Gamers and enthusiasts are excited for AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series. The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is a great mid-range choice for an AM5 platform. It’s priced at $220 and has lots of features for AMD Ryzen 7000 series builders.
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX has many cool specs. It supports PCIe 5.0, DDR5 memory, and Wi-Fi 6E. It also has a strong power delivery system, lots of storage, and advanced cooling. This motherboard is designed to be a solid base for AMD’s latest processors.
Contents
- 1 Introduction to AMD AM5 Platform and B650 Chipset
- 2 Design and Build Quality Overview
- 3 Technical Specifications and Features
- 4 GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX Detailed Analysis
- 5 PCIe Configuration and Storage Options
- 6 Memory Support and DDR5 Compatibility
- 7 Cooling Solutions and Thermal Performance
- 8 Connectivity and I/O Features
- 9 Performance Testing and Benchmarks
- 10 Conclusion
- 11 FAQ
- 11.1 Does the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard fit in a Thermaltake 200 case?
- 11.2 Does the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard support SAS drives?
- 11.3 What RAM is compatible with the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
- 11.4 How do I build a system with the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
- 11.5 What do the status lights on the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard indicate?
- 11.6 Why is the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard showing a red light?
- 11.7 What is the difference between the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX and the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX V2 motherboards?
- 11.8 What GPUs are compatible with the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
- 11.9 Why is the Wi-Fi not working on my GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
- 11.10 What do the lights on the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard indicate?
- 11.11 Does the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard support SAS drives?
- 11.12 Where can I find the SAS driver for the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
- 11.13 How do I update the BIOS on the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
- 11.14 What memory modules are compatible with the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
- 11.15 Where can I find the reviews for the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
- 11.16 Where can I find the user manual for the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX V2 motherboard?
- 11.17 Where can I find the Wi-Fi 6 driver for the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
- 11.18 Where can I buy the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard?
Key Takeaways
- Supports AMD Ryzen 7000 series processors on the AM5 socket
- Features a Direct 8+2+2 Phases Digital VRM Solution for unparalleled performance
- Offers Dual Channel DDR5 memory with AMD EXPO and Intel XMP support
- Provides SuperSpeed Storage with PCIe 5.0 x4 and PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 connectors
- Includes advanced thermal design and Wi-Fi 6E for fast networking
Introduction to AMD AM5 Platform and B650 Chipset
The AMD AM5 platform brings new tech like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory. The B650 chipset is a mid-range choice, offering great features at a lower cost. Motherboards like the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX cost between $180 and $220.
Understanding the B650 Market Position
The B650 chipset meets the needs of many users. It’s perfect for those who want good performance without spending too much. These boards support PCIe 4.0 for fast storage and graphics. They also support DDR5 memory, which can run up to 7200 MHz for quicker system responses.
Price Point Considerations for AM5 Adoption
Building an AMD AM5 system can be pricey, especially for DDR5 memory. The B650 chipset is more affordable than the X670 series. But, DDR5 RAM can still be a big cost. As DDR5 prices drop, more people will choose the AMD AM5 platform, including the B650 chipset.
| Feature | B650 | X670 |
|---|---|---|
| PCIe Lanes | 36 PCIe 4.0 lanes | 44 PCIe 5.0 lanes |
| SATA Ports | Up to 4 SATA 6Gb/s | Up to 8 SATA 6Gb/s |
| USB Ports | Up to 6 USB 10Gb/s | Up to 12 USB 10Gb/s |
| Overclocking | Moderate | Advanced |
Design and Build Quality Overview
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is a top-notch ATX motherboard. It shows GIGABYTE’s dedication to quality and detail. This motherboard is perfect for those on a budget who want a great AMD Ryzen™ 7000 Series experience.
At its core, the motherboard has a strong 6-layer 2X Copper PCB. This design boosts durability and helps with heat management for better performance. The ATX motherboard also has upgraded VRM heatsinks for efficient power delivery, even when it’s under heavy use.
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX offers 3 M.2 Ultra Storage Performance Connectors. These connectors have heatspreaders to keep high-speed SSDs cool. This shows GIGABYTE’s dedication to creating a solid platform for both enthusiasts and professionals.
The motherboard’s RGB Fusion 2.0 adds to its looks, letting users personalize the lighting. It has a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5GbE LAN, and many USB ports. This makes the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX a great choice for modern PC users.
In summary, the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is a well-designed motherboard. It focuses on thermal management, expandability, and customization. It’s a great option for those looking for a solid AMD AM5 platform without breaking the bank.
Technical Specifications and Features
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard is loaded with advanced features. It has a powerful VRM configuration for the AMD AM5 platform. This ensures reliable and efficient power delivery.
VRM Configuration and Power Delivery
The motherboard has a twin 12+2+2 phase digital VRM solution. It uses 60A power stages for the CPU core. This setup provides stable power, even under heavy loads or during overclocking.
The VRM is also enhanced with a thermal armor and a 6mm heatpipe. This helps in keeping the system cool for better performance.
Storage and Expansion Options
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX offers great storage and expansion options. It has three M.2 slots, with two supporting PCIe 4.0 x4 speeds. The third slot is a high-performance PCIe 5.0 x4 slot.
All M.2 slots have heatspreaders to keep temperatures in check during intense workloads. It also has four SATA 6Gb/s ports for traditional storage devices.
Networking and Connectivity
The motherboard shines in networking and connectivity. It features the latest Wi-Fi 6E technology for fast wireless speeds and low latency. It also has a 2.5GbE LAN port for high-speed wired networking.
The rear I/O panel offers a variety of USB ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C and Type-A connectors. It also has HDMI and DisplayPort outputs for versatile display connectivity.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| VRM Configuration | Twin 12+2+2 Phases Digital VRM with 60A Power Stages |
| M.2 Slots | 3 x M.2 Slots (1 x PCIe 5.0 x4, 2 x PCIe 4.0 x4) |
| Networking | Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5GbE LAN |
| USB Connectivity | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A |
| Display Outputs | HDMI, DisplayPort |
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard is a top choice for PC enthusiasts and builders. It offers a robust VRM configuration, ample storage and expansion options, and cutting-edge networking capabilities. It’s perfect for AMD AM5 platform-based systems.
GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX Detailed Analysis
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is a motherboard for AMD AM5 processors with built-in graphics. It’s a mid-range option that balances features and cost. This makes it a solid choice in the B650 chipset market.
The board focuses on keeping things cool and expanding your setup. It has a digital twin 12+2+2 phases VRM solution and large aluminum heatsinks. This setup ensures stable power, even with high-demand Ryzen 9 CPUs.
It supports dual-channel DDR5 memory, working with AMD EXPO and Intel XMP. The PCIe 5.0 x16 slot offers plenty of bandwidth for new graphics cards. Plus, there are three M.2 slots, including one with PCIe 5.0 x4, for storage.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| LAN Connectivity | 2.5GbE LAN & Wi-Fi 6E with Ultra-high gain antenna |
| USB Ports | 4 USB 2.0 ports, 5 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and 2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports |
| Audio | ALC897 high-quality sound experience |
| VRM Configuration | Digital twin 12+2+2 phases VRM solution with 60A Dr.MOS |
| Cooling Solutions | Large aluminum heatsinks and additional cooling for powerstages |
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is packed with features. It’s a great pick for those looking for a solid AMD AM5 platform. It’s ready for the latest AMD Ryzen 7000 series processors and their graphics.
PCIe Configuration and Storage Options
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard has a strong PCIe setup. It gives top-notch performance and flexibility for today’s PCs. It supports the latest PCIe 4.0, making it perfect for fast GPUs and storage.
M.2 Slot Implementation
The motherboard has two M.2 slots with heatspreaders for better cooling. These slots use the fast PCIe 4.0 x4 interface. This means users can get super-fast PCIe 4.0 SSDs for quick data access and boot times.
PCIe Lane Distribution
The motherboard’s PCIe lane setup is flexible for different system setups. The main PCIe x16 slot connects directly to the CPU. This gives lots of bandwidth for the latest GPU compatibility. There’s also a secondary PCIe x16 slot for multi-GPU setups or high-performance devices.
The motherboard has dual M.2 slots for installing super-fast M.2 SSDs. This boosts the system’s performance and speed.
“The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard’s PCIe and storage configuration offers a versatile and high-performance foundation for modern PC builds.”
Memory Support and DDR5 Compatibility
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard uses DDR5 memory. This gives users a big boost in speed and performance compared to DDR4. Moving to DDR5 is a big change for the AMD AM5 platform, which might affect the cost for those who love to build their own systems.
GIGABYTE has a detailed memory support list for the B650 Gaming X AX. This list shows which DDR5 memory modules work well with the motherboard. Users can check this list to pick GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX compatible RAM for the best performance.
| Memory Support | Specification |
|---|---|
| DDR5 Memory Support | Dual Channel DDR5 with 4*SMD DIMMs |
| Supported Memory Speed | AMD EXPO™ & Intel® XMP up to 8000+ MHz |
| Memory Overclocking | GIGABYTE offers tested and proven memory overclocking capabilities |
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard is ready for the future with DDR5 memory. It supports a wide range of memory speeds and overclocking. This means users can get the most out of their AMD Ryzen™ Series processors and enjoy better system performance.
Cooling Solutions and Thermal Performance
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard has top-notch cooling solutions. It keeps the system cool, even when it’s working hard. The board has better VRM heatsinks than its mATX version. This means it can handle the powerful Ryzen 7000 processors without a problem.
VRM Heatsink Design
The VRM heatsink on the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is built to handle heat well. It keeps the motherboard’s power system stable, even when it’s under heavy load. This is great for tasks that push the system to its limits.
M.2 Thermal Management
GIGABYTE knows how important it is to keep M.2 storage devices cool. So, they’ve added special heatspreaders to all three M.2 slots on the B650 Gaming X AX. These help keep M.2 SSDs at the right temperature, ensuring they work well even when used a lot.
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard has a great cooling system. It combines a strong VRM heatsink with M.2 thermal management. This setup helps keep the system cool, letting users get the most out of their AMD Ryzen 7000 series processors and fast storage devices.
Connectivity and I/O Features
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX motherboard has a wide range of connectivity options. It includes multiple USB 3.2 ports for fast data transfer. This is great for many devices.
The board also has HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 outputs. These allow for easy connection to the latest displays. Users can enjoy great visuals for gaming, streaming, or content creation.
Networking is a key feature of this motherboard. It has Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5 Gbit LAN connection. These offer fast wireless and wired connections, meeting today’s digital needs.
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX also has a high-quality Realtek audio codec. It provides amazing sound quality for music, movies, and games. The board’s I/O panel offers many ways to connect peripherals, storage, and more. This makes it a versatile and future-proof choice for PC builds.
“The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX offers a comprehensive I/O panel that caters to the diverse needs of modern PC enthusiasts, with a focus on high-speed connectivity and versatile networking options.”
Performance Testing and Benchmarks
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX motherboard shows great performance in many tests and real-world use. It’s designed for gamers and has advanced features. This makes it a great choice for PC fans.
Gaming Performance Results
In gaming tests, the Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX shines. It offers a smooth gaming experience. With a Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU and an RTX 4070-S GPU, it scored a high gaming performance rating of 218%. This puts it in the “Gaming” category.
System Boot Times
The motherboard also has fast system boot times. Its optimized setup and firmware make it quick. It has a system boot time benchmark of 118%, making it fast to start up.
Temperature Analysis
Keeping cool is key for high-performance systems. The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX does well here. Its VRM heatsink and M.2 thermal solutions keep it cool, even when working hard. It scored a workstation-focused benchmark of 222%.
| Benchmark Category | Benchmark Rating | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming | 218% | $569 (RTX 4070-S) |
| Desktop | 118% | $1,135 (Motherboard) |
| Workstation | 222% | $160 (990 Pro M.2 2TB SSD) |
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX performs well in gaming, boot times, and keeping cool. Its top scores and value make it a top pick for gamers and PC fans.
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Conclusion
The GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is a strong choice in the mid-range B650 motherboard market. It has a good mix of features like a strong VRM design and cooling solutions. It also has plenty of connectivity options.
Its price of $220 is a bit higher than some B650 options. But, its quality and features might be worth it for those wanting a solid AMD AM5 system. This is especially true for those who don’t want to spend more on the X670 platform.
If you’re thinking about the new AMD AM5 platform, the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is a good pick. It has a balanced set of specs and performance. It can handle high-end components and fast DDR5 memory well.
This motherboard also has a strong power delivery system. It ensures your system meets your needs without sacrificing quality or features.
In summary, the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is a solid choice for a mid-range AMD AM5 motherboard. It offers a great mix of features, performance, and value. If you’re building a new AMD system or upgrading, this motherboard is definitely worth considering.
