ASRock B650M PG Lightning WiFi 6E Motherboard review for AMD Ryzen builds

Description

Initial Impressions: A Compact Powerhouse for Enthusiasts

The ASRock B650M PG LIGHTNING WIFI motherboard is one of those products that instantly grabs your attention. With its Micro ATX form factor, it is compact yet packed with features that cater to gamers, PC enthusiasts, and professionals alike. I didn’t expect it to handle so much versatility at first, but the specs proved otherwise. Supporting AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors, this motherboard was ready to accommodate the latest tech without breaking a sweat. The WiFi 6E connectivity and Bluetooth support were cherries on top, ensuring seamless modern connectivity.

From the moment I unboxed it, I could tell the build quality was solid. The motherboard felt sturdy but not overly bulky, and the layout of the components made assembly straightforward. While I’m no stranger to building PCs, I can appreciate how this board makes installation simpler for beginners as well. The included BIOS Flashback feature also made updating the firmware a breeze, which is a lifesaver when setting up a new system.

Performance and Overclocking: DDR5 and PCIe Excellence

What truly sets this motherboard apart is its DDR5 support, handling up to 7200+ MHz (OC). I ran my system with 32 GB of DDR5 RAM, and the performance was buttery smooth. While testing games and multitasking, the responsiveness was impressive. The dual-channel memory compatibility allowed me to push my RAM to its limits without a single hiccup. Gamers and content creators looking to maximize performance will find this feature invaluable.

The inclusion of PCIe Gen5 and PCIe Gen4 slots meant I could connect my blazing-fast M.2 SSDs and high-performance graphics card without compromise. Installing a Gen5 M.2 SSD was particularly exciting, as the read and write speeds were just insane. Loading times for games and large software applications became almost non-existent. The 6+2+1 power phase design with Dr.MOS further enhanced stability, especially when overclocking my Ryzen 7000 series processor.

Connectivity and Audio: Modern Features Galore

With four SATA3 ports, three M.2 slots, and multiple USB ports (including USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A and Type-C), this board didn’t leave me wanting more. I was able to hook up all my devices, from external SSDs to my gaming peripherals, without running out of ports. The front-panel Type-C support was particularly handy for quick access.

The Realtek ALC897 HD audio codec paired with Nahimic Audio enhancements delivered high-quality sound that was clear and immersive. Whether I was gaming or editing videos, the audio clarity was spot-on. While audiophiles might prefer something more advanced, the onboard sound card is more than sufficient for most users.

Good Points

• Compact yet powerful design, perfect for small builds.
• Supports the latest AMD Ryzen processors, offering future-proofing.
• WiFi 6E and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring fast, reliable wireless performance.
• Blazing-fast storage options, including PCIe Gen5 M.2 slots.
• DDR5 support up to 7200+ MHz, great for high-performance builds.

Areas for Improvement

• The Realtek ALC897 audio codec, while decent, might not satisfy hardcore audiophiles.
• Lack of additional PCIe slots could be limiting for some users.
• The Micro ATX form factor, while compact, sacrifices some expandability options.
• Limited RGB customization, especially for users who love flashy builds.

Competitive Options

Comparing this motherboard to MSI’s B650M Mortar WiFi, the ASRock shines in terms of M.2 storage options and higher DDR5 overclocking support. However, the MSI alternative offers slightly better audio quality and a more refined BIOS interface. On the other hand, Gigabyte’s B650 AORUS Elite AX provides a more extensive I/O panel but lacks the compact size of the ASRock board. For those prioritizing small form factor builds and cutting-edge storage capabilities, the ASRock B650M PG LIGHTNING WIFI stands out as an excellent choice.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering the features packed into this motherboard, the price-to-quality ratio is solid. It offers high-end features like WiFi 6E, DDR5 support, and Gen5 M.2 slots at a price point that’s reasonable for its capabilities. While it might not be the cheapest option, the value it provides for enthusiasts and gamers is undeniable. If you’re someone who prioritizes future-proofing and performance, this motherboard is worth every penny.

Additional information