MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E Motherboard vs Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI

Price Comparison

The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E is priced at £119.99, while the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI comes in significantly lower at £77.99. This price difference of £42 reflects the advanced features and capabilities of the MSI motherboard, particularly its support for the latest Ryzen processors and superior connectivity options. For budget-conscious gamers or users who are not looking to utilise the latest technology, the Asus board offers a solid option at a more accessible price point. However, those seeking higher performance may find the MSI's cost justified for its enhanced specifications.

Performance Capabilities

When it comes to performance, the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E is designed to support the latest Ryzen 9000 processors, making it ideal for high-performance gaming and demanding applications. It features a 12 Duet Rail Power System, allowing for efficient power delivery. In contrast, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI is compatible with Ryzen 5000, 4000 G-Series, and 3000 Series processors, which, while still capable, does not match the cutting-edge support of the MSI. Therefore, users looking for future-proofing may lean towards the MSI for its advanced processor compatibility.

Cooling Solutions

The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E boasts impressive cooling features, including 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an Extended Heatsink, designed to maintain optimal temperatures during intense gaming sessions. It also includes a Combo-fan header to manage additional cooling solutions. On the other hand, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI features a large VRM heatsink and PCH heatsink, complemented by Fan Xpert 2+ technology for automated fan control. While both motherboards offer solid cooling solutions, the MSI's comprehensive thermal management may provide a more effective approach for high-performance setups.

Memory Support

The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E supports DDR5 memory with four DIMM slots, allowing for excellent overclocking speeds of up to 8200+ MT/s OC. This capability is particularly advantageous for users seeking to maximise their system's performance. In comparison, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI utilises DDR4 memory, which, while adequate for many users, does not offer the same level of speed enhancement. The difference in memory technology may be a deciding factor for gamers and content creators looking for top-tier performance.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another area where the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E excels, featuring a premium Wi-Fi 6E module with Bluetooth 5.3 and a 2.5Gbps LAN port. Additionally, it offers a USB 10Gbps Type-C port, which is ideal for high-speed data transfer. In contrast, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI provides 802.11ac Wi-Fi, which is still effective but not as advanced as the Wi-Fi 6E standard. The MSI’s superior connectivity options make it a better choice for users who require high-speed internet and data transfer capabilities.

Gaming Features

The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E is tailored for gamers, boasting features like a dedicated M.2 Shield Frozr for preventing thermal throttling during high-load scenarios. It also includes a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, supporting cutting-edge graphics cards. The Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI, while designed with gaming in mind, includes TUF LANGuard and TurboLAN technology to enhance online gameplay. However, the lack of advanced thermal and expansion features may limit its appeal to serious gamers looking for top-tier performance.

Aesthetic and Build Quality

In terms of aesthetics, the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E offers a sleek, modern design that appeals to gamers. Its high-quality components are complemented by a robust build, ensuring durability. The Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI also provides a solid build quality, with onboard RGB headers that allow for custom lighting configurations through Aura Sync. While both motherboards are well-built, the MSI’s higher-end design may attract those who prioritise appearance alongside performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E and the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for superior performance, advanced connectivity, and future-proofing with support for the latest Ryzen processors, the MSI model is clearly the better option despite its higher price of £119.99. However, if you are on a tighter budget and are content with solid performance for gaming and general use, the Asus motherboard at £77.99 offers great value without breaking the bank. Consider your requirements carefully to make the best choice for your setup.