ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory B450 SATA vs ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 ATX motherboard with PCIe
Updated July 2026 — ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 ATX motherboard with PCIe leads on price and connectivity.
The ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 offers superior features and performance compared to the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0, making it the better choice for high-performance needs.
Why ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory B450 SATA is better
Price
ASRock is significantly cheaper at $79.
Basic Features
Sufficient for entry-level gaming.
AMD Compatibility
Supports a wide range of AMD processors.
Why ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 ATX motherboard with PCIe is better
Performance
Higher performance with DDR5 and PCIe 5.0.
Connectivity
Includes Wi-Fi 7 and multiple M.2 slots.
Cooling
Advanced cooling solutions for better thermal management.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory B450 SATA | ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 ATX motherboard with PCIe |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Type | AM4 | LGA 1700 |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR5 |
| PCIe Version | 3.0 | 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 1 | 3 |
| LAN | Basic | Realtek 1Gb |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 and ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7
The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 is priced at $79.00, while the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 costs $149.99. This places the ASUS motherboard at about 89% more expensive than the ASRock model. Both motherboards cater to different user needs, with the ASRock targeting budget-conscious users and the ASUS focusing on high-performance gaming and advanced connectivity options.
Compatibility with Processors
The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen 2000, 3000, 4000 G-Series, 5000, and 5000 G-Series Desktop Processors. In contrast, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 is compatible with Intel's LGA 1700 socket, ready for Intel Core 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors, as well as Pentium Gold and Celeron processors. If you're planning to build a system around AMD processors, the ASRock is a clear choice, while the ASUS motherboard is better suited for those who prefer Intel's latest offerings.
Memory Support
The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 supports DDR4 memory up to 3200 MHz. Meanwhile, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 takes it a step further with DDR5 memory support, allowing for faster speeds and improved performance, particularly for gaming and intensive applications. The difference in memory technology signifies that users looking for future-proofing and high-speed capabilities should lean toward the ASUS model, which offers next-gen memory performance.
Expansion and Connectivity Options
In terms of expansion capabilities, the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 features one PCIe 3.0 x16 and one PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, ideal for basic graphics and expansion cards. On the other hand, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 is equipped with PCIe 5.0 technology, providing higher bandwidth for modern GPUs and storage devices. It also includes three M.2 slots, which allows for additional SSD installations, giving users greater flexibility for upgrades. This makes the ASUS a more robust choice for gamers and power users who demand extensive connectivity.
Cooling Solutions
The cooling solutions differ significantly between the two motherboards. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 does not emphasize advanced cooling features, while the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 boasts comprehensive cooling options, including large VRM heatsinks, a PCH heatsink, hybrid fan headers, and Fan Xpert 4 with AI Cooling II. This means the ASUS motherboard is better equipped to handle high-performance components and maintain optimal temperatures during intense usage, making it more suitable for gaming and heavy workloads.
Networking Features
Networking capabilities are another area where these two models diverge. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 includes basic HDMI output for video, but does not highlight advanced networking features. In contrast, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 offers Wi-Fi 7 and Realtek 1Gb LAN, ensuring faster internet speeds and better connectivity options. The enhanced networking features of the ASUS model are essential for gamers and streamers who require a stable and fast internet connection.
Aesthetic Design and Customization
When it comes to design and aesthetics, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 offers features like Aura Sync for customizable RGB lighting, making it an attractive choice for users who prioritize visual appeal in their builds. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 has a more utilitarian design without such customization options. If aesthetics and lighting features are important to you, the ASUS motherboard is the clear winner.
Price Consideration
The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 is priced at $79.00, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious users or those building entry-level gaming systems. In comparison, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 is priced at $149.99, which is about 89% more expensive. While the ASUS offers superior features and performance, users must consider their budget and specific needs when choosing between the two.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 and the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable option that supports AMD processors for basic tasks or entry-level gaming, the ASRock is a solid choice at $79.00. However, if you seek high-performance features, advanced connectivity, and future-proofing for an Intel-based system, the ASUS at $149.99 is worth the investment.