MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E Motherboard vs MSI A520M PRO Gaming Motherboard

Price Comparison

The MSI A520M PRO Gaming Motherboard is significantly more affordable than the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E Motherboard, costing £72.81 compared to £119.99. This price difference of £47.18 may influence budget-conscious consumers who require a reliable motherboard without the latest features. The A520M PRO provides essential functionalities for users looking to build a system for light gaming or productivity tasks, while the B850 model targets gamers and power users seeking advanced specs and capabilities. Therefore, if price is the primary concern, the A520M is an attractive option.

Performance and Compatibility

When it comes to performance and compatibility, the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E stands out with its support for the latest Ryzen 9000 series processors, while the MSI A520M PRO only supports up to the 3rd Generation Ryzen processors. This means that users of the B850 can take advantage of cutting-edge technology for enhanced gaming and multitasking capabilities. Moreover, the B850 features a 12 Duet Rail Power System, ensuring stable power delivery for high-performance tasks. In contrast, the A520M’s Core Boost technology supports a more standard digital power design, which may limit its performance under heavy loads.

Memory Support

The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E supports DDR5 memory, allowing for speeds exceeding 8200 MT/s when overclocked, while the MSI A520M PRO only supports DDR4 memory, which tops out at 4600 MHz with overclocking. This difference in memory technology can result in significant performance variations, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming scenarios. Consequently, users with high-performance needs should consider the B850 as a long-term investment due to its superior memory capabilities.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling solutions are a crucial aspect of motherboard performance, and here the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E excels with its advanced features. It includes 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an Extended Heatsink, along with the M.2 Shield Frozr to prevent thermal throttling. The A520M PRO, whilst equipped with M.2 Shield Frozr for SSD cooling, does not match the comprehensive cooling architecture of the B850. Users looking to maintain optimal performance during extended gaming sessions or heavy workloads will find the B850’s cooling solutions far more effective.

Connectivity Options

The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E offers superior connectivity with its integrated Wi-Fi 6E module, Bluetooth 5.3, and 2.5Gbps LAN, catering to modern networking requirements. In contrast, the MSI A520M PRO does not mention similar advanced connectivity features, which may limit its usability in high-speed network environments. Additionally, the B850 provides USB 10Gbps Type-C ports for faster data transfers, a feature that the A520M lacks. For users prioritising connectivity and future-proofing their systems, the B850 is undoubtedly the better choice.

Storage Capability

Storage capabilities differ significantly between the two motherboards. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E features two M.2 slots, including one Gen5 x4 slot capable of 128Gbps and another Gen4 x4 slot at 64Gbps. This allows for a greater range of high-speed storage options and faster data transfer rates. Conversely, the A520M PRO’s storage capabilities are less impressive, focusing on supporting standard storage devices without the same level of performance. Users intending to use high-speed SSDs will benefit more from the B850's advanced storage solutions.

Build Quality and Design

Both MSI motherboards are designed with quality in mind, but the B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E offers a more robust build aimed at gamers and enthusiasts. Its premium components, such as the Steel Armor on the PCIe slots, ensure durability and reliability under heavy use. The A520M PRO, while well-constructed for general use, may not offer the same level of build quality, which could impact longevity for users who push their systems to the limit. Therefore, for those looking for a motherboard that can withstand rigorous demands, the B850’s design is superior.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E and the MSI A520M PRO hinges on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a high-performance motherboard with advanced features, superior cooling, and future-proofing capabilities, the B850 at £119.99 is the clear choice. However, if your requirements are more modest and budget constraints are a primary concern, the A520M PRO offers solid performance at an attractive price of £72.81. Your choice should reflect the balance between performance needs and budget considerations.