Comparing B550 Aorus Elite and B550 Gaming Plus models.
Comparing B550 Aorus Elite and B550 Gaming Plus models.
Aorus Elite 220 USD Gaming Plus is priced at 180 right now. Gaming Plus stands out as a clear option.
The ATX version of Aorus Elite is confirmed. The B550M model includes IO-shield and a larger heatsink. It offers improved audio quality (ALC1200 vs ALC892) and a faster network card (2.5Gb Ethernet vs 1Gbps). RAM support could reach up to 4733 MHz, though this is unlikely to be utilized. Compared to the MSI, it provides three PCIe x16 slots versus two, which can be useful for additional expansion cards. The second PCIe x16 slot has reduced electrical connectivity, affecting high-end adapter compatibility. You retain more USB 3.0 ports on the back, but lose standard USB Type-C. The decision hinges on budget and performance needs—if the upgrade is only a few euros more, it’s justified by better sound and networking. Other alternatives are not specified here.
These are my choices—the sale closed on the Aorus board and it’s now 220, so it’s no longer available. It was just a short 20-minute discount.
The B550-A Pro is a sturdy board, but its main drawbacks are the outdated onboard audio (ALC892) compared to newer models, and the limited USB options in the rear—just two 5G and two 10G ports, plus four 2.0 ports. It lacks digital audio outputs, though most users don’t rely on them. The Asus X570-P Prime is a close alternative; it offers better sound quality with ALC1200 instead of ALC892, more USB 3 ports in the back, and PCIe 4.0 support. However, it sacrifices 7.1 audio jacks and only provides one video output. The heatsinks on the M.2 connector are thin but sufficient for a system like the 3900X. It also doesn’t include BIOS flashback, meaning future CPUs might require older ones to update BIOS before installing new ones. More modern B550 boards now include 2.5G Ethernet, 7.1 jacks at a similar price, better heatsinks on M.2, and additional video connections. That’s why some feel it leans toward the B450 platform. A small issue is the chipset fan noise—though manageable. If the price difference exceeds ten euros, it might not be worth it. When compared to the B550 Gaming Plus, priorities vary; all options are solid, but the best fit depends on your needs.
The X570 Tuf Plus offers the best value since it’s widely used. I didn’t like the X570 Prime after your comments. It seems the options are B550 Gaming Plus, X570 Tuf Plus, or B550 Tuf Plus. The design of the B550 Tuf Plus isn’t my favorite, but the VRM looks better than the MSI Gaming Plus—though I’m not sure. Comparing prices, the Tuf X570 Plus is around 170 USD, while the Gaming Plus is about 180 and the B550 Tuf is 180 as well. The B550-A Pro is 175 USD. It depends on how much you value those differences.