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As highlighted in KitGuru's previous ASUS H370 review the target audience for Intel's new chipset is one which does not require overclocking, high-speed memory or multi-GPU configurations. Those things aside H370 is very similar to Z370 and offers a fairly high-end desktop experience.
The ASRock Fatal1ty H370 Performance targets that gaming audience that doesn't require overclocking and given the price, the quality and quantity of features on offer is fairly impressive. ASRock's on-board RGB lighting is plentiful and easy to configure with excellent expansion options. Both M.2 slots operate at full 32Gbps speed and there's a strong complement of USB and SATA provided by the H370 chipset. The CPU VRM is up to the job and the heatsinks are sufficient for a CPU that cannot be overclocked.
The audio implementation is of high quality with Realtek's latest-and-greatest codec as well as a headphone amplifier and Gold Series audio capacitors. Networking coverage is adequate with Intel Gigabit and an optional M.2 WiFi module, though we'd prefer ASRock bundle a module in with a separate WiFi SKU, or clearly communicate with customers how they can purchase a certified-compatible optional extra through its product page.
The ASRock H370 Fatal1ty motherboard does, however, have its drawbacks including a slightly over-zealous application of CPU vCore when using optimised default UEFI settings. The severity of this issue is trivial in that no long-term damage will arise, it's straight forward for the user to fix it with a negative vCore offset and ASRock could also change this themselves through a UEFI update.
Aside from the limitations that come with the H370 chipset, we also found the lack of M.2 cooling to be a hindrance since high performance NVMe drives will throttle under heavy load. The M.2 WiFi slot is also on the quirky side given it is quite far from the rear I/O antenna mount and it is tricky to find a compatible WiFi module with the right antenna and cable setup.
The ASRock Fatal1ty H370 Performance is a motherboard that balances a high-end feature set with a cost-conscious target market reasonably well and the areas which it falls down can quite reasonably be overlooked given the price.
The ASRock Fatal1ty H370 Performance has a retail price of £116.99 at Scan Computers UK and is sold with a 2 year warranty as standard.
Pros:
- Reasonable price
- Excellent RGB lighting functionality and expandability
- Smart and neutral aesthetics
- Dual M.2
- Capable CPU power delivery system
- High quality audio with headphone amplifier
Cons:
- vCore voltage on the high side
- No M.2 cooling
- H370 chipset limitations
- M.2 WiFi module may be difficult to effectively utilise
- Low quality I/O shield
KitGuru says: ASRock's Fatal1ty H370 Performance is a well-rounded and affordable gaming motherboard for a target audience not requiring overclocking or multiple graphics card configurations.
