ASRock has introduced a new twist to Intel’s ageing LGA1700 platform with the launch of the H610M Combo, a motherboard built to bridge the gap between DDR4 and DDR5 memory at a time when RAM pricing continues to fluctuate sharply. The release finalizes a promise ASRock first made three years ago: delivering a board capable of supporting both memory standards in true dual-channel configuration.
The H610M Combo stands out with a total of six DIMM slots—two dedicated to DDR4 modules rated up to 2,666 MT/s and four set aside for DDR5 at up to 4,800 MT/s. As is typical for H610-based designs, memory overclocking isn’t supported, so users are limited to standard speeds.
While ONDA previously introduced an H610 motherboard offering a choice between DDR4 or DDR5, that model only carried two slots. ASRock’s approach marks a more robust and flexible solution for mainstream builders.
In addition to its memory versatility, the motherboard maintains the modest feature set typically expected from an H610 chipset. It includes PCIe 4.0 support, basic power delivery, and rear USB-C connectivity—sufficient for running Intel’s Alder Lake and Raptor Lake processors, though without the premium capabilities found on higher-end boards.
Notably, it lacks PCIe Gen5 support, a feature ONDA managed to include in its earlier design.
Although the board accepts either DDR4 or DDR5, both cannot be installed simultaneously; users must choose one memory type per build. Even so, the hybrid layout offers welcome flexibility for PC builders caught between steep DDR5 prices and limited availability.
Those already invested in DDR5 gain a fallback option, while others can start with more affordable DDR4 and transition later without needing to swap their motherboard.
For now, the H610M Combo remains difficult to secure. ASRock has only just announced the model, and it has yet to appear on the company’s global product listings. Availability details are expected to surface soon, but early interest suggests the board may attract strong demand from budget-conscious upgraders seeking breathing room in the volatile RAM market.
