The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z890 HERO is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victory across eight of the thirteen evaluated specifications. Its most significant technical advantage is its maximum memory capacity, which is 100% higher than that of the alternative. While the ASRock B550 Steel Legend holds its own in specific areas, the superior memory support provided by the ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z890 HERO establishes it as the more capable hardware foundation based on the provided data.

Users prioritizing high-capacity memory configurations should select the ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z890 HERO to leverage its substantial advantage in that category. Conversely, the ASRock B550 Steel Legend is the appropriate choice for users who specifically require a higher quantity of PCIe x1 slots, where it maintains a 100% advantage over the competitor. Choosing between these two motherboards depends entirely on whether your build demands expanded memory headroom or increased connectivity for PCIe x1 expansion cards.