Main points
- Both the ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS and B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) motherboards support AMD’s AM4 socket and are compatible with AMD Ryzen processors of the 5000, 4000, and 3000 series.
- The ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS is an mATX motherboard, while the B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) is a slightly larger micro-ATX motherboard.
- However, if you prefer a more compact form factor and are willing to sacrifice Wi-Fi and faster memory speeds, the B550M-PLUS is a solid choice.
The ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS and B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) motherboards are excellent choices for budget-conscious gamers seeking a solid foundation for their gaming rigs. Both boards offer a robust feature set, but there are some key differences that set them apart. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of the ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS vs. B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) motherboards to help you make an informed decision.
Socket and Chipset
Both the ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS and B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) motherboards support AMD‘s AM4 socket and are compatible with AMD Ryzen processors of the 5000, 4000, and 3000 series. The motherboards are based on the AMD B550 chipset, which provides excellent connectivity and expansion options.
Form Factor and Design
The ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS is an mATX motherboard, while the B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) is a slightly larger micro-ATX motherboard. Both boards feature a durable construction with a reinforced PCIe slot and a military-grade PCB to ensure longevity and reliability. The B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) boasts a slightly more aggressive aesthetic with a black and yellow color scheme and angular lines.
Memory Support
Both motherboards support up to 128GB of DDR4 memory in dual-channel configuration. The B550M-PLUS supports memory speeds up to 4400MHz, while the B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) supports speeds up to 5100MHz. This allows for faster memory performance, which can benefit gaming and other memory-intensive tasks.
Storage Options
The ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS offers two M.2 slots, one of which supports PCIe 4.0 x4 and the other PCIe 3.0 x4. The B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) also features two M.2 slots, both of which support PCIe 4.0 x4. Additionally, both motherboards have four SATA III ports for additional storage devices.
Connectivity
The ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS provides a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.2 Gen 1, and USB 2.0 ports. The B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) takes it a step further by adding integrated Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, providing a more seamless wireless experience.
Expansion Slots
Both the ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS and B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) motherboards feature a single PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for graphics cards. Additionally, the B550M-PLUS has one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot and one PCIe 2.0 x1 slot, while the B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) has two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots.
Audio
The ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS and B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) motherboards feature Realtek ALC887 audio codecs that deliver high-quality audio performance. Both boards support DTS:X Ultra and Sonic Studio III software for immersive audio experiences.
BIOS and Software
Both motherboards come with the user-friendly UEFI BIOS that provides comprehensive settings and overclocking options. The B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) offers additional software features such as Armoury Crate, which allows for centralized control of system settings, lighting, and fan profiles.
The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Board for Your Needs
The choice between the ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS and B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) motherboards depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize wireless connectivity, faster memory support, and a slightly more aggressive aesthetic, the B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) is the better option. However, if you prefer a more compact form factor and are willing to sacrifice Wi-Fi and faster memory speeds, the B550M-PLUS is a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the main difference between the ASUS TUF GAMING B550M-PLUS and B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi)?
A: The main difference is that the B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) includes integrated Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, while the B550M-PLUS does not.
Q2: Which motherboard supports faster memory speeds?
A: The B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) supports memory speeds up to 5100MHz, while the B550M-PLUS supports speeds up to 4400MHz.
Q3: Does either motherboard support PCIe 4.0?
A: Yes, both the B550M-PLUS and B550M-PLUS (Wi-Fi) support PCIe 4.0 x16 for graphics cards.