MSI B760 GAMING PLUS WIFI DDR4 Motherboard vs Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI

Price Comparison

The MSI B760 GAMING PLUS WIFI is priced at £124.99, while the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI is more budget-friendly at £77.99. This is a significant difference of £47.00, making the Asus board a more attractive option for those who are price-sensitive. However, the MSI motherboard justifies its higher price with a range of advanced features aimed at gamers and high-performance users. Ultimately, if your budget allows, the investment in the MSI could pay off in terms of performance capabilities.

Chipset and Processor Compatibility

The MSI B760 GAMING PLUS WIFI supports Intel's latest B760 chipset and is compatible with 12th, 13th, and 14th generation Core processors, providing a broader range for future upgrades. In contrast, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI is designed for AMD's AM4 socket, supporting Ryzen 5000, 4000 G-Series, and 3000 Series Desktop Processors. If you prefer Intel processors or want to future-proof your build with the latest technology, the MSI motherboard is the clear winner. However, if you are already invested in AMD hardware, the Asus option fits the bill.

Memory Support and Overclocking

When it comes to memory support, the MSI B760 GAMING PLUS WIFI offers four DDR4 DIMM slots with Memory Boost isolated circuitry, capable of speeds exceeding 5333 MHz. This allows for substantial overclocking potential, making it appealing for performance enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI does not provide specific memory speed claims but is designed for stability and comprehensive cooling, which is essential for gaming. If you prioritise overclocking and high-speed memory support, the MSI motherboard stands out.

Connectivity Options

The MSI B760 GAMING PLUS WIFI boasts an impressive array of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and a 2.5Gbps LAN port. Its rear ports feature USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and 7.1 HD Audio with Audio Boost. In comparison, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI includes 802.11ac Wi-Fi and additional features like TUF LANGuard and TurboLAN technology. While both motherboards offer strong connectivity, the MSI's superior Wi-Fi standard and faster LAN capabilities make it more suitable for high-speed online gaming.

Cooling Solutions

The cooling solutions differ significantly between the two motherboards. The MSI B760 GAMING PLUS WIFI includes an advanced VRM cooling system with 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads, an extended heatsink, and a dedicated pump-fan cooling header. This ensures optimal performance, especially during intense gaming sessions. Conversely, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI features a large VRM heatsink and PCH heatsink but lacks the extensive cooling features of its MSI counterpart. For users who plan to push their systems hard, the MSI's superior cooling solutions are a considerable advantage.

Build Quality and Durability

In terms of build quality, both motherboards exhibit robust designs suitable for gamers, but the MSI B760 GAMING PLUS WIFI features a 6-layer server-grade PCB with 2 oz. thickened copper, which enhances durability and performance stability. The Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI is built with TUF components that are known for their reliability in gaming scenarios. While both motherboards are durable, the MSI has the edge in terms of construction quality, especially if you’re looking for longevity and resilience under heavy usage.

Aesthetics and RGB Features

Aesthetically, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI incorporates Aura Sync RGB with onboard RGB headers, allowing for customisation and easy syncing with other Aura-capable hardware. The MSI B760 GAMING PLUS WIFI does not mention RGB features, focusing more on its performance capabilities. If visual customisation is a priority for your build, the Asus motherboard would appeal more. However, if aesthetics are secondary to performance, the MSI option remains a strong contender.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI B760 GAMING PLUS WIFI and the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a feature-rich motherboard that supports the latest Intel processors, offers superior connectivity, advanced cooling solutions, and overclocking capabilities, the MSI B760 is worth the higher price of £124.99. However, if you're on a tighter budget and prefer AMD processors, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI at £77.99 provides solid performance and essential gaming features without breaking the bank.