ASRock M8 Mini-ITX Z87 Barebones System Review

When first looking at the M8, it’s easy to see that the enclosure is what provides the biggest spark of innovation. Built from steel, aluminium and plastic, the Mini-ITX enclosure features a unique style that is intended to make efficient use of its space.

An octagonal window on each side panel gives a glimpse into the M8. ASRock smartly distorts a large proportion of the side panel window that gives a view into the main system area; this has the function of hiding the untidy cable section.

Strong carry handles positioned on each of the M8’s four corners allow the system to be lifted with safety. They also help to reinforce the chassis’ structure.

A slot-loading DVD drive is found on the M8’s front side, above four USB 3.0 ports. Using a DVD drive is probably the best decision, given the M8's target audience (gamers). However, to many people, a BluRay drive would have been a welcomed component for a small increase in cost.

A circular OLED display and multi-function controller, which ASRock is calling ‘A-Command’, can be used to display system information and operate specific functions. The A-Command button also doubles up as the M8’s power switch.

A 4-in-1 card reader and pair of 3.5mm audio jacks can be shut into the chassis or uncovered when required.

A pair of PCI shields shows that the M8 can handle dual-slot expansion cards. Ventilation gaps also help heat escape from the graphics card area.

The 3-prong power connector positioned on the M8’s rear side extends through to the internally-housed SFX 450W power supply.

ASRock’s own Z87-M8 motherboard features a healthy set of connections on its rear IO panel. The connections include; four USB 3.0 ports, Intel Gigabit LAN, four USB 2.0 ports, an eSATA connector, DisplayPort and HDMI outputs, and 7.1 channel audio, including an optical SPDIF output.

Two 70mm fans, one intake and the other exhaust, sit beneath the M8’s ventilated roof panel. The panel also features a locking mechanism that holds both of the side panel doors securely in position.

Another pair of 70mm fans, with one intake and one exhaust, is located behind the M8’s bottom panel. Performance of the bottom intake fan is limited when standing the M8 upright on a carpet floor; external air is hard to gather when the system sinks into a thick carpet.

Become a Patron!