ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ vs MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming Motherboard

Overview of the ASRock A520M-HDV and MSI A520M-A PRO

The ASRock A520M-HDV is priced at $68.49, while the MSI A520M-A PRO is slightly more expensive at $68.99. The price difference of $0.50 translates to about a 0.7% increase for the MSI model. Both motherboards support AMD's AM4 socket and are designed for the Ryzen 3000, 4000 G-Series, and 5000 series processors, making them suitable for a wide range of setups.

Features and Performance

The ASRock A520M-HDV supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 4733 MHz when overclocked, offering flexibility for users looking to maximize performance. In contrast, the MSI A520M-A PRO supports DDR4 memory speeds of up to 4600 MHz (overclocked). This means that the ASRock model has a marginal advantage in memory speed potential.

Both motherboards feature a PCIe 3.0 interface, but the ASRock A520M-HDV includes a PCIe Gen3 x4 Ultra M.2 interface which allows for data transfer speeds of up to 32 Gb/s. The MSI A520M-A PRO also supports a Turbo M.2 feature that allows for the same PCIe Gen3 x4 performance. This effectively makes both motherboards competitive in terms of M.2 performance, with the ASRock having a slight edge in memory capacity.

Compatibility

The ASRock A520M-HDV is compatible with a broad range of AMD Ryzen processors, specifically excluding the Ryzen 5 3400G and Ryzen 3 3200G. On the other hand, the MSI A520M-A PRO supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen Desktop Processors as well as the Ryzen 4000 G-Series. This means that while both boards cater to a wide range of processors, the MSI model offers slightly broader compatibility with the G-Series.

Graphics Options

For graphics output, the ASRock A520M-HDV offers three types of connectors: D-Sub, DVI-D, and HDMI, with the HDMI port supporting 4K resolution at 60Hz. This is a significant feature for users looking to build a high-definition gaming or media center. The MSI A520M-A PRO also includes both DVI and HDMI ports, but it does not explicitly mention support for 4K resolution. This detail could be a deciding factor for users prioritizing high-resolution displays.

Audio Quality

Audio quality can be an important consideration for gamers and media enthusiasts. The MSI A520M-A PRO features an Audio Boost technology that promises studio-grade sound quality. In contrast, the ASRock A520M-HDV does not highlight specific audio enhancements in its description. This can mean that the MSI motherboard may be a better choice for users who want superior audio performance in their builds.

Software and User Experience

The MSI A520M-A PRO stands out with its Dragon Center software, which integrates various MSI tools into a user-friendly interface, enhancing the overall user experience. This feature is particularly useful for gamers or anyone looking to manage system performance easily. The ASRock A520M-HDV does not mention any similar software, which could make the MSI model more appealing for users who value software support.

Build Quality and Reliability

Both the ASRock A520M-HDV and MSI A520M-A PRO are marketed as reliable motherboards with a focus on quality assembly. However, MSI highlights the PRO series' stability and longevity, aiming to optimize professional workflows. While both options are built to last, the marketing claims from MSI may appeal more to users looking for a robust solution for sustained performance.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the ASRock A520M-HDV and the MSI A520M-A PRO depends on specific user needs. The ASRock A520M-HDV is about $0.50 cheaper and offers slightly better memory speed capabilities, making it a solid choice for users focused on raw performance. Conversely, the MSI A520M-A PRO provides enhanced audio quality, a broader range of processor compatibility, and user-friendly software, making it a compelling option for gamers and those seeking a more integrated experience. Consider your priorities — whether it's price, performance, compatibility, or features — to make the best choice for your build.