ASUS TUF B550M vs MSI B550M Mortar: Unveiling the Superior B550 Motherboard
What To Know
- The ASUS TUF B550M adopts a micro-ATX form factor, while the MSI B550M Mortar opts for the slightly larger ATX form factor.
- The TUF B550M features a built-in I/O shield for added convenience, while the MSI B550M Mortar includes a M.
- The TUF B550M excels in durability, connectivity, and overclocking stability, while the MSI B550M Mortar offers a wider range of expansion options, advanced overclocking features, and a more striking design.
In the realm of PC building, the motherboard serves as the backbone of the system, connecting all essential components. For those seeking a B550 chipset motherboard, the ASUS TUF B550M and MSI B550M Mortar stand as formidable contenders. This comprehensive comparison will delve into their features, performance, and design to help you make an informed decision.
Form Factor and Build Quality
The ASUS TUF B550M adopts a micro-ATX form factor, while the MSI B550M Mortar opts for the slightly larger ATX form factor. Both motherboards boast a robust construction with durable materials and reinforced PCIe slots. The TUF B550M features a military-grade certification, ensuring its resilience in demanding environments.
Chipset and Socket
Both motherboards utilize the AMD B550 chipset, providing support for AMD Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series processors with the AM4 socket. The B550 chipset offers ample PCIe 4.0 lanes for high-performance graphics cards and NVMe SSDs.
Expansion Slots
The ASUS TUF B550M offers two PCIe 4.0 x16 slots, one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. The MSI B550M Mortar features two PCIe 4.0 x16 slots, one PCIe 3.0 x4 slot, and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. Both motherboards provide ample expansion options for graphics cards, storage drives, and other peripherals.
Memory Support
Both motherboards support dual-channel DDR4 memory with speeds up to 4600MHz. The ASUS TUF B550M offers four DIMM slots, while the MSI B550M Mortar features four DIMM slots with support for Memory Boost technology for enhanced memory stability.
Storage Connectivity
The ASUS TUF B550M offers four SATA III ports and two M.2 slots, both supporting PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe SSDs. The MSI B550M Mortar provides six SATA III ports and two M.2 slots, with one supporting PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe SSDs and the other supporting PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe SSDs.
Connectivity and Features
Both motherboards offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C and Type-A ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6 (ASUS TUF B550M) or Wi-Fi 5 (MSI B550M Mortar). The TUF B550M features a built-in I/O shield for added convenience, while the MSI B550M Mortar includes a M.2 Shield Frozr heatsink for improved SSD cooling.
BIOS and Software
The ASUS TUF B550M utilizes the UEFI BIOS with a user-friendly interface. The MSI B550M Mortar employs the Click BIOS 5, offering a wide range of overclocking and customization options. Both motherboards come with proprietary software suites that provide additional control over system settings and performance monitoring.
Performance and Overclocking
Both motherboards deliver solid performance with good overclocking potential. The ASUS TUF B550M offers stable overclocking with its robust power delivery system, while the MSI B550M Mortar provides advanced overclocking features for experienced enthusiasts.
Aesthetics and Lighting
The ASUS TUF B550M features a sleek and understated design with a black and gray color scheme. The MSI B550M Mortar adopts a more aggressive aesthetic with a black and red theme and integrated RGB lighting. Both motherboards allow for customization of RGB lighting through their respective software suites.
In a nutshell: Determining the Victor
The ASUS TUF B550M and MSI B550M Mortar are both excellent B550 motherboards with their own unique strengths. The TUF B550M excels in durability, connectivity, and overclocking stability, while the MSI B550M Mortar offers a wider range of expansion options, advanced overclocking features, and a more striking design. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which motherboard has better VRM cooling?
A: The ASUS TUF B550M features a larger VRM heatsink, providing better cooling capabilities for overclocking.
Q: Does the MSI B550M Mortar support PCIe Resizable BAR?
A: Yes, the MSI B550M Mortar supports PCIe Resizable BAR, which can improve performance in certain games.
Q: Which motherboard offers better audio quality?
A: Both motherboards offer good audio quality, but the MSI B550M Mortar features a dedicated audio processor for enhanced sound performance.
Q: Can I use both M.2 slots simultaneously on the ASUS TUF B550M?
A: Yes, you can use both M.2 slots on the TUF B550M, but it will disable two SATA ports.
Q: Does the MSI B550M Mortar come with a Wi-Fi antenna?
A: Yes, the MSI B550M Mortar includes a Wi-Fi antenna in the box.
