ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi Supports 13th Gen & 12th vs Gigabyte A520I AC

Overview of the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi and Gigabyte A520I AC

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is priced at $174.13, while the Gigabyte A520I AC is significantly cheaper at $99.99, making it about 43% less expensive. This price difference reflects the distinct target audiences and capabilities of each motherboard. The ASRock model is designed for Intel’s 13th and 12th Gen processors, whereas the Gigabyte board supports AMD’s 3rd Gen Ryzen processors. Both motherboards are compact Mini-ITX form factors, catering to users looking to build space-efficient systems.

Processor Compatibility

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi supports Intel’s 13th Gen and 12th Gen Core processors using the LGA1700 socket. This compatibility allows users to harness the latest technologies and performance enhancements offered by Intel’s recent CPU releases. Conversely, the Gigabyte A520I AC is compatible with 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors, utilizing the AM4 socket. This means that if you are leaning towards either brand, your choice of motherboard will significantly influence your processor selection.

Power Delivery System

In terms of power delivery, the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi features a 5+1+1 power phase design using Dr.MOS technology, which is beneficial for stable performance during heavy workloads. The Gigabyte A520I AC also boasts a solid power delivery system with a Direct 6 Phases Digital PWM and 55A DrMOS, ensuring efficient power management for AMD processors. Both motherboards provide robust power delivery systems, but the ASRock's design may offer slight advantages for overclocking Intel CPUs.

Memory Support

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi supports DDR4 memory with speeds of up to 5333MHz (OC), providing flexibility for users looking to maximize memory performance. It can accommodate a range of DDR4 modules, making it suitable for high-performance builds. On the other hand, the Gigabyte A520I AC supports dual-channel DDR4 with two DIMM slots. While the ASRock board has a higher potential memory speed, the Gigabyte's memory configuration may suffice for most users seeking a balanced system.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another crucial aspect where these two motherboards differ markedly. The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi offers an impressive array of options, including 1 PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, multiple USB ports (1 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, 4 USB 3.2 Gen1, and 6 USB 2.0), and robust wireless support with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth. The Gigabyte A520I AC, while slightly less feature-rich, still provides essential connectivity with a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, one NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 slot, and dual-band Intel WiFi and Bluetooth.

Audio and LAN Features

The audio capabilities of both motherboards cater to different user needs. The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi comes with a Realtek ALC897 7.1 CH HD Audio Codec, catering to users who might prioritize high-quality audio playback. The Gigabyte A520I AC, in contrast, includes an ALC887 Audio Codec, providing decent audio performance suitable for everyday use. Both motherboards also feature gaming-grade LAN solutions, with the ASRock model equipped with Realtek 1G LAN, while the Gigabyte offers blazing-fast 1GbE LAN, ensuring smooth network performance for online gaming.

Size and Form Factor

Both the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi and the Gigabyte A520I AC are Mini-ITX motherboards, making them ideal for compact builds. The Mini-ITX form factor allows users to create small yet powerful systems without sacrificing performance. The similar size of these boards means that case compatibility won’t be a significant concern, but the overall layout and design can affect airflow and aesthetics depending on your build.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi and the Gigabyte A520I AC largely depends on your intended use and processor preference. If you’re looking to build a high-performance system with Intel’s latest processors, the ASRock board offers superior features such as faster memory support and advanced connectivity options, albeit at a higher price of $174.13. However, for users focused on budget efficiency or those who prefer AMD’s Ryzen processors, the Gigabyte A520I AC stands out as a compelling choice at just $99.99, providing solid performance without the premium cost. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific performance needs and budget constraints.