(Image credit: MSI) (Image credit: MSI) Starting with memory, both motherboards feature 2 DDR4 memory slots, supporting up to 64GB (2x32GB). Data rates vary with the processor, but we're looking at up to DDR4-4600 and possibly beyond, if your processor has an extraordinary integrated memory controller (IMC). The Pro B550M-B has only one PCIe 4.0 x16 expansion slot that directly connects to the processor. In comparison, the B550M-A Pro steps up connectivity with one PCIe 4.0 x16 and one PCIe 3.0 x1 expansion slots. However, the B550M-A Pro falls short in storage, with only four SATA III ports and one PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot. Meanwhile, the Pro B550M-B matches the design but adds a valuable PCIe 3.0 M.2 slot that's connected to the B550 chipset. The rear ports on the two MSI motherboards are very similar. Both offer two USB 3.2 Gen 1 5 Gbps Type-A ports and six USB 2.0 ports. However, the B550M-A Pro is better suited for older devices as it provides a DVI-D port and two PS/2 ports. On the other hand, the Pro B550M-B only has one PS/2 port and substitutes the DVI-D port for a newer DisplayPort 1.2 output. In Japan, the Pro B550M-B and B550M-A Pro could launch with estimated MSRPs of $89.37 and $76.58, respectively, including taxes. Excluding taxes, prices land at $81.25 for the former and $69.62 for the latter, making them very competitive options for budget-conscious buyers. Their official retail launch is set for Feb. 27, so we'll soon have clear U.S. MSRPs for those eager to purchase them stateside.
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Key considerations
- Investor positioning can change fast
- Volatility remains possible near catalysts
- Macro rates and liquidity can dominate flows
Reference reading
- https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/SPONSORED_LINK_URL
- https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/msis-usd80-amd-motherboards-with-ddr4-support-swoop-in-to-rescue-gamers-amid-the-global-ram-crisis-am4-emerges-as-the-unexpected-hero-with-ram-prices-skyrocketing#main
- https://www.tomshardware.com
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Informational only. No financial advice. Do your own research.