Greg Bernhardt said:Ivy is current generation and uses a bit less power. Not much difference really.
The main differences between X79 and Z77 chipsets lie in their intended use and features. X79 is designed for high-end desktops and workstations, while Z77 is geared towards mainstream desktops. X79 supports more advanced features such as quad-channel memory and more PCIe lanes, while Z77 supports integrated graphics and Intel's Rapid Storage Technology.
In terms of gaming performance, Z77 is generally considered to be the better choice. It supports Intel's integrated HD graphics, which can provide a decent gaming experience for casual gamers. Additionally, Z77's support for Intel's Rapid Storage Technology can improve load times for games installed on a solid state drive.
X79 has several advantages over Z77, particularly for users who require high performance for tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and other intensive applications. These include support for quad-channel memory, more PCIe lanes for multiple graphics cards, and support for Intel's Extreme Edition processors.
Yes, there is a significant price difference between the X79 and Z77 chipsets. X79 is typically more expensive due to its high-end features and intended use for high-performance systems. Z77, on the other hand, is more affordable and geared towards mainstream desktop users.
No, it is not possible to upgrade from Z77 to X79. These chipsets are designed for different types of systems and have different sockets, meaning the processors are not compatible with both chipsets. If you want to switch to X79, you will need to purchase a new motherboard and CPU.