ASRock AMD B850i Lightning WiFi 6E Socket AM5 vs MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi Motherboard, mATX

Overview of the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning and MSI MAG B850M Mortar

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning is priced at $179.99, while the MSI MAG B850M Mortar comes in at $219.99, making the ASRock about 18% cheaper. Both motherboards support AMD's latest Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors, but they target different user needs and form factors. The ASRock model is a Mini-ITX motherboard designed for compact builds, while the MSI is a Micro-ATX motherboard that offers more expandability.

Design and Form Factor

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning features a Mini-ITX form factor measuring 170x170mm, making it ideal for small form factor builds. This compact design is perfect for users looking to save space without sacrificing performance. In contrast, the MSI MAG B850M Mortar adopts a Micro-ATX layout, which allows for more expansion slots and connectivity options. This design is better suited for users who may wish to incorporate multiple GPUs or additional peripherals into their setup.

Power Delivery and Cooling

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning utilizes a 10+1+1 phase power design, featuring a Smart Power Stage (SPS) capable of delivering 110A. This configuration promises stability and performance in compact builds. The MSI MAG B850M Mortar, however, employs a more robust 12 Duet Rail Power System with a 60A SPS VRM, designed to handle high-performance tasks, especially with Ryzen 9000 processors. Additionally, the MSI motherboard incorporates advanced cooling solutions like thermal pads and an extended heatsink, which can be crucial during extensive gaming or rendering sessions.

Memory Support

When it comes to memory support, both motherboards offer impressive capabilities. The ASRock model supports dual-channel DDR5 memory configurations with speeds exceeding 8200 MHz (OC), accommodating up to 128GB across its two DIMM slots. The MSI MAG B850M Mortar also features DDR5 memory capabilities, with four DIMM slots allowing for similar extreme overclocking speeds. This translates to more flexibility for users who may want to upgrade their memory in the future.

Storage Options

The ASRock AMD B850i Lightning provides dual ultra-fast storage options with one Blazing M.2 slot (PCIe Gen5x4) and one Hyper M.2 slot (PCIe Gen4x4), maximizing storage performance in a compact design. The MSI MAG B850M Mortar offers even more flexibility with three M.2 connectors: two Gen5 x4 slots and one Gen4 x2 slot. This variety allows users to choose from multiple storage configurations and easily expand their storage solutions as needed.

Networking Features

Both motherboards offer advanced networking capabilities, but the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning leads with its Killer 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6E support, ensuring premium wired and wireless connectivity. The MSI MAG B850M Mortar also includes robust networking features, with full-speed Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, along with Realtek 5G LAN. While both options provide excellent connectivity, the MSI's inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 may be beneficial for users looking for the latest wireless technology.

Connectivity and Ports

In terms of connectivity, the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning is equipped with USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C and multiple Type-A ports, ensuring ample high-speed USB options. The MSI MAG B850M Mortar matches this with a USB 20G Type-C port, along with additional USB 3.2 ports. The inclusion of 7.1 USB High-Performance Audio with Audio Boost 5 in the MSI motherboard gives it a slight edge for users focused on audio fidelity in gaming or multimedia applications.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the ASRock AMD B850i Lightning and the MSI MAG B850M Mortar hinges on your specific needs. If you’re looking for a compact motherboard with a slightly lower price point at $179.99 and solid performance capabilities, the ASRock is an excellent option. However, if you prefer a motherboard with greater expandability, enhanced power delivery, and the latest networking features, the MSI at $219.99 may be worth the investment. Each motherboard excels in its own right, making your specific requirements the deciding factor.