ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ vs ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory B450 SATA

Overview of ASRock A520M-HDV and ASRock B450M/AC R2.0

The ASRock A520M-HDV is priced at $68.49, making it about 13% cheaper than the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0, which retails for $79.00. While both motherboards support a range of AMD Ryzen processors, their specifications and features differ significantly. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right motherboard for your needs.

Processor Compatibility

The ASRock A520M-HDV supports AMD AM4 socket Ryzen processors from the 3000, 4000 G-Series, and 5000 series, making it versatile for newer builds. In contrast, the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 also supports a broader range, including Ryzen 2000, 3000, 4000 G-Series, and 5000 series processors. This means that if you're looking to use older Ryzen processors, the B450M/AC R2.0 provides more options. However, for future-proofing, the A520M-HDV is well-suited for the latest generations.

Memory Support

The ASRock A520M-HDV offers support for DDR4 memory speeds of up to 4733 MHz when overclocked, while the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 supports DDR4 memory running at a maximum of 3200 MHz. This significant difference means that the A520M-HDV can potentially deliver better performance in memory-intensive applications, making it an appealing choice for gamers and creators who need high-speed memory.

Expansion Slots

When it comes to expansion options, the ASRock A520M-HDV features one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot. In comparison, the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 provides one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and one PCIe 2.0 x16 slot. While both motherboards offer decent expansion capabilities, the A520M-HDV's PCIe 3.0 slots can provide better bandwidth for modern graphics cards and other peripherals.

Graphics Output

Both motherboards provide versatile graphics output options. The ASRock A520M-HDV supports D-Sub, DVI-D, and HDMI outputs, with the HDMI port capable of handling 4K resolution at 60Hz. On the other hand, the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 primarily features HDMI output. For users needing multiple display connections or higher resolutions, the A520M-HDV is the more capable option.

Power Design

The ASRock A520M-HDV is equipped with a 6-phase power design, which can contribute to more stable performance during demanding tasks. Conversely, while the B450M/AC R2.0 does not specify its power phase design, it is generally less advanced compared to the A520M-HDV. A more robust power design can be crucial for overclocking and maintaining system stability, especially in high-performance builds.

Price Comparison

The ASRock A520M-HDV is priced at $68.49, while the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 is listed at $79.00, making the A520M-HDV about $10.51 cheaper. This price difference can be significant for budget-conscious builders. While both motherboards offer unique advantages, the A520M-HDV provides more value for those focused on newer technologies and performance enhancements.

Customer Reception

Both motherboards are manufactured by ASRock, a reputable brand in the PC hardware community. However, specific sales ranks and customer feedback were not provided in the data. Generally, ASRock products are well-regarded for their reliability and performance, but prospective buyers should check current reviews and ratings for the latest user experiences.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASRock A520M-HDV and the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for a motherboard that supports newer processors, offers higher memory speeds, and provides better graphics output options, the A520M-HDV is the clear winner at $68.49. However, if you plan to use older Ryzen processors, the B450M/AC R2.0 offers broader compatibility and can be a solid choice, albeit at a higher price of $79.00. For future-proofing and performance, the ASRock A520M-HDV is likely the better investment.