ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory vs ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket

Design and build quality

Both motherboards utilize the Micro-ATX form factor designed for compact desktop builds. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory and the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket share similar physical dimensions suitable for standard PC cases. While specific build material details are not provided in the data, both boards are engineered to support AMD AM4 socket processors. The layout prioritizes essential connectivity for budget-conscious users, with component placement optimized for airflow in smaller chassis. Users should verify case compatibility regarding rear I/O shield inclusion and standoff positioning before purchase.

Socket and CPU Compatibility

Compatibility is a strong suit for both options, as they support the same range of processors. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen 2000, 3000, 4000 G-Series, 5000 and 5000 G-Series Desktop Processors. Similarly, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen 2000, 3000, 4000 G-Series, 5000 and 5000 G-Series Desktop Processors. This ensures that buyers can choose either board without worrying about CPU generation support within the Ryzen 2000 to 5000 lineup. Both boards provide a stable foundation for mid-range computing tasks and gaming workloads.

Memory Support and Speed

Memory performance is critical for system responsiveness. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory supports DDR4 3200* memory speeds. In comparison, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket supports DDR4 3200+(OC) across 2 DIMMs. The inclusion of overclocking support on the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket suggests potentially better tuning headroom for enthusiasts. Both boards utilize standard DDR4 modules, ensuring wide availability of compatible RAM kits. Users aiming for maximum speed should verify QVL lists for specific memory module compatibility.

Expansion Slots and Graphics

Expansion capabilities differ notably between the two models. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory features 1 PCIe 3.0 x16 and 1 PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, along with AMD Quad CrossFireX support. This allows for dual graphics card configurations in supported scenarios. Conversely, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket offers 1 PCIe 3.0 x16 and 1 PCIe 2.0 x1 slot. The secondary x16 slot on the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory provides more bandwidth for add-in cards compared to the x1 slot found on the competitor. This makes the former slightly more versatile for multi-GPU or high-bandwidth expansion needs.

Storage and Connectivity

Storage options are where the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket shines. It explicitly lists 4 SATA3 ports and 1 Ultra M.2 slot supporting PCIe Gen3x4 and SATA3. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory does not list specific storage interfaces in the provided data. Additionally, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket includes 6 USB 3.1 Gen1 ports split between front and rear panels. Realtek Gigabit LAN is also confirmed on the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket. These documented features provide greater certainty for users planning their peripheral and storage connections.

Audio and Video Outputs

Display and audio connectivity vary significantly. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory lists Graphics Output as HDMI*. The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket provides HDMI, DVI-D, and D-Sub outputs, offering flexibility for older monitors. Audio-wise, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket features 7.1 CH HD Audio with a Realtek ALC887/897 Audio Codec. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory does not specify audio codec details. For users requiring multiple display types or high-quality integrated audio, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket is the clearer choice.

Price and Value

Cost is a deciding factor for budget builds. The ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory is priced at $79.00. The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket is available for $72.47. Considering the additional documented features such as M.2 storage, multiple video ports, and USB connectivity on the lower-priced option, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket delivers superior value. The price difference allows builders to allocate funds toward other components like storage or memory while retaining essential functionality.

Which one should you buy?

Choosing between these boards depends on specific expansion needs versus overall connectivity. If secondary PCIe bandwidth and CrossFire support are priorities, the ASRock B450M/AC R2.0 AM4 AMD Promontory is suitable. However, for most users, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket is the recommended purchase due to its lower price, verified M.2 support, and diverse video outputs. The comprehensive feature list of the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AMD B450 AM4 Socket ensures fewer compatibility surprises during assembly.