ASRock AMD B850i Lightning WiFi 6E Socket AM5 vs GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus WiFi DDR4 LGA 1700

Price Comparison

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning is priced at $179.99, while the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus comes in at a lower price of $139.99. This makes the GIGABYTE option about 22% cheaper than the ASRock model. For budget-conscious builders, this price difference could be a significant factor in decision-making, especially when considering overall system costs. The GIGABYTE motherboard offers a solid feature set at a more accessible price point, appealing to gamers and general users alike.

Form Factor and Size

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning features a Mini-ITX compact design with dimensions of 170x170mm, making it ideal for small form factor builds. In contrast, the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus adopts a Micro ATX design, which provides more expansion options and connectivity but requires a larger case. The ASRock motherboard caters to those who prioritize space-saving builds, while the GIGABYTE board is suited for users who may want to incorporate additional components or peripherals easily.

Power Delivery and Stability

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning boasts a premium 10+1+1 phase power design with a 110A Smart Power Stage, ensuring stable performance, especially in compact builds. On the other hand, the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus features a 4+1+1 hybrid digital power phase system designed to deliver steady power. While both motherboards promise reliable power delivery, the ASRock’s advanced setup may appeal more to overclocking enthusiasts seeking enhanced stability under load.

Memory Support

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning supports up to 128GB of DDR5 memory with speeds exceeding 8200 MHz (overclocked), which is impressive for high-performance computing tasks. In contrast, the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus supports DDR4 memory across four slots, catering to a wider range of users but lacking the extreme speed potential of the ASRock board. For users focused on high-performance gaming or demanding applications, the ASRock’s memory capabilities offer a clear advantage.

Connectivity Options

Both motherboards offer extensive connectivity options, but they cater to different needs. The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning features dual M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 support, providing maximum storage performance. Additionally, it includes USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C ports that can reach speeds of up to 40Gb/s. Meanwhile, the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus includes two M.2 slots and a USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-C port, offering solid connectivity but at a slightly reduced level of performance compared to the ASRock. Users looking for cutting-edge storage and connectivity might lean towards the ASRock motherboard.

Networking Features

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning excels in networking capabilities with its Killer 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6E support, ensuring high-speed wired and wireless connections. This can be particularly beneficial for online gaming or streaming. Conversely, the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus has a 6 GbE LAN but does not specify advanced WiFi options. For users prioritizing superior networking performance and future-proofing, the ASRock motherboard is the clear choice.

Display Outputs

When it comes to display outputs, the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning features HDMI and USB Type-C with DisplayPort Alt-mode support, allowing versatile monitor configurations. This is ideal for users looking to set up multiple displays or high-resolution monitors. The GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus does not provide specific details about its display outputs, suggesting it may not offer the same level of flexibility. Users with specific display needs may find the ASRock’s offerings more accommodating.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning and the GIGABYTE B760M Gaming Plus ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact form factor, superior memory support, and advanced networking features, the ASRock model, priced at $179.99, is a strong contender despite its higher cost. However, if budget is a primary concern and you need a motherboard that still offers great performance and connectivity at a lower price of $139.99, the GIGABYTE option provides excellent value. Consider your priorities—whether it's price, space, or performance—to make the right choice for your build.