SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard vs SHANGZHAOYUAN Micro-ATX LGA 1150 DDR3 Motherboard: Spec Comparison
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You are looking at the shangzhaoyuan h97 strong lga 1150 motherboard vs b85m pro lga 1150. Both boards use the LGA 1150 socket for fourth-generation Intel processors and support DDR3 memory. They share a 4-phase power design and gigabit Ethernet. The main difference is form factor and chipset. The H97 is Mini-ITX with more connectivity options. The B85M PRO is Micro-ATX with higher memory capacity. This affects your build size and expansion needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard | SHANGZHAOYUAN Micro-ATX LGA 1150 DDR3 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Mini-ITX | Micro-ATX |
| Chipset | H97 | B85 |
| Max Memory | 16GB | 32GB |
| DIMM Slots | 2 | 4 |
| Ethernet Ports | 2 RJ45 | 1 RJ45 |
| PCIe Slots | 1 PCIe x16 | 1 PCIe x16, 1 PCIe x1, 2 PCI |
Which one should you choose?
Choose SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard if
- You need a compact Mini-ITX case.
- You want dual gigabit network ports.
- You prefer the H97 chipset features.
Choose SHANGZHAOYUAN Micro-ATX LGA 1150 DDR3 Motherboard if
- You require up to 32GB of RAM.
- You need more expansion slots.
- You are building a standard Micro-ATX case.
Verdict: Choose the H97 Strong if you prioritize a small form factor and extra network ports. Pick the B85M PRO if you need more RAM capacity and traditional expansion slots. Both support the same CPU socket and DDR3 memory.
H97 Strong vs B85M Pro Specs
form factor
The SHANGZHAOYUAN H97 Strong uses a Mini-ITX layout, measuring 6.69 by 6.7 inches. This compact size fits small cases but limits expansion slots. The SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M Pro uses a Micro-ATX form factor. While the exact dimensions are not listed, Micro-ATX boards are larger than Mini-ITX. This extra space allows for more components and better airflow. If you need a smaller build, the H97 Strong is the choice. If you prioritize space for future upgrades, the B85M Pro is better.
chipset
The H97 Strong features the H97 chipset. This is a higher-end chipset for the LGA 1150 platform, often supporting more USB ports and better storage connectivity than entry-level options. The B85M Pro uses the B85 chipset. B85 is a budget-friendly option that supports standard features but lacks some advanced connectivity of the H97. For users who want more robust connectivity options out of the box, the H97 chipset offers a slight advantage. However, both chipsets support the same core processor features.
memory capacity
Both motherboards support DDR3 memory with dual-channel technology. The H97 Strong has two DIMM slots and supports up to 16GB of RAM. The B85M Pro has four DIMM slots and supports up to 32GB of RAM. This means the B85M Pro can handle larger memory workloads. If you plan to use 32GB for heavy multitasking or virtualization, the B85M Pro is the only option. For most gaming and general use, 16GB on the H97 Strong is sufficient.
storage connectivity
The H97 Strong includes one M.2 slot that supports NVMe SSDs. It also has SATA 3.0 ports. The B85M Pro also features an M.2 slot with automatic switching between NVMe and SATA modes. Both boards provide SATA 3.0 connectivity for traditional drives. The H97 Strong explicitly lists the M.2 slot as a key feature for high-speed storage. The B85M Pro offers similar functionality. Both options allow for fast boot drives, making this a tie for storage speed needs.
video outputs
The H97 Strong provides HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort outputs. This gives you flexibility for different monitor types. The B85M Pro provides VGA, DVI, and HDMI outputs. Both boards support high-definition multimedia transmission. The H97 Strong includes DisplayPort, which is useful for newer monitors. The B85M Pro includes DVI, which is common on older displays. Both sets of ports cover standard needs. You should choose based on the specific cables your monitors use, as both offer versatile connectivity.
Which motherboard fits your build needs
Building a compact HTPC or small form factor PC
Choose the Mini-ITX H97 Strong if space is your priority. Its 6.69 by 6.7-inch footprint fits into small cases that cannot accommodate larger boards. You get dual-channel DDR3 support up to 16GB and essential connectivity including HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort for multimedia output in tight quarters.
Needing more RAM slots and expansion options
The Micro-ATX B85M Pro is the better choice for standard cases. It offers four DIMM slots, allowing up to 32GB of DDR3 memory, which is double the capacity of the Mini-ITX option. You also gain access to two PCI slots and an extra PCIe x1 slot for additional cards.
Looking for the most versatile connectivity and storage
Select the B85M Pro for maximum interface variety. It includes DVI and D-Sub ports alongside HDMI, offering more display options than the Mini-ITX model. It also provides three SATA 3.0 ports and an M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs, giving you more room for storage and peripherals.
The products compared
SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard
Best for: Compact 4th Gen Intel dual-LAN builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1150
- Chipset
- H97
- Form Factor
- Mini ITX
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 3.0
- M.2 Slots
- 1
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This Mini-ITX board pairs an LGA 1150 socket and H97 chipset for 4th Gen Intel Core processors. You get dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, an NVMe M.2 slot, and PCIe 3.0 x16 expansion inside a compact 6.7-by-6.7-inch footprint. Memory tops out at 16GB across two DDR3 slots. It suits compact desktop setups needing modern M.2 storage and multiple network ports.
Pros
- Compact 6.7-by-6.7-inch Mini-ITX form factor
- Dual Gigabit Ethernet network ports
- Onboard M.2 NVMe SSD slot alongside SATA 3.0
- DisplayPort, HDMI, and VGA display interfaces
Cons
- Caps DDR3 memory at 16GB across two DIMM slots
- Includes only a 4-phase power delivery setup
- Package excludes a printed manual and CR2032 battery
Good fit if
- You build a small-form-factor desktop using 4th Gen Intel Core CPUs.
- You need dual Gigabit network interfaces for dedicated routing or server tasks.
- You want high-speed NVMe storage without an add-in PCIe adapter card.
Skip if
- You need more than 16GB of system memory.
- You require multiple PCIe add-in card slots.
Verdict: SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard fits builders assembling a compact 4th Gen Intel system who require dual Gigabit Ethernet and high-speed NVMe storage.
SHANGZHAOYUAN Micro-ATX LGA 1150 DDR3 Motherboard
Best for: Micro-ATX 4th Gen Intel multi-slot systems
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1150
- Chipset
- B85
- Form Factor
- Micro-ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 3.0
- Ethernet Speed
- Gigabit
View on Amazon: SHANGZHAOYUAN Micro-ATX LGA 1150 DDR3 Motherboard Affiliate link
This Micro-ATX board runs Intel 4th Gen Core, Pentium, and Celeron processors on the LGA 1150 socket with a B85 chipset. It provides four dual-channel DDR3 slots supporting up to 32GB of RAM, an M.2 slot for NVMe or SATA drives, and triple video outputs. It fits your build if you need expandability and legacy PCI support.
Pros
- Four DDR3 slots supporting up to 32GB total memory
- M.2 slot with automatic switching between NVMe and SATA modes
- Triple video output options via HDMI, DVI, and VGA
- PCIe 3.0 x16 slot paired with two legacy PCI slots
Cons
- Box excludes a CR2032 CMOS battery and printed user manual
- Power delivery uses a basic 4-phase design
- Storage connectivity limited to three SATA 3.0 ports
Good fit if
- You need four DDR3 memory slots to run up to 32GB of RAM.
- You want an onboard M.2 slot that accepts NVMe and SATA drives.
- You require Micro-ATX expansion with legacy PCI cards alongside PCIe.
Skip if
- You want ready-to-run packaging that includes the CMOS battery and manual.
- You need more than three SATA 3.0 storage drives connected.
Verdict: SHANGZHAOYUAN Micro-ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard provides four memory slots, versatile video ports, and M.2 storage compatibility for 4th Gen Intel setups. It serves PC builders who want a balanced Micro-ATX layout with room for four DDR3 sticks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SHANGZHAOYUAN Mini-ITX LGA 1150 Motherboard | SHANGZHAOYUAN Micro-ATX LGA 1150 DDR3 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1150 | LGA 1150 |
| Chipset | H97 | B85 |
| Form Factor | Mini ITX | Micro-ATX |
| Memory Type | DDR3 | DDR3 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 3.0 | PCIe 3.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 1 | not stated |
| Ethernet Speed | Gigabit | Gigabit |
| Power Phases | 4-phase | 4-phase |
| Use Case | Gaming | not stated |
| Series | Core i7 | Core i7 |
| Dimensions | 6.7 × 6.69 × 6.7 inches | not stated |
| Model | H97-STRONG | B85M PRO |
Frequently asked questions
Does the SHANGZHAOYUAN H97 Strong support dual-channel memory?
Yes, it supports dual-channel DDR3 memory. This configuration allows for higher bandwidth compared to single-channel setups. The board is designed for Intel 4th Gen processors, ensuring compatibility with standard DDR3 modules. This support helps maintain system stability and performance in compact builds.
What is the form factor of the B85M PRO motherboard?
The SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO uses a Micro-ATX form factor. This layout offers more expansion slots than Mini-ITX boards. It is suitable for users who need a compact solution but still require basic connectivity options. The design supports Intel 4th Gen CPUs with DDR3 memory.
Can the Mini-ITX H97 Strong handle dual gigabit networking?
Yes, the H97 Strong provides dual gigabit networking capabilities. This feature allows for multiple network connections simultaneously. It is useful for users who need dedicated links for internet and local storage. The board fits well in small cases while offering robust connectivity options.
Is the B85M PRO compatible with PCIe 3.0 devices?
Yes, the B85M PRO supports PCIe 3.0. This standard ensures faster data transfer rates for compatible expansion cards. It works with Intel 4th Gen processors and DDR3 memory. This compatibility helps future-proof your build slightly while maintaining stability with older components.
Which board is better for a very small case?
The Mini-ITX H97 Strong is better for very small cases. Its dimensions are 6.69 by 6.7 inches. This compact footprint fits into cases that cannot accommodate larger boards. If space is your main priority, this board offers the necessary connectivity in a minimal size.
Do both motherboards support Core i7 processors?
Yes, both boards support Intel Core i7 processors. They use the LGA 1150 socket, which is designed for fourth-generation Intel CPUs. This ensures that high-end processors from that era will function correctly. Both models provide a stable platform for these powerful chips.