ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ vs GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard,
Updated August 2026 — GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard, leads on performance and connectivity.
The GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC offers superior performance and features, making it the better choice for high-end users, while the ASRock A520M-HDV is a budget-friendly option for basic needs.
Why ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ is better
Price
ASRock is significantly cheaper.
Basic Support
Adequate for basic computing needs.
Memory Capacity
Supports up to 32 GB.
Why GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard, is better
Performance
Better power design for high performance.
Connectivity
Next-gen PCIe 5.0 support.
Thermal Management
Superior cooling features.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ | GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard, |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Type | AM4 | LGA 1700 |
| Max Memory | 32 GB | Dual Channel DDR5 |
| Power Phases | 6 | 16+1+1 |
| PCIe Version | 3.0 | 5.0 |
| Thermal Features | Basic | Advanced |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Products
In this comparison, we examine the ASRock A520M-HDV and the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC motherboards. The ASRock A520M-HDV is priced at $68.49, making it about 54% cheaper than the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC, which retails for $149.99. Both motherboards cater to different user needs and processor compatibility, making them suitable for distinct market segments.
Compatibility and Processor Support
The ASRock A520M-HDV supports AMD AM4 Socket processors, including the Ryzen 3000, 4000 G-Series, and 5000 series. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC is built for Intel processors, accommodating the 14th, 13th, and 12th generations with its LGA 1700 socket. This fundamental difference in compatibility means that the choice between these two products largely depends on the user's preferred CPU brand.
Memory and Performance
When it comes to memory support, the ASRock A520M-HDV can handle up to 32 GB with DDR4 speeds of 4733+ (OC), while the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC is compatible with dual-channel DDR5 memory across four DIMMs. The GIGABYTE's support for DDR5 may provide a performance edge, especially for users interested in high-speed memory applications, offering potential for better future-proofing.
Power Design
The power design of the two motherboards varies significantly. The ASRock A520M-HDV features a 6-phase power design, which is adequate for basic computing needs. On the other hand, the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC boasts a more robust 16+1+1 twin hybrid phases digital power design with 60A DrMOS. This superior power management is likely to enhance stability and performance in demanding applications, making the Z790 UD AC a better choice for gamers and power users.
Connectivity Options
The connectivity options between the two motherboards differ markedly. The ASRock A520M-HDV includes a PCIe 3.0 x16 and a PCIe 3.0 x1 slot, along with graphics output options of D-Sub, DVI-D, and HDMI. The GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC, however, offers next-generation connectivity with PCIe 5.0 and three NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, as well as SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C. This enhanced connectivity in the GIGABYTE motherboard allows for faster data transfer rates and more versatile upgrade options.
Thermal Management
Thermal management is crucial for maintaining optimal performance, and the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC excels in this area. It features fully covered MOSFET heatsinks and an M.2 thermal guard, ensuring that the motherboard remains cool under load. The ASRock A520M-HDV does not provide specific details about its thermal management capabilities, which may be a concern for users who expect high-performance computing.
Aesthetic and Build Quality
In terms of design, the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC showcases RGB Fusion, which adds a customizable aesthetic appeal to builds. It also boasts a 6-layer PCB for added durability and stability. The ASRock A520M-HDV is more utilitarian in design, focusing on functionality over aesthetics. For users who value visual customization in their builds, the GIGABYTE motherboard is a more attractive option.
Price Comparison
The price difference between the two motherboards is significant, with the ASRock A520M-HDV priced at $68.49 and the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC at $149.99. The GIGABYTE motherboard is about 117% more expensive than the ASRock model. While the ASRock may appeal to budget-conscious consumers or those building basic systems, the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC justifies its higher price with enhanced features and performance capabilities.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the decision between the ASRock A520M-HDV and the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC hinges on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable option that supports AMD processors and meets basic computing requirements, the ASRock A520M-HDV is a solid choice. However, if you're aiming for high performance, extensive connectivity, and the ability to use the latest Intel processors, the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC is worth the investment for its advanced features and superior build quality.