Top 5 Best B650 Motherboards In 2024

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Searching for the best B650 motherboards?

Finding the perfect B650 motherboard for your needs can be a daunting task. As an experienced PC builder and motherboard expert, I’ve done the heavy lifting for you. 

We’ll explore the top 5 B650 motherboards, each offering a unique blend of performance, features, and value. 

Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or tech enthusiast, this guide is your ticket to finding the perfect motherboard for your needs. Let’s dive in!

Our Top Picks

  1. Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX – Our Top Choice
  2. ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E – Best High-End B650 Motherboard
  3. MSI PRO B650-P – Best Budget B650 Motherboard

Before moving on make sure you check the following detailed tutorial on how to choose the best motherboard for you: How To Choose The Right Motherboard For Your Needs: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Should You Trust Us?

With a passion for technology and a deep-seated enthusiasm for gaming, Konstantinos Chiotis has been immersed in the tech industry for over a decade. His dedication to understanding all the technicalities of motherboards, GPUs, and processors is unparalleled. 

From the tender age of 14, Konstantinos has been building PCs, giving him over 20 years of hands-on experience. His insights are not just theoretical but are based on years of practical experience and continuous learning. Trust in his expertise and let his knowledge guide you in your journey to finding the perfect B650 motherboard for your needs.

How We Choose the Best B650 Motherboards

Selecting the best B650 motherboards involves a careful analysis of several key factors that are specific to this category of motherboards. Here’s how we go about it:

  1. VRM Quality: The Voltage Regulator Module (VRM) is crucial for stable power delivery, especially when overclocking. We look for motherboards with robust and efficient VRMs.
  2. Memory Support: B650 motherboards should support high-speed DDR5 RAM to fully leverage the capabilities of Ryzen processors. We check the maximum supported memory speed and capacity.
  3. PCIe 5.0 Support: While not all B650 motherboards support PCIe 5.0, those that do offer future-proofing and enhanced performance for GPUs and NVMe SSDs.
  4. Form Factor: B650 motherboards come in various sizes, including ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX. We consider the best options in each category, taking into account the specific needs of different PC builds.
  5. Connectivity Options: We evaluate the number and type of connectivity options, including USB ports, SATA ports, M.2 slots, and networking capabilities like Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN.
  6. Price-to-Performance Ratio: We aim to recommend B650 motherboards that offer excellent performance and features at a reasonable price point, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

By focusing on these specific factors, we ensure our top picks for the best B650 motherboards in 2023 are well-suited to your needs, whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or PC enthusiast.

Check These:

Comparison Table

Feature/Model1. Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX2. ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E3. MSI PRO B650-P4. Asus ROG Strix B650E-I5. MSI MAG B650M Mortar WiFi
AwardOur Top ChoiceBest High-End B650Best Budget B650Best Mini ITX B650Best Micro ATX B650
Form FactorATXATXATXMini-ITXMicro-ATX
ChipsetAMD B650AMD B650AMD B650AMD B650AMD B650
VRM14+2+116 + 216 + 216 + 212+2+1
Memory4 DIMMs, 128GB DDR54 DIMMs, 128GB Max, DDR54 DIMMs, 128GB Max, DDR52 DIMMs, 64GB Max, DDR54 DIMMs, 192GB Max, DDR5
Video Outputs1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI1 x HDMI, USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C1x HDMI™
USB Ports13 Total19 Total (12 rear, 7 front)19 Total (12 rear, 7 front)13 Total (8 rear, 5 front)14 Total
NetworkWiFi 6E, 2.5GbE EthernetWi-Fi 6E, 2.5Gb EthernetWi-Fi 6E, 2.5Gb EthernetWi-Fi 6E, 2.5Gb Ethernet2.5G LAN, Wi-Fi 6E
Storage3 x M.2, 4 x SATA 6Gb/s4 x M.2, 4 x SATA 6Gb/s4 x M.2, 4 x SATA 6Gb/s2 x M.2, 2 x SATA 6Gb/s2x M.2
ProsExcellent value, Strong performance, Good storage optionsSolid performance, Many USB ports, 4 M.2 sockets, High-quality audio, Premium designBudget-friendly, Efficient cooling, Durable shields, Minimalist designRobust VRM, Dual M.2 (1 with PCIe Gen 5.0), Multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, Premium audio, Fan/RGB headersFull RAM slots, Budget & SFF-friendly, Eight USB ports, SATA III ports
ConsNo x4 PCIe, Minimal RGBLimited RGB, No 40 Gbps USB2 M.2 slots, Lower-end audio, Not for high-end CPUsSingle PCIe, Limited rear I/O, Not for OC enthusiastsTwo M.2 at PCIe 4.0, Few fan connectors, No PCIe 5.0

5 Best B650 Motherboards Reviews

1. Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX – Our Top Choice

Form Factor: ATX| Chipset:AMD B650 | VRM: 14+2+1 | Memory: 4 DIMMs, 128GB DDR5 | Video Outputs: 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI | USB Ports: 13 Total | Network: WiFi 6E, 2.5GbE Ethernet | Storage: 3 x M.2, 4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors

PROS

  • Excellent bang for your buck
  • Strong performance and thermal handling
  • Satisfactory storage and expansion possibilities

CONS

  • Lacks an x4 PCIe slot
  • Minimal RGB lighting options

Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX is a standout choice for those seeking a b650 motherboard that offers a bang for your buck. It’s a motherboard that doesn’t compromise on performance, expansion capabilities, or aesthetics, all while keeping your wallet in mind.

B650 AORUS Elite AX
https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-1x/gallery#gallery

The motherboard’s power delivery system is a testament to its robustness. It features a 14+2+1 Twin Phases Digital VRM design, with two parallel sets of seven phases. This ensures a steady and reliable power supply to your CPU, even when dealing with high-end processors like the Ryzen 9 7950.

Thermal management is another area where the B650 AORUS Elite AX shines. It incorporates an 8-layer PCB, 2oz thickened copper, substantial heatsinks, and a 6mm Mega-Heatpipe. This combination ensures optimal temperatures, even under heavy loads. A 7W/mK thermal pad further aids in heat dissipation from the VRMs, contributing to the motherboard’s stability and longevity.

The user-friendly BIOS interface is a bonus, simplifying the process of fine-tuning settings and overclocking your CPU and memory.

When it comes to storage and expansion, the B650 AORUS Elite AX doesn’t disappoint. It provides 3x M.2 slots and 4x SATA 6Gb/s ports, ensuring ample space for your SSD and HDD.

B650 AORUS Elite AX
Best B650 Motherboards
https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-1x/gallery#gallery

Memory support is another strong point. The motherboard supports DDR5 memory speeds up to 6600MHz and has a maximum capacity of 128GB. This makes it future-ready and well-equipped for heavy multitasking.

Connectivity is well catered for, with 7x Front and 12x Rear USB ports, including Type-C connectors on both the front and rear panels. The motherboard also features AMD WiFi 6E, a Realtek 2.5GbE LAN chip, and Bluetooth 5.2, providing seamless networking capabilities and enhancing your online experience.

Aesthetically, the Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX strikes a balance between minimalism and style. The black PCB contrasts nicely with the grey heatsinks, giving the motherboard a formidable appearance. A touch of RGB lighting on the chipset cover adds a subtle flair.

The motherboard’s support for the latest DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 standards makes it a future-proof choice. It’s a wise investment that will stay relevant for a considerable period.

In terms of value, the Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX outshines its competitors, offering an excellent price-to-performance ratio. It’s a top pick for budget-conscious buyers looking to build a powerful yet affordable PC. However, if you need an x4 PCIe slot or are willing to pay more for additional features, you might want to consider other options.

In a nutshell, the Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers, gamers, and content creators seeking a high-performance, feature-rich motherboard that doesn’t break the bank. It’s ideal for building a powerful, future-proof system that can handle demanding tasks while offering a good price-to-performance ratio.

B650 AORUS ELITE AX Tipped
https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-1x/gallery#gallery

However, it might not be the best fit for users who need an x4 PCIe slot or those who prioritize extensive RGB lighting options in their builds.

Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX is a standout choice for those seeking a b650 motherboard that offers a bang for your buck. It’s a motherboard that doesn’t compromise on performance, expansion capabilities, or aesthetics, all while keeping your wallet in mind.

The motherboard’s power delivery system is a testament to its robustness. It features a 14+2+1 Twin Phases Digital VRM design, with two parallel sets of seven phases. This ensures a steady and reliable power supply to your CPU, even when dealing with high-end processors like the Ryzen 9 7950.

Thermal management is another area where the B650 AORUS Elite AX shines. It incorporates an 8-layer PCB, 2oz thickened copper, substantial heatsinks, and a 6mm Mega-Heatpipe. This combination ensures optimal temperatures, even under heavy loads. A 7W/mK thermal pad further aids in heat dissipation from the VRMs, contributing to the motherboard’s stability and longevity.

The user-friendly BIOS interface is a bonus, simplifying the process of fine-tuning settings and overclocking your CPU and memory.

When it comes to storage and expansion, the B650 AORUS Elite AX doesn’t disappoint. It provides 3x M.2 slots and 4x SATA 6Gb/s ports, ensuring ample space for your SSD and HDD.

Memory support is another strong point. The motherboard supports DDR5 memory speeds up to 6600MHz and has a maximum capacity of 128GB. This makes it future-ready and well-equipped for heavy multitasking.

Connectivity is well catered for, with 7x Front and 12x Rear USB ports, including Type-C connectors on both the front and rear panels. The motherboard also features AMD WiFi 6E, a Realtek 2.5GbE LAN chip, and Bluetooth 5.2, providing seamless networking capabilities and enhancing your online experience.

Aesthetically, the Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX strikes a balance between minimalism and style. The black PCB contrasts nicely with the grey heatsinks, giving the motherboard a formidable appearance. A touch of RGB lighting on the chipset cover adds a subtle flair.

The motherboard’s support for the latest DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 standards makes it a future-proof choice. It’s a wise investment that will stay relevant for a considerable period.

Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX
https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/B650-AORUS-ELITE-AX-rev-1x/gallery#gallery

In terms of value, the Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX outshines its competitors, offering an excellent price-to-performance ratio. It’s a top pick for budget-conscious buyers looking to build a powerful yet affordable PC. However, if you need an x4 PCIe slot or are willing to pay more for additional features, you might want to consider other options.

In a nutshell, the Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers, gamers, and content creators seeking a high-performance, feature-rich motherboard that doesn’t break the bank. It’s ideal for building a powerful, future-proof system that can handle demanding tasks while offering a good price-to-performance ratio.

However, it might not be the best fit for users who need an x4 PCIe slot or those who prioritize extensive RGB lighting options in their builds.

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2. ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E – Best High-End B650 Motherboard

Form Factor: ATX | Chipset: AMD B650 | VRM: 16 + 2 | Memory: 4 x DIMM, Max. 128GB, DDR5 | Video Outputs: 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI | USB PortsRear USB (Total 12 ports) – 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port, 7 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, 4 x USB 2.0 ports. Front USB (Total 7 ports) – 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, 2 x USB 2.0 headers support additional 4 USB 2.0 ports | Network: Wi-Fi 6E, 1 x Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet ASUS LANGuard | Storage4 x M.2 slots and 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports

PROS

  • Solid performance.
  • 12 USB ports and four M.2 sockets.
  • High-quality audio solution.
  • Sleek, premium design.
  • Two PCIe 5.0 M2 sockets for faster data transfer.

CONS

  • Limited RGB elements.
  • No 40 Gbps USB ports.

ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E Gaming Wi-Fi is a top-tier B650 motherboard that’s worth every penny. This motherboard is a standout in the B650 lineup, offering a less expensive yet feature-rich alternative to x670 boards

ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E Best B650 Motherboards
https://rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-strix/rog-strix-b650e-e-gaming-wifi-model/gallery/

What makes it a top contender? Well, it’s got 12 USB ports, four M.2 sockets, two of which are PCIe 5.0 x4, and a high-quality audio solution. The black and red aesthetic of the ROG Strix blends seamlessly with most build themes, adding a touch of class without being overly flashy.

Now, let’s talk about power delivery. The B650E-E Gaming isn’t the most robust we’ve seen, using 70A MOSFETs, but it does a great job even with the Ryzen 9 7950X. It’s got plenty of USB connectivity on the rear IO, but it does lack 40 Gbps ports, which is a common trait among most B650 boards.

ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E Best B650 Motherboards
https://rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-strix/rog-strix-b650e-e-gaming-wifi-model/gallery/

Performance-wise, this board holds its own. It does well in gaming and productivity tasks, and it never really struggle. It cannot compete with the top x670 motherboards, but it’s a solid option for a B650 flagship-class motherboard.

The B650E-E Gaming includes two PCIe 5.0 slots for graphics, two PCIe 5.0 M.2 sockets, PCIe Slot Q-Release, M.2 Q-Latch, and more. The board’s design is sleek and premium, with a matte black PCB and large black heatsinks. The only RGB element on the board is the ROG symbol illuminated from below, giving off a subtle yet premium vibe.

ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E Best B650 Motherboards
https://rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-strix/rog-strix-b650e-e-gaming-wifi-model/gallery/

The audio solution is also noteworthy. A Realtek ALC4080 codec is supplemented by a Savitech brand SV3H712 amp. While this isn’t the flagship audio codec, it is from the latest generation, and most users will be satisfied with the integrated audio solution.

ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E
https://rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-strix/rog-strix-b650e-e-gaming-wifi-model/gallery/

So, why is the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E Gaming Wi-Fi the best high-end B650 motherboard according to my opinion? It’s a combination of its feature-rich design, solid performance, and premium aesthetics. It’s a competent board in the space, so long as you don’t need native 40 Gbps USB ports. It performs as well as its peers and the more expensive X670 options, making it a really solid option especially when considering its price point.

ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E
https://rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-strix/rog-strix-b650e-e-gaming-wifi-model/gallery/

In the end, the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-E Gaming Wi-Fi is a top-tier B650 motherboard that offers a great balance of features, performance, and aesthetics. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to build a high-end system without breaking the bank.

Want to See More ASUS ROG STRIX Options? Check These Out:

3. MSI PRO B650-P – Best Budget B650 Motherboard

Form Factor: ATX | Chipset: AMD B650 | VRM: 16 + 2 | Memory: 4 x DIMM, Max. 128GB, DDR5 | Video Outputs: 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI | USB PortsRear USB (Total 12 ports) – 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port, 7 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, 4 x USB 2.0 ports. Front USB (Total 7 ports) – 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, 2 x USB 2.0 headers support additional 4 USB 2.0 ports | Network: Wi-Fi 6E, 1 x Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet ASUS LANGuard | Storage: 4 x M.2 slots and 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports

PROS

  • Budget-friendly without compromising on key features
  • Efficient cooling system, ensuring optimal performance
  • Protective shield for M.2 and PCIe, enhancing durability
  • Simple aesthetics, appealing to those who prefer a minimalist style

CONS

  • Only two M.2 slots, restricting expansion options
  • Audio codec is on the lower end, which might affect sound quality
  • Not ideal for higher end Ryzen 9 processors

The MSI Pro B650-P WiFi is a budget-friendly motherboard that punches above its weight class and that makes it a solid contender for the best budget motherboard for the Ryzen 7000 series CPUs.

PRO B650-P WIFI Best B650 Motherboards
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/PRO-B650-P-WIFI/Gallery

The board is equipped with an M.2 and PCIe shield, which is a great feature for protecting your components from heat and ensuring optimal performance. 

The design of the B650-P WiFi is minimalist, with smaller heatsinks due to fewer VRM phases. This could potentially impact cooling performance, but in our testing, the board still manages to keep temperatures in check which is really commendable, and it’s almost on par with the X670-P. This is a testament to MSI’s efficient design and shows that you don’t need a high-end board to get good cooling performance.

PRO B650-P WIFI Best B650 Motherboards
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/PRO-B650-P-WIFI/Gallery

When it comes to memory speeds it can reach up to 6400MHz, which is more than enough for the 7000 CPU series. This means you can run your RAM at high speeds, ensuring smooth performance in games and applications.

However, it does have a low-end audio codec and only two M.2 slots. While this might seem like a drawback, it’s important to remember that this is a budget board. The audio quality is still decent for everyday use, and two M.2 slots are sufficient for most users, especially if you’re not planning on running a high-end gaming or content creation rig.

PRO B650-P WIFI Best B650 Motherboards
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/PRO-B650-P-WIFI/Gallery

It also does lack a PCIe 5.0 for the NVME and graphics card, but you will not find many PCIe 5.0 graphics cards anyway and the ones that will support this will be ridiculously expensive so it wouldn’t make sense to pair it with a budget motherboard in any case. So you’re not really missing out on any performance by going with this board.

Additionally the B650-P has two M.2 ports, but only the first one has protection against heat. This is a smart design choice by MSI, as the first slot is usually the one that gets the hottest. It also has 6 SATA6G ports, giving you plenty of options for storage.

PRO B650-P WIFI Best B650 Motherboards
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/PRO-B650-P-WIFI/Gallery

In conclusion, the MSI Pro B650-P WiFi is a solid choice for budget-oriented builds. It offers a good balance of features and performance at a reasonable price. It’s proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a motherboard that delivers solid performance, making it our pick for the Best Budget B650 Motherboard.

Check Out More AMD Options Here:

4. Asus ROG Strix B650E-I – Best Mini ITX B650 Motherboard

Form Factor: Mini-ITX | Chipset: AMD B650 | VRM: 16 + 2 | Memory: 2 x DIMM, Max. 64GB, DDR5 | Video Outputs: 1 x HDMI port, 1 x USB3.2 Gen2 port supports USB Type-C display outputs | USB PortsRear USB (Total 8 ports) – 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port (1 x USB Type-C®), 5 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (4 x Type-A + 1 x USB Type-C®), 2 x USB 2.0 ports (2 x Type-A), Front USB (Total 5 ports) – 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 connector, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, 1 x USB 2.0 header supports additional 2 USB 2.0 portsNetwork: Wi-Fi 6E, 1 x Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, ASUS LANGuard | Storage: 2 x M.2 slots and 2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports

PROS

  • Robust 10+2 VRM design with large heatsink for cooling
  • Two M.2 slots, one supporting PCIe Gen 5.0 speeds
  • USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C port and five USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports
  • Supreme FX Audio Solution
  • Plenty of fan and RGB headers

CONS

  • Only a Single PCIe expansion slot
  • Limited rear I/O connectivity 
  • Not Ideal for overclocking enthusiasts

The ASUS ROG Strix B650E-I Gaming WiFi is a Mini-ITX motherboard that truly stands out in its category. Despite its compact size, it packs a punch, offering a range of features that are typically found in larger, more expensive boards.

Asus ROG Strix B650E-I best b650 motherboards
https://rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-strix/rog-strix-b650e-i-gaming-wifi-model/

Designed with Small Form Factor (SFF) builds in mind, this motherboard is a testament to ASUS’s commitment to delivering high-quality products across all price ranges and form factors. It features a robust 10+2 VRM design, with each power stage rated at 60A. This ensures stable power delivery to the components, which is crucial for maintaining system stability and performance. 

To keep the VRM and other components cool, ASUS has included a large heatsink, demonstrating their attention to detail and understanding of the importance of adequate cooling in maintaining system longevity and performance.

Asus ROG Strix B650E-I best b650 motherboards
https://rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-strix/rog-strix-b650e-i-gaming-wifi-model/

When it comes to storage options, the B650E-I is well-equipped. It features two M.2 slots, one of which supports the lightning-fast PCIe Gen 5.0 interface, allowing for rapid data transfer speeds. In addition, there are two SATA 6G ports which is typical for mini-itx boards, providing users with flexibility in their storage configurations.

Despite its compact size, ASUS has managed to include a range of important connectivity options. The motherboard features a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C port, known for its high data transfer speed and reversible connector design. In addition, there are five USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, providing ample connectivity for peripherals and devices.

Asus ROG Strix B650E-I connection
https://rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-strix/rog-strix-b650e-i-gaming-wifi-model/

The B650E-I also comes with ASUS’s Supreme FX Audio Solution, a feature typically found in the ROG Strix lineup. This high-quality audio solution ensures a rich and immersive audio experience, whether you’re gaming, watching movies, or listening to music.

Of course, like any product, the B650E-I has its limitations. It features a single PCIe expansion slot and two DIMM slots. However, given its Mini-ITX form factor, these limitations are understandable and are more than adequate for most users.

What sets the B650E-I apart from its competitors is its ability to deliver performance and features that rival those of larger, more expensive boards. It’s capable of handling powerful AM5 processors, and it’s equipped with plenty of fan and RGB headers, allowing for customization and effective system cooling.

Asus ROG Strix B650E-I connection
https://rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-strix/rog-strix-b650e-i-gaming-wifi-model/

While the B650E-I may not be the first choice for overclocking enthusiasts due to its size, it’s worth noting that it features a 12-phase VRM design. This design, while not the most robust on the market, should perform well under most conditions and provide stable power delivery for overclocking within reasonable limits.

In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-I Gaming WiFi is a well-rounded, feature-rich Mini-ITX motherboard that offers excellent value for its price. Its attractive design, coupled with a powerful VRM and a range of features, make it a strong contender in the B650E category. ASUS has once again demonstrated their ability to deliver high-quality, functional products that cater to a wide range of user needs. For these reasons, I am confident in calling the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-I Gaming WiFi the Best Mini-ITX B650 Motherboard on the market.

Check This To Learn More About B650 Options:

5. MSI MAG B650M Mortar WiFi – Best Micro ATX B650 Motherboard

Form Factor: Micro-ATX | Chipset: AMD B650 | VRM: 12+2+1 | Memory: 4x DDR5, Maximum Memory Capacity 192GB | Video Outputs: 1x HDMI™| USB Ports: 4x USB 2.0 (Front), 4x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A (Rear), 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A (Front), 3x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type A (Rear), 1x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type C (Front), 1x USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type C (Rear) | Network: 2.5G LAN and Intel Wi-Fi 6E | Storage: 2x M.2

PROS

  • Full availability of four RAM slots
  • Budget-friendly and suitable for Small Form Factor (SFF) builds
  • Four SATA III ports for connecting older storage devices
  • Robust I/O with eight USB ports, inclusive of a 20Gbps USB-C

CONS

  • Only two M.2 slots, both restricted to PCIe 4.0
  • Only a few fan connectors
  • Lacks PCIe 5.0 support

Stepping into the spotlight as our 5th pick is the MSI MAG B650M Mortar WiFi, a standout choice for those seeking the best micro-ATX b650 motherboard to complement their new Ryzen 7000 series processor.

MSI MAG B650M Mortar WiFi
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/MAG-B650M-MORTAR-WIFI/Gallery#lg=1&slide=3

What sets this motherboard apart is its affordability, making it an ideal choice for Small Form Factor builds. Despite its compact size, MSI has managed to equip it with a robust I/O, supporting up to 128GB of RAM and six SATA ports.

Aesthetically, the Mortar’s all-black design may seem plain to some, but its subtle diagonal lines and geometric accents on the heatsinks add a touch of elegance without sacrificing its straightforward functionality. The absence of armor may seem less attractive, but it’s a clear indication of its competitive price point.

Best b650 motherboards MSI MAG B650M Mortar WiFi
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/MAG-B650M-MORTAR-WIFI/Gallery#lg=1&slide=3

The Mortar holds its ground against more expensive rivals. For instance, compared to the pricier X670E Gene from ASUS, the Mortar retains all four RAM slots, albeit at the expense of one M.2 slot. However, both M.2 slots are limited to PCIe 4.0, which is more than adequate for most users.

It’s worth mentioning that this motherboard doesn’t support PCIe 5.0, which could be a drawback for some. But realistically, if you’re building a budget PC, you’re unlikely to splurge on a high-end PCIe 5.0 GPU, so this limitation isn’t immediately consequential.

When it comes to power, the Mortar doesn’t fall short. Despite its compact size, it delivers a solid performance with a 12+2+1 VRM supported by two substantial heatsinks. This ensures your CPU will be well-powered and content.

MSI MAG B650M Mortar WiFi
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/MAG-B650M-MORTAR-WIFI/Gallery#lg=1&slide=3

The Mortar also offers four SATA III plugs for those who wish to connect legacy storage drives. While the top x16 slot is reinforced to protect against GPU shearing, the other two may be obstructed by a bulky GPU. However, this isn’t a significant issue, as SLI is largely obsolete, and those seeking multiple GPU setups would likely opt for a larger board.

A potential downside is the limited number of fan connectors. However, having three for fans and two dedicated to CPU cooling is still impressive for a board of this size. And for those who appreciate aesthetics, MSI has included all four RGB headers to add some color to your rig.

The Mortar excels in utilizing space on the I/O front. With eight USB ports, including a 20Gbps USB-C, you’ll have ample connectivity. Add to that a 5+1 stack and Realtek’s ALC4080 codec for audio, the latest WiFi standard, 2.5G Ethernet, HDMI 2.1 & DisplayPort 1.4, and a BIOS flash button, and you’ve got a feature-rich motherboard that’s a top contender for a b650 micro-ATX board.

MSI MAG B650M Mortar WiFi
https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/MAG-B650M-MORTAR-WIFI/Gallery#lg=1&slide=3

Want to Find Out More About Motherboards? Learn More Here:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a B650 motherboard?

A B650 motherboard is a motherboard using the b650 chipset designed for AMD’s Ryzen processors. It’s part of AMD’s mid-range lineup, offering a balance of performance, features, and price.

Can I use an Intel CPU with a B650 motherboard?

No, B650 motherboards are specifically designed for AMD Ryzen processors and are not compatible with Intel CPUs.

Does a B650 motherboard support PCIe 5.0?

Some B650 motherboards do support PCIe 5.0, but not all. It’s important to check the specifications of the specific model you’re interested in.

Can I overclock my CPU on a B650 motherboard?

Yes, B650 motherboards support CPU and memory overclocking, although the extent of overclocking capabilities can vary between different models.

Is a B650 motherboard good for gaming? Absolutely! B650 motherboards are a great choice for gaming, especially when paired with a powerful Ryzen processor. They offer high-speed memory support, PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing, and often include gaming-oriented features.

Can a B650 motherboard support dual GPUs?

While B650 motherboards do have multiple PCIe slots, they typically do not support multi-GPU configurations like SLI or CrossFire.

What’s the difference between B650 and X670 motherboards?

X670 motherboards are AMD’s high-end offering and typically have more features and better overclocking capabilities than B650 motherboards. However, B650 motherboards are more affordable and still offer excellent performance for most users.

Do B650 motherboards come with built-in Wi-Fi?

Some B650 motherboards do come with built-in Wi-Fi, but not all. If this is a feature you need, be sure to check the motherboard’s specifications.

Are all B650 motherboards the same size?

No, B650 motherboards come in different form factors, including ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX. The size you need will depend on your PC case and specific build requirements.

Konstantinos Chiotis
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