ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 ATX motherboard with PCIe vs SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard for

Overview

When considering motherboards for your PC build, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 and the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO offer distinct features tailored for different user needs. The ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 is priced at $149.99, while the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO costs $79.99, making the latter about 47% cheaper. This price difference reflects the varying capabilities and target audiences of these two motherboards.

Socket Compatibility

The ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 features an Intel LGA 1700 socket, supporting the latest Intel Core 13th and 14th generation processors, among others. This makes it suitable for users looking to build a high-performance system with cutting-edge technology. In contrast, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO utilizes the LGA 1150 socket, specifically designed for Intel's 4th generation Core i7, i5, i3, Pentium, and Celeron processors. This limits its appeal to those with older CPUs, making it less future-proof compared to the ASUS model.

Memory and Performance

The ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 supports DDR5 memory, which offers higher speeds and improved efficiency compared to the DDR3 memory supported by the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO. The ASUS motherboard is optimized for high-performance gaming and multitasking, utilizing advanced features like ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile II. Conversely, the B85M PRO supports a maximum memory capacity of 32GB and dual-channel DDR3 memory, making it suitable for basic tasks but potentially less effective for demanding applications.

Connectivity Options

In terms of connectivity, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 excels with PCIe 5.0 support, three M.2 slots for high-speed storage, and various USB options, including USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C and Thunderbolt support. These features cater to gamers and professionals who require fast data transfer and multiple high-speed connections. The SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO, on the other hand, supports PCIe 3.0 and M.2, along with standard SATA connections, which may be sufficient for casual users but lacks the advanced capabilities found in the ASUS model.

Power Delivery and Stability

The ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 ensures stable power delivery through its 14+1 DrMOS design and enhanced cooling solutions, including large VRM heatsinks and hybrid fan headers. This robust setup is essential for maintaining performance during high-load situations. In contrast, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO features a 4-phase power supply. While it is designed for stability, it may not handle extreme performance demands as effectively as the ASUS motherboard, making it less ideal for high-performance builds.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling is a critical aspect of any motherboard, particularly for gaming. The ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 includes comprehensive cooling features such as large VRM heatsinks and Fan Xpert 4 with AI Cooling II, which intelligently adjusts fan speeds based on system temperature. This ensures optimal performance and longevity of components. The B85M PRO also offers a heat dissipation armor protection feature, but its simpler design may not provide the same level of thermal management, particularly under heavy usage.

Design and Aesthetics

The ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 boasts a modern design with RGB lighting options through Aura Sync, appealing to gamers who prioritize aesthetics in their builds. Its ATX form factor allows for more expansion possibilities, catering to users looking to create a visually striking and high-performance setup. The SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO, while functional, has a more utilitarian design and is micro-ATX, which may limit expansion options and doesn't emphasize aesthetics in the same way.

Price and Value

The price difference between the two motherboards is significant, with the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 retailing at $149.99 and the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO at $79.99. This makes the B85M PRO about 47% cheaper. However, the value you receive can be subjective: while the B85M PRO is suitable for budget builds or older systems, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 offers advanced features and future-proofing for serious gamers or professionals, justifying its higher price point.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 and the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are seeking a high-performance motherboard with advanced features and future-proofing capabilities, the ASUS Z790 GAMING WIFI7 is the superior choice, despite its higher price. However, for budget-conscious users or those with older generation Intel processors, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO provides adequate performance at a significantly lower price point.