ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi vs WiFi II: Battle for Mid-Range Motherboard Supremacy
What To Know
- Both the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi and WiFi II are based on the AMD B550 chipset, which supports AMD Ryzen processors from the 3000 and 5000 series.
- The WiFi II variant features an upgraded Intel AX200 WiFi 6 adapter, providing faster speeds and improved range compared to the WiFi 5 adapter in the original version.
- However, if you’re on a tighter budget or don’t require the latest WiFi 6 technology, the original WiFi model is still a solid option.
The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus series of motherboards has been a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers looking for a reliable and feature-rich platform for their AMD Ryzen processors. With the recent release of the WiFi II variant, the battle for mid-range motherboard supremacy heats up. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi and WiFi II to help you make an informed decision.
Chipset and Socket
Both the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi and WiFi II are based on the AMD B550 chipset, which supports AMD Ryzen processors from the 3000 and 5000 series. The mATX form factor of these motherboards makes them ideal for compact builds.
Connectivity
WiFi and Bluetooth: The primary difference between the two motherboards lies in their wireless connectivity. The WiFi II variant features an upgraded Intel AX200 WiFi 6 adapter, providing faster speeds and improved range compared to the WiFi 5 adapter in the original version. Bluetooth 5.1 is also supported on both models.
Ethernet and USB: Both motherboards offer a Gigabit Ethernet port for wired connections. The WiFi II model has an additional 2.5GbE port for faster data transfer speeds. In terms of USB connectivity, both models have ample USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 ports.
Expansion Slots
PCIe Slots: The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi and WiFi II both have a single PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for graphics cards. They also have a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots for other expansion cards.
M.2 Slots: Both motherboards support two M.2 NVMe SSD slots, with the primary slot running at PCIe 4.0 x4 speeds on the WiFi II model.
Power Delivery
The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi and WiFi II use an 8+2 power phase design, providing ample power for even the most demanding processors. The WiFi II model has a slightly improved power delivery system with 60A power stages compared to 50A on the original version.
BIOS and Features
Both motherboards feature the ASUS UEFI BIOS, which is known for its user-friendly interface and advanced overclocking options. They also support ASUS’s exclusive AI Overclocking and Fan Xpert 4 utilities for automated tuning and system monitoring.
Aesthetics and Build Quality
The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi and WiFi II share the same rugged and durable construction that the TUF series is known for. They feature a black and yellow color scheme with reinforced PCIe slots and a pre-installed I/O shield.
Price and Availability
The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi and WiFi II are priced competitively in the mid-range motherboard segment. The WiFi II model typically costs slightly more due to its upgraded wireless connectivity.
Which Motherboard is Right for You?
Choosing between the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi and WiFi II depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize wireless connectivity and faster data transfer speeds, the WiFi II model is the clear choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or don’t require the latest WiFi 6 technology, the original WiFi model is still a solid option.
Verdict: The Champion Emerges
Overall, the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi II emerges as the superior choice due to its improved wireless connectivity and slightly enhanced power delivery system. Its faster WiFi 6 speeds and 2.5GbE port make it an ideal choice for gamers and content creators who demand the best possible network performance. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features, the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus WiFi remains a reliable contender.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking potential?
A: Both motherboards have similar overclocking capabilities, but the WiFi II model may have a slight advantage due to its improved power delivery system.
Q: Does the WiFi II model support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2?
A: No, neither the WiFi nor WiFi II models support USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.
Q: Can I use DDR4 RAM on both motherboards?
A: Yes, both motherboards support DDR4 RAM up to 5100MHz (overclocked).
