Quick Overview
- Both the ASUS TUF Gaming B450M-Pro S and B450M-Pro II utilize the AMD B450 chipset, which supports AMD Ryzen processors up to the 3rd generation.
- In terms of networking, the B450M-Pro S has a Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit LAN controller, while the B450M-Pro II uses an Intel I211-AT Gigabit LAN controller.
- After comparing the key features and specifications of the ASUS TUF Gaming B450M-Pro S and B450M-Pro II, it’s clear that both motherboards offer excellent performance and value for money.
The ASUS TUF Gaming B450M-Pro S and B450M-Pro II are two highly sought-after motherboards in the mid-range segment. Both motherboards offer robust features and excellent performance, making it challenging to choose the best one for your build. In this comprehensive comparison guide, we will delve into the key differences between these two motherboards to help you make an informed decision.
Chipset and Form Factor
Both the ASUS TUF Gaming B450M-Pro S and B450M-Pro II utilize the AMD B450 chipset, which supports AMD Ryzen processors up to the 3rd generation. The form factor of both motherboards is micro-ATX, making them suitable for compact builds.
Socket and Memory
The B450M-Pro S and B450M-Pro II feature the AM4 socket, which is compatible with all AMD Ryzen processors. Both motherboards support dual-channel DDR4 memory, with the B450M-Pro S supporting up to 32GB of memory and the B450M-Pro II supporting up to 64GB.
Expansion Slots
The B450M-Pro S offers a single PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, one PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, and two PCIe 2.0 x1 slots. The B450M-Pro II, on the other hand, provides two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, one PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, and two PCIe 2.0 x1 slots. The additional PCIe 3.0 x16 slot on the B450M-Pro II allows for more flexibility in terms of expansion options.
Storage Options
The B450M-Pro S comes with four SATA 6Gb/s ports and one M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs. The B450M-Pro II also offers four SATA 6Gb/s ports but features two M.2 slots, one for NVMe SSDs and one for SATA SSDs. The additional M.2 slot on the B450M-Pro II provides more storage options and flexibility.
Audio and Networking
Both motherboards feature Realtek ALC887 audio codecs, providing high-quality audio output. In terms of networking, the B450M-Pro S has a Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit LAN controller, while the B450M-Pro II uses an Intel I211-AT Gigabit LAN controller. Both controllers provide stable and fast network connectivity.
BIOS and Software
The B450M-Pro S and B450M-Pro II come with the ASUS UEFI BIOS, which is known for its user-friendly interface and extensive customization options. Both motherboards also come with a variety of ASUS software utilities, including Armoury Crate, which allows you to monitor system performance and control various settings.
Aesthetics and Durability
The ASUS TUF Gaming B450M-Pro S and B450M-Pro II both feature a sleek and durable design. The motherboards are constructed with military-grade components and have undergone rigorous testing to ensure their reliability and longevity. The B450M-Pro II, however, features a more aggressive aesthetic with RGB lighting, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more vibrant build.
Final Thoughts: The Final Verdict
After comparing the key features and specifications of the ASUS TUF Gaming B450M-Pro S and B450M-Pro II, it’s clear that both motherboards offer excellent performance and value for money. However, the B450M-Pro II stands out with its additional PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, dual M.2 slots, and more aggressive aesthetic. If you’re looking for a feature-rich and durable motherboard for your compact build, the ASUS TUF Gaming B450M-Pro II is the better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
Both motherboards offer good overclocking capabilities, but the B450M-Pro II has a slight edge due to its more robust power delivery system.
2. Does either motherboard support Wi-Fi?
No, neither the B450M-Pro S nor the B450M-Pro II has built-in Wi-Fi support.
3. Can I use the B450M-Pro II with a high-end graphics card?
Yes, the B450M-Pro II has a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot that can support high-end graphics cards without any bottlenecks.
4. Which motherboard has better cooling options?
Both motherboards have ample heatsinks and fan headers for cooling, but the B450M-Pro II has a more robust heatsink design, providing better cooling performance.
5. Is the B450M-Pro II compatible with all Ryzen processors?
The B450M-Pro II is compatible with all AMD Ryzen processors up to the 3rd generation. However, it may require a BIOS update to support newer processors.