ASRock B650E PG-ITX WiFi motherboard review for AMD Ryzen builds

Description

Exceptional Performance with Cutting-Edge Features

The ASRock B650E PG-ITX WiFi AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Compatible Motherboard delivers a truly impressive performance package. Right out of the box, I was struck by its 10+2+1 phase power design, which guarantees smooth and stable power delivery—a crucial factor when pushing your system to its limits. Testing it with the AMD Ryzen 7000 Series processor, I noticed it handled demanding tasks effortlessly, from gaming to heavy multitasking. The integration of DDR5 DIMM slots supporting up to 6400+(OC) is a game-changer, allowing cutting-edge RAM performance to keep things running smoothly.

For users who value graphics performance, the PCIe 5.0 x16 slot is an absolute standout. It ensures compatibility with the latest GPUs, which is perfect for gamers and creators alike. The addition of Blazing M.2 (PCIe Gen5x4) and Hyper M.2 (PCIe Gen4x4) slots means lightning-fast storage speeds, which I found incredibly helpful for reducing load times and improving workflow efficiency.

Sleek and Compact Design

This motherboard’s Mini-ITX form factor is ideal for those of us who prefer compact builds without sacrificing functionality. I personally set it up in a small form-factor case, and it fit like a glove. Despite its size, it doesn’t compromise on ports or expandability, offering a generous 7.1-channel HD audio setup with Realtek ALC1220 codec and Nahimic audio enhancements. The audio quality is crisp, making it an excellent choice for immersive gaming or media consumption.

The inclusion of Killer 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 also ensures seamless connectivity, which I tested extensively while streaming and syncing devices. Having built-in Wi-Fi with 2.5G LAN as a backup adds versatility, especially if you’re like me and switch between wired and wireless setups depending on the task.

Key Benefits

• Support for DDR5 memory enhances overall system responsiveness and speed.
• PCIe 5.0 compatibility future-proofs your build for upcoming GPUs.
• Blazing M.2 and Hyper M.2 slots provide incredible storage speeds.
• Killer Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 integration deliver reliable wireless connectivity.

Room for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, there are a few areas where this motherboard could improve. While I appreciated the extensive USB options (including USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C), I found the rear I/O layout somewhat cramped, especially when connecting multiple peripherals. Additionally, the BIOS interface, while functional, felt a bit outdated compared to competitors, lacking some user-friendly customization options.

• Rear I/O layout can feel tight with numerous connections.
• BIOS interface could benefit from a modern refresh.

Competitive Options

Comparing this motherboard to its rivals, such as the ASUS ROG Strix B650E-I Gaming WiFi, I found some trade-offs. While the ASRock model excels in power phase design and PCIe 5.0 storage options, the ASUS motherboard offers a slightly more polished BIOS interface and easier overclocking options. On the other hand, the MSI MPG B650I Edge WiFi provides strong competition with its enhanced thermal solutions, which could be a consideration for those building systems prone to heat buildup.

What sets the ASRock apart is the Blazing M.2 slot, which offers faster storage speeds compared to many alternatives. However, its competitors could have a slight edge in terms of user experience and ease of setup.

Smart Spending

Given its robust feature set, the ASRock B650E PG-ITX WiFi strikes a solid balance between performance and cost. While it’s not the cheapest Mini-ITX option on the market, its support for next-gen processors, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0 makes it a worthwhile investment for those looking to future-proof their system. If you’re someone who values cutting-edge technology and compact design, this motherboard is an excellent choice.

To wrap things up (without actually concluding), this motherboard delivers an impressive array of features, making it an attractive option for gamers, creators, and PC enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re building a powerful gaming rig or a compact workstation, its performance and versatility stand out in a crowded market.

Additional information