ASUS TUF GAMING B850-PLUS WIFI AMD ATX motherboard vs Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI

Price Comparison

The ASUS TUF GAMING B850-PLUS WIFI is significantly more expensive than the ASUS TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI, with a price tag of £199.99 compared to £77.99. This represents a difference of £122.00, indicating that the B850-PLUS offers advanced features that justify its higher cost. While the A520M-PLUS is a budget-friendly option suitable for basic gaming and general use, the B850-PLUS targets users looking for cutting-edge technology and performance, especially in demanding applications.

Compatibility and Socket Support

The ASUS TUF GAMING B850-PLUS WIFI is compatible with the latest AMD Socket AM5, ready to support Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series Desktop Processors. In contrast, the A520M-PLUS uses the older AMD AM4 socket, supporting Ryzen 5000, 4000 G-Series, and 3000 Series Desktop Processors. The B850-PLUS's AM5 socket opens up access to newer technology, making it a better choice for future-proofing your build, while the A520M-PLUS caters to users with existing AM4 processors looking for an affordable upgrade.

Power Delivery and Stability

The B850-PLUS excels in power delivery with its enhanced solution featuring 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages, designed for stable performance even under heavy loads. It also boasts an 8-layer PCB and high-quality components such as alloy chokes and durable capacitors. The A520M-PLUS, while equipped with a large VRM heatsink and PCH heatsink, lacks the robust power management features of the B850-PLUS. This makes the B850-PLUS a superior option for users who plan to push their systems to the limit, especially in high-performance scenarios.

Connectivity Options

In terms of connectivity, the ASUS TUF GAMING B850-PLUS WIFI offers a wealth of options, including Wi-Fi 7 and a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, along with a rear USB 20Gbps Type-C port and support for Thunderbolt (USB4). The A520M-PLUS, on the other hand, features 802.11ac Wi-Fi, which is an older standard, and lacks the PCIe 5.0 capabilities. The advanced connectivity options of the B850-PLUS make it a more future-ready choice, particularly for users needing high-speed data transfers and modern peripheral connections.

Cooling Solutions

When it comes to cooling, the B850-PLUS stands out with its comprehensive cooling system, which includes an enlarged VRM heatsink, three M.2 heatsinks, and hybrid fan headers. It also incorporates Fan Xpert 4, allowing for advanced fan control. The A520M-PLUS offers cooling through a large VRM heatsink and PCH heatsink, along with Fan Xpert 2+. While both motherboards feature effective cooling solutions, the B850-PLUS's superior design is more suited for high-performance builds and overclocking scenarios.

DIY Friendliness

The ASUS TUF GAMING B850-PLUS WIFI is designed with DIY enthusiasts in mind, featuring tools such as PCIe Slot Q-Release, M.2 Q-Latch, and a pre-mounted I/O shield, making installation easier and more intuitive. The A520M-PLUS, while also user-friendly, does not offer the same level of convenience and innovative features. For users who value a straightforward building process, the B850-PLUS may provide a more hassle-free experience, especially for those new to PC assembly.

Aesthetics and Customisation

Both motherboards cater to gamers with their RGB lighting features. The B850-PLUS includes three addressable Gen 2 headers, allowing for extensive customisation with ASUS Aura Sync RGB lighting. The A520M-PLUS also features onboard RGB headers and addressable Gen 2 headers. However, the B850-PLUS's more extensive options for personalisation with Aura Sync make it a better choice for users who want to create a striking visual impact with their builds.

Which should you buy?

Overall, the choice between the ASUS TUF GAMING B850-PLUS WIFI and the ASUS TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI hinges on your specific needs and budget. The B850-PLUS, priced at £199.99, offers advanced features, superior power delivery, and future-proofing capabilities that cater to high-performance users. Conversely, the A520M-PLUS, available at £77.99, is a budget-friendly option ideal for basic gaming and general use, especially for those already invested in AMD's AM4 ecosystem. If you're looking for cutting-edge technology and enhanced gaming experiences, the B850-PLUS is the clear winner. However, for those with simpler requirements or limited budgets, the A520M-PLUS remains a solid choice.