What to know
- Two formidable contenders in the mid-range motherboard segment are the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus and the MSI MAG B550M Mortar.
- Both the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus and MSI MAG B550M Mortar are based on the AMD B550 chipset, offering support for AMD Ryzen 5000, 4000, and 3000 series processors.
- The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus includes an Intel I211AT Gigabit Ethernet port, while the MSI MAG B550M Mortar features a Realtek RTL8125B Gigabit Ethernet port.
In the realm of PC building, motherboards serve as the foundation for a robust and reliable system. Two formidable contenders in the mid-range motherboard segment are the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus and the MSI MAG B550M Mortar. Both motherboards boast impressive features and cater to the needs of gamers, enthusiasts, and content creators alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key aspects of these two gaming powerhouses to help you make an informed decision for your next build.
Chipset and Socket:
Both the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus and MSI MAG B550M Mortar are based on the AMD B550 chipset, offering support for AMD Ryzen 5000, 4000, and 3000 series processors. This chipset provides ample connectivity options, including PCIe 4.0 support for high-speed storage and graphics cards.
Power Delivery:
Power delivery is crucial for ensuring stable and reliable performance, especially under heavy loads. The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus features a 6+2 phase power design with 50A power stages. On the other hand, the MSI MAG B550M Mortar boasts a 6+2 phase power design with 60A power stages. Both motherboards provide ample power for even the most demanding CPUs, ensuring smooth operation and overclocking headroom.
Memory Support:
Memory performance plays a significant role in overall system responsiveness and gaming performance. The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus supports up to 128GB of DDR4 memory at speeds up to 4800MHz. The MSI MAG B550M Mortar also supports up to 128GB of DDR4 memory, but with slightly higher speeds of up to 5100MHz.
Storage Options:
Modern motherboards offer a wide range of storage options to accommodate various storage needs. The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus features two M.2 slots, one PCIe 4.0 and one PCIe 3.0, along with four SATA ports. The MSI MAG B550M Mortar also provides two M.2 slots, both PCIe 4.0, and six SATA ports. Both motherboards provide ample storage expansion options for fast SSDs and larger HDDs.
Connectivity:
Connectivity is essential for connecting various peripherals and devices to your system. The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including one USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C port, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and six USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. The MSI MAG B550M Mortar provides a similar array of connectivity options, with one USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C port, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and five USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports.
Audio and Networking:
Audio quality is important for immersive gaming and multimedia experiences. The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus features a Realtek ALC S1200A audio codec with DTS Custom audio support. The MSI MAG B550M Mortar utilizes a Realtek ALC1220 audio codec with MSI Audio Boost 4 technology. Both motherboards provide high-quality audio output and support for 7.1-channel surround sound.
Networking capabilities are essential for online gaming and general internet connectivity. The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus includes an Intel I211AT Gigabit Ethernet port, while the MSI MAG B550M Mortar features a Realtek RTL8125B Gigabit Ethernet port. Both motherboards provide stable and reliable wired network connections.
Overclocking Support:
Overclocking allows you to push your system’s performance beyond its default settings. The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus provides a user-friendly BIOS interface with various overclocking options. The MSI MAG B550M Mortar also offers robust overclocking capabilities with its Click BIOS 5 interface. Both motherboards allow experienced users to fine-tune their systems for improved performance.
Aesthetics and Features:
The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus adopts a military-inspired design with a black and yellow color scheme. It features TUF components and technologies for enhanced durability and reliability. The MSI MAG B550M Mortar, on the other hand, sports a sleek black and silver design with customizable RGB lighting. It includes MSI’s exclusive features such as EZ Debug LED and Flash BIOS Button for easy troubleshooting and updates.
Which Motherboard is Right for You?
The choice between the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus and MSI MAG B550M Mortar depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize durability and overclocking potential, the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus is a solid option. For those seeking a motherboard with higher memory speeds and additional connectivity options, the MSI MAG B550M Mortar is a compelling choice.
Key Points:
Both the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus and MSI MAG B550M Mortar are exceptional motherboards that offer a robust set of features for gamers and enthusiasts alike. Their strong power delivery, ample storage options, and comprehensive connectivity make them ideal for building high-performance gaming rigs. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual requirements and preferences.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1. Which motherboard has better power delivery?
Both motherboards offer strong power delivery, but the MSI MAG B550M Mortar has a slight edge with its 60A power stages compared to the 50A power stages on the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus.
Q2. Which motherboard supports higher memory speeds?
The MSI MAG B550M Mortar supports higher memory speeds of up to 5100MHz, while the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus supports speeds up to 4800MHz.
Q3. Which motherboard has more storage options?
The MSI MAG B550M Mortar provides more storage options with six SATA ports compared to the four SATA ports on the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus.