ASRock AMD B850i Lightning WiFi 6E Socket AM5 vs ASRock Intel Core Ultra Z890 LGA1851 RL-ILM Mini

Price Comparison

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning is priced at $179.99, while the ASRock Intel Core Ultra Z890 costs $249.99. This makes the AMD B850i about 28% cheaper than its Intel counterpart. The price difference reflects the target markets of these motherboards—AMD's offering is aimed at budget-conscious users looking for solid performance, while the Intel model is designed for higher-end builds that demand more advanced features.

Compatibility

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning is compatible with AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors, offering versatility for users invested in the AMD ecosystem. In contrast, the ASRock Intel Core Ultra Z890 supports Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) with an LGA1851 socket. This means that your choice between these two motherboards is heavily influenced by which processor brand you prefer or already own, as each board is specifically designed for its respective CPU family.

Power Delivery and Stability

In terms of power delivery, the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning features a 10+1+1 phase power design with a 110A Smart Power Stage. This configuration ensures stable performance, particularly in compact builds. The Intel Z890, on the other hand, boasts a more complex 12+1+1+1+1 power phase setup, also with a 110A SPS for VCore. The additional power phases in the Z890 may offer enhanced stability and efficiency, making it a better choice for users looking to overclock their systems extensively.

Memory Support

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning supports DDR5 memory with speeds of up to 8200+ MHz (OC) and has two DIMM slots for dual-channel configurations. Meanwhile, the ASRock Intel Core Ultra Z890 can accommodate DDR5 memory up to 9466+ MHz (OC) with the same dual-channel configuration. This gives the Intel board a slight edge in terms of maximum memory speed, which can be crucial for high-performance gaming and content creation tasks.

Storage Options

For storage, the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning features dual ultra-fast storage options, including both Blazing M.2 (PCIe Gen5x4) and Hyper M.2 (PCIe Gen4x4) slots. This allows for maximum storage performance and flexibility for users looking to install high-speed SSDs. The ASRock Intel Core Ultra Z890 also offers robust storage capabilities with one HDMI and two Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports, which can provide additional connectivity for high-speed external drives. However, its storage specifications aren't as detailed as those of the AMD board.

Networking Features

Networking capabilities differ significantly between the two motherboards. The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning is equipped with Killer 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6E with Bluetooth, providing premium wired and wireless connectivity options. This is ideal for gamers and professionals who require stable and fast internet connections. In comparison, the ASRock Intel Core Ultra Z890 includes graphics output options like HDMI and Thunderbolt 4 Type-C, which focus more on video output than direct networking features. Users may find the AMD board's networking capabilities more advantageous for modern online activities.

Design and Build Quality

Both motherboards feature a Mini-ITX compact design, but their aesthetic and build quality may attract different users. The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning is engineered for small form factor builds while retaining essential performance features. It also emphasizes usability with its flexible display options. The ASRock Intel Core Ultra Z890 is optimized for stability, durability, and efficiency, combining a user-friendly layout with a streamlined style. Depending on your preferences for aesthetics and how you plan to build your PC, either could be a suitable choice.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning and the ASRock Intel Core Ultra Z890 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option with solid performance and excellent networking capabilities, the AMD B850i at $179.99 is a compelling choice. However, if you are aiming for higher memory speeds, enhanced power delivery, and are already committed to Intel processors, the Intel Core Ultra Z890 at $249.99 could be worth the additional investment. Each board brings its strengths to the table, so consider your current hardware and performance requirements before making your final decision.