ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory B450 SATA vs ASUS TUF Gaming Z790

Price Comparison

The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 is significantly more affordable than the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi, priced at $79.00 compared to $199.99. This means the ASUS motherboard is about 153% more expensive than its ASRock counterpart. While the price difference may reflect varying features and capabilities, budget-conscious consumers may find the ASRock motherboard a more appealing choice for their needs, especially for entry-level builds or upgrades.

Compatibility and Processor Support

When it comes to processor compatibility, the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 supports AMD AM4 socket processors, including Ryzen 2000, 3000, 4000 G-Series, and 5000 G-Series. In contrast, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is designed for Intel processors, specifically supporting the 12th, 13th, and 14th generation Intel Core processors. This distinction is vital for users to consider based on their preferred CPU brand. If building a system around AMD processors, the ASRock is the clear choice, whereas Intel users should opt for the ASUS motherboard.

Memory and Performance

The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 supports DDR4 memory up to 3200MHz, which is adequate for most gaming and general computing tasks. On the other hand, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi offers support for the latest DDR5 memory, which provides higher speeds and improved performance for demanding applications and gaming. The ASUS motherboard is engineered with a 16+1 DrMOS power solution, suggesting superior performance capabilities. Therefore, gamers and power users looking for high-performance memory options would benefit more from the ASUS motherboard.

Expansion Slots

The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 features one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and one PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, which may limit expansion options for users wanting multiple graphics cards or additional expansion cards. Conversely, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi boasts advanced expansion capabilities, including four M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs and support for PCIe 5.0, offering faster data transfer rates. This makes the ASUS motherboard a better fit for users who plan to maximize their system's performance through multiple expansions.

Networking Features

In terms of networking, the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 does not specify advanced networking features, whereas the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is equipped with WiFi 6 AX201 and a 2.5Gb LAN connection. This ensures faster and more reliable internet connectivity, crucial for online gaming and streaming. The addition of TUF LANGuard and TurboLAN technology further enhances the ASUS motherboard's networking capabilities. Users who prioritize high-speed internet connectivity will find the ASUS offering far superior in this aspect.

Cooling Solutions

The cooling solutions differ significantly between the two motherboards. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 does not highlight any specific cooling features, which may be a concern for users planning to overclock or run demanding tasks. In contrast, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi includes comprehensive cooling features such as a VRM heatsink, PCH fanless heatsink, and M.2 heatsink. These features are designed to enhance thermal performance, making it an ideal choice for gamers who require stable operation during intense gaming sessions.

Aesthetic Design and Durability

The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi emphasizes durability and design, featuring military-grade components and a simple yet robust geometric design. This aesthetic is not only appealing but also reflects the motherboard's stability and reliability. On the other hand, the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 does not specify design elements beyond its functional attributes. For users who value aesthetics and build quality along with performance, the ASUS motherboard stands out as the more attractive option.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 and the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi ultimately hinges on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a cost-effective solution for an AMD build, the ASRock motherboard is an excellent choice at $79.00. However, if you require advanced features such as support for the latest Intel processors, DDR5 memory, superior networking capabilities, and enhanced cooling solutions, the ASUS motherboard at $199.99 is worth the investment. Users seeking high-performance gaming and future-proofing will likely find the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi to be the best option, while those on a budget can appreciate the value offered by the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0.