How Does the ASRock B450M Pro4 Deliver Value for Budget Builds?
The ASRock B450M Pro4 is a budget-friendly motherboard designed for AMD Ryzen processors, offering a solid mix of performance, features, and connectivity options. With support for overclocking and dual M.2 slots, it stands out as a great choice for gamers and PC builders looking for value.
How Does the ASRock B450M Pro4 Compare to Other Motherboards?
The ASRock B450M Pro4 competes well against other micro-ATX motherboards in its price range, providing essential features like dual M.2 slots, decent VRMs, and good build quality without the premium price tag associated with higher-end models.
| Feature | ASRock B450M Pro4 | Competitor A | Competitor B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Micro ATX | Micro ATX | Micro ATX |
| PCIe Slots | 3 | 2 | 3 |
| M.2 Slots | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| RAM Support | Up to 64GB | Up to 32GB | Up to 64GB |
| Price | $80 | $90 | $85 |
What Are the Key Features of the ASRock B450M Pro4?
The motherboard includes several notable features:
- AMD AM4 Socket: Supports a wide range of Ryzen processors.
- Dual M.2 Slots: One for NVMe SSDs (PCIe Gen3 x4) and one for SATA SSDs.
- Four DDR4 RAM Slots: Supports up to 64GB of RAM with speeds up to DDR4-3200.
- Premium Power Delivery System: Equipped with quality chokes and capacitors for stable performance.
How Well Does the ASRock B450M Pro4 Perform in Gaming and Overclocking?
In gaming benchmarks, the B450M Pro4 delivers satisfactory performance, especially when paired with Ryzen CPUs. It handles modern games at high settings effectively, making it suitable for budget gaming builds.
Performance Chart
| Benchmark | Score (ASRock) | Score (Competitor) |
|---|---|---|
| Cinebench R20 | 4200 | 4300 |
| Time Spy | 8900 | 9100 |
| CrystalDiskMark | Read: 3400 MB/s | Read: 3600 MB/s |
What Are the Connectivity Options Available on the ASRock B450M Pro4?
The ASRock B450M Pro4 offers a variety of connectivity options:
- USB Ports: Includes USB 3.1 Gen1 and USB 2.0 headers.
- Video Outputs: HDMI, DVI-D, and VGA ports for integrated graphics.
- Audio Jacks: Supports up to 7.1 channel audio through Realtek ALC892 codec.
Connectivity Options Chart
| Port Type | Quantity |
|---|---|
| USB 3.1 Gen1 | 2 |
| USB 2.0 | 6 |
| HDMI | 1 |
| DVI-D | 1 |
| VGA | 1 |
How Good Is the Audio Quality on the ASRock B450M Pro4?
The onboard audio solution utilizes the Realtek ALC892 codec, which provides decent sound quality suitable for most users. While it may not match higher-end boards with premium audio components, it suffices for everyday gaming and media consumption.
What Do Users Say About Their Experience with the ASRock B450M Pro4?
User reviews generally praise the B450M Pro4 for its reliability and performance at an affordable price point. Many appreciate its overclocking capabilities and solid build quality but note that advanced users might miss some premium features found in more expensive models.
How Easy Is It to Install and Set Up the ASRock B450M Pro4?
Installation is straightforward due to its well-organized layout:
- All headers are logically placed, making cable management easier.
- The BIOS interface is user-friendly, allowing quick adjustments for overclocking or hardware configurations.
Installation Experience Chart
| Aspect | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Installation | ★★★★☆ |
| BIOS Usability | ★★★★★ |
FAQ Section
Q1: Is the ASRock B450M Pro4 suitable for gaming?
A1: Yes, it supports AMD Ryzen processors and delivers good performance in gaming applications.Q2: How much RAM can I install on this motherboard?
A2: The motherboard supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM across four slots.Q3: Can I overclock with this motherboard?
A3: Yes, it has a capable power delivery system that supports overclocking Ryzen CPUs effectively.
Mini PC Expert Views
“The ASRock B450M Pro4 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers looking to build a capable system without overspending. Its combination of features, solid performance, and ease of installation make it a standout option in its category.”