Recently we've heard rumours that Intel is working with motherboard makers to make a bigger push for DDR5 memory adoption with Raptor Lake. However, there will still be a few DDR4 memory motherboard options both in the high-end and mid-range to choose from when the new Z790 and H770 platforms arrive, as confirmed by a newly leaked ASRock motherboard line-up.
VideoCardz has obtained a leaked list of upcoming ASRock motherboards for the Intel Raptor Lake platform. These will include both high-end Z790 motherboards, as well as more affordable H770 motherboards. Previously, we were unsure how much support there would be for DDR4 memory with new 700-series motherboards, as Intel reportedly wants to speed up the transition to DDR5. However, the leaked list of ASRock boards includes at least five DDR4 models, so it looks like support will remain strong for the older memory standard.
Assuming the leak is accurate, ASRock's 700-series motherboard launch line-up will include a Taichi model, which will probably be its flagship. We'll also get five Phantom Gaming boards, two M-ATX and three ATX models, two C-series, likely entry-level, and a Pro model, which should sit between the entry-level and the gaming variants. As for the H770 boards, we have two Phantom Gaming models and a Steel Legend model. More H770 boards should come at a later date.
The line-up doesn't include any B760 boards, but that doesn't mean there won't be any. Earlier this year, Biostar confirmed it was working on Z790 and B760 motherboards, so there's still a chance we'll have the three chipsets launching simultaneously. Raptor Lake is expected to release in late Q3/Q4 alongside the new 700-series motherboards.
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KitGuru says: Four DDR4-compatible Z790 motherboard options should be enough for most users, but only having one H770 option might not be. H770 motherboards are mid-range products for users with a somewhat limited budget, the same who will likely choose DDR4 over DDR5. If DDR5 memory pricing improves by the time these boards launch, we would hope to see more H770 DDR4 options.