SHANGZHAOYUAN X99 PR9 Motherboard vs SHANGZHAOYUAN A520M-GL Motherboard (2026): Key Differences
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When comparing shangzhaoyuan x99 pr9 motherboard vs a520m gl motherboard, you face two distinct platforms. Both use DDR4 memory and offer gigabit Ethernet. The main difference lies in the CPU socket and chipset. The X99 PR9 targets Intel LGA 2011-3 processors with a Q85 chipset. The A520M-GL supports AMD AM4 Ryzen CPUs with an A520 chipset. Each board serves a different generation of hardware.
Key differences
| Aspect | SHANGZHAOYUAN X99 PR9 LGA 2011-3 Motherboard | SHANGZHAOYUAN A520M-GL Micro ATX |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 2011-3 | AM4 |
| Chipset | Q85 | A520 |
| Max Memory | 128GB | 64GB |
| Power Phases | 6-phase | 4+2 |
| Onboard Video | not listed | HDMI, VGA, DP |
Which one should you choose?
Choose SHANGZHAOYUAN X99 PR9 LGA 2011-3 Motherboard if
- You need to install up to 128GB of RAM for heavy multitasking.
- You are building with Intel Xeon E5 v3/v4 or Core i7 processors.
- You prefer a 6-phase power delivery system for the CPU.
Choose SHANGZHAOYUAN A520M-GL Micro ATX if
- You want to use AMD Ryzen 3000 or 5000 series CPUs.
- You need built-in display outputs like HDMI or VGA for integrated graphics.
- You prefer a standard Micro ATX form factor with modern AM4 support.
Verdict: The X99 PR9 is the better choice if you are repurposing older Intel Xeon hardware or need high memory capacity. The A520M-GL is more suitable for users building a budget system with modern AMD Ryzen processors who require onboard video outputs.
X99 PR9 vs A520M-GL Specs
cpu socket
The SHANGZHAOYUAN X99 PR9 uses the LGA 2011-3 socket, supporting Intel Xeon E5 V3/V4 and Core i7 series processors. This platform targets older high-end desktop and server chips. In contrast, the SHANGZHAOYUAN A520M-GL features the AM4 socket, designed for AMD Ryzen 3rd through 5th generation CPUs. The A520M-GL supports modern mainstream processors like the Ryzen 5 3600X and Ryzen 5 5600. You must choose the socket that matches your specific CPU generation. The X99 PR9 is for legacy Intel builds, while the A520M-GL fits current AMD Ryzen systems.
memory capacity
Memory capacity differs significantly between these two boards. The X99 PR9 supports up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM across four slots. It operates at 2133MHz or 2400MHz, with no overclocking support. When using E5 V4 or i7 CPUs, it requires ECC memory. The A520M-GL has only two memory slots and supports a maximum of 64GB. It handles faster speeds, ranging from 2133MHz up to 3600MHz. If you need large amounts of RAM for heavy workloads, the X99 PR9 offers more capacity. For faster memory speeds on a budget, the A520M-GL is the better choice.
power phases
Power delivery stability is defined by the number of power phases. The X99 PR9 employs a 6-phase power supply design with all-solid-state capacitors. It requires a 24+8 pin power interface and recommends at least a 500W brand power supply. The A520M-GL uses a 4+2 phase power supply, also with all-solid capacitors. It similarly requires a 24+8 pin interface and a 500W power supply. The X99 PR9 has more dedicated phases for the CPU. This may provide slightly better stability for high-end Intel Xeon processors under load. The A520M-GL configuration is sufficient for mainstream AMD Ryzen chips.
wireless connectivity
Connectivity options vary regarding wireless networking. The A520M-GL includes a dedicated WIFI M.2 slot on the board. This allows you to add a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module if you purchase the compatible card separately. The X99 PR9 data does not mention a WIFI M.2 slot. It only lists standard wired RJ45 gigabit Ethernet and various USB ports. If you plan to use wireless networking, the A520M-GL provides the necessary hardware expansion slot. The X99 PR9 would require a separate PCIe Wi-Fi card or USB adapter for wireless capability.
video outputs
Integrated graphics support depends on your CPU and motherboard outputs. The A520M-GL provides HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort interfaces. These allow direct connection to monitors if your AMD Ryzen CPU includes integrated graphics. The X99 PR9 data does not list any video output ports on the I/O panel. Most Intel Xeon E5 processors lack integrated graphics, requiring a discrete GPU. Even if you use a Core i7 with graphics, the X99 PR9 lacks onboard video connectors. The A520M-GL is more versatile for builds without a dedicated graphics card.
pcie lanes
Both motherboards utilize PCIe 3.0 standards for expansion cards and storage. The X99 PR9 features a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot for graphics cards. It also includes PCIe x1 slots and an M.2 slot supporting NVMe SSDs. The A520M-GL also offers a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and PCIe x1 slots. It includes an M.2 slot for NVMe/NGFF SSDs and a separate WIFI M.2 slot. Both boards provide similar bandwidth for graphics and primary storage. The A520M-GL offers an additional M.2 slot for wireless adapters, which the X99 PR9 lacks in its specification list.
Which motherboard fits your build
Users needing high RAM capacity
The SHANGZHAOYUAN X99 PR9 supports up to 128GB of DDR4 memory across four slots. This capacity suits workstations or heavy multitasking needs. The A520M-GL limits you to 64GB. If your workflow requires large memory buffers, the X99 platform offers the necessary headroom for your applications.
Users wanting modern display outputs
The SHANGZHAOYUAN A520M-GL includes HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort interfaces. This allows direct monitor connections without a discrete graphics card. The X99 PR9 lacks these video outputs. If you plan to use integrated graphics or want flexible display options, the A520M-GL provides the necessary connectivity for your setup.
Users preferring established CPU options
The SHANGZHAOYUAN A520M-GL supports Ryzen 3 through 5th generation processors. These are widely available and well-supported. The X99 PR9 relies on older Xeon E5 and Core i7 chips. If you want easier compatibility and current generation performance, the AM4 socket offers a more straightforward path for your build.
The products compared
SHANGZHAOYUAN X99 PR9 LGA 2011-3 Motherboard
Best for: budget Intel Xeon E5 workstation builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 2011-3
- Chipset
- Q85
- Form Factor
- M-ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 3.0
- M.2 Slots
- 1
View on Amazon: SHANGZHAOYUAN X99 PR9 LGA 2011-3 Motherboard Affiliate link
This micro-ATX board features an Intel LGA 2011-3 socket paired with an Intel Q85 chipset. It accommodates up to 128GB of dual-channel DDR4 memory across four slots, alongside a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and one M.2 connector for storage. It suits you if you plan to build an entry-level workstation using older Xeon E5 V3 or V4 processors.
Pros
- Supports up to 128GB dual-channel DDR4 across four slots
- Compatible with Intel Xeon E5 V3, V4, and Core i7 LGA 2011-3 CPUs
- M.2 slot accommodates both NVMe and NGFF SATA SSDs
- Equipped with a 10-layer PCB and 6-phase power delivery
Cons
- Memory speed is limited to 2400MHz with no overclocking support
- Package does not include a CR2032 battery or printed user manual
- Boot time is slow at around 40 seconds
Good fit if
- You use an Intel Xeon E5 V3, E5 V4, or LGA 2011-3 Core i7 processor.
- You need up to 128GB of system memory across four DDR4 slots.
Skip if
- You want high-speed memory overclocking above 2400MHz.
- You plan to run an AMD AM4 processor.
Verdict: SHANGZHAOYUAN Micro-ATX LGA 2011-3 Motherboard delivers multi-core Intel Xeon capability and 128GB RAM capacity for legacy workstation builders.
SHANGZHAOYUAN A520M-GL Micro ATX
Best for: budget AMD Ryzen desktop PC builds
- CPU Socket
- AM4
- Form Factor
- Micro ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 3.0
- Ethernet Speed
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Power Phases
- 4+2 phase
View on Amazon: SHANGZHAOYUAN A520M-GL Micro ATX Affiliate link
This Micro ATX motherboard features an AMD AM4 socket designed for Ryzen 3000 through 5000 series processors. It provides two DDR4 memory slots supporting up to 64GB of RAM, alongside HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA outputs for display connections. You get a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, M.2 storage, and dedicated Wi-Fi M.2 expansion for compact desktop builds.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 3000 to 5000 series processors on socket AM4
- Provides HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA video output connections
- Features dedicated NVMe/NGFF M.2 and Wi-Fi M.2 slots
- Supports dual-channel DDR4 speeds up to 3600MHz
Cons
- Memory capacity is limited to 64GB across two slots
- Package excludes a CR2032 CMOS battery and physical user manual
- Power delivery uses a basic 4+2 phase configuration
Good fit if
- You plan to build with an AMD Ryzen 3000, 4000, or 5000 series processor.
- You need multiple display options including HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA.
- You want a Micro ATX board with separate slots for an M.2 SSD and Wi-Fi card.
Skip if
- You require more than 64GB of RAM or four memory slots.
- You plan to use Intel-specific DDR4 RAM modules.
- You need an included setup manual and CMOS battery in the package.
Verdict: SHANGZHAOYUAN AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard delivers core socket AM4 compatibility with dual-slot DDR4 support for Ryzen desktop configurations. It suits builders assembling an entry-level or mid-range AMD workstation that requires basic M.2 expansion and triple display options.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SHANGZHAOYUAN X99 PR9 LGA 2011-3 Motherboard | SHANGZHAOYUAN A520M-GL Micro ATX |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 2011-3 | AM4 |
| Chipset | Q85 | not stated |
| Form Factor | M-ATX | Micro ATX |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR4 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 3.0 | PCIe 3.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 1 | not stated |
| Ethernet Speed | Gigabit | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Power Phases | 6-phase | 4+2 phase |
| Series | Core i7 | Ryzen 3 |
| Dimensions | not stated | 8.86 × 8.86 × 8.86 inches |
| Model | X99 PR9 | A520M-GL |
Frequently asked questions
Is the X99 PR9 better for workstation builds?
Yes. The X99 PR9 is designed for Intel Xeon E5 processors. It supports up to 128GB of DDR4 memory. This capacity suits heavy multitasking and workstation tasks. The A520M-GL only supports 64GB. It targets budget AM4 builds instead.
What is the size difference between these boards?
The X99 PR9 uses an ATX form factor. The A520M-GL is a Micro ATX board measuring 8.86 inches on each side. The A520M-GL fits into smaller cases. The X99 PR9 requires a standard ATX case for proper installation.
Which board supports newer Ryzen processors?
The A520M-GL supports AM4 sockets. It works with Ryzen 3 and other AM4 CPUs. The X99 PR9 uses the LGA 2011-3 socket. It only supports older Intel Xeon E5 and Core i7 processors. It cannot run Ryzen chips.
Can I use DDR5 memory on either board?
No. Both motherboards use DDR4 memory type. Neither board supports DDR5 modules. You must purchase DDR4 RAM sticks for either system. This is a key limitation for both platforms compared to newer modern boards.
Which is better for compact PC cases?
The A520M-GL is better for compact builds. It has a Micro ATX form factor. Its dimensions are 8.86 inches square. The X99 PR9 is a larger ATX board. It will not fit in small form factor cases designed for mATX boards.
Does the X99 PR9 have a modern chipset?
No. The X99 PR9 uses the Q85 chipset. This is an older chipset design. The A520M-GL uses the A520 chipset. This is a more modern budget AMD chipset. The X99 platform is older and targets different use cases.