ASRock AM4 Desktop Motherboard Review: Specs, Pros and Cons

What stands out

• 6-phase power design for stable CPU operation
• Supports DDR4 memory up to 4733+ MHz (OC)
• Includes PCIe 3.0 x16 and x1 slots
• Provides D-Sub, DVI-D, and HDMI video outputs

Who it fits

Key specs explained for this board

CPU Socket: AM4

This socket type determines which processors you can install. The AM4 interface supports AMD Ryzen 3000, 4000, and 5000 series desktop chips. You should check your specific CPU model against the compatibility list. This board does not work with the Ryzen 5 3400G or Ryzen 3 3200G. Choose a compatible CPU to ensure your system boots correctly and runs stable.

Memory Type: DDR4

This indicates the kind of RAM sticks you need to buy. You must purchase DDR4 modules, not the older DDR3 or newer DDR5 types. The board supports speeds up to 4733 MHz when you enable overclocking. Faster memory can improve performance in certain games and applications. Ensure your RAM kit is compatible with this speed limit for the best results in your build.

PCIe Version: PCIe 3.0

This standard governs the speed of your graphics card and storage devices. PCIe 3.0 is sufficient for most current mid-range GPUs and NVMe SSDs. You get one x16 slot for your video card and one x1 slot for expansion cards. While newer boards offer PCIe 4.0, this version still provides ample bandwidth for everyday tasks, gaming, and general productivity without bottlenecking standard hardware.

Power Phases: 6

The six-phase power design delivers electricity to the CPU. This configuration is suitable for entry-level to mid-range Ryzen processors. It helps maintain stable voltage under load, which is important for system stability. Higher-end boards often have more phases for extreme overclocking. For typical users running standard Ryzen chips, this power delivery is adequate and reliable for daily computing needs.

Design and build details

According to the listing, this ASRock A520M-HDV measures 10.8 inches in length, 9.45 inches in width, and 2.28 inches in height. It weighs 1.1 pounds. These dimensions indicate a Micro-ATX form factor. This size allows the board to fit into smaller cases than standard ATX designs. You have more flexibility when choosing a chassis for your build. The compact layout does not sacrifice essential connectivity for the AM4 socket.

The board features a 6-phase power design. This configuration helps manage power delivery to the CPU. It supports DDR4 memory with overclocking speeds reaching 4733 MHz. This suggests the board can handle modern Ryzen processors effectively. You get one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot for a graphics card and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot for expansion cards. This setup is sufficient for most entry-level gaming or office builds.

Graphics output options include D-Sub, DVI-D, and HDMI. These ports allow you to connect to various monitors without needing a discrete GPU. The listing notes that the board is not compatible with AMD Ryzen 5 3400G and Ryzen 3 3200G processors. You should verify your specific CPU model against the official compatibility list before purchasing. The design focuses on practicality for budget-conscious builders who need reliable performance without extra features.

Setup and everyday use

Installing this motherboard requires an AMD AM4 processor. The listing confirms support for Ryzen 3000, 4000, and 5000 series desktop chips. You must verify your specific CPU model against the compatibility list. Notably, the board is not compatible with the AMD Ryzen 5 3400G or Ryzen 3 3200G. These APU models will not function with this hardware. You will need DDR4 memory modules. The specifications indicate support for speeds up to 4733 MHz when overclocking is enabled. This allows for faster data transfer between the CPU and RAM compared to standard speeds. The 6-phase power design handles the energy requirements for these processors. This configuration provides stable power delivery for daily tasks. For display output, you can connect monitors via D-Sub, DVI-D, or HDMI ports. This gives you flexibility in choosing your display cable type. The board includes one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot for a graphics card and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot for expansion cards like Wi-Fi adapters. These slots support standard expansion needs. The compact Micro-ATX form factor fits into smaller cases. This makes it suitable for builds where space is limited. Everyday use involves booting the system and installing the operating system. The included ports allow for basic connectivity without additional adapters. The setup process focuses on installing the CPU, RAM, and storage drives. Once powered on, the system runs based on the installed Ryzen processor and memory configuration.

Before you buy this board

You need to pair this motherboard with an AMD AM4 processor. Check your CPU model against the compatibility list. This board does not support the Ryzen 5 3400G or Ryzen 3 3200G. You must ensure your chosen processor is on the supported list for Ryzen 3000, 4000, and 5000 series desktop chips. You will need DDR4 memory modules. The listing supports speeds up to 4733 MHz with overclocking. You should verify your RAM compatibility with the manufacturer’s QVL. This board offers a 6-phase power design. It is suitable for entry-level builds. It fits alongside other AM4 options in Motherboards & Processors. You should consider your power needs. This board provides basic connectivity. You get D-Sub, DVI-D, and HDMI outputs. It lacks advanced features found in higher-end boards. You should check your case size. The Micro-ATX form factor fits smaller cases. You need to plan your storage and expansion needs. The board has one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot. It also has one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot. You should verify your GPU fits the slot. You need to check your power supply unit. It must provide enough power for your components. This board is a practical choice for basic systems.

Check before you buy

• Verify your CPU is not the 3400G or 3200G model
• Check RAM compatibility with the 4733 MHz overclock support
• Ensure your case fits the Micro-ATX form factor
• Confirm your power supply handles the 6-phase design load

The product at a glance

1

ASRock AM4 Desktop Motherboard

Best for: Budget AM4 builds with single GPU

CPU Socket

AM4

Memory Type

DDR4

PCIe Version

PCIe 3.0

Power Phases

6

Dimensions

10.8 × 9.45 × 2.28 inches

Weight

1.1 pounds

View on Amazon: ASRock AM4 Desktop Motherboard Affiliate link

The ASRock A520M-HDV supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen and 5000 Series desktop processors via the AM4 socket. It features a 6-phase power design and DDR4 memory support up to 4733 MHz overclocked. You get one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and one x1 slot. Video outputs include D-Sub, DVI-D, and HDMI. This board suits users building budget AM4 systems who need basic connectivity.

Pros

• Supports Ryzen 3000, 4000 G-Series, and 5000 Series processors
• 6-phase power design for stable operation
• DDR4 memory support up to 4733+ MHz (OC)
• Includes D-Sub, DVI-D, and HDMI video outputs

Cons

• Only one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot limits multi-GPU setups
• No mention of M.2 or NVMe storage support
• Incompatible with Ryzen 5 3400G and Ryzen 3 3200G APUs

Good fit if

• You are building a budget AM4 desktop with a single graphics card
• You need basic display outputs like HDMI and DVI-D
• You are using a Ryzen 5000 or 3000 series CPU

Skip if

• You require M.2 NVMe storage slots
• You plan to use Ryzen 3 3200G or Ryzen 5 3400G processors
• You need multiple PCIe x16 slots for expansion

Verdict: ASRock A520M-HDV AM4 Motherboard is a straightforward option for entry-level AM4 builds. It fits users who prioritize basic CPU support and standard video outputs over advanced expansion capabilities.

Specifications side by side

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See also

• asrock a520m hdv supports amd am4 alternatives
• best ASRock ATX motherboards
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