MSI is expanding its portfolio of AM5 mainboards with new models featuring the B850 chipset, which are aimed specifically at price-conscious PC builders. These motherboards are designed for AMD’s latest Ryzen X3D processors and also offer state-of-the-art I/O features.
New momentum for the budget segment: MSI’s B850 mainboards on the way
Anyone planning to build an affordable gaming system with AMD’s Ryzen X3D processors should perhaps be patient. MSI is working on five new AM5 mainboards with the B850 chipset, which are set to be launched in the second quarter of 2025. These models complement the existing range and are aimed at different form factors and requirements:
- WIFI (Mini-ITX)
- MSI PRO B850M-P WIFI (Micro-ATX)
- MSI PRO B850M-B (Micro-ATX)
- MSI B850 Gaming PLUS WIFI PZ (ATX)
- MSI PRO B850M-A WIFI PZ (Micro-ATX)
With the MPG B850I Edge WIFI, MSI is launching a mini-ITX board on the market that is aimed at compact systems. The already available ATX version of the EDGE TI WIFI thus has a smaller sister. The remaining models are largely spread across the PRO series, which is traditionally aimed at price-conscious users, while the MAG series continues to offer solid options for AM5 builders with models such as Tomahawk and Mortar.
Technical features: Current standards for budget systems
Even in the budget segment, MSI does not skimp on modern equipment. The new B850 mainboards offer a range of up-to-date I/O functions that are normally found in higher price ranges:
- WIFI 7 support with full 320 MHz bandwidth
- PCIe Gen5 for graphics cards and M.2 slots for fast SSDs
- 5G LAN for fast wired networks
- CPU and RAM overclocking features for enthusiasts
- EZ DIY features that simplify installation and configuration
Of particular note is the full support for AMD’s Ryzen X3D processors, including the Ryzen 9 9800X3D and Ryzen 7 7800X3D. These processors are known for their high gaming performance thanks to the additional 3D V-Cache, which is particularly advantageous in CPU-limited games. These motherboards could therefore be used to create powerful yet affordable gaming PCs.
Market launch and outlook
The new models are expected in the second quarter of 2025. MSI is likely to target users who are looking for an affordable entry into the AM5 platform without having to sacrifice modern features. The Mini-ITX models for compact builds and the ATX variants for classic gaming PCs are likely to be particularly interesting. Whether MSI strikes the right balance between price and performance will become clear as soon as the exact prices and the first test reports are available. Competition on the motherboard market is still fierce and it remains to be seen how the new B850 boards will fare against the existing B650 and X670 alternatives. With the expansion of the B850 series, MSI is bringing a breath of fresh air to the budget segment of the AM5 platform. The combination of modern I/O equipment, overclocking functions and full support for Ryzen X3D processors makes the new models an interesting option for price-conscious gamers. Anyone looking for an affordable but powerful system should keep an eye on the market launch.
Source: WccfTech
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