MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard - Supports AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 P vs ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F Gaming WiFi AMD Ryzen AM5 ATX motherboard

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard is listed at £199.99, while the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F Gaming WiFi is more budget-friendly at £170.16. This price difference of £29.83 might be significant for gamers or builders on a budget. Despite the higher price, the MSI motherboard offers features that justify its cost, particularly for users seeking to leverage the latest Ryzen processors. However, the ASUS board still provides a robust option at a lower price point, making it an appealing choice for those who want solid performance without breaking the bank.

Power Delivery

The MSI X870E Gaming Plus boasts a robust 14 Duet Rail Power System rated for 60A per stage, ensuring excellent power delivery for high-performance computing tasks. In contrast, the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F features a 12 + 2 + 1 power solution rated for up to 80A per stage. This could potentially offer more headroom for overclocking, although it is essential to consider that the MSI board is designed specifically for the latest AMD Ryzen 9000 series, which may require more power. The difference in power solutions suggests that while both motherboards are capable, the ASUS option might provide slightly more stability under extreme conditions.

Cooling Features

Cooling solutions are crucial for maintaining optimal performance, especially during intense gaming sessions. The MSI X870E Gaming Plus includes several advanced cooling features, such as 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an Extended Heatsink, which help dissipate heat effectively. Additionally, it has an EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II to prevent thermal throttling on its triple M.2 connectors. The ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F also offers efficient cooling solutions and is designed for easy installation of GPUs and SSDs, but it lacks the advanced thermal management features of the MSI board. Therefore, for users prioritising advanced cooling capabilities, the MSI motherboard may be the superior choice.

Memory Support

In terms of memory support, the MSI X870E Gaming Plus has the edge with its four DDR5 DIMM SMT slots, supporting extreme memory overclocking speeds of 8200+ MT/s. This is particularly advantageous for users looking to maximise their system's performance. The ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F supports AMD EXPO and DRAM IC profiles but does not specify the same extreme speeds as the MSI board. If high-speed memory performance is a priority, the MSI motherboard appears to offer more potential for gamers and content creators seeking top-tier performance.

Expansion Options

Both motherboards provide ample expansion options for users looking to enhance their systems. The MSI X870E Gaming Plus features three M.2 connectors, including one Gen5 x4 slot capable of 128Gbps alongside two Gen4 x4 slots. This allows for extensive storage configurations. Conversely, the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F includes an x16 slot and an onboard M.2 slot that are PCIe Gen 5-ready, providing similar future-proofing capabilities. However, the MSI's additional M.2 slots might be more appealing for users requiring more extensive storage solutions or looking to implement multiple high-speed drives.

Networking Capabilities

Networking is a vital component for gaming and online activities, and both motherboards come equipped with impressive networking features. The MSI X870E Gaming Plus includes a full-speed Wi-Fi 7 module with Bluetooth 5.4 and a 5Gbps LAN connection, which are top-of-the-line options for connectivity. The ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but the specific standards are not mentioned. Given the advancements in MSI's networking capabilities, it may offer a more future-proof solution for users who require high-speed internet connectivity and Bluetooth functionality.

User Experience and Installation

User experience and ease of installation can significantly impact the building process of a PC. The MSI X870E Gaming Plus is designed with user-friendly features like an EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II and an intuitive BIOS interface, ensuring a smoother experience during setup. The ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F also promotes easy installation for GPUs and SSDs, along with simple BIOS updates. Ultimately, both boards appear to be user-friendly, but the MSI's additional features may provide a slight advantage for enthusiasts looking for a hassle-free build experience.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI X870E Gaming Plus and the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F comes down to specific needs and budget. The MSI board is more expensive at £199.99 but justifies this with superior power delivery, enhanced cooling features, and higher memory speed capabilities. In contrast, the ASUS motherboard, priced at £170.16, offers a solid package for users on a budget while still providing essential features for gaming. If you are an enthusiast looking for cutting-edge performance, the MSI X870E Gaming Plus may be the better option. However, for those who prioritise value without sacrificing too much performance, the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-F remains a compelling choice.