ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi Supports 13th Gen & 12th vs ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 AM5 Micro-ATX

Overview of the Motherboards

In this comparison, we examine the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi and the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0, both of which are versatile motherboards designed for different CPU architectures. The B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is tailored for Intel’s 13th and 12th Gen Core processors, while the B850M-X WiFi R2.0 supports AMD's Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series CPUs. This distinction is crucial for users looking to build a system that is compatible with either Intel or AMD ecosystems.

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is priced at $174.13, whereas the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 is considerably more economical at $129.99, making it about 25% cheaper than its Intel counterpart. This price difference might influence budget-conscious builders in their decision-making process.

CPU Compatibility

The primary factor in choosing between these two motherboards is the CPU compatibility. The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi supports Intel’s 13th and 12th Gen Core processors via the LGA1700 socket, which is ideal for users wanting to leverage Intel’s latest technology. This motherboard is engineered to handle demanding tasks, thanks to its 5+1+1 Power Phase design and Dr.MOS technology.

On the other hand, the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 accommodates AMD's latest Ryzen processors. It features an AM5 socket, which is compatible with the Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series CPUs. With a 6+1+1 phase power design, this motherboard also focuses on stability and efficiency, catering to performance-driven users. The choice here primarily hinges on whether you prefer Intel or AMD processors for your build.

Memory Support

When it comes to memory support, the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is designed to handle DDR4 RAM, supporting speeds of up to 5333MHz (overclocked). This makes it an excellent option for users looking to utilize cost-effective DDR4 memory in their builds.

Conversely, the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 supports the newer DDR5 memory, capable of speeds exceeding 8200MHz (overclocked). DDR5 offers improved performance and bandwidth compared to DDR4, making it more suitable for high-performance applications and future-proofing. For users focused on maximizing memory speed and performance, the B850M-X provides a significant advantage.

Expansion Slots and Connectivity

In terms of expansion slots, the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi includes one PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, allowing for the installation of a powerful graphics card. It also offers various ports for connectivity, including HDMI and DisplayPort for video output.

The ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0, however, features more versatility with one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, one PCIe 4.0 x16, and one PCIe 4.0 x1 slot. This allows for better support for multiple graphics cards or additional expansion cards. Additionally, the B850M-X includes a USB-C port and supports advanced connectivity features like 2.5G LAN and comprehensive USB options. This makes it a more future-oriented choice for users who plan to expand their systems later.

Audio and Networking Features

Both motherboards boast high-definition audio capabilities, featuring the Realtek ALC897 7.1 channel HD audio codec. This ensures a quality audio experience for gaming and multimedia tasks. However, the networking capabilities differ slightly.

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi includes 802.11ax (WiFi 6E) and Bluetooth, providing robust wireless performance suitable for modern connectivity needs. The B850M-X WiFi R2.0 also supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth, but enhances networking with its 2.5G LAN capability. This added feature can significantly benefit users who require faster wired connections for gaming or large file transfers.

Price Comparison

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is listed at $174.13, while the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 is priced at $129.99. This price difference of approximately $44.14 means the B850M-X is about 25% cheaper than the B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi. For users on a tighter budget, the lower cost of the B850M-X may be more appealing, especially considering it offers advanced features like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support.

Build Quality and Design

When considering build quality and design, both motherboards present a solid construction typical of ASRock products. The B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is compact and ideal for small form-factor builds, while the B850M-X WiFi R2.0, being a Micro-ATX board, provides more room for additional components and better airflow.

The design aesthetic of both motherboards is sleek, but users may prefer the layout of the B850M-X for its additional expansion capabilities and connectivity options. This can be a deciding factor for users who value a layout that allows easy access to ports and slots.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi and the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are committed to using Intel's 13th or 12th Gen processors and prefer the DDR4 memory ecosystem, then the B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is a sound choice. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option that supports AMD's latest Ryzen processors with advanced features like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory, the B850M-X WiFi R2.0 stands out as the better option. The price difference, combined with the enhanced features of the B850M-X, makes it an attractive choice for future-proofing your build.