ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi Supports 13th Gen & 12th vs SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard for

Overview of Motherboards

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is a modern motherboard supporting the latest 13th and 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors, while the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO is designed for Intel's 4th Gen processors. The B760M-ITX/D4 is priced at $174.13, making it a higher-end option compared to the B85M PRO, which is available for $79.99. This price difference of about 117% reflects the technological advancements and features found in the newer motherboard.

Processor Compatibility

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi supports LGA1700 socket processors, including the latest 13th and 12th Gen Intel® Core™ series. This versatility makes it suitable for users looking to utilize cutting-edge technology. In contrast, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO is compatible with the LGA 1150 socket, specifically designed for Intel's 4th Gen Core processors, such as the i7 4790 and i5 4690k. This limits the upgrade potential for users of the B85M PRO, as it cannot accommodate newer CPUs.

Memory Support

In terms of memory, the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi supports DDR4 RAM with speeds of up to 5333MHz when overclocked. This high-speed memory support is essential for performance-intensive applications and gaming. The B85M PRO, on the other hand, supports dual-channel DDR3 memory at frequencies of 1333, 1600, and 1866MHz, with a maximum capacity of 32GB. While this is adequate for many users, it does not match the speed and efficiency of DDR4 memory.

Expansion Slots

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi features 1 PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, allowing for high-speed graphics cards and expansion cards. This is significant for gamers and professionals looking to maximize performance. The B85M PRO, while it has a PCIe x16 3.0 slot, is limited to the older PCIe 3.0 standard, which may bottleneck performance in newer hardware setups. Additionally, the B85M PRO includes several other expansion slots but lacks the same high-speed capabilities as the B760M-ITX/D4.

Connectivity Options

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi offers a variety of connectivity options, including 1 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C port, 4 USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, and 6 USB 2.0 ports, ensuring ample support for modern peripherals. Furthermore, it features HDMI and DisplayPort for video output, catering to diverse user needs. Conversely, the B85M PRO includes VGA, DVI, and HDMI-compatible outputs, but only offers USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 connections, which may not suffice for users wanting the latest connection standards.

Audio and Networking Features

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is equipped with the Realtek ALC897 7.1 CH HD Audio Codec, providing high-quality audio output, and it includes built-in WiFi 6E for enhanced wireless connectivity. This is particularly beneficial for gamers and streaming enthusiasts. The B85M PRO, while it supports decent audio through its onboard capabilities, lacks advanced audio features and high-speed wireless options. Its networking is limited to a gigabit LAN connection, which may not meet the demands of all users.

Build Quality and Design

The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi is designed with a focus on modern aesthetics and build quality, featuring a compact ITX form factor that is ideal for small builds. It boasts a robust power delivery system with a 5+1+1 power phase. The B85M PRO, with its micro-ATX form factor, offers decent stability but is generally less refined in terms of modern build standards. Its 4-phase power supply, while stable, does not match the efficiency of the B760M-ITX/D4's design.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi and the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO ultimately depends on your needs and budget. The ASRock B760M-ITX/D4 WiFi, priced at $174.13, is a superior choice for users seeking the latest technology, high-speed memory support, and advanced connectivity options. If you're building a system that requires compatibility with modern processors and peripherals, this motherboard is a worthy investment. However, if you're on a tighter budget and only need basic functionality for an Intel 4th Gen setup, the B85M PRO, at $79.99, offers satisfactory performance for everyday tasks.