ASUS ROG Strix B850-G Gaming WiFi AMD AM5 B850 mATX Motherboard, Advanced

This micro-ATX motherboard is built for compact desktop systems using AMD AM5 processors, including Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series chips. It solves the challenge of fitting modern, power-heavy hardware into smaller cases without sacrificing expansion or network speeds. Builders putting together a mid-sized gaming PC or workstation will find it loaded with modern interface standards.

Power delivery relies on a 14+2+1 stage configuration rated for 80A per stage, backed by dual 8-pin ProCool connectors and substantial heatsinks over the VRMs. Storage expansion is extensive for an mATX design, featuring one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot and two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots covered by a large heatsink, along with a fourth PCIe 4.0 slot located on the underside of the board. High-speed networking includes onboard Wi-Fi 7 and Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, while the back panel and internal headers supply USB 20Gbps and 10Gbps Type-C connections.

Building and troubleshooting are streamlined with dedicated physical features. It includes PCIe Slot Q-Release, M.2 Q-Latch, M.2 Q-Release, a pre-mounted I/O shield, and onboard buttons for BIOS FlashBack and Clear CMOS. Integrated audio uses the Realtek ALC1220P codec paired with a Savitech SV3H712 amplifier and Dolby Atmos support, while three addressable Gen 2 headers handle Aura Sync lighting.

Operating system choice affects network capability directly. To utilize full Wi-Fi 7 functionality, you must run Windows 11 version 24H2 or later. Older Windows 11 versions fall back to Wi-Fi 6E, while Windows 10 is limited to Wi-Fi 6 speeds. Additionally, installing a drive in the underside M.2 slot requires access to the back of the board, which may require removing the board from compact cases.

Verdict: This board is an excellent choice for builders wanting AMD AM5 socket support, PCIe 5.0 readiness, and fast Wi-Fi 7 in a compact micro-ATX footprint. It provides robust power delivery and straightforward assembly for modern desktop builds.

• Socket: AMD AM5
• Processor Compatibility: AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series
• Power Design: 14+2+1 power solution (80A per stage) with 8+8-pin ProCool connectors
• Expansion Slots: PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlot
• M.2 Storage: 1x PCIe 5.0 M.2, 2x PCIe 4.0 M.2 (top), 1x PCIe 4.0 M.2 (underside)
• Networking: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet
• USB Ports: USB 20Gbps Type-C, USB 10Gbps Type-C, six 5Gbps USB-A, front USB 10Gbps Type-C
• Audio: Realtek ALC1220P codec with Savitech SV3H712 amplifier, Dolby Atmos

A great fit if you:

• Plan to build a micro-ATX system with an AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, or 7000 series CPU.
• Want high-speed storage and graphics readiness via PCIe 5.0.
• Have access to a Wi-Fi 7 network and run the latest Windows 11 updates.
• Value convenient building features like quick-release latches and onboard BIOS buttons.

Consider something else if you:

• Plan to stay on Windows 10 and expect full Wi-Fi 7 performance out of the box.
• Prefer having all your M.2 solid-state drives mounted exclusively on the front side of the motherboard.

Which processors work with this motherboard?
It features an AMD AM5 socket designed for AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series desktop processors.

What are the operating system requirements for Wi-Fi 7?
Full Wi-Fi 7 functions require Windows 11 version 24H2 or later. Windows 11 versions 21H2, 22H2, and 23H2 run up to Wi-Fi 6E, while Windows 10 supports up to Wi-Fi 6.

How many M.2 solid-state drives can be installed?
The board supports four M.2 drives in total: one PCIe 5.0 slot and two PCIe 4.0 slots under the top heatsink, plus one additional PCIe 4.0 slot on the back of the board.

What DIY features help during PC assembly?
It includes a PCIe Slot Q-Release button, M.2 Q-Latch and Q-Release mechanisms, Q-Antenna, Q-LED diagnostic lights, a pre-mounted I/O shield, and rear buttons for BIOS FlashBack and Clear CMOS.