ASRock B560M-HDV motherboard review exploring performance, Intel compatibility, and key features

Description

Design and Build Quality

The ASROCK B560M-HDV Intel SOCKET1200 is compact yet sturdy. As someone who spends a lot of time assembling and upgrading PCs, I immediately appreciated its micro-ATX form factor, which makes it ideal for smaller builds. Despite its size, the motherboard doesn’t compromise on essential features. The layout is intuitive, ensuring that components like the 2 DIMM DDR4 slots and M.2 slots are easy to access during installation. The black PCB design might not stand out in RGB-heavy setups, but it does have a clean, professional look that appeals to minimalists like me.

While the overall build feels robust, I did notice that the PCIe slots could benefit from reinforcement, especially for those planning to use heavy GPUs. This wasn’t a dealbreaker for me, but it’s something to consider if you’re aiming for a long-term setup.

Performance and Compatibility

Performance-wise, this motherboard exceeded my expectations. Supporting Intel’s 10th and 11th Gen Core CPUs, it offers a solid foundation for mid-range to high-performance builds. I tested it with an Intel Core i5 processor, and the pairing was seamless. The Intel B560 chipset allows for decent overclocking on unlocked processors, which is a nice touch for enthusiasts looking to squeeze extra power out of their systems.

The inclusion of dual M.2 slots provides flexibility for storage, and the 4 SATA 6Gb/s ports were more than sufficient for my needs. During testing, the transfer speeds on both M.2 and SATA drives were consistent and fast. However, it’s worth noting that only the primary M.2 slot supports PCIe 4.0, which is a limitation if you’re planning to use multiple high-speed NVMe drives.

Good Points

• Compact micro-ATX form factor perfect for smaller builds.
• Supports Intel 10th and 11th Gen Core CPUs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of processors.
• Dual M.2 slots for flexible storage options.
• Intel Gigabit LAN ensures reliable and fast network connectivity.
• HDMI, DVI-D, and D-Sub video outputs cater to various display setups.

Audio and Connectivity

Audio on this motherboard is powered by the Realtek ALC897 codec, which delivers decent sound quality for casual users. While I wouldn’t recommend it for audiophiles or those who demand studio-grade audio, it’s sufficient for gaming, streaming, and everyday use. I tested it with both speakers and headphones, and the output was clear, albeit lacking a bit of depth.

Connectivity is another strong point. The 6 USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and 6 USB 2.0 ports provide ample options for peripherals. I was able to connect my mouse, keyboard, external drives, and a webcam without running out of ports. The Intel Gigabit LAN connection is stable and quick, making it a reliable choice for both gaming and work-from-home setups.

Areas for Improvement

• Lack of Wi-Fi may be inconvenient for users without easy access to Ethernet.
• No reinforced PCIe slots, which could be a concern for heavy GPUs.
• Limited PCIe 4.0 support to only the primary M.2 slot, which might be restrictive for some builds.

Product Rivals

When comparing to competitors like the MSI B560M PRO-VDH WiFi or the Gigabyte B560M DS3H, the ASROCK B560M-HDV holds its own in terms of price-to-feature ratio. While the MSI board offers built-in Wi-Fi, it comes at a slightly higher cost. On the other hand, the Gigabyte model provides better audio and an additional M.2 slot but lacks the compact design that makes the ASROCK ideal for smaller builds.

If Wi-Fi and additional PCIe slots are must-haves, the competitors might be worth considering. However, if you’re looking for a solid, budget-friendly option with a focus on essentials, this motherboard fits the bill. It’s perfect for those who prioritize functionality over flashy extras.

True Value

In terms of cost efficiency, this motherboard delivers excellent value for its price point. It includes all the critical features needed for a versatile build without piling on unnecessary extras. The dual M.2 slots, ample USB ports, and solid chipset support make it a smart investment for gamers, professionals, or anyone building a reliable PC on a budget.

While it lacks some premium features like Wi-Fi or reinforced slots, these are trade-offs I’m willing to accept given the overall performance and compatibility. For anyone seeking an affordable yet capable motherboard, this product offers a great balance of price and functionality.

Additional information