ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ vs MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi Motherboard, mATX
Updated August 2026 — MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi Motherboard, mATX leads on connectivity and cooling.
The MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi offers superior performance and features compared to the ASRock A520M-HDV, making it the better choice for high-end builds.
Why ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ is better
Price
ASRock is significantly cheaper at $68.49.
Basic Use
Suitable for basic computing tasks.
Compatibility
Supports older AMD processors.
Why MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi Motherboard, mATX is better
Performance
Supports the latest Ryzen 9000 processors.
Memory
Supports DDR5 memory with higher speeds.
Connectivity
Includes Wi-Fi 7 and advanced networking options.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ | MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi Motherboard, mATX |
|---|---|---|
| Processor Support | Ryzen 3000/4000/5000 | Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR5 |
| PCIe Version | 3.0 | 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 2 | 3 |
| Wi-Fi | No | Wi-Fi 7 |
Dimension comparison
Introduction to Motherboards
When it comes to building a PC, choosing the right motherboard is crucial for performance and compatibility. In this comparison, we’ll look at the ASRock A520M-HDV and the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi motherboards. Each board targets different segments of the market, with the ASRock priced at $68.49 and the MSI at $219.99, a significant difference of about 68% in favor of the ASRock.
Compatibility with Processors
The ASRock A520M-HDV is designed to support AMD AM4 socket processors, specifically the Ryzen 3000, 4000 G-Series, and 5000 series, making it a versatile choice for users with older or mid-range CPUs. In contrast, the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi supports the latest AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 processors, which means it is built for cutting-edge performance. This modern compatibility makes the MSI an ideal choice for users looking to build a high-end gaming or productivity machine.
Memory Support
In the realm of memory, the ASRock supports DDR4 memory with overclocking capabilities up to 4733 MHz, which is suitable for most gaming and general use cases. Meanwhile, the MSI motherboard takes a step forward with support for DDR5 memory, reaching speeds of 8200+ MT/s when overclocked. This difference in memory technology means that the MSI is better equipped for high-performance applications and tasks that require rapid data processing.
Expansion Slots and Connectivity
The ASRock A520M-HDV features a modest expansion layout, including one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot. This configuration is adequate for basic setups but may limit future upgrades. On the other hand, the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi boasts a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, which allows for the latest graphics cards and offers significantly higher bandwidth. Additionally, it includes three M.2 slots for fast storage options, enhancing its overall connectivity and upgrade potential.
Cooling Solutions
Cooling is vital for maintaining performance, especially under heavy loads. The ASRock A520M-HDV comes with a basic cooling solution, which might suffice for entry-level builds. Conversely, the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi is equipped with premium cooling features, including a dedicated chipset heatsink and thermal pads for its MOSFETs. This advanced cooling setup ensures that the MSI can handle heat more effectively, which is essential for high-performance parts.
Networking Capabilities
Networking features vary significantly between these two motherboards. The ASRock A520M-HDV does not emphasize advanced networking capabilities, likely catering to users with basic internet needs. In contrast, the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi includes a full-speed Wi-Fi 7 module and Bluetooth 5.4, as well as 5Gbps LAN. This modern connectivity makes the MSI suitable for gamers and content creators who require fast and stable internet connections.
Price and Value Proposition
The ASRock A520M-HDV is priced at $68.49, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers or those with less demanding performance needs. In comparison, the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi is significantly more expensive at $219.99. While the MSI offers many advanced features, the price increase is about 220%, which may not be justifiable for all users. Thus, the ASRock could be seen as a better value for those not needing the latest technology.
User Experience and Build Quality
When evaluating overall user experience, build quality becomes a critical factor. The ASRock A520M-HDV serves well for basic builds but may not have the durability features found in the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi. The MSI motherboard is constructed with durable 8-layer PCBs and PCIe Steel Armor, ensuring longevity and reliability under load. This means that users opting for the MSI can expect a more resilient board that can withstand the demands of high-performance hardware.
Which should you buy?
In conclusion, the choice between the ASRock A520M-HDV and the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution for basic computing tasks, the ASRock at $68.49 is a solid option. However, if you seek advanced features, high compatibility with the latest processors, and superior performance, the MSI at $219.99 offers unmatched value for a high-end build. Ultimately, assess your priorities to make the best decision for your PC build.