MSI has launched a new variant of its popular B550 TOMAHAWK motherboard, dubbed the B550 TOMAHAWK WIFI. This updated model brings modern enhancements to the AMD Socket AM4 platform, including Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
Key Changes and Features
While the B550 TOMAHAWK WIFI retains the robust foundation of its predecessor, it introduces some notable modifications. The design aesthetic has been refreshed, and the integration of Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 ensures cutting-edge wireless performance. However, these upgrades come with a couple of compromises: the number of SATA ports has been reduced from six to four, and the onboard LAN has been streamlined to a single 2.5GbE port, down from the previous dual setup (2.5GbE + 1GbE).
Under the hood, the B550 TOMAHAWK WIFI boasts a 6-layer, 2oz copper PCB, a testament to MSI’s commitment to quality and performance. The motherboard is equipped with an 8+2+1 phase power delivery system, powered by a single EPS 8-pin CPU connector, designed to provide stable power to the processor.
Memory and Expansion Capabilities
For memory, the board features a 4-DIMM layout supporting DDR4 memory overclocking up to speeds exceeding 5100 MT/s, catering to enthusiasts looking to push their system’s limits. In terms of expansion slots, users will find:
- 1 x PCIe Gen4 x16 slot
- 1 x PCIe Gen3 x4 slot (physically full-length)
- 2 x PCIe Gen3 x1 slots
Storage connectivity includes two M.2 slots. One M.2 slot supports PCIe Gen4 x4 speeds, while the other supports PCIe Gen3 x4, with SATA compatibility also available for one of the M.2 slots, offering flexibility for different storage configurations.
Connectivity Options
The I/O panel is well-equipped, featuring a rear USB-C port with 10Gbps transfer speeds and a front USB-C port offering 5Gbps speeds. This ensures ample high-speed connectivity for modern peripherals and devices.
The MSI B550 TOMAHAWK WIFI motherboard aims to strike a balance between up-to-date wireless technology and core performance features, making it a compelling option for builders who prioritize Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 while understanding the slight reduction in physical SATA ports and wired LAN options.
