Quick summary
- The ASUS ProArt B660 is based on Intel’s B660 chipset, while the ASUS Z690 is based on the Z690 chipset.
- If you need a motherboard that supports overclocking and offers the latest features and capabilities, then the ASUS Z690 is the better choice.
- However, if you are on a tighter budget and do not need overclocking capabilities, then the ASUS ProArt B660 is a more cost-effective option that still offers a wide range of features.
The world of motherboards is vast and ever-evolving, with countless options available for different needs and budgets. Two such motherboards that have garnered significant attention in recent times are the ASUS ProArt B660 and the ASUS Z690. Both these motherboards offer a wide range of features and capabilities, making them ideal for both professional creators and casual users. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key differences between the ASUS ProArt B660 and the ASUS Z690, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Chipset and Features
The ASUS ProArt B660 is based on Intel’s B660 chipset, while the ASUS Z690 is based on the Z690 chipset. The Z690 chipset offers more advanced features and capabilities compared to the B660 chipset. For instance, the Z690 chipset supports overclocking, which allows you to push your CPU to its limits for improved performance. The B660 chipset, on the other hand, does not support overclocking.
Expansion Slots
The ASUS ProArt B660 offers two PCIe x16 slots and four PCIe x1 slots. The ASUS Z690, on the other hand, offers three PCIe x16 slots and two PCIe x1 slots. The additional PCIe x16 slot on the Z690 motherboard provides more flexibility for adding expansion cards, such as graphics cards, sound cards, or network cards.
Storage Options
The ASUS ProArt B660 offers four SATA III ports and two M.2 slots. The ASUS Z690, on the other hand, offers six SATA III ports and three M.2 slots. The additional M.2 slot on the Z690 motherboard provides more options for connecting high-speed storage devices.
Memory Support
The ASUS ProArt B660 supports up to 128GB of DDR4 memory with speeds up to 5333MHz. The ASUS Z690, on the other hand, supports up to 128GB of DDR5 memory with speeds up to 6400MHz. DDR5 memory offers significantly faster speeds and lower latencies compared to DDR4 memory, resulting in improved performance.
Networking Capabilities
The ASUS ProArt B660 offers a 1Gb Ethernet port and a Wi-Fi 6 module. The ASUS Z690, on the other hand, offers a 2.5Gb Ethernet port and a Wi-Fi 6E module. The faster Ethernet port on the Z690 motherboard provides faster wired network speeds, while the Wi-Fi 6E module supports the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard, which offers even faster wireless speeds and lower latencies.
Power Delivery
The ASUS ProArt B660 offers a 12+1 phase power delivery system, while the ASUS Z690 offers a 16+1 phase power delivery system. The more robust power delivery system on the Z690 motherboard provides more stable and efficient power delivery to the CPU, which is essential for overclocking and demanding workloads.
Price and Availability
The ASUS ProArt B660 is priced at around $200, while the ASUS Z690 is priced at around $300. Both motherboards are widely available from various retailers.
Which Motherboard is Right for You?
The choice between the ASUS ProArt B660 and the ASUS Z690 depends on your specific requirements and budget. If you need a motherboard that supports overclocking and offers the latest features and capabilities, then the ASUS Z690 is the better choice. However, if you are on a tighter budget and do not need overclocking capabilities, then the ASUS ProArt B660 is a more cost-effective option that still offers a wide range of features.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main difference between the ASUS ProArt B660 and the ASUS Z690?
The main difference between the two motherboards is that the Z690 supports overclocking, while the B660 does not. The Z690 also offers more advanced features and capabilities, such as more expansion slots, storage options, and memory support.
2. Which motherboard is better for gaming?
The ASUS Z690 is a better choice for gaming as it supports overclocking, which allows you to push your CPU to its limits for improved performance. It also offers more expansion slots for adding additional graphics cards or other peripherals.
3. Which motherboard is better for content creation?
Both the ASUS ProArt B660 and the ASUS Z690 are good choices for content creation. However, the Z690 offers more storage options, which is important for storing large files such as videos and images. It also offers faster networking capabilities, which is beneficial for transferring large files or streaming content.