The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 motherboard is a popular choice for users seeking a budget-friendly yet capable platform to build their PC systems. Whether you’re upgrading or assembling a new machine, this Micro ATX board offers a wealth of features and solid performance, all while maintaining affordability.
In this review, we’ll delve into the key features, specifications, pros and cons, performance insights, and common questions surrounding the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0, often regarded as one of the Best Budget Gaming Motherboard options. Let’s explore what this motherboard has to offer.
Key Features
-
Socket AM4 Compatibility
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 motherboard supports AMD’s popular AM4 socket, making it compatible with a wide range of Ryzen processors, including the Ryzen 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000 series. This wide compatibility makes it a flexible option for many PC builders.
-
6 Power Phase Design
The 6-phase power design is critical in providing stable power to the processor, especially when using high-performance CPUs or overclocking. This ensures efficient power delivery and long-lasting reliability.
-
Memory Support
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 supports up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM with a maximum memory speed of 3200 MHz, giving users the ability to handle demanding applications, multitasking, and gaming without issues.
-
PCIe Expansion
The motherboard includes 1 PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, which is essential for users looking to install a graphics card, and an additional PCIe 2.0 x1 slot for expansion cards such as sound cards or network cards.
-
M.2 and SATA Connectivity
For storage options, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 offers an M.2 slot and four SATA 6Gb/s ports. This provides users with the flexibility to use both traditional HDDs and high-speed SSDs, making it future-proof for modern storage needs.
-
Realtek ALC887 7.1-Channel Audio
The integrated Realtek ALC887 audio codec offers a decent 7.1-channel high-definition sound experience, which is suitable for gaming, watching movies, or even basic audio production.
-
Gigabit LAN
For networking, the board features a Realtek RTL8111H PCIe Gigabit Ethernet controller, ensuring stable and fast internet connections for everyday use and gaming.
-
USB Ports
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 comes with various USB connectivity options, including two USB 3.1 Gen1 ports and two USB 2.0 ports, allowing easy connectivity of peripherals and storage devices.
Specifications
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | ASRock |
| Model | B450M-HDV R4.0 |
| Form Factor | Micro ATX |
| CPU Socket | AM4 |
| Compatible Processors | Ryzen 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000 Series |
| Chipset | AMD B450 |
| Memory Support | 2 x DDR4 DIMM Slots (up to 32GB) |
| Memory Speed | 3200 MHz |
| PCIe Slots | 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 2.0 x1 |
| Audio | Realtek ALC887 7.1-Channel HD Audio |
| LAN | Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit Ethernet |
| SATA Ports | 4 x SATA 6Gb/s |
| M.2 Slot | 1 x M.2 |
| USB Ports | 2 x USB 3.1 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0 |
| Wireless | 802.11a |
| Dimensions | 12 x 2.5 x 9.6 inches |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Supports a wide range of Ryzen processors
- M.2 slot for high-speed storage
- Decent audio performance with Realtek ALC887
- Compact Micro ATX form factor
Cons:
- Limited expansion slots
- No built-in Wi-Fi
- Lacks USB 3.1 Gen2 ports
Performance Review
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 is designed to cater to budget-conscious users who want reliable performance without splurging on high-end features. Whether you’re building a gaming rig or a workstation, this motherboard performs well under typical workloads.
The support for up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM at 3200 MHz allows for smooth multitasking and stable system operation. It can handle Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series processors effectively, making it a solid choice for users looking to leverage the power of AMD CPUs without breaking the bank.
In terms of gaming, the inclusion of a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot ensures that the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 can support powerful graphics cards, allowing for a decent gaming experience. The combination of a Gigabit LAN connection and Realtek’s 7.1-Channel HD Audio enhances gaming and multimedia experiences by delivering reliable internet speeds and decent sound quality.
For storage, the M.2 slot provides future-proofing, especially for those looking to use NVMe SSDs for faster load times and better overall system responsiveness. Traditional storage options with four SATA ports allow for plenty of additional hard drives and SSDs, ensuring that the system can grow alongside your storage needs.
One notable shortcoming is the absence of built-in Wi-Fi. However, this can easily be addressed with a separate Wi-Fi card or USB dongle. Moreover, while it supports USB 3.1 Gen1 ports, it lacks the faster USB 3.1 Gen2 option.
Conclusion
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 is a budget-friendly motherboard designed to provide all the essential features required for a modern AMD-based system. Its compatibility with a wide range of Ryzen processors, support for fast DDR4 RAM, and storage flexibility make it a solid option for users looking to build or upgrade their system.
While it may not have some of the high-end features found in more expensive boards, such as built-in Wi-Fi or a multitude of PCIe slots, it offers a solid foundation for everyday use, gaming, and productivity at an affordable price.
If you’re looking for a reliable, compact, and cost-effective motherboard that doesn’t compromise on essential features, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 is an excellent choice for your next build.
You Might Be Interested In
- Biostar TB360-BTC PRO 2.0 Review
- ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi Review
- Best Budget Gaming Motherboard
- ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi Review
- ASRock B450M PRO4 AM4 Review
Highly Recommended – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly, reliable, and feature-packed motherboard for your next AMD build, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 is an excellent option to consider. With its solid performance, good compatibility, and reasonable price, this board is ready to support your computing needs. Don’t wait—get your ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 today and start building your dream PC!
Comparison with Similar Motherboards
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 offers a solid mix of features at an affordable price point, but it’s essential to see how it stacks up against other similar products in the market. Below, we compare the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 with three other popular motherboards in the same category: the MSI B450M PRO-VDH MAX, the Gigabyte B450M DS3H, and the ASUS TUF B450M-PLUS Gaming.
| Feature | ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 | MSI B450M PRO-VDH MAX | Gigabyte B450M DS3H | ASUS TUF B450M-PLUS Gaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audio | Realtek ALC887 7.1-Channel HD Audio | Realtek ALC892 7.1-Channel HD | Realtek ALC887 7.1-Channel HD | Realtek ALC887 8-Channel HD |
| LAN | Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit Ethernet | Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit Ethernet | Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit Ethernet | Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit Ethernet |
| Overclocking Support | Moderate (Basic BIOS controls) | Moderate (Enhanced BIOS) | Moderate (Enhanced BIOS) | High (TUF-enhanced BIOS features) |
| VRM Cooling | None | Basic Heatsink | None | Heatsinks on VRMs |
| PCIe 4.0 Support | No | No | No | No |
| Display Output Ports | 1x HDMI, 1x DVI-D, 1x VGA | 1x HDMI, 1x DVI-D, 1x VGA | 1x HDMI, 1x DVI-D, 1x VGA | 1x HDMI, 1x DVI-D, 1x VGA |
| BIOS Flashback | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| RGB Lighting | No | No | No | Yes (Aura Sync) |
| Expansion Slots | 2 PCIe (1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1x PCIe 2.0 x1) | 3 PCIe (1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 2x PCIe 2.0 x1) | 2 PCIe (1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1x PCIe 2.0 x1) | 3 PCIe (1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 2x PCIe 2.0 x1) |
| Price (Approx.) | $65 | $75 | $70 | $90 |
Detailed Comparison
-
Performance & Overclocking
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 is a solid performer for moderate use, but its overclocking potential is more limited compared to competitors like the ASUS TUF B450M-PLUS Gaming, which features enhanced cooling and VRM heatsinks. If you’re looking for heavy overclocking, ASUS’s TUF series provides a better solution. However, for casual users and those on a budget, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 is more than capable of handling most daily tasks and moderate gaming.
-
Expansion & RAM
: In terms of RAM capacity, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 supports up to 32GB of DDR4 memory, while its competitors like the MSI B450M PRO-VDH MAX and Gigabyte B450M DS3H offer support for up to 64GB. For users who don’t need excessive memory, the ASRock motherboard’s 32GB capacity is likely sufficient, but for those who plan on memory-heavy applications, the MSI and Gigabyte options might be better.
-
Storage Options
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 provides standard storage features, including 1x M.2 slot and 4 SATA ports, but lacks the extra M.2 slots seen in the ASUS TUF B450M-PLUS Gaming. This makes the ASUS model a better choice for users who need faster or multiple SSD storage options. However, for basic gaming builds or standard users, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 offers sufficient storage capabilities.
FAQs about ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0
What is the compatibility of the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 with Ryzen processors?
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 offers excellent compatibility with a wide range of Ryzen processors, from the Ryzen 2000 series to the latest Ryzen 5000 series. This makes it a versatile option for users who may already own a compatible processor or those looking to upgrade in the future. By supporting Ryzen 5000 series processors, the motherboard ensures access to the most up-to-date performance improvements and optimizations in AMD’s architecture, allowing users to take full advantage of high-performance multi-threaded tasks such as gaming, content creation, or productivity workloads.
Additionally, the motherboard’s socket AM4 design ensures smooth integration with these processors without the need for additional hardware adjustments. ASRock provides regular BIOS updates to maintain compatibility with newer processors, ensuring that the motherboard remains future-proof for upcoming CPU releases. This flexibility makes the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet scalable foundation for their PC build.
How does the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 perform in gaming and heavy tasks?
When it comes to gaming and heavy workloads, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 holds its own, especially considering its price point. Equipped with a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, it supports modern GPUs, allowing users to enjoy decent gaming performance.
Although it lacks some of the advanced features seen in more premium motherboards, such as PCIe 4.0, it can still deliver stable frame rates and responsive gameplay, especially when paired with a Ryzen 3000 or 5000 series processor. The motherboard’s 6-phase power design helps manage CPU power efficiently, preventing throttling during intense gaming or processing tasks.
For heavy tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and content creation, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 can handle most tasks adequately if paired with a powerful Ryzen CPU and fast DDR4 RAM. However, it’s essential to note that while this motherboard is reliable for everyday multitasking and gaming, users looking for top-tier performance in extremely demanding tasks may need to consider a more robust platform, especially if PCIe 4.0 is a requirement.
What are the memory capabilities of the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0?
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 supports up to 32GB of DDR4 memory across two DIMM slots, which is more than sufficient for most modern computing needs, whether gaming, media creation, or multitasking. The motherboard’s memory compatibility extends to RAM with speeds up to 3200 MHz (overclocked), providing a significant performance boost compared to older DDR3-based systems.
The dual-channel configuration improves memory bandwidth, enhancing overall system performance, especially in applications that rely heavily on memory, such as video editing or 3D rendering.
While 32GB of memory may seem modest compared to higher-end motherboards with larger capacities, it’s important to note that for most users, 16GB to 32GB of RAM is more than enough to handle even the most demanding games and applications. The motherboard’s ability to support fast DDR4 RAM ensures that users can take advantage of faster memory speeds, which translate into quicker loading times, improved multitasking, and a more responsive system.
Is the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 suitable for overclocking?
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 is designed with basic overclocking capabilities, thanks to its 6-phase power delivery system, which helps stabilize CPU performance when pushing clock speeds beyond factory settings.
While it may not provide the same level of control or power management as more premium motherboards specifically designed for overclocking, it can still handle moderate overclocking on Ryzen processors, particularly those with lower TDP (Thermal Design Power) ratings. Users can tweak both the CPU and RAM settings through the BIOS, which offers simple overclocking adjustments.
However, it is important to temper expectations, as this motherboard is not built to accommodate extreme overclocking. The power delivery and thermal management components are sufficient for users who want a slight performance boost, but pushing hardware too hard could result in system instability or reduced component lifespan.
For moderate users who want to experiment with overclocking, the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 is a budget-friendly option, but enthusiasts seeking high-performance overclocking should consider more advanced motherboards with enhanced power phases and cooling solutions.
What kind of storage options does the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 support?
The ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 offers flexible storage options, catering to users with different needs. It includes four SATA3 6Gb/s connectors for traditional HDD and SSD installations, making it a good choice for users looking to expand their storage capacity with multiple drives.
The motherboard also features an M.2 slot, which supports PCIe NVMe SSDs, providing much faster read and write speeds compared to SATA-based drives. This is an essential feature for anyone looking to improve system performance through faster boot times, reduced loading times, and overall system responsiveness.
The combination of SATA and M.2 storage options makes the ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 a versatile solution for different types of users. Whether you’re a gamer seeking fast load times or a content creator needing quick access to large files, this motherboard has you covered.
Although it only includes one M.2 slot, this limitation may not be an issue for users who do not require multiple high-speed storage devices. If you need more M.2 storage, however, you may need to look at other motherboards with more advanced storage configurations.
