The ongoing memory crisis is pushing PC users to seek creative solutions for affordable hardware. ASRock, a leading motherboard manufacturer, is responding to this challenge with a new motherboard that supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. The newly launched “H610M Combo II” model features the LGA 1700 socket, granting users the freedom to choose the most affordable memory on the market for their Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors.
An Unusual Solution to the RAM Crisis: ASRock H610M Combo II
This model is the company’s second motherboard designed with this hybrid logic. Previously, we saw the more feature-rich “H610 Combo,” which featured a full ATX format and six memory slots. The new H610M Combo II, however, comes with only three RAM slots. Two of these slots are dedicated to DDR5, while a single slot—positioned closest to the CPU—is reserved for DDR4 memory. Users can install a single DDR4 module with a maximum capacity of 32 GB and speeds up to 3,200 MT/s.
The dual DDR5 slots offer more flexibility on the hardware side, supporting a total maximum capacity of 96 GB. In terms of speed, 5,600 MT/s is achievable only with 14th Gen processors; if using 12th or 13th Gen CPUs, the speed is capped at DDR5-4800. Ironically, while dual-channel configuration is always recommended for performance, this design splits the slots as a single DDR4 vs. dual DDR5.
Technical Specifications and Connectivity
The rest of the motherboard’s features remain entry-level. This mATX form factor board includes one PCIe 5.0 slot for graphics cards, one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot for expansion cards, and a single PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 slot for SSDs. Power delivery is managed by a 6+1+1 phase VRM.
On the I/O side, connectivity is basic, featuring only two USB 3.0 ports, while the remaining ports utilize the USB 2.0 standard. There is no built-in Wi-Fi, but the board does offer gigabit Ethernet support. These specs clearly indicate that the device is targeted at entry-level gamers, who are often the most affected by component price fluctuations.
According to Videocardz, ASRock may not release this motherboard in all regions. What do you think about the current volatility in memory prices? Are you currently using DDR4 or DDR5 RAM in your own system?
