ASRock X670E Steel Legend Review | High-Performance & Affordable

ASRock X670E Steel Legend Review: A Gaming Powerhouse

Built for gamers and tech enthusiasts, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend motherboard is a solid platform designed for the AMD AM5 Ryzen 7000 series processors. With an impressive list of features, including support for DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 slots, and multiple M.2 slots, this motherboard promises performance and reliability without breaking the bank. In this review, we’ll dive deep into its features, performance, and whether it’s the right choice for your next PC build.

Product Details: ASRock X670E Steel Legend Motherboard

CPU Socket: AM5
Compatible Processors: AMD Ryzen 7000 Series
Memory Support: DDR5, up to 128 GB
PCIe Slots: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x1
Storage Options: 3x Hyper M.2, 4x SATA3
Networking: 1x 2.5G LAN, 1x 1G LAN, WiFi 6E compatible
Audio: 7.1-Channel HD Audio with Realtek ALC1200
Form Factor: ATX
Dimensions: 12 x 9.6 inches
Best For: Gamers and PC builders seeking a balance of affordability and high-end features.

ASRock X670E Steel Legend Review – Pros & Cons

Pros of ASRock X670E Steel Legend

✅ DDR5 Memory Support: Capable of running fast and efficient DDR5 RAM for better gaming and multitasking.
✅ Multiple M.2 Slots: Ideal for users needing fast storage solutions with three Hyper M.2 slots.
✅ PCIe 5.0 Ready: Future-proof for the latest GPUs and storage options.
✅ Dual LAN Ports: Offers both 1G and 2.5G Ethernet for enhanced connectivity.
✅ Solid Build Quality: Sturdy PCB and excellent cooling options for long-term use.

Cons of ASRock X670E Steel Legend

❗ Slow Boot Times: Some users have reported prolonged boot times, particularly with large memory configurations.
❗ No Built-In WiFi: Requires a separate adapter for WiFi connectivity, despite being WiFi 6E compatible.

The ASRock X670E Steel Legend Review has received mostly positive feedback for its robust feature set and value. Users commend its support for the latest technologies and affordable pricing.

In-Depth Review of the ASRock X670E Steel Legend Motherboard

High-End Performance for AMD Ryzen 7000 Series

Designed to support AMD’s latest Ryzen 7000 series processors, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend provides the perfect base for gamers and power users alike. The motherboard’s ability to handle high-performance tasks is supported by its chipset and PCIe 5.0 slot, making it ready for the next generation of GPUs. The Ryzen 9 and Ryzen 7 CPUs particularly benefit from this platform, ensuring smooth multitasking and optimized gaming performance.

DDR5 Memory and Overclocking Support

One of the standout features of the ASRock X670E Steel Legend is its support for DDR5 memory, with speeds up to 6600 MHz. DDR5 brings more bandwidth and better power efficiency, which directly translates to faster processing, whether for gaming or intensive applications. Overclocking is also made easy with built-in XMP profiles, allowing users to push their memory to the limit. However, it’s worth noting that some users experience slow boot times during memory training, particularly with higher-capacity RAM configurations.

Extensive Connectivity and Storage Options

With three Hyper M.2 slots and four SATA3 connections, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend offers robust storage expansion. The M.2 slots are essential for those looking to utilize fast NVMe SSDs, making it ideal for gaming rigs and workstations that require high-speed data transfers. Additionally, the motherboard provides plenty of USB 3.2 ports, including a USB-C port, which ensures seamless compatibility with modern peripherals.

PCIe 5.0: Future-Proof Your Build

One of the key selling points of this motherboard is its PCIe 5.0 slot, offering double the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0. This feature ensures that your system is ready for the latest and future generations of GPUs, providing improved data speeds and enhanced gaming or content creation experiences. The PCIe 5.0 also benefits fast storage options, making it future-proof for many years to come.

Dual LAN Ports for Enhanced Connectivity

In a world where online gaming and fast data transfers are a must, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend does not disappoint. It comes equipped with both a 1G and 2.5G LAN port, ensuring that you have a stable and fast connection for any situation. The dual ports also allow flexibility, giving users the ability to run separate networks or prioritize bandwidth for gaming or work.

The Downsides: Boot Times and WiFi Exclusion

While the ASRock X670E Steel Legend excels in many areas, there are a few downsides. The first is the slow boot times, particularly when using large memory capacities or certain types of DDR5 RAM. This issue seems related to memory training during boot, which can be a nuisance for users who reboot frequently.

Additionally, while the board is WiFi 6E compatible, it doesn’t come with a built-in WiFi adapter. This means that users will need to purchase an additional WiFi card or use an external solution for wireless connectivity, which can be a downside for some users.

Who Should Consider the ASRock X670E Steel Legend Motherboard?

✅ Gamers looking for high-end performance with future-proof features.
✅ Content creators who need fast storage options and high bandwidth.
✅ PC builders looking for a reliable motherboard with excellent value.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

✅ Users who require built-in WiFi may find this motherboard lacking in out-of-the-box wireless connectivity.

Customer Experiences With the ASRock X670E Steel Legend Motherboard

We’ve thoroughly researched customer feedback on the ASRock X670E Steel Legend, and here are some key takeaways:

✅ Strong Performance: Users report that this motherboard handles Ryzen 7000 series processors flawlessly, offering seamless multitasking and gaming.
✅ Easy BIOS Updates: The BIOS flashback feature allows for easy updates, even without a CPU installed, making it user-friendly for beginners.
✅ Solid Build Quality: The board’s physical design is robust, with excellent heat dissipation and reliable components.
🚫 Long Boot Times: Several users noted that the boot process can be slow, especially when using large memory configurations.
🚫 WiFi Adapter Required: Some users were disappointed by the lack of built-in WiFi, requiring an additional purchase for wireless connectivity.

Value Analysis of the ASRock X670E Steel Legend Motherboard

Key Strengths: High-Performance & Future-Proof

Support for Ryzen 7000 Series: As one of the few motherboards fully supporting the latest AMD AM5 processors, this board excels in handling heavy workloads and gaming.
DDR5 and PCIe 5.0: These features ensure the ASRock X670E Steel Legend will remain relevant for years to come, offering users cutting-edge technology today with room for upgrades in the future.
Affordable Pricing: Compared to other motherboards with similar features, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend offers great value, especially with its support for advanced features like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory.

Considerations: Slow Boot Times & No Built-In WiFi

Boot Times: Although this board performs well during operation, the slow boot times are an inconvenience for users who frequently restart their systems.
No Built-In WiFi: While it’s compatible with WiFi 6E, the absence of an integrated WiFi adapter means users need to factor in the cost of an external solution.

The ASRock X670E Steel Legend Motherboard is a good choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts who want a reliable, high-performance platform without breaking the bank.

Final Remarks: Is the ASRock X670E Steel Legend Motherboard Worth It?

The ASRock X670E Steel Legend motherboard offers a reliable, cost-effective platform for gamers and professionals seeking future-proof features. Though the boot times may be slow and WiFi is not built-in, it excels in performance and durability.

FAQs – ASRock X670E Steel Legend Review

Can the ASRock X670E Steel Legend support the latest Ryzen processors?

Yes, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend is designed to support AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series processors, including Ryzen 7 and Ryzen 9 models. This motherboard is built around the AM5 socket, which means it’s fully compatible with these powerful CPUs and offers the ability to upgrade to newer processors as they are released in the future.

Does the ASRock X670E Steel Legend have WiFi built-in?

No, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend does not come with built-in WiFi. However, it is WiFi 6E compatible, meaning users can easily add a WiFi adapter to their system for wireless connectivity. While the lack of integrated WiFi might be a drawback for some, it keeps the motherboard’s price lower for those who prefer wired connections.

How many M.2 slots are available on the ASRock X670E Steel Legend?

The ASRock X670E Steel Legend motherboard comes with three Hyper M.2 slots, providing ample room for high-speed NVMe SSDs. These slots are PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 compatible, ensuring future-proofing for faster storage options as technology evolves. This makes it ideal for gamers and professionals who need rapid data access.

Is the ASRock X670E Steel Legend good for overclocking?

Yes, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend is capable of overclocking, especially with its support for DDR5 memory and Ryzen 7000 series processors. It also features ASRock’s BIOS with built-in overclocking tools, allowing users to push their system for better performance. The board’s heatsinks help manage temperatures during intense workloads.

What kind of audio setup does the ASRock X670E Steel Legend offer?

The ASRock X670E Steel Legend features 7.1-channel HD audio, powered by the Realtek ALC1200 audio codec. This ensures a rich audio experience, whether you’re gaming, watching movies, or listening to music. The high-definition audio support makes it a great option for those who value sound quality in their setups.

How is the cooling on the ASRock X670E Steel Legend?

The ASRock X670E Steel Legend is designed with ample heatsinks and fan headers to ensure proper cooling during heavy workloads. Users have reported that the cooling system works efficiently, even under extreme conditions such as overclocking or running multiple GPUs. Proper case ventilation is still essential for optimal performance.

Can I use PCIe 4.0 components on the ASRock X670E Steel Legend?

Yes, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend is backward compatible with PCIe 4.0 components. This means you can use older GPUs, SSDs, or other hardware without sacrificing performance. However, for those who want to future-proof their builds, the PCIe 5.0 slot is ready for the latest technology.

How durable is the ASRock X670E Steel Legend motherboard?

The ASRock X670E Steel Legend is built with an 8-layer PCB, making it sturdy and reliable for long-term use. The durable construction also allows for better signal integrity, which is crucial when running high-speed DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 devices. Users appreciate the build quality, noting that it feels solid and well-made.

Does the ASRock X670E Steel Legend support Windows 11?

Yes, the ASRock X670E Steel Legend is fully compatible with Windows 11. To install Windows 11, make sure to enable TPM 2.0 in the BIOS settings. This is required for Windows 11 installation and ensures smooth operation once the system is up and running.

How fast are the boot times on the ASRock X670E Steel Legend?

Boot times on the ASRock X670E Steel Legend can be slower than average, particularly when using large amounts of DDR5 memory. This is due to the memory training process during boot. While this can be a minor inconvenience for some users, once the system is running, it offers reliable and stable performance.

ASRock X670E Steel Legend Review – Conclusion

The ASRock X670E Steel Legend motherboard is a feature-packed solution for gamers and professionals looking for high-end performance at a reasonable price. With support for Ryzen 7000 series processors, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0, it offers a future-proof platform ready for the latest technology. Although boot times and the lack of built-in WiFi may be concerns for some users, the overall value and performance make it a solid choice for any build.