Intel B660

Intel B660
Name	Intel B660
Designed by	Intel
Manufacturer	Intel
Produced	2022
Predecessor	Intel B560
Platform	Desktop
Socket	LGA 1700
Processor	Alder Lake, Raptor Lake
Memory	DDR4, DDR5
Pcie	PCIe 4.0, PCIe 3.0
Usb	USB 3.2, USB 2.0
Sata	SATA
Audio	Intel High Definition Audio
Networking	Intel Ethernet, Wi-Fi
Integrated graphics	Processor-dependent

Intel B660. It is a mid-range chipset for desktop computers introduced by Intel in early 2022 as part of the Intel 600 series platform. Designed for the LGA 1700 socket, it supports both the Alder Lake and subsequent Raptor Lake generations of Intel Core processors. The chipset serves as a balanced option, offering a robust feature set for mainstream users while differentiating itself from higher-end chipsets like the Intel Z690.

Overview

The platform was officially launched alongside Alder Lake processors in January 2022, marking a significant step in the transition to hybrid core architectures. It is manufactured using Intel's existing chipset fabrication process and is designed to be paired with both DDR4 SDRAM and DDR5 SDRAM, depending on the specific motherboard design. The primary role is to provide expanded connectivity and I/O capabilities for the CPU, acting as a central hub for storage devices, USB ports, and network interfaces. Its release was covered by major technology media outlets like AnandTech and Tom's Hardware.

Features

Key capabilities include support for PCI Express 4.0 lanes directly from the processor, typically allocated to a primary M.2 slot and a graphics card slot. The chipset itself provides additional PCI Express 3.0 lanes for expansion cards and secondary storage. It supports Intel Optane Memory technology for storage acceleration and integrates Intel Rapid Storage Technology for RAID configurations. For connectivity, it offers numerous USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 ports and standard USB 2.0 ports, alongside multiple SATA ports for traditional drives. Integrated audio is handled by the Intel High Definition Audio specification, while networking often relies on Intel Ethernet controllers or optional Wi-Fi 6 modules from companies like MediaTek.

Chipset variants

The platform exists as a single, defined model within the broader Intel 600 series hierarchy, which also includes the flagship Intel Z690 and the entry-level Intel H610. Unlike the Intel Z690, it does not support CPU overclocking or the segmentation of PCI Express 5.0 lanes. However, it does allow for memory overclocking via XMP profiles, a feature not available on the Intel H610. Some motherboard manufacturers, such as ASUS and Gigabyte, may implement slightly different firmware features, but the core chipset specifications remain consistent across all partners.

Compatible processors

It is fully compatible with the entire 12th-generation Alder Lake lineup, including Intel Core i9, Intel Core i7, Intel Core i5, Intel Core i3, and Intel Pentium Gold processors. With a subsequent BIOS update, it also supports 13th-generation Raptor Lake CPUs, maintaining platform longevity. This compatibility spans the performance hybrid architecture featuring Performance-core and Efficient-core designs. The platform does not support older generations like Rocket Lake or future architectures beyond Raptor Lake, as they require different sockets.

Motherboard implementations

Major manufacturers like ASRock, MSI, and ASUS produced a wide range of motherboards utilizing this chipset. These boards vary in form factor, including ATX, MicroATX, and Mini-ITX designs, catering to different PC case sizes. Implementations often include enhanced power delivery systems, multiple M.2 slots with heatsinks, ARGB headers for lighting, and audio codecs from Realtek. High-end models from brands like Gigabyte AORUS may include features such as Thunderbolt 4 support via add-in controllers or premium audio components from ESS Technology.

Comparison with other chipsets

When compared to the enthusiast-oriented Intel Z690, the key difference is the lack of CPU multiplier overclocking support and fewer total high-speed I/O lanes. Against the budget Intel H610, it offers superior features like memory overclocking, more USB and SATA ports, and support for PCI Express 4.0. Within the same generation, it occupies a similar market position to the AMD B650 chipset for the AM5 platform, competing on features like DDR5 support and PCI Express 4.0 connectivity. Its balanced offering made it a popular choice for builds centered on processors like the Intel Core i5-12400.

Category:Intel chipsets Category:Computer hardware Category:Motherboard