GIGABYTE B650M Gaming Plus WiFi motherboard review featuring DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E

Description

Key Advantages of the GIGABYTE B650M Gaming Plus WiFi

Testing the GIGABYTE B650M Gaming Plus WiFi AM5 LGA 1718 motherboard has been an experience filled with both excitement and practicality. From its DDR5 compatibility to the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, it’s clear this product is designed with modern gamers and PC enthusiasts in mind. I couldn’t help but notice how sturdy and compact the M-ATX form factor felt right out of the box, which suited my mid-tower case perfectly.

One of the key benefits of this motherboard is its support for AMD Ryzen 7000/8000 series processors, which ensures you’re prepared for the latest in CPU technology. During my tests, boot times were lightning fast, thanks to the PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slot that provided exceptional read/write speeds. Additionally, the Smart Fan 6 feature kept my system cool even during demanding tasks, which is a massive plus for anyone who spends long hours gaming or editing.

• Exceptional build quality with a durable 5+2+2 phase digital VRM solution.
• Blazing-fast connectivity through USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C and 2.5GbE LAN.
• Efficient cooling enhancements like Smart Fan 6, perfect for high-performance rigs.
• Future-proof DDR5 support, ensuring compatibility with the latest components.

Downsides to Consider

While I was mostly impressed, I noticed some areas for improvement that might matter to specific users. For instance, the BIOS interface, while functional, could be more user-friendly, especially for beginners diving into custom builds. Another point worth mentioning is the limited number of PCIe slots, which might restrict those looking to expand their builds extensively.

• The BIOS navigation feels outdated compared to some competitors.
• Limited expansion options due to fewer PCIe slots.
• Absence of onboard RGB lighting, which some gamers might miss.

Performance and Features

The performance of the GIGABYTE B650M Gaming Plus WiFi was nothing short of impressive. The Wi-Fi 6E integration ensured a seamless and stable connection, even in a crowded network environment. I tested it with multiple devices running simultaneously, and the motherboard didn’t flinch. The Q-Flash Plus feature is another standout—updating the BIOS without needing to install a CPU or GPU felt like magic. It saved so much time during the setup process.

Additionally, the memory speed of up to 4400 MHz made multitasking a breeze. Whether I was streaming, gaming, or running virtual machines, the system handled everything smoothly without a hint of lag. It’s also worth noting that AMD EXPO and Intel XMP memory module support offer flexibility for overclocking enthusiasts.

Design and Build Quality

The black finish with subtle accents gives the motherboard a sleek, understated look. It’s not flashy, but it means business. The compact dimensions (9.45 x 1.18 x 9.45 inches) make it an ideal fit for smaller setups without compromising on performance. The layout is intuitive, with well-placed ports and slots. Cable management was a breeze, thanks to the thoughtful design that didn’t overcrowd critical areas.

Where the motherboard excels is in its power delivery system, which is built around the 5+2+2 phases digital VRM solution. This ensures stable power for high-performance components, even under heavy workloads. I pushed the CPU and GPU to their limits during stress testing, and the system remained rock-solid.

Market Rivals

Comparing this motherboard to similar models in the market, such as those from ASUS or MSI, reveals some interesting distinctions. For instance, while the ASUS TUF Gaming B650M offers comparable performance, it lacks the Q-Flash Plus BIOS update feature, which I found incredibly useful. On the other hand, MSI’s MAG B650M Mortar WiFi is another strong contender, but it comes at a slightly higher price without offering significantly better features.

Where the GIGABYTE B650M Gaming Plus WiFi shines is in its well-rounded connectivity options and cooling solutions. However, if onboard RGB lighting or additional PCIe slots are a priority, competitors like ASUS might be worth considering. It ultimately depends on your specific needs.

Quality for Price

When it comes to value for money, this motherboard strikes a great balance between performance and cost. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the features it packs make it a worthwhile investment. The DDR5 support, Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, and efficient power design all contribute to a product that feels premium without breaking the bank.

For those building a mid-range gaming PC or workstation, this motherboard offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s an excellent choice for users who want reliable performance without unnecessary frills. If you’re someone who prioritizes speed, stability, and future-proofing, this motherboard checks all the right boxes.

Additional information