ASRock B760M-HDV/M.2 D4 motherboard review powerful features and performance insights

Description

Compact Design Perfect for Space Efficiency

The ASRock B760M-HDV/M.2 D4 is a micro-ATX motherboard that feels like a well-thought-out solution for compact builds. I was genuinely impressed by how it fits into smaller cases without compromising on essential features. Measuring 1.1 x 9.7 x 6.5 inches, its compact dimensions make it perfect for those trying to save space. Despite its size, it still manages to offer ample connectivity options, which I’ll dive into later. The board itself feels durable and has a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that doesn’t scream for attention, which I personally appreciate in a clean build.

Performance and Overclocking Capabilities

What immediately stood out during testing was how well this motherboard supports 13th Gen and 12th Gen Intel Core processors. Its 5+1+1 power phase design provides stable power delivery, which I noticed especially when pushing the performance of my CPU. Overclocking was surprisingly smooth, with the ability to handle DDR4 memory speeds up to 5333MHz (OC). This feature alone makes it a great pick for enthusiasts looking to tweak their system for maximum performance. Pairing it with high-speed DDR4 RAM turned out to be incredibly seamless, and I didn’t encounter any stability issues. However, the absence of support for DDR5 might make it feel slightly behind for those chasing cutting-edge tech.

Connectivity Options for Versatile Use

One thing I can’t overlook is the extensive connectivity offered by this motherboard. It includes 1 PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, which I used to install a GPU easily, and 2 PCIe 3.0 x1 slots for additional expansion. The inclusion of two M.2 slots—one Hyper M.2 (PCIe Gen4x4) and one Ultra M.2 (PCIe Gen3x4 & SATA)—is a huge plus for anyone looking to upgrade their storage to faster NVMe drives. I installed an NVMe SSD in the Hyper M.2 slot, and the speed boost was immediately noticeable. Additionally, the M.2 Key E slot for WiFi was a thoughtful touch, allowing for wireless connectivity without sacrificing much-needed USB ports.

Speaking of USBs, there’s an impressive range of ports, including 5 USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports, 1 USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-C port, and 5 USB 2.0 ports. I found the rear Type-C port particularly handy for connecting modern peripherals. Graphics output options like HDMI, DisplayPort, and D-Sub ensure compatibility with a variety of monitors, which came in clutch when I needed to test it across different setups.

Audio and Networking Capabilities

The Realtek ALC887/897 7.1-channel HD audio codec delivers clear sound quality, which I appreciated while gaming and streaming music. While it’s not audiophile-grade, it’s plenty good for most users. The Realtek 1G LAN ensures stable and reliable network connectivity. However, I did feel that the lack of built-in WiFi could be a drawback for some, although the M.2 Key E slot helps to mitigate this issue.

Key Benefits

• Compact and space-efficient design ideal for smaller builds.
• Supports high-speed DDR4 memory up to 5333MHz (OC) for enhanced performance.
• Wide range of connectivity options, including multiple PCIe and M.2 slots.
• Reliable power phase design ensures stable CPU performance.
• Clear and crisp audio output for everyday needs.

Areas of Concern

• No support for DDR5, which limits future-proofing.
• Lack of built-in WiFi, though it can be added via the M.2 Key E slot.
• Realtek 1G LAN feels a bit dated compared to 2.5G options on higher-end boards.
• Limited PCIe slots for those with extensive expansion needs.

Competing Products

When comparing this motherboard to others in its category, a few stand out. The MSI MAG B760M Mortar offers similar features but includes 2.5G LAN and onboard WiFi, which are absent here. On the other hand, the Gigabyte B760M DS3H provides a slightly better audio codec but lacks the USB Type-C port found on the ASRock model. For those prioritizing cost efficiency, the ASRock board strikes a great balance between features and price. While it may not have the premium touches of higher-end models, its stability, ease of use, and compact size make it a standout option for budget-conscious builders.

Price Performance

I found this motherboard to offer excellent value for its price. While it doesn’t include some of the premium features like DDR5 support or 2.5G LAN, it’s priced accordingly and delivers reliable performance for everyday use and even light overclocking. The inclusion of dual M.2 slots and a USB Type-C port adds significant value, especially for those looking to future-proof their build within a reasonable budget. For anyone building a compact system or a secondary rig, this motherboard feels like a smart investment without breaking the bank.

Additional information