MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming Motherboard vs MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi Motherboard, mATX

Overview of the Motherboards

When comparing the MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming Motherboard and the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi Motherboard, the price difference is significant. The A520M-A PRO is priced at $68.99, while the B850M Mortar WiFi costs $219.99, making the latter about 219% more expensive. This disparity reflects their respective capabilities and targeted user base, as the B850M Mortar WiFi is designed for the latest AMD Ryzen 9000 series processors, while the A520M-A PRO supports older Ryzen 5000 series.

Processor Support

The MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming Motherboard supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen Desktop Processors and AMD Ryzen 4000 G-Series Desktop Processors. In contrast, the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi Motherboard supports the newer AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 processors. This means that if you’re looking to use the latest technology, the B850M Mortar is the clear choice, as it accommodates more powerful CPUs that can enhance gaming and productivity performance significantly.

Memory Capability

In terms of memory, the A520M-A PRO supports DDR4 memory up to 4600 MHz (OC), while the B850M Mortar WiFi takes it a step further with DDR5 memory support, boasting speeds of 8200+ MT/s (OC). This advancement in memory technology allows the B850M Mortar to facilitate higher data transfer rates, which can lead to improved performance in memory-intensive applications and gaming scenarios. For users who prioritize future-proofing their builds, the DDR5 support of the B850M Mortar is a critical advantage.

Expansion Slots and Connectivity

When it comes to expansion slots, the A520M-A PRO features PCIe 3.0, while the B850M Mortar WiFi is equipped with PCIe 5.0 x16 slots. This means that the B850M can support the latest generation of GPUs and improve overall system bandwidth, allowing for enhanced graphics performance. Additionally, the B850M has triple M.2 connectors for storage, featuring two M.2 Gen5 x4 slots, compared to the single M.2 slot on the A520M. The extensive connectivity options on the B850M, including Wi-Fi 7 and 5G LAN, further enhance its appeal for high-performance needs.

Cooling Solutions

The MSI A520M-A PRO offers basic cooling solutions that are adequate for standard use. However, the B850M Mortar WiFi excels in this area with its premium cooling features, including 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an Extended Heatsink. This motherboard is designed to handle high-performance components and keep them cool under load, which is particularly beneficial for gamers and power users who push their systems to the limit. The innovative EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II on the B850M also helps prevent thermal throttling, ensuring consistent performance during demanding tasks.

Audio and User Experience

Audio capabilities are a notable factor when comparing these two motherboards. The A520M-A PRO boasts Audio Boost technology, which delivers studio-grade sound quality, making it a solid choice for casual gamers and home users. Conversely, the B850M Mortar WiFi features Audio Boost 5, which supports S/PDIF output and enhances the audio experience for gaming and multimedia. The superior audio solution on the B850M may appeal more to users who prioritize sound quality for immersive gaming experiences.

Price and Value Proposition

Price plays a crucial role in the decision-making process when choosing between the two motherboards. The MSI A520M-A PRO is priced at $68.99, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users or those building entry-level systems. On the other hand, the B850M Mortar WiFi, at $219.99, represents a significant investment but offers advanced features and future-proofing for high-end builds. For users looking to take full advantage of the latest technology, the additional cost of the B850M may well be justified, given its superior specifications.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming Motherboard and the MSI MAG B850M Mortar WiFi Motherboard ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re building a cost-effective system with moderate performance requirements, the A520M-A PRO offers great value. However, if you want to utilize the latest Ryzen processors and require advanced features such as DDR5 memory support and PCIe 5.0 connectivity, the B850M Mortar WiFi is the superior choice, despite its higher price.