ASUS ProArt B660 vs Z690: A Comprehensive Guide for Content Creators and Professionals

In the realm of content creation and professional computing, selecting the right motherboard is paramount to maximizing performance and unlocking the full potential of your system. Two formidable contenders in this arena are the ASUS ProArt B660 and Z690 motherboards. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of these motherboards, highlighting their key features, differences, and suitability for various creative endeavors.

Chipset Comparison: B660 vs Z690

The ASUS ProArt B660 and Z690 motherboards are built upon different chipsets, each offering distinct capabilities. The B660 chipset is tailored for mid-range systems, providing a solid foundation for content creation and everyday computing tasks. In contrast, the Z690 chipset caters to high-end systems, boasting advanced features and overclocking capabilities.

Connectivity and Expansion Options

PCIe Slots:

• B660: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 2x PCIe 3.0 x1
• Z690: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 2x PCIe 3.0 x1

M.2 Slots:

• B660: 2x M.2 slots (1x PCIe 4.0 x4, 1x PCIe 3.0 x4)
• Z690: 4x M.2 slots (2x PCIe 4.0 x4, 2x PCIe 3.0 x4)

SATA Ports:

• B660: 4x SATA ports
• Z690: 6x SATA ports

Power Delivery and Overclocking

Power Delivery:

• B660: 8+2 power stages
• Z690: 16+1 power stages

Overclocking:

• B660: Supports CPU overclocking
• Z690: Supports CPU and memory overclocking

Features for Content Creators

Thunderbolt 4:

• B660: No
• Z690: Yes (optional)

10 Gigabit Ethernet:

• B660: No
• Z690: Yes (optional)

USB 3.2 Gen 2×2:

• B660: Yes
• Z690: Yes

Aesthetics and Form Factor

Aesthetics:

• B660: Black PCB with silver accents
• Z690: Black PCB with gold accents

Form Factor:

• B660: ATX
• Z690: ATX, EATX

Which Motherboard is Right for You?

The choice between the ASUS ProArt B660 and Z690 motherboards depends on your specific needs and budget.

ASUS ProArt B660:

• Ideal for content creators and professionals who prioritize value and reliability.
• Supports Intel 12th Generation Core processors.
• Provides ample connectivity and expansion options for most creative workflows.

ASUS ProArt Z690:

• Designed for demanding content creators and professionals who require maximum performance and customization.
• Supports Intel 12th Generation Core processors and overclocking.
• Offers exceptional connectivity and expansion options, including Thunderbolt 4 and 10 Gigabit Ethernet.

Recommendations: Empowering Your Creative Workspace

Whether you’re a seasoned content creator or a professional in need of a powerful computing platform, the ASUS ProArt B660 and Z690 motherboards offer compelling options to enhance your workflow and unleash your creativity. By carefully considering your specific requirements, you can make an informed decision that will empower your creative workspace for years to come.

What People Want to Know

Q: What is the key difference between the ASUS ProArt B660 and Z690 chipsets?
A: The Z690 chipset offers advanced features and overclocking capabilities not available on the B660 chipset.

Q: Does the ASUS ProArt B660 motherboard support Thunderbolt 4?
A: No, Thunderbolt 4 support is only available on the ASUS ProArt Z690 motherboard (optional).

Q: Which motherboard offers more M.2 slots?
A: The ASUS ProArt Z690 motherboard provides four M.2 slots, while the B660 motherboard has two.

Q: Is the ASUS ProArt B660 motherboard suitable for overclocking?
A: Yes, the ASUS ProArt B660 motherboard supports CPU overclocking, but not memory overclocking.

Q: What is the difference in the aesthetics of the ASUS ProArt B660 and Z690 motherboards?
A: The ASUS ProArt B660 motherboard features a black PCB with silver accents, while the Z690 motherboard has a black PCB with gold accents.