What To Know
- However, the WiFi II variant has a newer BIOS version that supports the latest AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors out of the box.
- The WiFi version has a single RGB header, while the WiFi II version has two RGB headers for connecting RGB devices.
- However, if you can live without Wi-Fi 6E and prefer a slightly more affordable option, the WiFi version is still a solid choice.
The Asus TUF Gaming B550-Plus WiFi and WiFi II motherboards are excellent options for budget-minded gamers building AMD Ryzen-based systems. However, deciding between these two motherboards can be challenging due to their similarities. This blog post aims to shed light on the key differences between the Asus TUF Gaming B550-Plus WiFi and WiFi II to help you make an informed decision.
Chipset and Socket
Both motherboards utilize the AMD B550 chipset, which supports AMD Ryzen 5000, 4000, and 3000 series processors. However, the WiFi II variant has a newer BIOS version that supports the latest AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors out of the box.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: The main difference between the two motherboards lies in their Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. The WiFi version features an Intel Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) adapter, while the WiFi II version boasts an upgraded Intel Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) adapter. Wi-Fi 6E provides access to the 6 GHz frequency band, offering faster speeds and reduced latency in crowded environments.
Ethernet: Both motherboards have a single Gigabit Ethernet port.
USB Ports: The WiFi version offers 6 USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) ports and 2 USB 2.0 ports, while the WiFi II version has 4 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, 4 USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) ports, and 2 USB 2.0 ports. The WiFi II version provides more flexibility for connecting high-speed devices.
Storage
Both motherboards support up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM with speeds up to 4400 MHz.
M.2 Slots: The WiFi version has 2 M.2 slots, one with PCIe 4.0 x4 support and the other with PCIe 3.0 x4 support. The WiFi II version has the same PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slot but adds a PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 slot with support for NVMe SSDs.
SATA Ports: Both motherboards have 4 SATA 6 Gbps ports.
Audio
Both motherboards use the Realtek ALC S1200A audio codec, providing 7.1-channel surround sound.
BIOS and Software
Both motherboards feature the Asus UEFI BIOS with a user-friendly interface.
Software: The WiFi II version includes additional software, such as AI Noise-Canceling Microphone, which enhances microphone clarity during online communication.
Design and Features
Both motherboards have a rugged design with a black and gray color scheme.
RGB Lighting: The WiFi version has a single RGB header, while the WiFi II version has two RGB headers for connecting RGB devices.
PCIe Slots: The WiFi version has 2 PCIe 4.0 x16 slots and 1 PCIe 3.0 x1 slot, while the WiFi II version has 1 PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, 1 PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, and 1 PCIe 3.0 x1 slot.
Fan Headers: Both motherboards have 4-pin fan headers for connecting CPU and case fans.
Price and Availability
The Asus TUF Gaming B550-Plus WiFi is available for around $150, while the WiFi II version costs around $180.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Asus TUF Gaming B550-Plus WiFi and WiFi II depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize Wi-Fi 6E connectivity and additional USB ports, the WiFi II version is a better choice. However, if you can live without Wi-Fi 6E and prefer a slightly more affordable option, the WiFi version is still a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E?
A: Wi-Fi 6E operates on the 6 GHz frequency band, offering faster speeds and reduced latency compared to Wi-Fi 6, which operates on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
Q: How many M.2 slots do the motherboards have?
A: The WiFi version has 2 M.2 slots, while the WiFi II version has 3 M.2 slots.
Q: Do the motherboards support overclocking?
A: Yes, both motherboards support overclocking.
Q: What is the difference between the PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 3.0 slots?
A: PCIe 4.0 slots offer twice the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0 slots, enabling faster data transfer speeds.
Q: Can I use a Ryzen 5000 series processor with the WiFi motherboard?
A: You may need to update the BIOS on the WiFi motherboard to support Ryzen 5000 series processors.
