ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ vs MSI PRO B850-P WiFi Motherboard, ATX
Updated August 2026 — MSI PRO B850-P WiFi Motherboard, ATX leads on price and networking.
The MSI PRO B850-P WiFi offers superior performance and features compared to the ASRock A520M-HDV, making it the better choice for advanced users. However, for budget-conscious buyers, the ASRock remains a solid option.
Why ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ is better
Price
ASRock is significantly cheaper at $68.49.
Basic Use
Suitable for standard gaming and productivity tasks.
Compatibility
Supports a range of older AMD processors.
Why MSI PRO B850-P WiFi Motherboard, ATX is better
Performance
MSI supports the latest Ryzen 9000 series processors.
Memory Speed
MSI supports DDR5 memory with speeds up to 8200 MT/s.
Connectivity
MSI includes Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 support.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ | MSI PRO B850-P WiFi Motherboard, ATX |
|---|---|---|
| Processor Support | AMD AM4 | AMD AM5 |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR5 |
| Max Memory Speed | 4733+ MT/s | 8200+ MT/s |
| PCIe Version | 3.0 | 5.0 |
| Audio Quality | Basic | 7.1 HD Audio |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the ASRock A520M-HDV and MSI PRO B850-P WiFi
The ASRock A520M-HDV is priced at $68.49, while the MSI PRO B850-P WiFi is significantly higher at $155.50, making it about 127% more expensive. This price difference reflects the distinct target markets and capabilities of these motherboards. The ASRock model caters to users looking for a cost-effective solution for AMD Ryzen processors, while the MSI model is aimed at professionals seeking advanced features and higher performance with the latest Ryzen 9000 series.
Compatibility with Processors
The ASRock A520M-HDV supports AMD AM4 socket processors, including the 3000, 4000 G-Series, and 5000 series, making it versatile for a range of setups. However, it is not compatible with Ryzen 5 3400G and Ryzen 3 3200G processors. In contrast, the MSI PRO B850-P WiFi is built for the future, supporting AMD’s latest Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 processors, which provides users with a more forward-looking investment in technology. This makes the MSI motherboard ideal for those who want to leverage the latest advancements in processing power.
Memory Support and Overclocking
The ASRock A520M-HDV supports DDR4 memory with speeds of up to 4733+ MT/s when overclocked, which is commendable for its price range. It can accommodate up to 32 GB of memory, catering well to standard gaming and productivity tasks. However, the MSI PRO B850-P WiFi takes memory support to the next level, featuring DDR5 memory capabilities that can reach overclocking speeds of 8200 MT/s. This is a substantial difference that positions the MSI model as a superior choice for those looking to maximize memory performance and future-proof their builds.
Expansion Slots and Connectivity
When it comes to expansion, the ASRock A520M-HDV offers one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot, which may suffice for basic gaming and general use. The MSI PRO B850-P WiFi, in contrast, features a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot that supports cutting-edge graphics cards, along with multiple M.2 connectors, including a Gen5 M.2 slot. This advanced connectivity allows for significantly faster data transfer rates and greater flexibility in adding high-performance components, making the MSI motherboard a better choice for enthusiasts and professionals needing high-speed access to storage and peripherals.
Cooling Solutions
The cooling capabilities of the motherboards show another stark contrast. The ASRock A520M-HDV includes basic cooling options suitable for its design, but it lacks the advanced thermal management systems found in the MSI PRO B850-P WiFi. The MSI model boasts an extended heatsink, various thermal pads, and an EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II, designed to prevent thermal throttling of high-speed storage. These features ensure better heat dissipation, which is crucial for maintaining performance during intense workloads or gaming sessions.
Networking Features
Networking capabilities are another area where the MSI PRO B850-P WiFi shines, featuring full-speed Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, alongside 5Gbps LAN. This ensures that users have access to the latest wireless technology for high-speed internet connectivity. The ASRock A520M-HDV does not mention integrated Wi-Fi, likely necessitating an additional network card for wireless connections. This difference is significant for users who prefer seamless and high-speed internet access without additional hardware.
Audio and Visual Output
In terms of audio and visual output, the ASRock A520M-HDV supports multiple graphics output options, including D-Sub, DVI-D, and HDMI capable of 4K resolution at 60Hz. This makes it a decent choice for casual users and those who require basic video capabilities. The MSI PRO B850-P WiFi also supports 4K/60Hz display output and enhances the audio experience with 7.1 HD audio and Audio Boost technology. This commitment to superior audio and video quality positions the MSI motherboard as a better option for multimedia tasks and high-fidelity audio setups.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the ASRock A520M-HDV and the MSI PRO B850-P WiFi fundamentally depends on your needs and budget. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that supports older AMD processors and basic gaming or productivity tasks, the ASRock A520M-HDV at $68.49 is an excellent choice. However, for users interested in the latest technology, superior performance, and future-proofing their systems, the MSI PRO B850-P WiFi, priced at $155.50, offers significantly more advanced features and capabilities. Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific requirements and how much you are willing to invest in your PC build.