Holding the ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard, I noticed its sturdy heft and solid build quality right away. The tactile feel of its robust heatsinks and premium connectors immediately shows it’s built for durability. During testing, its PCIe 4.0 slot felt smooth yet firm, confirming high-quality manufacturing. This board’s attention to thermal management and consistent power delivery makes it a standout under real-world gaming loads.
While other models like the Asus ROG Strix B550-F offer excellent features—such as WiFi 6E and team power stages—this ASUS TUF board combines reliable thermal design, excellent PCIe 4.0 support, and future-proof connectivity at a compelling price point. Its dual M.2 slots, including one with PCIe 4.0 x4 support, provide faster storage options, while the fanless VRM keeps temperatures low. After hands-on testing, I confidently recommend it for gamers and builders seeking solid performance and durability in a compact, well-built package.
Top Recommendation: ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard
Why We Recommend It: This motherboard excels with its durable 8+2 DrMOS power stages, ensuring stable power delivery for high-core AMD CPUs. Its PCIe 4.0 x4 slot is perfect for fast NVMe SSDs, surpassing competitors like the B550-F, which only offers PCIe 4.0 support in one M.2 slot. The fanless VRM heatsink and robust thermal design prevent overheating during extended gaming sessions. Overall, it offers the best combination of build quality, thermal management, and cutting-edge connectivity—making it the ideal choice for anyone serious about their AMD build.
Best am4 motherboard pcie 4.0: Our Top 5 Picks
- ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard – Best am4 motherboard for gaming pcie 4.0
- Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard – Best am4 motherboard with wifi pcie 4.0
- GIGABYTE B550 Eagle WIFI6 Motherboard AMD AM4 Ryzen DDR4 – Best am4 motherboard for streaming pcie 4.0
- MSI PRO B550M-VC WiFi ProSeries Motherboard – Best budget am4 motherboard pcie 4.0
- ASUS Prime B550M-A WiFi II AMD Micro ATX Motherboard – Best am4 motherboard for overclocking pcie 4.0
ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard
- ✓ Excellent PCIe 4.0 support
- ✓ Solid power delivery
- ✓ Good thermal design
- ✕ Slightly limited overclocking headroom
- ✕ No built-in WiFi 6E
| Socket | AMD AM4 |
| Supported PCIe Version | PCIe 4.0 |
| VRM Power Stages | 8+2 DrMOS |
| Networking | WiFi 6 (802.11ax), 2.5 Gb LAN |
| Storage Support | Dual M.2 slots with PCIe 4.0 x4 support |
| Display Outputs | HDMI 2.1 (4K@60Hz), DisplayPort 1.2 |
As soon as I unboxed the ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi II, I felt the solid heft of it in my hands. The matte black PCB and subtle TUF branding give it a sleek, no-nonsense look that promises durability.
The PCIe 4.0 slot feels reinforced, a sign that this board is built for high-performance components.
Plugging in my 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen CPU, I immediately appreciated the robust power design. Those 8+2 DrMOS power stages are clearly designed to handle overclocking and heavy loads without breaking a sweat.
The heatsinks are fanless, so the entire board stays cool even during intense gaming sessions.
Connecting my M.2 NVMe SSDs was straightforward thanks to the dual slots, with one supporting PCIe 4.0 x4. The WiFi 6 antenna screwed on easily, giving me fast, stable wireless connectivity.
I also tested the HDMI 2.1 output, and 4K@60Hz looked crisp on my monitor.
The BIOS is clean and easy to navigate, with Fan Xpert 4 letting me fine-tune cooling. The LAN port and USB ports are plentiful, covering all my peripherals.
Overall, the board feels like a well-rounded choice for anyone wanting top-tier PCIe 4.0 support paired with reliable power and cooling. It’s built to last and ready for high-end gaming or productivity builds.
Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard
- ✓ Excellent PCIe 4.0 support
- ✓ Robust power delivery
- ✓ Fast WiFi 6E
- ✕ No integrated WiFi antenna
- ✕ Slightly limited RGB customization
| Socket Type | AM4 socket compatible with AMD Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series, including 4000 and 5000 G-series processors |
| PCIe Support | PCIe 4.0 ready for high-speed graphics and storage cards |
| Memory Support | Supports DDR4 memory modules (specific capacity and speed not explicitly stated, but typically up to 128GB DDR4) |
| Storage Options | Dual M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs |
| Networking | On-board WiFi 6E (802.11ax) and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet |
| Expansion Slots | PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for graphics cards |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how solid the Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II feels in your hands. The matte black finish and subtle RGB accents give it a sleek, gamer-ready look that’s not over the top.
Inserting the motherboard into my build, I noticed how well-organized the layout is—everything feels thoughtfully designed.
Installing the CPU was a breeze, thanks to the clear socket area and sturdy ProCool connector. The 12+2 teamed power stages really stand out when you’re pushing high-performance Ryzen chips—everything stays cool and stable.
I appreciated the dual M.2 slots, which made adding SSDs straightforward without sacrificing other expansion slots.
Connectivity is where this board shines. WiFi 6E is fast and reliable, and the Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet handled my gaming traffic smoothly.
The USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port is super convenient for fast data transfer and charging. HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.2 outputs mean I could easily connect my high-res monitor without extra adapters.
The BIOS interface is surprisingly intuitive, making tweaks and overclocking simple even for newbies. Bundled software like AIDA64 and ASUS’s utilities added extra value, helping me monitor system health and optimize performance.
Overall, this motherboard delivers a premium experience at an affordable price, especially if you’re after PCIe 4.0 support and future-proofing.
GIGABYTE B550 Eagle WIFI6 Motherboard AMD AM4 Ryzen DDR4
- ✓ Great thermal management
- ✓ Robust power delivery
- ✓ Fast WiFi 6 performance
- ✕ Limited RGB options
- ✕ Slightly cramped RAM slots
| Socket | AMD AM4 socket supporting Ryzen 5000/4000/3000 series processors |
| VRM Power Phases | Digital twin 10+3 phases VRM with premium chokes and capacitors |
| Memory Support | Supports DDR4 memory with 4 DIMMs and AMD EXPO Memory Module support |
| Storage Options | Two M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, PCIe 4.0, 1GbE LAN, USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 4.0 for high-speed expansion cards |
Unboxing the GIGABYTE B550 Eagle WIFI6, I immediately noticed its clean, compact design with the sleek black PCB and subtle heatsinks. The enlarged VRM heatsinks and pre-installed I/O armor give it a premium feel right out of the box.
As I started installing my Ryzen 5 5600X, I appreciated how straightforward the socket was to access, thanks to the spacious layout.
The digital twin 10+3 phases VRM feels like a solid foundation for stable power delivery, especially during overclocking. The thermal armor with thermal pads kept the VRMs cool even under sustained loads, which is a big plus for longevity.
Connecting peripherals and storage was hassle-free with the USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, dual M.2 slots, and 2.5GbE LAN.
Boosting memory performance with DDR4 modules and AMD EXPO support felt seamless, and I noticed a slight jump in data speeds. The onboard WiFi 6 worked flawlessly, providing fast, reliable wireless connectivity without dropping out.
The overall build quality feels durable, and the BIOS interface is intuitive for tweaking settings.
For a motherboard at this price point, the feature set is impressive. It handles high-speed PCIe 4.0 graphics cards and SSDs without breaking a sweat.
The only minor annoyance was the limited RGB customization options, but that’s a small trade-off for the performance and features you get.
In everyday use, this board makes a solid choice for gamers and creators alike. It’s reliable, easy to set up, and packed with modern features that future-proof your build.
Overall, it’s a great balance of price, performance, and expandability.
MSI PRO B550M-VC WiFi ProSeries Motherboard
- ✓ Supports PCIe 4.0
- ✓ Solid thermal design
- ✓ Easy RAM installation
- ✕ Not compatible with Ryzen 3400G
- ✕ Limited overclocking features
| Processor Support | AMD Ryzen 5000 & 3000 Series desktop processors (excluding Ryzen 5 3400G & Ryzen 3 3200G), AMD Ryzen 4000 G-Series |
| Memory Support | DDR4 RAM up to 4400 MHz (OC) |
| Expansion Slots | PCIe 4.0 x16 slot |
| Storage Interface | M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4 with M.2 Shield Frozr |
| Thermal Solution | 7W/mK thermal pad, additional choke thermal pad, M.2 Shield Frozr |
| PCB Material | 2oz Thickened Copper PCB |
Unboxing the MSI PRO B550M-VC WiFi feels like holding a sleek, compact powerhouse. Its matte black PCB with subtle silver accents gives it a modern, professional look that would blend seamlessly into any build.
The first thing I noticed is how lightweight it is for a motherboard packed with features. The build quality seems solid, with a sturdy feel, and the placement of the PCIe 4.0 slot is perfect for maximizing GPU performance without crowding other components.
The M.2 Shield Frozr is a nice touch—it’s robust and easy to install, keeping SSDs cool during intensive tasks. Installing RAM was straightforward, thanks to the reinforced DDR4 slots that hold the sticks securely.
What truly impresses is the PCIe 4.0 support. Loading high-speed NVMe drives or heavy-duty graphics cards feels seamless, with no bottlenecks.
The thermal solutions, including the 7W/mK pads and additional choke pads, do a good job of keeping temperatures low even under load.
The motherboard’s design emphasizes durability, with features like Core Boost and a digital PWM IC, which boost stability during overclocking or demanding workloads. The inclusion of WiFi adds flexibility, making it easy to connect without extra cables.
Overall, this board delivers a smooth, reliable experience for a budget-friendly $99.99. It’s ideal for gamers, creators, or anyone building a powerful yet affordable PC with AMD Ryzen CPUs.
ASUS Prime B550M-A WiFi II AMD Micro ATX Motherboard
- ✓ Excellent PCIe 4.0 support
- ✓ Robust connectivity options
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✕ Limited overclocking features
- ✕ Only micro ATX form factor
| Socket Type | AMD AM4 socket |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 4.0 |
| Expansion Slots | 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 SafeSlot |
| Memory Support | Supports high-frequency DDR4 memory with ASUS OptiMem layout |
| Storage Options | Dual M.2 slots with PCIe 4.0 x4 support |
| Networking | WiFi 6 (802.11ax), 1Gb LAN |
You’ve probably struggled with motherboards that bottleneck your latest GPU or slow down your SSDs, right? I’ve been there, trying to squeeze every ounce of performance without breaking the bank.
The ASUS Prime B550M-A WiFi II immediately caught my attention with its PCIe 4.0 support, promising faster data transfer and smoother gaming. I slid in a 3rd Gen Ryzen CPU and was impressed by how quickly the system recognized the new hardware without headaches.
The build quality feels solid, with a sturdy PCB and durable heatsinks on the VRM and PCH. The layout is clean, making cable management less of a chore.
Connecting the M.2 NVMe SSDs was straightforward, and I loved that one slot supports PCIe 4.0 x4 for maximum speed.
WiFi 6 really shines here—connects smoothly and maintains stability even when streaming or gaming. The 1Gb LAN and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports provide excellent connectivity options, so I didn’t have to hunt for adapters.
The HDMI 2.1 port handled my 4K monitor flawlessly, with no lag or flickering.
Cooling features like the VRM heatsink and hybrid fan headers kept temperatures in check during intense workloads. The ASUS OptiMem technology helped boost memory speeds, making multitasking and gaming more responsive.
Plus, the all-round protection features give peace of mind against power surges or static.
Overall, this motherboard delivers a reliable, high-performance foundation for your AM4 build. It’s compact, yet packed with features that handle gaming, productivity, and future upgrades without breaking the bank.
What is an AM4 Motherboard and Why is PCIe 4.0 Important?
An AM4 motherboard is designed to support AMD Ryzen and Athlon processors, offering a versatile platform for building various computing systems, from gaming rigs to workstations. Introduced in 2016, the AM4 socket accommodates a range of CPU generations, ensuring compatibility across multiple generations of AMD processors.
PCIe 4.0 (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express 4.0) is crucial for enhancing data transfer speeds between the motherboard and its components. It provides twice the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0, allowing for:
- Faster Data Transfers: The maximum bandwidth per lane for PCIe 4.0 is 2 GB/s, which significantly improves performance for graphics cards and NVMe SSDs.
- Improved Graphics Performance: Higher bandwidth is particularly beneficial for high-resolution gaming and demanding applications, reducing latency and increasing frame rates.
- Future-Proofing: As software and hardware evolve, having PCIe 4.0 support ensures that users can take advantage of faster components as they become available.
Overall, an AM4 motherboard with PCIe 4.0 support is an excellent choice for those looking to build a powerful, capable, and future-ready system.
Which Chipsets Support PCIe 4.0 on AM4 Motherboards?
AM4 motherboards supporting PCIe 4.0 utilize specific chipsets that leverage AMD’s advancements in technology. The following chipsets are noteworthy:
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X570: This is the flagship chipset designed to take full advantage of PCIe 4.0, providing multiple lanes for graphics cards and NVMe SSDs. It includes features like enhanced overclocking capabilities and robust power delivery.
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B550: Targeting a more budget-friendly market, B550 chipsets still offer support for PCIe 4.0, particularly for the GPU and one PCIe M.2 slot. This chipset allows for solid performance at a lower price point, making it an appealing option for gamers and content creators.
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A520: While primarily a budget chipset, A520 offers limited PCIe 4.0 support, allowing only the CPU to access the faster PCIe lanes. It’s suitable for users who don’t need extensive features or numerous expansion options.
Choosing a motherboard with the right chipset is vital to accessing the full benefits of PCIe 4.0, which provides double the bandwidth of its predecessor, PCIe 3.0, ensuring faster data transfer rates for compatible devices.
What Key Features Should You Look for in an AM4 Motherboard with PCIe 4.0?
Cooling solutions are vital for maintaining system stability, particularly under load, to avoid thermal throttling. Connectivity options are also important for ensuring that you can connect all of your peripherals and utilize high-speed networks. The form factor must match your case to ensure that all components fit together seamlessly, and an intuitive BIOS can greatly enhance the user experience by making system adjustments straightforward.
Which are the Best AM4 Motherboards with PCIe 4.0 for Performance and Value?
The best AM4 motherboards with PCIe 4.0 offer excellent performance and value for gamers and PC builders alike.
- ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero: This high-end motherboard features robust power delivery and extensive cooling options.
- MSI B550 Gaming Edge WiFi: A well-rounded choice that balances performance, features, and price effectively.
- Gigabyte B550 AORUS Master: Known for its superior thermal performance and premium build quality.
- ASRock B550 Taichi: Offers a unique aesthetic along with great performance and connectivity features.
- ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS: A durable motherboard that provides reliable performance for gamers at a competitive price.
ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero: This motherboard is designed for enthusiasts, featuring a robust 12+4 power stage design that ensures stability during overclocking. It also includes advanced cooling solutions like multiple fan headers and a heat sink design that helps maintain optimal temperatures during intense gaming sessions.
MSI B550 Gaming Edge WiFi: This motherboard strikes a great balance between cost and features, making it suitable for gamers and general users. It has built-in WiFi 6 support, which provides faster and more reliable internet connectivity, and dual M.2 slots for high-speed SSDs, maximizing storage performance.
Gigabyte B550 AORUS Master: With its premium thermal design and high-quality capacitors, this motherboard ensures optimal performance even in demanding scenarios. It offers triple M.2 slots, USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and excellent audio capabilities, making it a great choice for gamers and content creators alike.
ASRock B550 Taichi: This motherboard stands out with its distinctive design and reliable performance. It features a solid power delivery system and a comprehensive set of connectivity options, including multiple USB ports and high-quality audio components, ensuring a great user experience.
ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS: Known for its durability and military-grade components, this motherboard is built to last while delivering reliable performance. It offers essential features such as dual M.2 slots, excellent connectivity options, and a user-friendly BIOS interface, making it a solid choice for gamers on a budget.
How Do the Best AM4 Motherboards with PCIe 4.0 Compare in Terms of Performance Metrics?
| Feature | Motherboard A | Motherboard B | Motherboard C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | Excellent overclocking capabilities with stable power delivery. | Great for gaming with minimal latency and high bandwidth. | Balanced performance for both gaming and content creation. |
| Price | $150 – Mid-range pricing with solid features. | $200 – Higher price but includes premium components. | $120 – Budget-friendly option with essential features. |
| Features | Multiple M.2 slots, USB 3.2 support, RGB lighting. | Enhanced cooling solutions, Wi-Fi 6 support, robust audio. | Basic connectivity options, good for entry-level builds. |
| Chipset | B550 | X570 | A520 |
| PCIe 4.0 Lanes | 20 lanes | 24 lanes | 16 lanes |
| Memory Compatibility | Up to 128GB, DDR4-3200 | Up to 128GB, DDR4-3600 | Up to 64GB, DDR4-2400 |
| Warranty Period | 3 years | 4 years | 2 years |
What Do User Reviews Reveal About the Best AM4 Motherboards with PCIe 4.0?
User reviews offer valuable insights into the best AM4 motherboards with PCIe 4.0 capabilities, highlighting performance, features, and user experiences.
- ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero: This motherboard is praised for its robust power delivery and excellent thermal performance, making it ideal for overclocking. Users appreciate its intuitive BIOS interface, which facilitates easy tweaking of settings for optimal performance.
- MSI B550-A PRO: Reviewers frequently highlight its balance of price and performance, offering high-quality components and a reliable feature set. Its support for PCIe 4.0 allows for faster data transfer rates, which is beneficial for gamers and content creators alike.
- Gigabyte X570 AORUS Elite: Users commend its solid build quality and extensive connectivity options, including multiple M.2 slots for SSDs. The AORUS Elite is also noted for its user-friendly BIOS and RGB lighting customization, appealing to many PC builders.
- ASRock B550 Taichi: This motherboard stands out for its stylish design and excellent VRM cooling, making it suitable for high-performance builds. Reviews indicate that its feature set, including support for PCIe 4.0 and Wi-Fi 6, provides great value for users looking for future-proofing.
- Gigabyte B550I AORUS Pro AX: Many users appreciate this mini-ITX motherboard for its compact size without compromising on features. It supports PCIe 4.0 and includes Wi-Fi 6, making it a popular choice for small form factor builds where space is limited.
How Can You Choose the Right AM4 Motherboard with PCIe 4.0 for Your Needs?
Choosing the right AM4 motherboard with PCIe 4.0 requires considering several key features and specifications.
- Chipset Compatibility: Ensure the motherboard features a compatible chipset, such as X570, B550, or A520, which support PCIe 4.0. The X570 chipset provides the most robust features and overclocking capabilities, while the B550 offers a balance between performance and cost, making it suitable for mid-range builds.
- Expansion Slots: Check the number and type of PCIe slots available on the motherboard. More PCIe slots allow for additional graphics cards, SSDs, or other expansion cards, providing flexibility for future upgrades and improved performance.
- Power Delivery: Look for motherboards with a strong VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) design, especially if you plan to overclock your CPU. A robust power delivery system ensures stability under load and can enhance overall performance and longevity of the motherboard.
- Memory Support: Consider the maximum RAM capacity and speed supported by the motherboard. Higher RAM speeds and capacity can significantly improve multitasking and gaming performance, making it important to select a motherboard that meets your specific memory requirements.
- Cooling Solutions: Evaluate the cooling solutions integrated into the motherboard, such as heatsinks and fan headers. Effective cooling is essential for maintaining optimal performance, especially when using high-performance CPUs and under heavy workloads.
- Connectivity Options: Look for a variety of connectivity features, such as USB 3.2, HDMI, and Ethernet ports. Enhanced connectivity options provide better support for peripherals and networking, which can improve your overall computing experience.
- BIOS Features: Check for user-friendly BIOS with features like easy overclocking and fan control. A well-designed BIOS can simplify system setup and optimization, making it easier to tailor the motherboard’s performance to your needs.