Tag Archives: B860

Computers, Gaming

[CES 2025] ASUS Releases New Z890 and B860 Motherboards

Leave a comment

ASUS is unleashing a whole troop of new motherboards with its latest lineup of motherboards based on Intel‘s Z890 and B860 chipsets. These new offerings cater to a diverse range of users, from casual PC enthusiasts to hardcore gamers and professional content creators. With a focus on cutting-edge technologies, user-friendly features, and a variety of form factors, ASUS aims to provide the perfect foundation for any PC build. This comprehensive guide delves into the key features of these motherboards, helping you choose the ideal model for your specific needs.

ASUS B860 Z890 (1)

Z890 vs. B860: Understanding the Chipset Differences

The Z890 and B860 chipsets offer distinct capabilities, making your choice dependent on your performance requirements and budget. The Z890 is the clear choice for users demanding maximum performance and expandability. It boasts a significantly higher number of PCIe lanes (24 in total), which translates to superior bandwidth and connectivity for multiple high-performance devices like graphics cards, NVMe SSDs, and other expansion cards. This makes it ideal for multi-GPU setups or users who require a large number of high-speed peripherals.

ASUS B860 Z890 (2)
ASUS B860 Z890 (3)
ASUS B860 Z890 (1)

The B860, while still capable, typically utilizes 16 or fewer PCIe lanes, which might be a limiting factor for more complex configurations. Overclocking is another key differentiator. The Z890 chipset unlocks the full overclocking potential of compatible Intel CPUs, allowing users to push their processor and memory beyond stock speeds for increased performance. The B860, on the other hand, generally does not support CPU overclocking, although some motherboard manufacturers might enable memory overclocking on select B860 models.

Connectivity is another area where the Z890 often takes the lead. These motherboards frequently feature the latest and greatest networking options, such as WiFi 7 and high-bandwidth 2.5GbE or even 5GbE Ethernet ports. B860 boards will still offer solid connectivity, but might stick to WiFi 6 or standard Gigabit Ethernet.

Shared Features Across Z890 and B860

Despite the performance gap between the chipsets, ASUS ensures a streamlined building experience across both Z890 and B860 motherboards by incorporating a suite of user-friendly features. Both chipset families support the latest high-bandwidth DDR5 memory, which significantly improves data transfer speeds and overall system performance compared to the previous DDR4 standard. ASUS motherboards often feature optimized memory trace layouts and robust power delivery systems to ensure stability and optimal performance even with high-frequency memory kits. \

ASUS B860 Z890 (4)
ASUS B860 Z890 (2)

M.2 storage integration is another common feature, allowing users to take advantage of the incredibly fast speeds of NVMe SSDs. Both Z890 and B860 motherboards usually come equipped with multiple M.2 slots, providing ample options for creating a responsive and high-capacity storage solution. Efficient cooling is essential for maintaining performance and component longevity, and ASUS addresses this with features like VRM heatsinks, M.2 heatsinks, and strategically placed fan headers.

Finally, ASUS simplifies the PC building process with its EZ DIY features, which may include tools like Q-Connector for easier cable management, Q-LED for quick diagnostics of boot issues, and the innovative ASUS Memtest86 for comprehensive memory testing. AI-powered utilities are also frequently included, automating system optimization tasks like overclocking, cooling profile adjustments, and network optimization.

Z890: Built for Performance

For users seeking the absolute best in performance and the ability to push their hardware to its limits, the Z890 chipset is the clear choice. These motherboards are engineered with robust power delivery systems, often featuring high-quality components like digital VRMs and high-current DrMOS power stages. This ensures stable power delivery even under extreme overclocking conditions, allowing enthusiasts to maximize their CPU’s potential.

ASUS B860 Z890 (1)

Z890 motherboards often boast the latest and greatest connectivity options, including WiFi 7 and high-bandwidth 2.5GbE or 5GbE Ethernet ports, catering to users who demand the fastest networking speeds. Multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports provide ultra-fast data transfer speeds for external peripherals, further enhancing connectivity options. Audiophiles will appreciate the premium audio solutions often found on Z890 motherboards, which frequently feature high-fidelity audio codecs like ESS Sabre DACs and audiophile-grade capacitors for an exceptional listening experience.

B860: A Balance of Performance and Value

While not designed for extreme overclocking, ASUS B860 motherboards offer a compelling balance of performance and value, making them an excellent choice for mainstream users and gamers who don’t need the absolute bleeding edge. These boards still support the latest Intel processors and DDR5 memory, providing a significant performance boost over previous generations. They also offer a good selection of expansion slots and connectivity options, making them versatile enough for a wide range of tasks. The focus here is on providing a solid and reliable foundation for a modern PC build without breaking the bank.

Targeting Different User Segments: ROG Strix, TUF Gaming, and Prime

ASUS typically segments its motherboards into different series to cater to specific user needs. The ROG Strix series is geared towards gamers, featuring aggressive styling, advanced gaming features, and premium components. The TUF Gaming series focuses on durability and reliability, offering robust performance at a more accessible price point. The Prime series is designed for everyday computing and professional use, offering a balance of features, performance, and stability.

Pricing & Availability

ASUS has not yet released specific pricing or availability information for its Z890 and B860 motherboards. However, given their announcement at CES and the general release cycles of new hardware, we can expect them to become available in the coming months.

Computers, Gaming

[CES 2025] MSI Unleashes a Brand New Lineup of Motherboards Based on Intel’s B860 and H810 Chipsets

Leave a comment
b860 h810 20241231 CES Redefining Performance with Endless Inspiration

MSI’s just dropped a fresh batch of motherboards based on Intel‘s B860 and H810 chipsets, and they’re looking to cover all the bases. Whether you’re a casual user, a hardcore gamer, or a creative pro, there’s likely something here for you. These boards promise a solid mix of performance, reliability, and features that make building or upgrading your PC a smoother experience. So, let’s dive in and see what MSI has brought to the table.

B860 vs. H810: Picking the Right Chipset for Your Needs

b860 h810 20241231 CES MAG Z890 TOMAHAWK WIFI PZ TOMAHAWK WIFI PZ WHITE

First things first, let’s talk about the difference between the B860 and H810 chipsets. Think of it like this: the B860 is the performance-focused option, while the H810 is more about value and everyday reliability. The B860 supports PCIe 5.0 for both graphics cards and M.2 storage, which translates to seriously fast speeds for demanding tasks. The H810, while still offering PCIe connectivity, will likely stick to PCIe 4.0 or even 3.0, which is perfectly fine for most everyday computing but might bottleneck high-end components. Another key difference is memory overclocking. The B860 lets you push your RAM to higher speeds for extra performance, while the H810 generally doesn’t support this feature. The B860 also boasts more PCIe lanes (24 compared to the H810’s likely 16 or fewer), giving you more flexibility for expansion. Plus, the connection between the CPU and the chipset itself is faster on the B860 (8 DMI Gen4 lanes vs. the H810’s 4). So, to sum it up: B860 for serious performance, H810 for solid value.

Features They Share: Making PC Building Easier

Even though the chipsets have different strengths, MSI has included some common features across both lines to make PC building less of a headache. Both support Thunderbolt 4 for those lightning-fast connections to external devices. And both benefit from MSI’s EZ DIY features, which include the EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II for easy M.2 cooling, the EZ PCIe Release for quick graphics card swaps, and the EZ Antenna design for simple Wi-Fi setup. These features are a real lifesaver, especially for first-time builders.

MSI’s Take on B860

b860 h810 20241231 CES MSI PRO B860 P WIFI PRO B860M A WIFI

MSI’s B860 motherboards are designed to handle some serious horsepower. They support the latest Intel processors, DDR5 memory, and have robust power delivery systems to keep everything stable, even under heavy loads. The Click BIOS X has been redesigned to be more user-friendly, giving you easy access to all the important settings. And with MSI’s Ultra Engine, these boards can handle some seriously fast memory speeds, exceeding 9200+ MT/s. That’s some serious memory bandwidth!

If you’re a gamer or a content creator, the B860 platform is definitely worth a look. Features like AI Boost, which overclocks the NPU for better AI performance, and the OC Engine, which lets you tweak your system for even more performance, are real game-changers. The Click BIOS X also has some handy presets and tools to help you get the most out of your hardware.

MSI’s H810 Motherboards for Everyday Computing

b860 h810 20241231 CES MAG B860 TOMAHAWK WIFI MAG B860M MORTAR WIFI

While the B860 is all about high-end performance, the H810 focuses on delivering a reliable and affordable platform for everyday tasks. These boards are perfect for building a PC for browsing the web, checking email, watching videos, and handling basic productivity tasks. They might not have all the fancy features of the B860, but they provide a solid and dependable foundation for a budget-friendly build.

User-Friendly Design Across Both Platforms

MSI continues its commitment to user-friendly design with these new boards. The EZ DIY features, like the tool-free M.2 installation and the one-click graphics card release, make building and upgrading a breeze, no matter your experience level.

b860 h810 20241231 CES MSI PRO B860 P WIFI PRO B860M A WIFI

Connectivity is key, especially for gamers and creators. The MAG series B860 boards come with super-fast Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 and Intel Killer 5G LAN, so network bottlenecks are a thing of the past. They also include Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed data transfers and plenty of M.2 slots for fast storage. The H810 boards will still offer decent connectivity, but likely without the top-tier features like Wi-Fi 7 or as many M.2 slots.

MSI has used high-quality components and effective cooling solutions, especially on the B860 boards, to ensure they can handle demanding workloads for years to come. Features like extended heatsinks, multi-layered PCBs, and powerful VRMs keep everything running cool and stable.

The MAG and PRO Series: Different Styles for Different Users

MSI offers two main series for the B860 chipset: the MAG and PRO. The MAG series, like the MAG B860 TOMAHAWK WIFI and MAG B860M MORTAR WIFI, is designed for gamers with its aggressive styling and performance-focused features. The PRO series, including the PRO B860-P WIFI and PRO B860M-A WIFI, is geared towards professionals and everyday users, offering a more understated design and a focus on reliability and connectivity. There will likely be corresponding H810 models as well.

Project Zero: A Focus on Clean Builds

b860 h810 20241231 CES MSI PRO Z890 S WIFI PZ

MSI is also expanding its “Project Zero” lineup with new Z890 models. These boards move all the connectors to the back, making cable management a dream and creating a super clean look inside your PC. While not directly related to the B860/H810, it’s a cool design trend worth mentioning.

MSI is partnering with SignalRGB to let you easily control and sync all your RGB lighting across your MSI motherboard and other components.

Pricing & Availability

MSI hasn’t announced pricing or release dates for these boards just yet. But don’t worry, we’ll be keeping our ears to the ground and will bring you all the latest information as soon as we get it.