ASRock B760 Pro RS motherboard review balancing performance, features, and value

Description

Initial Impressions of the ASRock B760 Pro RS

Testing the ASRock B760 Pro RS, I immediately noticed its solid build quality and how it supports 13th Gen & 12th Gen Intel Core Processors (LGA1700). From a first glance, the design screams practicality with a focus on power efficiency and performance optimization. As someone who frequently builds PCs for gaming and work, a motherboard like this one is central to a setup that needs to handle heavy multitasking and intense workloads. Its 10+1+1 power phase design powered by Dr.MOS for VCore+GT is not just a fancy spec but a feature that delivers stable power to the CPU and GPU, even under demanding conditions.

Performance Highlights

In terms of performance, this motherboard truly shines. The DDR5 support up to 7200MHz (OC) is a game-changer for users looking for faster data transfer and enhanced RAM performance. Using next-generation DDR5 RAM on this board felt incredibly smooth, with games and editing software launching without any hiccups. The PCIe 5.0 x16 slot is another impressive feature, especially for gamers and creators. I tested this with a high-end graphics card and experienced zero bottlenecks.

The inclusion of multiple PCIe slots (including PCIe 4.0 and 3.0) ensures flexibility when adding additional cards like WiFi adapters or capture cards. The motherboard also offers two Hyper M.2 (PCIe Gen4x4) slots, which are incredibly fast for NVMe SSDs, making boot times and data transfers lightning quick.

Connectivity and Port Selection

I found the connectivity options on this board to be robust and versatile. With two USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C ports, one on the rear and another for the front panel, it feels modern and ready for cutting-edge peripherals. The six USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and four USB 2.0 ports ensure compatibility with both older and newer devices. Its Dragon 2.5G LAN is another strong point, offering faster and more reliable wired internet connections, which I found essential for online gaming and streaming.

The graphics output options include HDMI, DisplayPort, and eDP, which are ideal for multi-monitor setups. I tested this with a dual-monitor configuration, and the signal quality was excellent, with no noticeable lag or flicker.

Audio Quality and User Experience

For audio, the Realtek ALC897 7.1 CH HD Audio Codec paired with Nahimic Audio technology delivers a surprising level of depth and clarity. I used it with a decent pair of headphones during a gaming session, and the surround sound experience was immersive. Whether it’s for gaming, music, or video editing, the audio performance is a definite plus, even for audiophiles.

Another standout feature is the ASRock Auto Driver Installer, making the setup process a breeze. As someone who dreads hunting for drivers online, this feature saved me time and frustration.

Positives

This motherboard has a lot going for it, and it’s easy to see why it appeals to both gamers and professionals. Here are some of the key benefits I experienced:

• Supports high-performance DDR5 RAM up to 7200MHz, ideal for future-proofing your PC build.
• Multiple PCIe slots ensure flexibility for expansion and high-speed connectivity.
• Dragon 2.5G LAN provides ultra-fast and stable internet connections.
• Auto Driver Installer simplifies the setup process significantly.
• Extensive USB ports, including the modern USB Type-C options, cater to a wide range of devices.

Areas for Improvement

While the ASRock B760 Pro RS delivers on many fronts, there are a few less favorable aspects I’d like to point out:

• Lacks built-in WiFi, which might be a dealbreaker for users without access to wired internet.
• The audio codec, while decent, isn’t top-tier and may not satisfy users with extremely high audio demands.
• No RGB lighting on the motherboard, which could be a downside for those who enjoy aesthetics in their builds.

These points aren’t dealbreakers for me, but they are worth considering depending on your specific needs.

Competing Products

When comparing this motherboard to its direct competitors, like the MSI Pro B760M and ASUS TUF Gaming B760, it holds its own in terms of core performance but falls slightly short in a few areas. For example, the ASUS TUF offers built-in WiFi 6, which is missing here, but at a higher price point. Meanwhile, the MSI Pro B760M delivers comparable power phase performance, but its audio quality isn’t as refined as the ASRock B760 Pro RS.

Where the ASRock model excels is its value-oriented approach, offering a solid set of features without inflating the price. Its DDR5 support and PCIe 5.0 slot make it more future-proof than some of its rivals in this price range.

Worth Every Penny

Discussing the value proposition, I would say this motherboard is worth every penny for users prioritizing performance and expandability. While it’s not the absolute top-tier option, it strikes an excellent balance between cost and features. The power phase design and high-speed connectivity, coupled with DDR5 RAM support, make it a compelling choice for gamers and professionals alike.

For those who can overlook the absence of built-in WiFi and flashy RGB lighting, this motherboard offers reliability and versatility at a price that feels reasonable. While there are flashier options on the market, the ASRock B760 Pro RS focuses on delivering solid performance where it counts most.

Additional information