MSI B550 Gaming GEN3
MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 Specifications
MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 by MSI is a Standard-ATX form factor motherboard based on the mid-range B550 chipset and AM4 socket, providing a balanced set of features and connectivity. It is designed to support DDR4 memory up to 128 GB and memory overclocking up to 4400 MHz. The motherboard features 4 memory slots and offers support for PCIe 3.0 x16, ensuring compatibility with modern GPUs and high-bandwidth expansion cards.
MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 Performance Review
The MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 comes with a basic VRM configuration, providing 55 A across 5 phases. It is designed for entry-level to mid-range low-wattage CPUs. Overclocking or using high-wattage CPUs may lead to thermal issues or potential damage. This board is recommended for budget builds or users with modest performance needs.
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.
This board delivers balanced value with a performance-per-price ratio of 58.2%, offering a solid blend of features, quality, and affordability.
Motherboard Information
Manufacturer: MSI
Motherboard Name: MSI B550 Gaming GEN3
Current Price Amazon: $119
Amazon Price Updated: 17 hours, 20 minutes ago.
Motherboard Available: True
Chipset / Socket: B550 / AM4
Form Factor / Memory Slots: Standard-ATX / 4 slots.
Memory Type / Max Cap / Max OC: DDR4 / 128 GB / 4400 MHz
PCIe Suport: PCIe 3.0 x16
Audio Chipset: Realtek® ALC897
Network: 1x Realtek® RTL8111H LAN controller
Motherboard Dimensions: 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm
Quality & Features (max 110pts)
VRM Quality: 4 pts.
Chipset Q & F: 13 pts.
Build Quality: 6 pts.
Connectivity Q & F: 6 pts.
Audio Quality: 6 pts.
Total Points: 35 pts.
VRM Configuration
CPU Power Phases (Amps): 5 (55 A)
Power Design: 5+1
Calculated Performance
Quality and Features per Price: 58.2%
Additional Motherboard Information
Memory:
Supports 1866/ 2133/ 2400/ 2667/ 2800/ 2933/ 3000/ 3066/ 3200 MHz by JEDEC
Supports DDR4 2667/ 2800/ 2933/ 3000/ 3066/ 3200/ 3466/ 3600/ 3733/ 3866/ 4000/ 4133/ 4266/ 4400+ MHz by A-XMP OC MODE
1DPC 1R max speed 4400 MHz
1DPC 2R max speed 3733 MHz
2DPC 1R max speed 3866 MHz
2DPC 2R max speed 3466 MHz
Dual channel memory architecture
Supports non-ECC UDIMM memory
Supports ECC UDIMM memory (non-ECC mode)
Supports un-buffered memory
Graphics:
1x HDMI™ 2.0b port, supports a maximum resolution of 4096x2160 @30Hz, 2560x1600 @60Hz 1/2
Maximum shared memory of 16 GB
Storage:
6x SATA 6Gb/s ports (From B550 chipset)
M.2 SSD Slots
1x M.2 slot (Key M)
M2_1 slot (From CPU)
Supports PCIe 3.0 x4
Supports SATA 6Gb/s
Supports 2260/ 2280/ 22110 storage devices
RAID
Supports RAID 0, RAID 1 and RAID 10 for SATA storage devices
USB:
Supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps ports
2x USB 2.0 connectors (From B550 chipset)
Supports additional 4 USB 2.0 ports
Internal I/O:
1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps connector (From B550 chipset)
Supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps ports
2x USB 2.0 connectors (From B550 chipset)
Supports additional 4 USB 2.0 ports
Fan Connectors
1x 4-pin CPU fan connector
1x 4-pin water-pump fan connector
4x 4-pin system fan connectors
System Connectors
1x Front panel audio connector
2x System panel connectors
1x Chassis Intrusion connector
1x TPM module connector
1x Serial port connector
1x Parallel port connector
Back Panel I/O:
USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps Type-A
LAN
Audio Connectors
Flash BIOS Button
USB 2.0
DVI-D
HDMI™
USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gbps Type-A
WiFi:
Audio:
7.1-Channel High Definition Audio
Special Features: