GIGABYTE or SHANGZHAOYUAN? Motherboards Compared in 2026
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When comparing a GIGABYTE vs SHANGZHAOYUAN motherboard, you face a choice between modern and legacy platforms. Both boards offer essential connectivity for desktop builds, but they target very different eras of computing. The GIGABYTE unit supports current DDR5 memory and newer processors, while the SHANGZHAOYUAN option relies on older DDR3 technology. Your decision depends entirely on whether you need contemporary performance or are building with existing older hardware components.
Key differences
| Aspect | Gigabyte Micro-ATX DDR5 Gaming Motherboard | SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | AMD AM5 (implied by A620 chipset) | LGA 1150 |
| Memory Type | DDR5 | DDR3 |
| Chipset | AMD A620 | Intel H97 |
| Form Factor | Micro ATX | Mini ITX |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 3.0 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Gigabyte Micro-ATX DDR5 Gaming Motherboard if
- You are building a new PC with modern AMD processors and want faster DDR5 memory support.
- You need a larger Micro ATX board that fits standard mid-tower cases easily.
- You require PCIe 4.0 bandwidth for newer NVMe SSDs and graphics cards.
Choose SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard if
- You are upgrading an older Intel system using LGA 1150 processors like the i5-4570 or i7-4790.
- You need a compact Mini ITX form factor for a small form factor case.
- You are working with existing DDR3 RAM and want to reuse older hardware components.
Verdict: The GIGABYTE A620M is the practical choice for new builds, offering modern speeds and compatibility with current AMD CPUs. The SHANGZHAOYUAN H97 serves a specific niche for retro upgrades or compact builds using older Intel hardware. Choose based on whether you are starting fresh or maintaining an existing legacy system.
GIGABYTE or SHANGZHAOYUAN Motherboards Compared
cpu socket
The GIGABYTE board uses the AMD A620 chipset, designed for modern AMD processors. This platform supports the latest Ryzen CPUs, ensuring access to current performance and features. In contrast, the SHANGZHAOYUAN motherboard features the Intel H97 chipset with an LGA 1150 socket. This socket supports Intel fourth-generation Core i7, i5, and i3 processors. These are older chips from several years ago. You must choose between a new AMD platform or an older Intel one based on your existing CPU or upgrade path.
memory type
Memory technology differs significantly between these two boards. The GIGABYTE A620M Gaming X supports DDR5 memory. DDR5 offers higher bandwidth and efficiency for modern workloads. The SHANGZHAOYUAN H97 board supports DDR3 memory. It has two DIMM slots with a maximum capacity of 16GB. DDR3 is slower and less efficient than DDR5. If you need high-speed RAM for gaming or content creation, the GIGABYTE option is superior. The SHANGZHAOYUAN board is limited to older, slower memory standards.
pcie version
Expansion slot speeds vary between the two motherboards. The GIGABYTE board supports PCIe 4.0. This version offers double the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0, allowing faster data transfer for modern graphics cards and NVMe SSDs. The SHANGZHAOYUAN motherboard supports PCIe 3.0. While still functional, it provides lower bandwidth. This limits the potential speed of the fastest current storage devices and GPUs. For users prioritizing maximum throughput for peripherals, the GIGABYTE board with PCIe 4.0 is the better choice.
form factor
Size and case compatibility differ for each board. The GIGABYTE A620M Gaming X is a Micro-ATX board. It measures 9.61 inches by 9.61 inches. This size fits in most standard mid-tower and full-tower cases. The SHANGZHAOYUAN H97 is a Mini-ITX board. It measures 6.69 inches by 6.7 inches. This compact size is ideal for small form factor builds. If you are building in a small case, the SHANGZHAOYUAN board fits. For standard cases, the GIGABYTE board offers more flexibility for additional slots.
ethernet speed
Network connectivity speeds are similar for both boards. The SHANGZHAOYUAN motherboard features two RJ45 gigabit network interfaces. This provides standard 1Gbps wired connectivity. The GIGABYTE board also supports gigabit Ethernet, though the exact number of ports is not specified in the provided data. Both boards offer standard wired networking speeds sufficient for most home and office use. Neither board lists Wi-Fi capabilities in the provided specifications. For wired connections, both meet standard baseline requirements.
Choose Your Motherboard Based On Specs
Users needing modern AMD Ryzen support
The GIGABYTE A620M Gaming X uses the AMD A620 chipset, designed for current Ryzen processors. It supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 4.0, offering faster data transfer speeds and modern efficiency. This Micro ATX board fits standard mid-size cases and provides a reliable foundation for new builds requiring up-to-date components.
Builders with existing Intel 4th gen CPUs
The SHANGZHAOYUAN H97 Strong features an LGA 1150 socket, supporting Intel 4th Gen Core i7, i5, and i3 processors. It uses DDR3 memory and includes an M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs. This Mini ITX board is ideal for upgrading older systems with compact form factors and stable power delivery.
Those seeking compact Mini ITX form factor
If space is limited, the SHANGZHAOYUAN board measures 6.69 by 6.7 inches, making it a true Mini ITX solution. This small footprint allows for smaller case builds. It includes HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort outputs, ensuring you can connect multiple displays even in a tight chassis without sacrificing essential connectivity options.
The products compared
Gigabyte Micro-ATX DDR5 Gaming Motherboard
Best for: Compact gaming builds using DDR5
- Chipset
- AMD A620
- Form Factor
- Micro ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- Use Case
- Gaming
- Dimensions
- 9.61 × 9.61 × 1.38 inches
View on Amazon: Gigabyte Micro-ATX DDR5 Gaming Motherboard Affiliate link
This GIGABYTE motherboard uses the AMD A620 chipset and supports DDR5 memory. It features PCIe 4.0 lanes and includes a USB 3.2 Gen1x2 Type-C port. The Micro ATX form factor measures 9.61 by 9.61 inches. You will find it suitable for gaming builds that require modern memory speeds and standard connectivity options within a compact board size.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory for higher bandwidth
- Includes PCIe 4.0 for faster storage
- Features USB 3.2 Gen1x2 Type-C port
Cons
- Micro ATX form factor limits expansion slots
- AMD A620 chipset offers fewer features than higher-end options
- Heavier at 1.96 pounds compared to some competitors
Good fit if
- You need a Micro ATX board for a compact case
- You want to use DDR5 memory
- You require PCIe 4.0 connectivity
Skip if
- You need a full-size ATX board for maximum expansion
- You require PCIe 5.0 support for future-proofing
- You prefer a lighter board under 1.5 pounds
Verdict: GIGABYTE A620M Gaming X Micro ATX fits users who want DDR5 and PCIe 4.0 in a compact Micro ATX size. It is a solid option for gaming builds that do not require extensive expansion slots.
SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard
Best for: Compact builds with 4th Gen Intel processors
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1150
- Chipset
- H97
- Form Factor
- Mini ITX
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 3.0
- M.2 Slots
- 1
View on Amazon: SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard Affiliate link
This SHANGZHAOYUAN H97 motherboard uses an LGA 1150 socket for 4th Gen Intel Core processors. It supports up to 16GB of DDR3 RAM across two slots. The board features a Mini ITX form factor, making it compact for small builds. It includes PCIe 3.0 connectivity and gigabit Ethernet. You should choose this if you need a specific older platform for a retro build or legacy hardware compatibility.
Pros
- LGA 1150 socket supports 4th Gen Intel Core i7/i5/i3 processors
- Mini ITX form factor saves space in small cases
- Dual channel DDR3 support up to 16GB capacity
- Includes M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs
Cons
- Only 4 power phases for CPU stability
- Maximum memory capacity limited to 16GB
- Uses older DDR3 memory technology
Good fit if
- You are building a compact PC with 4th Gen Intel CPUs
- You need a Mini ITX board for a small form factor case
- You require legacy support for older hardware components
Skip if
- You need modern DDR5 memory support
- You are using 12th Gen or newer Intel processors
- You require high-end overclocking capabilities
Verdict: SHANGZHAOYUAN H97 Mini ITX Motherboard fits users building compact systems with 4th Gen Intel CPUs. It offers essential connectivity for legacy hardware needs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Gigabyte Micro-ATX DDR5 Gaming Motherboard | SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | not stated | LGA 1150 |
| Chipset | AMD A620 | H97 |
| Form Factor | Micro ATX | Mini ITX |
| Memory Type | DDR5 | DDR3 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 3.0 |
| M.2 Slots | not stated | 1 |
| Ethernet Speed | not stated | Gigabit |
| Power Phases | not stated | 4-phase |
| Use Case | Gaming | Gaming |
| Series | not stated | Core i7 |
| Dimensions | 9.61 × 9.61 × 1.38 inches | 6.7 × 6.69 × 6.7 inches |
| Weight | 1.96 pounds | not stated |
| Model | A620M GAMING X | H97-STRONG |
Frequently asked questions
Which motherboard supports DDR5 memory?
The GIGABYTE A620M Gaming X supports DDR5 memory. This allows you to use the latest high-speed RAM modules for improved performance in modern gaming and productivity tasks. The SHANGZHAOYUAN board does not support DDR5, as it is designed for older 4th Gen Intel processors that use previous memory standards.
What is the size difference between these two boards?
The GIGABYTE board is a Micro-ATX form factor, measuring 9.61 inches by 9.61 inches. The SHANGZHAOYUAN board is a Mini-ITX form factor, measuring 6.7 inches by 6.7 inches. The Mini-ITX design is significantly smaller, making it ideal for compact cases, while the Micro-ATX offers more space for components.
Can I use this motherboard with AMD Ryzen processors?
Yes, the GIGABYTE A620M Gaming X is built for AMD Ryzen processors using the A620 chipset. The SHANGZHAOYUAN H97 board uses an Intel chipset and is compatible with 4th Gen Intel Core i7 CPUs. You must match the CPU socket to the motherboard for proper functionality.
Does the GIGABYTE board offer PCIe 4.0 support?
The GIGABYTE A620M Gaming X supports PCIe 4.0. This standard provides faster data transfer speeds for compatible graphics cards and storage devices compared to older PCIe versions. The SHANGZHAOYUAN board uses an older platform that does not natively support PCIe 4.0 specifications.
Which board is better for a compact gaming build?
The GIGABYTE A620M Gaming X is listed as best for compact gaming builds using DDR5. It combines a Micro-ATX size with modern gaming features. The SHANGZHAOYUAN board is intended for compact systems with legacy hardware, not modern gaming performance, making the GIGABYTE option the suitable choice for current games.
What is the weight of the GIGABYTE motherboard?
The GIGABYTE A620M Gaming X weighs 1.96 pounds. This weight reflects its Micro-ATX construction and included heatsinks. The SHANGZHAOYUAN product data does not list a weight, but its Mini-ITX form factor is generally lighter due to its smaller physical footprint.