ASRock B650M vs. ASRock B650M-C

Attribute	ASRock B650M	ASRock B650M-C
Chipset	B650	B650
Form Factor	Micro ATX	Micro ATX
Memory Slots	4	4
PCIe Slots	2 x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x1	2 x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x1
SATA Ports	6	6

Introduction

When it comes to building a PC, choosing the right motherboard is crucial. ASRock is a well-known brand in the motherboard market, offering a wide range of options to suit different needs and budgets. In this article, we will compare two popular models from ASRock - the B650M and B650M-C. We will look at their key attributes, features, and specifications to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Form Factor

Both the ASRock B650M and B650M-C motherboards come in a Micro ATX form factor, which is ideal for compact builds. The B650M features a sleek black PCB with silver accents, giving it a modern and stylish look. On the other hand, the B650M-C has a more minimalist design with a plain black PCB and no additional color accents. Both motherboards have a similar layout with all the essential components placed strategically for easy access and cable management.

Processor Support

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a motherboard is its processor support. The ASRock B650M and B650M-C both support 10th and 11th Gen Intel Core processors, including the latest Rocket Lake CPUs. This means you can pair these motherboards with a wide range of Intel CPUs for optimal performance. Whether you are a casual user or a hardcore gamer, these motherboards have you covered in terms of processor compatibility.

Memory and Storage

When it comes to memory and storage options, the ASRock B650M and B650M-C offer similar features. Both motherboards support DDR4 memory with a maximum capacity of 64GB, allowing you to run multiple applications and games simultaneously without any lag. In terms of storage, you get multiple SATA ports for connecting hard drives and SSDs, as well as M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe SSDs. This gives you plenty of flexibility when it comes to expanding your storage options.

Expansion Slots and Connectivity

Another important aspect to consider is the expansion slots and connectivity options available on the motherboard. The ASRock B650M and B650M-C both come with PCIe 4.0 support, allowing you to install high-performance graphics cards, sound cards, and other expansion cards. They also feature USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 ports for fast data transfer speeds, as well as HDMI and DisplayPort outputs for connecting to external displays. Whether you are a content creator or a gamer, these motherboards have all the connectivity options you need.

BIOS and Overclocking

BIOS is a crucial component of any motherboard, as it allows you to tweak settings, update firmware, and overclock your system for better performance. The ASRock B650M and B650M-C both come with a user-friendly BIOS interface that is easy to navigate and customize. You can adjust CPU and memory settings, monitor system temperatures, and update drivers with just a few clicks. While these motherboards do not support extreme overclocking like some high-end models, they still offer enough flexibility for most users.

Price and Value

Finally, let's talk about the price and value proposition of the ASRock B650M and B650M-C motherboards. The B650M is slightly more expensive than the B650M-C, but it offers a few additional features such as RGB lighting, reinforced PCIe slots, and a higher quality audio codec. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with solid performance, the B650M-C is a great choice. However, if you are willing to spend a bit more for extra features and aesthetics, the B650M is worth considering.