ASRock’s X600TM-ITX: AM5 Mini-ITX Motherboard for Sleek HTPC DIYers
ASRock says to put the X600TM-ITX in sleek desktops, HTPCs, or Smart Mirrors.
ASRock, a manufacturer of PC parts and add-ons, has unveiled a new motherboard for AMD socket AM5. While it may initially appear unremarkable, the ASRock X600TM-ITX comes with unique features that set it apart. It is being promoted as the first Thin Mini ITX motherboard for AM5 available, appealing to those interested in creating compact and stylish mini PC setups.
The ASRock X600TM-ITX is compact, measuring 6.7 inches square (or 17 x 17cm in metric) with surface-mount components that have a low height. This allows it to fit into tight spaces where a regular Mini ITX motherboard would struggle. It shares the same dimensions as a Mini ITX motherboard in terms of length and depth, making it compatible with cases designed for that standard. Its slim profile also gives it the nickname “less tall.”
(Image credit: ASRock)
Naturally, this compact Thin Mini ITX motherboard has to make sacrifices in order to maintain its small size. When examining the circuit board, one of the initial observations that may stand out is the utilization of SO-DIMM memory. The vertical placement of the memory slots, reminiscent of a laptop, enables a maximum capacity of 96GB of DDR-6400+ RAM, as indicated in the product specifications, in a space-efficient setup.
It is worth mentioning that there is no PCIe slot available on this motherboard for add-in cards such as GPUs, which can be seen as a downside compared to certain Mini ITX motherboards. However, this omission helps to keep the overall size of the motherboard down. Being an AM5 motherboard, it also supports modern APUs with strong onboard graphics, and this aspect is expected to improve further with the upcoming Ryzen 9000 CPUs.
The storage expansion possibilities are quite good for a board of this size. The X600TM-ITX can accommodate two M.2 2280 SSDs (PCIe Gen4 x4) installed on top of each other. In addition to that, there are two SATA ports, and if you need Wi-Fi, there is an M.2 2230 slot for your Wi-Fi / Bluetooth module. ASRock advertises a large number of USB ports, but in reality, there are only four.
Integrated Graphics Processor Unit outputs through a mix of DisplayPort, HDMI, LVDS, and D-Sub ports (can be configured and are optional)
| Specs | ASRock X600TM-ITX |
|---|---|
| CPU | AMD’s AM5 socket supports the Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series processors with a power consumption of up to 65W. It features 4+1+1 power phases for improved performance. |
| Chipset | AMD X600 |
| RAM | Up to 96GB DDR5-6400+ (OC) via twin SO-DIMM slots |
| Storage | 2x M.2 2280 SSDs (PCie Gen4 x4), 2 x SATA3 6.0Gbps |
| Graphics | The iGPU can be connected using a mix of DisplayPort, HDMI, LVDS, and D-Sub ports (customizable, if desired). |
| Audio | Realtek ALC269, audio I/O |
| Networking | PCIE offers a Gigabit LAN connection with speeds of 10/100/1000 Mbps, powered by Realtek RTL8111H. Additionally, there is the option to include a M.2 2230 module for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. |
| Other | One USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port, one USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A port, two USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, one USB 2.0 header that supports two USB 2.0 ports, one USB 3.2 Gen1 header, a 19V DC jack, and an optional onboard TPM 2.0. |
ASRock claims that the X600TM-ITX also incorporates its own technology, including ASRock Super Alloy capacitors to enhance durability, ASRock Full Spike Protection for all USB, Audio, and LAN Ports, and a high-density glass fabric PCB construction.
(Image credit: ASRock)
It is worth noting that there is some flexibility in the rear I/O options of this motherboard. This additional flexibility can be achieved through separate purchases, as connectors like DP1.4 and D-Sub are labeled as “optional” on the product pages. It is possible to configure this motherboard to support up to four simultaneous displays.
