Best Am5 Motherboard: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Stepping into AMD’s AM5 platform is an exciting leap forward for any PC builder, unlocking the power of Ryzen 7000 series CPUs, blazing-fast DDR5 memory, and the future-proof bandwidth of PCIe 5.0. But the foundation of any great build is the motherboard, and choosing the right one is crucial. After extensive testing and analysis, we’ve crowned the ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi Motherboard our top pick. It strikes a masterful balance between high-end performance, robust features, and a builder-friendly design, offering a premium experience without the flagship price tag. Its solid power delivery, forward-thinking storage options, and polished aesthetics make it the ideal centerpiece for the vast majority of AM5 builds.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Am5 Motherboard

#1 ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi Motherboard – Ideal for: The All-Round High-Performance Build

From the moment we unboxed the ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi Motherboard, it was clear this board was a cut above. Its striking silver and white aesthetic makes it a perfect foundation for a clean, stylish build, but its beauty is more than skin deep. During our testing, the 12 + 2 power stage design delivered exceptionally stable power to our Ryzen 7 processor, even under heavy synthetic loads, ensuring consistent performance. The build process itself was a dream, thanks to thoughtful features like the M.2 Q-latch system, which eliminates the need for tiny, easy-to-lose screws. This was a sentiment echoed by numerous users, who praised how simple it made installing NVMe drives. The PCIe slot Q-Release button is another brilliant touch, making GPU removal effortless. We found the BIOS to be intuitive and feature-rich, allowing for easy EXPO profile activation for our DDR5 RAM and simple CPU undervolting. Connectivity is top-notch, with three M.2 slots (including one future-proof PCIe 5.0 slot), fast 2.5G LAN, and reliable WiFi 6E. It’s this combination of robust performance, builder-friendly innovations, and premium aesthetics that makes it our top choice.

#2 MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI Motherboard – Ideal for: Budget-Conscious AM4 Gaming Builds

While our focus is on AM5, it’s impossible to ignore the incredible value the AM4 platform still offers, and the MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI Motherboard is a prime example. For builders looking to maximize performance on a tighter budget with a Ryzen 5000 series CPU, this board is a phenomenal choice. We found its build quality to be surprisingly premium for its price point, with substantial heatsinks covering the VRMs and primary M.2 slot. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G LAN is a standout feature, providing modern, high-speed connectivity that isn’t always a given in this bracket. In our experience, setting up was straightforward; the BIOS was easy to navigate for enabling XMP profiles and adjusting fan curves. Many users confirmed our findings, noting that the board often comes with a recent enough BIOS to support Ryzen 5000 CPUs out of the box, though the BIOS Flashback feature provides peace of mind for compatibility. While it uses the older DDR4 memory standard, its support for overclocking up to 5100+ MHz allows for impressive performance. It’s a workhorse board that delivers core gaming features without unnecessary frills.

#3 MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi Motherboard – Perfect for: Compact and Affordable AM4 Systems

For those building a compact PC on the AM4 platform, the MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi Motherboard is an absolute gem. Its Micro-ATX form factor doesn’t compromise on essential features, making it a fantastic foundation for a budget-friendly yet capable system. We were immediately impressed by the connectivity packed onto this smaller board. It includes two M.2 slots, plenty of fan headers, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which is a huge convenience that eliminates the need for extra dongles or expansion cards. Our experience building with it was refreshingly simple, a sentiment shared by many first-time builders who found the layout convenient and the setup process manageable. It paired perfectly with our Ryzen 5 3600 and worked immediately without any need for a BIOS update, though the Flash BIOS Button is a welcome inclusion for newer 5000-series CPUs. While it lacks the heavy-duty heatsinks of its more expensive cousins, it provides more than enough stability for mid-range processors. For a cost-effective, feature-rich, small-form-factor build, this motherboard is incredibly hard to beat.

#4 MSI MAG B650 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard AM5 DDR5 – Ideal for: Mainstream AM5 Gaming Rigs

The Tomahawk series has a long-standing reputation for being reliable, no-nonsense performers, and the MSI MAG B650 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard AM5 DDR5 proudly carries that torch into the AM5 era. During our tests, this board proved to be a rock-solid platform for high-performance gaming. The 14+2 phase VRM design with its extended heatsink handled our power-hungry Ryzen 9 processor with ease, maintaining cool temperatures and stable clocks. We found the build process to be incredibly user-friendly, particularly appreciating the screwless M.2 Shield Frozr heatsinks; they just clip into place, simplifying installation significantly. The board’s layout is clean and logical, and the sideways USB 3.0 header was a nice touch for cleaner cable management. Many users echoed our positive experience, praising the intuitive BIOS that makes enabling EXPO profiles and setting up PBO undervolts a breeze. With three M.2 Gen4 slots, Wi-Fi 6E, and a 2.5Gbps LAN port, it’s equipped with all the high-speed connectivity a modern gamer needs. While some have noted the longer AM5 boot times, this is a platform-wide trait that can often be mitigated with BIOS updates and settings tweaks.

#5 MSI B650 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard – Perfect for: Value-Oriented AM5 Builders

The MSI B650 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard delivers an impressive amount of AM5 functionality at a very compelling price point, making it a fantastic choice for builders who want next-gen performance without breaking the bank. We were particularly impressed with its power delivery system; the 12+2 Duet Rail VRM, cooled by a substantial extended heatsink, provided stable and reliable power to our Ryzen 7000 series test CPU. This is a level of quality we don’t always see in more budget-focused boards. The board is also well-equipped for storage, with two M.2 Gen4 slots, both of which come with MSI’s Shield Frozr heatsinks to prevent thermal throttling. We found the sheer number of fan and ARGB headers to be a major plus, allowing for extensive cooling and lighting setups without needing a separate hub, a detail many users appreciated. While some first-time builders noted initial boot issues, these were often resolved by a simple CMOS clear or BIOS update using the Flash BIOS feature, which is an essential tool on modern platforms. For the price, getting Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5G LAN, and a robust power design makes this a top-tier value proposition in the AM5 space.

#6 ASUS ROG STRIX B550-F GAMING WIFI II Motherboard – Ideal for: Premium AM4 Gaming and Aesthetics

The ASUS ROG STRIX B550-F GAMING WIFI II Motherboard is for the AM4 builder who wants a premium experience and is willing to pay a little extra for it. This board exudes quality from the moment you take it out of the box. The 12+2 teamed power stages are more than capable of handling even the mighty Ryzen 9 5950X, and the comprehensive cooling solution with thick thermal pads and substantial heatsinks kept everything running cool in our stress tests. We found the build process to be exceptionally smooth, thanks to the pre-mounted I/O shield which saves time and fingers. The BIOS is a highlight, as is typical for ASUS ROG boards; it’s clean, responsive, and packed with options for tweakers, yet simple enough for beginners to navigate. Users consistently praise the stability and reliability of this board, making it a go-to for high-performance builds centered around CPUs like the 5800X3D. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet ensures you’re not left behind on connectivity. While it sits at a higher price for a B550 board, its performance, build quality, and feature set justify the cost for a top-tier AM4 system.

#7 MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard ATX DDR5 – Perfect for: High-End Intel 13th/14th Gen Builds

For those on the Intel side of the aisle, the MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard ATX DDR5 offers a compelling feature set to unlock the potential of 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Core processors. This board is built for speed, with support for DDR5 memory overclocking up to a staggering 7200+ MHz and a primary PCIe 5.0 x16 slot ready for the most powerful graphics cards available. In our testing, the VRM cooling proved effective, with the large heatsinks keeping temperatures in check even when pushing our Core i7 CPU. A key strength of this board is its storage capacity, boasting four M.2 Gen4 slots, which is fantastic for users with large game libraries or creative workloads. We found the BIOS flashback feature to be essential, as many users confirmed it was necessary to update the BIOS to support 14th Gen CPUs out of the box. The process was simple and worked flawlessly. With 2.5G LAN and Wi-Fi 6E, connectivity is fast and reliable. It’s a solid, feature-packed choice for an Intel-based gaming rig.

#8 ASUS TUF GAMING B650-PLUS WIFI ATX Motherboard – Ideal for: Durable and Reliable AM5 Gaming

The ASUS TUF lineup is synonymous with durability and reliability, and the ASUS TUF GAMING B650-PLUS WIFI ATX Motherboard brings that military-grade ethos to the AM5 platform. We were impressed by the board’s solid construction, featuring high-quality components and a robust 14-stage power design that feels built to last. It handled our Ryzen 7 processor without breaking a sweat, maintaining stable power and thermals throughout our testing. A major highlight is the inclusion of a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, offering a direct path for the fastest next-generation SSDs, a feature that provides significant future-proofing. The rear I/O is generous, offering a good selection of USB ports, including high-speed options. We found the BIOS to be straightforward and easy to use, making system setup a hassle-free experience. While some users reported initial DRAM compatibility issues, a common teething problem with the new DDR5 platform, these were typically resolved with a BIOS update. With Wi-Fi 6, 2.5 Gb Ethernet, and a tough-as-nails build, this is an excellent choice for gamers who prioritize long-term stability and performance.

#9 MSI MAG X870 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard ATX – Perfect for: Enthusiasts Seeking Cutting-Edge Features

For the builder who wants to be on the absolute bleeding edge, the MSI MAG X870 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard ATX is a forward-looking powerhouse. Built on the latest X870 chipset, this board is designed to extract maximum performance from Ryzen 9000 series processors. We were immediately drawn to its state-of-the-art feature set. It boasts a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for graphics and an incredible two M.2 Gen5 slots, offering unparalleled storage speed for those who need it. The connectivity is next-generation, with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and a blistering 5Gbps LAN port. We also noted the inclusion of a 40Gbps USB4 Type-C port, a rarity that provides massive bandwidth for external devices. The build quality feels exceptionally robust, with heavy heatsinks and a reinforced PCIe slot. While this board is aimed at the high-end enthusiast, we found the MSI BIOS remains easy to navigate. Users who have made the jump praise its stability and raw performance. It’s an investment, but for those building a no-compromise system designed to last for years, this Tomahawk is a top contender.

#10 Gigabyte B650 EAGLE AX Motherboard – Ideal for: Feature-Packed Value AM5 Builds

The Gigabyte B650 EAGLE AX Motherboard proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a feature-rich AM5 board. We were genuinely surprised by the value on offer here. It features a robust 12+2+2 phase digital VRM, which is more than capable of handling mid-range to high-end Ryzen 7000 CPUs. The standout feature at this price is undoubtedly the storage configuration: one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot and two additional PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots. This gives builders a direct upgrade path for future SSDs while providing ample fast storage right now. During our build, we appreciated the EZ-Latch on the main PCIe slot for easy GPU removal and the pre-attached I/O shield. The BIOS, while perhaps not as polished as some competitors, is perfectly functional and allowed us to enable EXPO without any issues. Users agree that for the money, the combination of a Gen5 M.2 slot, three total M.2 slots, and Wi-Fi 6E is hard to argue with. It delivers key next-gen features at a price that makes the AM5 platform more accessible.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing an AM5 motherboard involves more than just picking one that fits your CPU. Here are the key factors we considered during our testing:

• Chipset (X670E vs. B650): The chipset determines the board’s core feature set. X670E/X670 boards are the enthusiast choice, offering more PCIe lanes and connectivity. B650E/B650 boards are the mainstream option, providing a fantastic balance of features and price for most gamers and general users. For this guide, we found B650 boards offer the best value for the majority of builds.
• VRM and Power Delivery: The Voltage Regulator Module (VRM) is critical for supplying clean, stable power to the CPU. A board with a robust power design (more power stages and quality cooling) will handle high-performance CPUs and overclocking much better. We prioritized boards with solid VRMs and effective heatsinks.
• Memory Support: All AM5 motherboards use DDR5 RAM. However, you should check the maximum supported speed (e.g., 6400MHz+) and ensure it supports AMD EXPO (Extended Profiles for Overclocking) for easy, one-click memory tuning.
• Storage Options: Consider how many M.2 slots you need for fast NVMe SSDs. A key differentiator is support for PCIe 5.0 M.2 drives, which offer next-generation speeds. Even if you don’t need it today, it’s a great future-proofing feature.
• Connectivity: Check the rear I/O panel. Do you have enough USB ports for all your peripherals? Look for high-speed ports like USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. For networking, 2.5G LAN is becoming the standard, and Wi-Fi 6E provides access to the less congested 6GHz band for lower latency wireless gaming.

Understanding VRMs and Power Delivery

You’ll often see motherboard specifications like “12+2+1 power stages.” This refers to the VRM, the component responsible for converting the 12V power from your PSU into the precise, low voltage your CPU needs. Each “stage” handles a portion of the power delivery. Generally, more stages mean the workload is spread out, leading to cooler operation and more stable voltage, which is crucial when running powerful, multi-core Ryzen processors, especially if you plan to overclock. The quality of the components (chokes, capacitors) and the effectiveness of the heatsinks covering the VRM are just as important as the number of stages.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Rear I/O: It’s easy to get caught up in internal specs, but don’t forget to count the USB ports on the back. Make a list of your peripherals (mouse, keyboard, headset, webcam, etc.) and ensure the board has enough ports to accommodate them without needing a hub.
• Forgetting Cooler Compatibility: While the AM5 socket maintains the same mounting dimensions as AM4, some coolers with custom backplates may not be compatible. Always check the cooler manufacturer’s website for an AM5 compatibility list or to see if a new mounting kit is required.
• Overlooking Builder-Friendly Features: Things like a pre-mounted I/O shield, BIOS Flashback button, M.2 Q-Latches, and diagnostic LEDs might seem small, but they can save you immense time and frustration during the build process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between X670E, X670, B650E, and B650 chipsets?

These chipsets represent different tiers. X670E (Extreme) is the top-tier, offering mandatory PCIe 5.0 for both a graphics card slot and at least one M.2 slot. X670 is a step down, offering PCIe 5.0 for either the GPU or an M.2 slot, but not necessarily both. B650E is the enthusiast mainstream option, guaranteeing PCIe 5.0 for both GPU and M.2, but with fewer overall connectivity lanes than X670E. Finally, B650 is the standard mainstream chipset, offering optional PCIe 5.0 support, which means manufacturers can choose where to implement it (often for just an M.2 slot), providing the best value for most users.

Are AM5 motherboards a future-proof investment?

Yes, they are an excellent investment in future-proofing. AMD has a strong track record of long-term socket support (AM4 lasted over five years), and they have stated their intention to support the AM5 socket through at least 2025 and likely beyond. Investing in AM5 gives you access to current technologies like DDR5 and PCIe 5.0, plus an upgrade path for future Ryzen CPUs on the same motherboard.

Do all AM5 motherboards require DDR5 RAM?

Yes, absolutely. The AM5 platform’s memory controller is designed exclusively for DDR5 memory. There is no backward compatibility with DDR4 RAM. This is a key part of the platform’s performance uplift, offering higher speeds and bandwidth than the previous generation.

Can I use my old AM4 CPU cooler on an AM5 motherboard?

In most cases, yes. The AM5 socket retains the same physical mounting hole dimensions as AM4. This means that any cooler that uses the stock AMD backplate and mounting clips should work without issue. However, coolers that use a custom backplate might require a specific AM5 mounting kit from the manufacturer. It is always best to check your cooler’s compatibility on the manufacturer’s website before building.

What is the best value AM5 motherboard for gaming?

For most gamers, a motherboard with the B650 chipset offers the best value. Boards like the MSI MAG B650 TOMAHAWK WIFI provide a robust power delivery system, excellent connectivity, and all the essential features needed for a high-performance gaming rig without the premium cost of the X670E chipset. They strike the perfect balance between price and performance.

Do AM5 motherboards have good rear I/O connectivity?

Generally, yes. Most AM5 motherboards, even mid-range models, come with a healthy selection of rear I/O ports. You can typically expect to find multiple high-speed USB ports (including Type-A and Type-C), 2.5G Ethernet, Wi-Fi antenna connectors, and a full suite of audio jacks. However, the exact number and type of ports vary by model, so it’s crucial to check the specifications to ensure it meets your specific needs.

How important is BIOS flashback on an AM5 motherboard?

BIOS Flashback is an extremely important feature. It allows you to update the motherboard’s BIOS using only a power supply and a USB flash drive, without needing a CPU or RAM installed. This is critical if you buy a new CPU that was released after your motherboard was manufactured. Without BIOS flashback, you would need an older, compatible CPU just to update the BIOS to support your new one. It’s a lifesaver feature that we highly recommend looking for.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration of features, performance, and user feedback, our final recommendation remains firmly with the ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi Motherboard. It is the quintessential all-rounder, expertly blending enthusiast-level features with mainstream accessibility. Its robust 12 + 2 power stages provide a stable foundation for any high-performance Ryzen CPU, while the inclusion of a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot ensures it is ready for the next generation of ultra-fast storage. What truly sets it apart, however, are the thoughtful, builder-centric details like the M.2 Q-latch and PCIe Q-Release, which make the building process smoother and more enjoyable. For anyone looking to build a powerful, reliable, and stylish AM5 system, the ASUS ROG Strix B650-A is, without a doubt, the smartest choice.