Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi ATX DDR4
The Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II is a feature-rich ATX motherboard designed for AMD AM4 processors, supporting up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM with various memory speeds. It offers advanced connectivity options, including PCIe 4.0, WiFi 6E, and high-definition audio, making it an excellent choice for gamers and enthusiasts.
Popularity: High
Specifications:
Model: Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi ATX DDR4
Chipset: AMD B550
Form Factor:
CPU Compatibility: AMD Ryzen™ 5000 Series/ 5000 G-Series/ 4000 G-Series/ 3000 Series Desktop Processors
Memory Support: 4 x DIMM, Max. 128GB, Dual channel memory architecture
Maximum Memory Capacity: 128GB
Memory Speed: 4400(O.C)/4266(O.C)/4133(O.C)/4000(O.C)/3866(O.C)/3600(O.C)/3466(O.C.)/3200/3000/2800/2666/2400/2133 MHz
Memory Features: OptiMem II, ECC memory support varies by CPU
RAM Slots: 4.0
Graphics Output: 1 x DisplayPort 1.2, 1 x HDMI 2.1 (4K@60HZ)
Expansion Slots: 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 SafeSlot, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, 3 x PCIe 3.0 x1
Storage Options: 1 x M.2_1 slot, 1 x M.2_2 slot, 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports, Support RAID 0, 1, 10
Ethernet: 1 x Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet, ASUS LANGuard
Wireless Bluetooth:
USB Ports (Rear): Total 8 ports: 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 2 x USB 2.0
USB Ports (Front): Total 6 ports
Audio: ROG SupremeFX 7.1-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC S1220A
Back Panel I/O Ports: 5 x Audio jacks, 1 x Optical S/PDIF out, 1 x BIOS FlashBack™ button, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI port, 1 x Intel® I225-V 2.5G Ethernet, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, 2 x USB 2.0 ports
Internal I/O Connectors: 1 x 4-Pin AIO_Pump header, 1 x 4-Pin CPU fan header, 1 x 4-Pin CPU_OPT fan header, 3 x 4-Pin Chassis fan headers, 1 x 24-pin main power connector, 1 x 8-pin +12V power connector, 1 x 4-pin +12V power connector, 2 x M.2 slots, 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports
Cooling Headers: 1 x 4-Pin AIO_Pump header, 1 x 4-Pin CPU fan header, 1 x 4-Pin CPU_OPT fan header, 3 x 4-Pin Chassis fan headers
Power Connectors: 1 x 24-pin main power connector, 1 x 8-pin +12V power connector, 1 x 4-pin +12V power connector
BIOS: 256 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS
Manufacturer Page: Link
Review
The Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi ATX DDR4 is a feature-rich ATX motherboard tailored for mid-tier gaming enthusiasts who seek a balanced blend of advanced connectivity and robust performance. With its support for AMD AM4 Ryzen processors and PCIe 4.0, this motherboard stands as a testimony to Asus's expertise in delivering high-quality components that do not compromise on connectivity or expandability.
Key Features and Specifications
- Chipset: AMD B550
- Memory Support: Up to 128GB DDR4 with OptiMem II technology, supporting frequencies up to DDR4-5100 (OC) MHz
- Connectivity: PCIe 4.0, integrated Intel® WiFi 6, and 2.5Gb Ethernet for high-speed networking opportunities
- Storage Options: Dual M.2 slots including one with PCIe 4.0 x4 support, and six SATA 6Gb/s ports
- Audio: Equipped with ROG SupremeFX S1220A codec for superior sound quality
- USB Configuration: Multiple USB ports including USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A and Type-C
Design and Aesthetics
The Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi ATX DDR4 carries a modern, visually appealing design characterized by its monochromatic black theme that highlights the integrated RGB lighting. This setup enhances the visual appeal when mounted in clear casing, allowing gamers to enjoy a \"high-tech\" aesthetic while also boasting functionality in thermal design with effective heatsinks.
Performance and Overclocking
The motherboard shines in its power delivery and overclocking capabilities. Its 12+2 phase power design ensures that high-end processors like the Ryzen 9 5950X operate stably and efficiently. In benchmark tests, the board's VRM was noted to maintain relatively low temperatures even under demanding loads, pointing to its competent thermal handling capabilities AnandTech. The inclusion of accurate voltage regulation through ASUS DIGI+ Power Control further enables precise overclocking.
Gaming and Audio
As a product aimed at gamers, the Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi ATX DDR4 motherboard does not disappoint. The ROG SupremeFX S1220A audio codec ensures engaging soundscapes and immersive audio experiences, notably when paired with high-impedance headphones for which the audio outputs are well-optimized Tech Revolutionist. The board's superb processing performance is backed by impressive benchmarks in gaming scenarios where it matches or exceeds similarly priced competitors.
Networking and I/O Capabilities
Utilizing Intel's I225-V 2.5Gb Ethernet controller ensures fast and stable internet connectivity, which is crucial in competitive gaming. Additionally, the board's integrated Wi-Fi 6 technology means even wireless connections won't lag behind. I/O options are diverse, with an array of USB ports to accommodate a multitude of peripherals, complementing connectivity with HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort video outputs for versatile display configurations AnandTech.
Conclusion
The Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi ATX DDR4 is a solid choice for PC builders and gamers looking to balance cost and performance. With its comprehensive feature set, dependable connectivity options, and effortlessly handled overclocking and thermal tasks, it stands out as a formidable option in the mid-range motherboard space. While the pricing might be slightly above entry-level, the performance and features offered justify the investment, especially for gamers seeking a reliable backbone for their AMD-powered setups.