ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi Supports 13th Gen & 12th vs ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero ATX

Overview of the Motherboards

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is priced at $174.13, making it a budget-friendly option compared to the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero, which retails for $699.99. This significant price difference of about 300% reflects the different target markets and feature sets of these two motherboards. While ASRock focuses on supporting Intel Core processors with essential features, ASUS aims for high-end performance with advanced specifications suitable for gaming and demanding applications.

Compatibility with Processors

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is compatible with both 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core processors, using the LGA1700 socket. This makes it a versatile choice for users looking to build or upgrade their Intel-based systems. In contrast, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero supports AMD’s latest Ryzen processors, specifically the 9000, 8000, and 7000 series, utilizing the AM5 socket. This difference indicates that your choice of processor will significantly influence which motherboard is right for your setup, depending on whether you prefer Intel or AMD.

Power Delivery Systems

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi features a 5+1+1 power phase design, which is sufficient for moderate builds and overclocking scenarios. On the other hand, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero boasts a robust 20+2+2 power stage configuration, specifically designed to handle high-performance components and demanding tasks. This superior power delivery system in the ASUS motherboard ensures stability and better performance, especially when overclocking, making it a more suitable choice for enthusiasts and gamers.

Memory Support

In terms of memory support, the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi supports DDR4 memory with overclocking capabilities of up to 5333MHz. This allows for decent performance, suitable for general computing and light gaming. In contrast, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero supports DDR5 memory, which is the latest technology providing faster speeds and improved efficiency. With support for advanced memory features, the ASUS motherboard provides a significant edge for users who prioritize high-speed memory performance in their builds.

Expansion Slots

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi includes one PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, which is adequate for basic gaming and productivity needs. However, it may limit future upgrades for users needing multiple high-speed connections. On the other hand, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero offers two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots and five M.2 slots, providing extensive expansion options for storage and graphics. This makes the ASUS motherboard ideal for users looking to build a high-performance machine with multiple components, including high-speed NVMe drives.

Connectivity Options

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi features a range of connectivity options, including several USB ports, HDMI, and DisplayPort outputs. It also supports WiFi 6E and Bluetooth, ensuring modern wireless connectivity. Conversely, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero excels in this area with dual USB4 Type-C ports, multiple USB 10Gbps ports, and advanced networking features like Wi-Fi 7 and Realtek 10Gb Ethernet. This extensive array of connectivity options makes the ASUS motherboard significantly more versatile for power users and gamers who require high-speed data transfer and advanced network capabilities.

Audio and Gaming Features

For audio, the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi incorporates the Realtek ALC897 codec, providing decent sound quality for everyday use. However, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero steps it up with the ROG SupremeFX ALC4082 codec paired with an ESS ES9219 Quad DAC, supporting high-resolution audio playback up to 32-Bit/384 kHz. This enhanced audio experience is essential for gamers and content creators seeking superior sound quality. Additionally, ASUS includes a suite of AI-driven features aimed at optimizing performance, which aligns well with the needs of high-end gaming and productivity setups.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi and the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that supports Intel processors and provides essential features, the ASRock motherboard is a solid choice at $174.13. However, for users seeking top-tier performance, extensive connectivity, and advanced gaming features, the ASUS motherboard, priced at $699.99, justifies its cost with superior specifications and capabilities. Ultimately, if you prioritize high performance and future-proofing your build, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero is the better investment.