ASRock B550M-ITX/AC Supports 3rd Gen AMD AM4 vs SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard for

Overview of the ASRock B550M-ITX/AC and SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO

The ASRock B550M-ITX/AC is priced at $109.99, while the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO comes in at a lower $79.99, making it about 27% cheaper. These two motherboards cater to different processor families and are suited for different types of builds. The ASRock is designed for 3rd Gen AMD AM4 Ryzen processors, while the SHANGZHAOYUAN supports Intel's 4th Gen Core processors.

Compatibility with Processors

The ASRock B550M-ITX/AC supports a range of AMD processors, including Ryzen 3000, 4000, and 5000 series, but does not work with AMD Athlon processors. This makes it a versatile choice for users looking to build a modern gaming or workstation PC. On the other hand, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO is compatible with Intel's 4th Gen Core i7, i5, i3, as well as Pentium and Celeron series processors. This makes the SHANGZHAOYUAN a good option for users who have older Intel chips and want to upgrade their system without changing the CPU.

Memory Support

When it comes to memory, the ASRock B550M-ITX/AC supports DDR4 memory with speeds of up to 4733 MHz (OC), offering excellent performance for gaming and multitasking. In contrast, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO supports dual-channel DDR3 memory with a maximum capacity of 32GB, operating at frequencies of 1333, 1600, and 1866 MHz. The memory support of the ASRock is notably superior, providing options for faster and more efficient RAM, which can significantly enhance system performance.

Expansion Slots and Connectivity

The ASRock B550M-ITX/AC features advanced connectivity options including DisplayPort and HDMI outputs, which are essential for high-definition displays. It also offers an impressive array of expansion options tailored for modern needs. Conversely, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO includes a variety of interfaces such as PCIe 3.0 slots, SATA 3.0 connections, and NVME M.2 support. While the SHANGZHAOYUAN does provide essential connectivity, its technology is slightly older, reflecting its design for previous-gen Intel CPUs.

Audio and Visual Capabilities

The ASRock B550M-ITX/AC boasts a 7.1 channel HD audio system powered by the Realtek ALC887 audio codec, making it suitable for high-quality sound in gaming and multimedia applications. The audio capabilities of the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO are not explicitly mentioned, but it does support HDMI, VGA, and DVI for video output, allowing for flexible display options. For users who prioritize audio quality, the ASRock is likely the better choice.

Build Quality and Design Features

Build quality is a critical factor in motherboard longevity and performance. The ASRock B550M-ITX/AC is designed with sturdy components and emphasizes smooth power delivery, which is essential for overclocking and high-performance tasks. The SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO, on the other hand, features a solid-state capacitor design and claims to provide a stable power supply, but it lacks some of the advanced thermal and power management features that are critical for high-performance setups.

Price Comparison

The ASRock B550M-ITX/AC is listed at $109.99, while the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO is priced at $79.99. This price difference of $30 makes the SHANGZHAOYUAN about 27% less expensive, appealing to budget-conscious buyers or those with less demanding build requirements. However, the ASRock's higher price reflects its advanced features and compatibility with modern components, appealing to gamers and power users.

User Experience and Installation

Both motherboards are aimed at different market segments, which can affect user experience during installation. The ASRock B550M-ITX/AC is compact and designed for mini ITX builds, ideal for smaller cases. Meanwhile, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO follows a micro-ATX form factor, which is generally easier to work with due to its larger size. The ASRock may appeal to those looking for cutting-edge technology, whereas the SHANGZHAOYUAN is a practical choice for upgrading older systems.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASRock B550M-ITX/AC and the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking for a motherboard that supports the latest AMD processors with higher memory speeds and advanced features, the ASRock is the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget and have an Intel 4th Gen processor, the SHANGZHAOYUAN offers solid performance at a lower price. Therefore, evaluate your current hardware and future upgrade plans to make the best decision for your build.