ASRock AMD B850i Lightning WiFi 6E Socket AM5 vs ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi AMD AM5 X870

Price Comparison

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning is significantly more affordable than the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming, costing $179.99 compared to $394.99 for the ASUS. This price difference of $215 represents about a 119% increase, making the ASRock motherboard a budget-friendly option for users who need solid performance without breaking the bank. While the ASUS offers advanced features, the price point is a significant consideration for those on a tighter budget.

Form Factor and Design

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning features a Mini-ITX design, making it ideal for compact builds. In contrast, the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming is an ATX motherboard, providing more space for additional features and components. The Mini-ITX form factor of the ASRock measures 170x170mm, perfect for small cases, while the ATX form factor of the ASUS offers more room for expansion with its larger size. Choosing between these form factors could depend on your specific build requirements and space availability.

Performance and Power Delivery

When it comes to performance, the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming boasts a robust 18+2+2 power solution rated for 110A per stage, which is designed to handle multi-core processors efficiently. In comparison, the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning offers a 10+1+1 phase power design, also rated for 110A, ensuring stable performance in compact setups. The ASUS motherboard's advanced power delivery system may provide better performance for overclocking, but both motherboards are designed to support high-performance AMD Ryzen processors.

Memory Support

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning supports two DDR5 DIMM slots, allowing for dual-channel configurations and extreme overclocked speeds up to 8200+ MHz. In contrast, the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming also supports DDR5 memory but offers additional optimizations through its AI and AEMP features. While both motherboards cater to high-speed memory needs, the ASUS may offer more advanced options for performance tuning, making it potentially more suitable for enthusiasts aiming for maximum memory performance.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is a standout feature for both products, but the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming has a clear advantage. It includes dual USB4 Type-C ports and numerous USB 10Gbps ports, enhancing connectivity for modern peripherals. The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning, while also offering USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C and multiple USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports, does not match the extensive connectivity options available on the ASUS. For users with high connectivity demands, the ASUS motherboard provides a more comprehensive solution.

Storage Capabilities

The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming excels in storage options, featuring three PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots, all designed with substantial cooling solutions. The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning, however, offers dual high-speed storage options with Blazing M.2 (PCIe Gen5x4) and Hyper M.2 (PCIe Gen4x4) slots. While both motherboards support cutting-edge storage technologies, the ASUS’s greater number of M.2 slots provides more flexibility for users looking to maximize storage performance in their builds.

Networking Features

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning provides advanced networking capabilities with Killer 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6E, ensuring fast and reliable internet connectivity. The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming takes it a step further with onboard WiFi 7 (802.11be) and Realtek 5 Gb Ethernet, enhancing performance for both gaming and productivity tasks. For users prioritizing network performance, the ASUS motherboard’s superior networking features could be a significant factor in the decision-making process.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning and the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a compact, cost-effective motherboard that provides solid performance for AMD Ryzen processors, the ASRock is a great choice at $179.99. However, if you need advanced features, better connectivity, and greater storage options, the ASUS motherboard, though significantly pricier at $394.99, may be worth the investment for enthusiasts and gamers.