MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E Motherboard vs Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI

Pricing

When it comes to pricing, the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E is slightly more affordable than the Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI. The MSI motherboard is priced at £119.99, while the Asus option comes in at £121.99. This £2 difference may seem negligible, but for budget-conscious consumers, every penny counts. Both motherboards offer competitive features for their price points, appealing to different types of users looking for solid performance without breaking the bank.

Compatibility

Both motherboards are designed to support the latest AMD Ryzen processors, specifically the 9000, 8000, and 7000 series. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E utilises the AMD B850 chipset, whereas the Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI is based on the B650 chipset. This compatibility ensures that users can take full advantage of the powerful performance offered by the latest Ryzen CPUs. However, the MSI motherboard's use of a 12 Duet Rail Power System may provide a marginally more stable power delivery for those who plan to push their processors to the limit.

Connectivity

Connectivity options are abundant in both motherboards, but they have some distinguishing features. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E includes a premium Wi-Fi 6E module and supports Bluetooth 5.3, alongside a 2.5Gbps LAN for fast network speeds. In comparison, the Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI also features Wi-Fi 6E and includes Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet, but it goes a step further by providing front USB 5Gbps Type-C and Thunderbolt 4 header support. This makes the Asus motherboard slightly more versatile for users who require the latest connectivity options.

Memory Support

Memory performance is a critical aspect for high-end gaming and content creation. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E supports DDR5 memory with four DIMM slots that enable excellent overclocking speeds of up to 8200+ MT/s. Meanwhile, the Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI also caters to DDR5 memory but boasts the ASUS OptiMem II technology, which optimises signal integrity for improved memory overclocking. While both motherboards support high-performance memory, the Asus's additional technology may appeal to enthusiasts aiming for peak performance.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling features are essential for maintaining system stability during demanding tasks. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E is equipped with excellent cooling capabilities, including 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an expanded heatsink design. In contrast, the Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI offers a comprehensive cooling solution with a VRM heatsink, M.2 heatsink, and hybrid fan headers alongside Fan Xpert 2+ software. The Asus motherboard's advanced cooling features might be a deciding factor for users who plan to overclock their systems extensively.

Aesthetics and RGB

In terms of aesthetics, the Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI stands out with its Aura Sync RGB lighting, which allows for easy synchronisation with compatible hardware, appealing to gamers who enjoy customising their setups. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E lacks such RGB features, focusing instead on performance and functionality. While this may not matter to every user, those who prioritise visual appeal may lean towards the Asus motherboard for its additional aesthetic options.

Features and Expansion

Both motherboards come with a variety of expansion options that cater to different user needs. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E features double M.2 connectors, including one Gen5 x4 128Gbps slot and one Gen4 x4 64Gbps slot, which allows for excellent storage flexibility. The Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI, on the other hand, includes M.2 PCIe 5.0 support, enabling faster storage solutions. Users looking for the latest in storage technology may prefer the Asus motherboard, whereas those focused on dual M.2 capabilities might find the MSI more appealing.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E and the Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. The MSI motherboard offers excellent value with its lower price and robust power delivery system, making it suitable for gamers and general users alike. However, the Asus motherboard edges ahead with superior connectivity options, advanced cooling features, and enticing RGB aesthetics. If you're looking for a motherboard that balances performance and style, the Asus might be the better choice; if you want solid performance at a slightly lower cost, the MSI is hard to beat.