ASRock B850M Pro RS WiFi 6E Motherboard Review for AMD Ryzen Builders
ASRock B850M Pro RS WiFi 6E Motherboard Review for AMD Ryzen Builders
- Robust WiFi 6E connectivity ensures fast and reliable wireless performance for demanding tasks.
- The motherboard’s efficient cooling solution effectively prevents overheating during extended use.
- Supports DDR5 memory with overclocking up to 8000MHz, delivering exceptional speed and performance.
- Compact micro-ATX design balances power and space, making it ideal for smaller builds.
- Dual M.2 slots with PCIe Gen5 support offer rapid data transfer for SSDs and other storage solutions.
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Description
Compact Design with Powerful Features
The ASRock B850M Pro RS WiFi motherboard immediately caught my attention with its micro-ATX form factor, which is perfect for compact builds. I tested this board in a smaller case, and its layout was surprisingly well-thought-out. All the ports and slots were easily accessible, and the board didn’t feel cramped despite its size. The inclusion of WiFi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet was a huge plus for me because I wanted a build that offered versatile connectivity options without needing additional adapters. The sleek black and silver design with subtle accents also made it a good aesthetic match for minimalist builds.
Performance and Compatibility
The motherboard supports AMD AM5 Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors, which I tested with a Ryzen 7 chip. It performed remarkably well under load, handling tasks like gaming and video editing with ease. The 8+2+1 power phase design with Dr.MOS ensures stable power delivery, and I noticed that the system stayed consistent even during intensive workloads. Pairing this board with DDR5 memory clocked up to 8000+ MHz (overclocked) unlocked incredible speeds, and the dual-channel support made multitasking a breeze. However, I did find that the BIOS interface, while functional, could feel a bit dated compared to other brands.
Connectivity and Expandability
One of the key benefits of this motherboard is its extensive connectivity options. I’m a big fan of how many USB ports it offers: USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A, and multiple USB 3.2 Gen1 and USB 2.0 ports. This was more than enough for my peripherals, and the M.2 slots—1 PCIe Gen5x4 and 2 PCIe Gen4x4—were a dream for anyone looking to build a fast system. I installed a PCIe Gen5 SSD, and the speeds were blazing fast, which made loading games and transferring files almost instantaneous. However, the lack of a built-in I/O shield was slightly disappointing for a motherboard at this level.
Audio and Graphics Features
The Realtek ALC897 7.1 CH HD Audio Codec provided decent sound quality. I hooked up my favorite headphones, and while the sound was clear, it didn’t quite match the high-end audio chipsets found on pricier boards. For graphics, the HDMI and DisplayPort outputs were great for those not using a dedicated GPU. I tested it with integrated graphics, and while it worked fine for basic tasks, this board truly shines when paired with a powerful GPU via its PCIe 5.0 x16 slot.
Good Points
- Supports the latest AMD AM5 processors, making it future-proof for many users.
- WiFi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet ensure fast and reliable network performance.
- Extensive USB and M.2 options provide plenty of room for upgrades.
- Compact design is ideal for small form factor builds without sacrificing power.
Areas for Improvement
- No built-in I/O shield, which adds an extra step during installation.
- Audio quality could be better for audiophiles seeking a premium experience.
- The BIOS interface feels outdated, especially compared to competitors.
Product Comparisons
Looking at competing products, I compared this motherboard to the MSI MPG B650M Edge WiFi. Both boards support DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0, but the MSI model has a slightly more user-friendly BIOS interface. On the other hand, the ASRock B850M Pro RS WiFi wins in terms of expandability, offering more USB ports and a better layout for M.2 slots. Another contender, the ASUS TUF Gaming B650M, boasts a rugged design with enhanced cooling, but it lacks the advanced WiFi 6E capabilities that ASRock provides. In terms of pricing, ASRock’s option feels more balanced for budget-conscious builders who still want modern features.
Value for Money
I found this motherboard to represent affordable quality. It manages to pack high-end features like PCIe 5.0, DDR5 support, and WiFi 6E into a relatively compact form factor without breaking the bank. While it isn’t the most luxurious option on the market, it provides solid value for price for gamers and productivity users aiming to build a future-proof PC. For its price category, it’s hard to beat the combination of performance and expandability offered here.
Testing this motherboard in my system gave me a clear perspective on its strengths and areas where it could improve. For anyone building a compact yet capable PC, this product is a strong contender.
Additional information
Package Dimensions | 11.77 x 10.43 x 2.4 inches |
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Item Weight | 2.68 pounds |
Manufacturer | ASRock |
Country of Origin | Vietnam |
Item model number | B850M Pro RS WiFi |