Biostar TB560-BTC PRO Motherboard Review 2023 Intel Mining Power with 12 GPU Support

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Biostar TB560-BTC PRO motherboard has a straightforward yet robust design, clearly tailored for mining enthusiasts. I noticed its compact dimensions (11 x 11 x 2 inches) make it easy to fit into mining rigs without feeling overly bulky. The overall build quality feels solid, with no creaking or flimsy parts that might make you second-guess its durability. The 11 PCIe 3.0 slots and 1 PCIe 4.0 slot are well-positioned, making installation smooth and hassle-free. Its layout minimizes cable clutter, which is a blessing for anyone who’s spent hours untangling wires in a cramped setup.

However, the aesthetics are a bit on the plain side. While function clearly takes precedence here, a little more visual flair wouldn’t hurt. That said, it’s clear this motherboard is purposefully designed—it’s built to work, not to win beauty contests.

Performance and GPU Support

Performance-wise, this motherboard exceeded my expectations. Supporting up to 12 GPUs, it’s genuinely tailored for mining setups, and I managed to run multiple GPUs without any noticeable hiccups. The Intel B560 single-chip architecture ensures efficient performance, and compatibility with 10th and 11th Gen Intel Core Processors offers a lot of flexibility for different builds.

One standout feature is the M.2 connector with a 6Gb/s transfer rate, which allows for a faster boot and quicker data access. Even under heavy loads, the system stayed stable, which is critical for mining operations that often run 24/7. However, I did notice that the motherboard tends to heat up when pushed to its limits, so investing in a proper cooling system is non-negotiable.

Key Benefits

• Supports up to 12 GPUs, making it ideal for mining.
• Compatible with 10th and 11th Gen Intel processors, offering flexibility in CPU selection.
• 11 PCIe 3.0 slots and 1 PCIe 4.0 slot provide ample connectivity for GPUs.
• The M.2 connector ensures faster boot and data transfer speeds.

Areas for Improvement

• The motherboard heats up under heavy loads, necessitating additional cooling solutions.
• Aesthetic design is plain, which might not appeal to users who prefer a more polished look.

User-Friendliness and Setup

Setting up this motherboard was a breeze. The 2-DIMM DDR4 slots support a maximum capacity of 64GB, and the installation process for RAM and GPUs is intuitive. I appreciated the clear labeling on the board, which saved a lot of guesswork during assembly. However, the lack of additional accessories in the package was slightly disappointing—no SATA cables or extra screws to complement the setup process.

Once everything was in place, the BIOS interface was straightforward and easy to navigate. Tweaking settings for optimal mining performance was simple, even for someone like me who doesn’t spend hours fine-tuning hardware. Still, I’d recommend this product more for advanced users, as beginners might find themselves scratching their heads over certain configurations.

Competing Brands

When comparing this motherboard to others in the mining category, a few competitors stand out, such as ASUS B250 Mining Expert and the MSI H310-F PRO. The Biostar TB560-BTC PRO has a clear edge with its 12 GPU support, while the ASUS model only supports 19 GPUs but at a much higher price point. The MSI board offers similar GPU compatibility but lacks the M.2 connector that gives the Biostar motherboard a speed advantage.

That being said, the ASUS B250 Mining Expert does have better thermal management, which is something Biostar could improve upon. If you value a cooler setup over additional GPU slots, the ASUS option might be worth considering.

Quality for Price

Considering the features packed into this motherboard, it delivers impressive value for money. The 12 GPU support, M.2 connector, and compatibility with 10th and 11th Gen Intel Processors make it a cost-effective choice for mining enthusiasts. While it’s not the cheapest on the market, its reliability and performance justify the investment. Compared to pricier models that barely offer additional functionality, this motherboard strikes a balance between affordability and capability.

However, keep in mind the additional costs for cooling solutions and the potential need for high-quality GPUs to maximize its potential. For anyone serious about mining, this motherboard sits comfortably in the sweet spot between performance and cost.

Additional information