B650 AORUS ELITE (2022), hosted by trovaprezzi.it. The maker's own manual page was not readable.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

0 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

3years3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Warranty 3 Years. The review is a US review.

3years2Press releaseaap.com.au/aapreleases/cision20221010ae89280Read 15 October 2026The release states a leading 3-year warranty. North America adds an automatic 2 years for AORUS AM5 boards, a total of 5 years. The base term of 3 years is stored.5Retailer pagestartech.com.bd/gigabyte-b650-aorus-elite-ax-motherboardRead 15 October 2026Manufacturing Warranty: 3 Years. Arvutitark's Estonian listing says 36 months.6Retailer pagearvutitark.ee/en/pc-components/motherboards/mb-amd-b650-sam5-atxb650-aorus-elite-ax-gigabyte-1150579Read 15 October 2026Warranty (months): 36.

Both are also in the API. Back to all motherboards.