MSI B650M Project Zero








MSI B650M Project Zero Specifications
MSI B650M Project Zero by MSI is a Micro-ATX form factor motherboard based on the mid-range B650M chipset and AM5 socket, providing a balanced set of features and connectivity. It is designed to support DDR5 memory up to 256 GB and memory overclocking up to 7600 MHz. The motherboard features 4 memory slots and offers support for PCIe 4.0 x16, ensuring compatibility with modern GPUs and high-bandwidth expansion cards.
MSI B650M Project Zero Performance Review
The MSI B650M Project Zero includes a mid-range VRM setup, delivering 80 A through 10 phases. It supports most compatible CPUs on its socket but is not ideal for sustained overclocking or powering very high-wattage CPUs due to potential thermal limitations. Best suited for casual users and mainstream gamers seeking stable performance for everyday use.
This motherboard includes an entry-level audio chipset — Realtek® ALC897 — which provides basic sound quality suitable for casual use. While it’s acceptable for everyday tasks such as web browsing, video playback, and light gaming, it may not meet the expectations of users with mid to high-end audio setups. Audiophiles and those seeking high-fidelity sound should consider using a dedicated sound card or external DAC.
With a performance-per-price score of just 45.0%, this motherboard provides limited value compared to other options. It may be best suited for specific niche builds or if found at a discount.
Motherboard Information
Manufacturer: MSI
Motherboard Name: MSI B650M Project Zero
Current Price Amazon: $229
Amazon Price Updated: 17 hours, 33 minutes ago.
Motherboard Available: True
Chipset / Socket: B650M / AM5
Form Factor / Memory Slots: Micro-ATX / 4 slots.
Memory Type / Max Cap / Max OC: DDR5 / 256 GB / 7600 MHz
PCIe Suport: PCIe 4.0 x16
Audio Chipset: Realtek® ALC897
Network: Realtek® RTL8125BG 2.5Gbps LAN
Motherboard Dimensions: 24.4cm x 24.4cm
Quality & Features (max 110pts)
VRM Quality: 8 pts.
Chipset Q & F: 13 pts.
Build Quality: 13 pts.
Connectivity Q & F: 12 pts.
Audio Quality: 6 pts.
Total Points: 52 pts.
VRM Configuration
CPU Power Phases (Amps): 10 (80 A)
Power Design: 10+2+1
Calculated Performance
Quality and Features per Price: 45.0%
Additional Motherboard Information
Memory:
Memory Support DDR5 7600+(OC)/ 7400(OC)/ 7200(OC)/ 7000(OC)/ 6800(OC)/ 6600(OC)/ 6400(OC)/ 6200(OC)/ 6000(OC)/ 5800(OC)/ 5600(OC)/ 5400(OC)/ 5200(OC)/ 5000(OC)/ 4800(JEDEC) MHz
Max. overclocking frequency:
• 1DPC 1R Max speed up to 7600+ MHz
• 1DPC 2R Max speed up to 6400+ MHz
• 2DPC 1R Max speed up to 6400+ MHz
• 2DPC 2R Max speed up to 5400+ MHz
Graphics:
Support HDMITM 2.1 with HDR, maximum resolution of 4K 60Hz*
1x DisplayPort
Support DP 1.4, maximum resolution of 4K 60Hz*
*Available only on processors featuring integrated graphics. Graphics specifications may vary depending on the CPU installed.
Storage:
M.2_1 Source (From CPU) supports up to PCIe 4.0 x4 , supports 2280/2260 devices
M.2_2 Source (From CPU) supports up to PCIe 4.0 x4 , supports 2280/2260 devices
4x SATA 6G
• The M2_2 slot will be unavailable when using Ryzen™ 8500/ 8300 Series processor
USB:
4x USB 2.0 (Front)
2x USB 5Gbps Type A (Rear)
2x USB 5Gbps Type A (Front)
3x USB 10Gbps Type A (Rear)
1x USB 10Gbps Type C (Rear)
1x USB 10Gbps Type C (Front)
1x USB 20Gbps Type C (Rear)
Internal I/O:
2x Power Connector(CPU_PWR)
1x CPU Fan
1x Pump Fan
3x System Fan
2x Front Panel (JFP)
1x Chassis Intrusion (JCI)
1x Front Audio (JAUD)
3x Addressable V2 RGB LED connector (JARGB_V2)
1x TPM pin header(Support TPM 2.0)
4x USB 2.0 ports
2x USB 5Gbps Type A ports
1x USB 10Gbps Type C ports
Back Panel I/O:
2.5G LAN
USB 2.0
USB 5Gbps (Type-A)
Wi-Fi / Bluetooth
Audio connectors
Flash BIOS Button
Clear CMOS Button
HDMI™
USB 10Gbps (Type-A)
USB 10Gbps (Type-C)
USB 20Gbps (Type-C)
WiFi:
The Wireless module is pre-installed in the M.2 (Key-E) slot
Supports MU-MIMO TX/RX
Supports 20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz bandwidth in 2.4GHz/ 5GHz or 6GHz* bands
Supports 802.11 a/ b/ g/ n/ ac/ ax
Supports Bluetooth® 5.3**
* Wi-Fi 6E 6GHz may depend on every country’s regulations and will be ready in Windows 11.
** Bluetooth 5.3 will be ready in Windows 10 build 21H1 and Windows 11.
Audio:
Special Features: