I'm putting together an AM5 PC with a 9800x3d and a 9070xt, and I'm looking for some advice on motherboards. Since RAM prices are high right now, I want to save some money on the other components. I live in Japan, so prices might vary from other countries. Here are the options I'm considering:
- **MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI - 26710 yen ($172)**
- **MSI PRO X870-P WIFI - 29980 yen ($193)**
- **MSI X870 GAMING PLUS WIFI - 29980 yen ($193)**
- **MSI MAG X870 TOMAHAWK WIFI - 35970 yen ($232)**
- **GIGABYTE B850 GAMING X WIFI6E (RAM not supported) - 26980 yen ($174)**
- **GIGABYTE X870 GAMING PLUS WIFI (RAM not supported) - 29980 yen ($193)**
- **GIGABYTE B850 A ELITE WF7 (RAM not supported) - 32030 yen ($206)**
- **GIGABYTE X870M A ELITE WF7 ICE - 33795 yen ($218)**
- **ASRock B850 LiveMixer WiFi (RAM not supported) - 27255 yen ($176)**
- **ASUS TUF GAMING B650E-PLUS WIFI - 19980 yen ($129)**
I didn't include the X870 "E" version since those are pricier. In Japan, Gigabyte is seen as a premium brand, and their B850 boards can be as expensive as some X870 models. My RAM, model CTCWD532G6400HC32ADC01, isn't listed as compatible on the RAM or Gigabyte websites—does that matter? The ASUS B650E is the cheapest option, while other ASUS boards are overpriced. I'm not particularly fond of ASRock. I've heard MSI boards are solid but have had issues with the 5Gb Ethernet port. I don't need a lot of USB ports, just a few reliable 10-20GB type-C ports. I'm aiming for a motherboard that is easy to use with minimal hassle, both hardware and software-wise. If you have any other recommendations or insights on pricing in Japan, I'd love to hear them!
4 Answers
I'd recommend the MSI B850 Gaming Plus WiFi. My wife has that board, and it's been reliable with no issues for her. I'd steer clear of ASRock for now, though. Look closely at the boards you're considering and ensure they have the USB C 3.2 ports and connectivity (ethernet/WiFi) that you require.
If the ASUS B650E has everything you want, it's a solid choice and the cheapest on your list. Unfortunately, options for the higher-end ASUS boards are pricier here in Japan.
The RAM not being on the supported list usually isn't a big deal as long as you're using a standard 2x configuration at around 6000/6400MHz. The GIGABYTE B850 A ELITE WF7 is a solid option, but any B850 or X870 board should do just fine. Just check the motherboard specs to see which features fit your needs best.
The ASUS TUF B650E-Plus seems like a great pick. It's likely priced lower because the B650 chipset was phased out, but the hardware is pretty much the same as the B850. If it meets your needs, go for it!
Related Questions
Lenovo Thinkpad Stuck In Update Loop Install FilterDriverU2_Reload