TL;DR: If you’re torn between the MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus and the emerging Raspberry Pi 5, this comparison will help clarify your choice. While the MSI MPG B550 offers robust gaming features and performance, the Raspberry Pi 5 is more about compactness and versatility for DIY projects.
| Product | Price | Rating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI | £190.48 | 4.5 | WiFi, PCIe 4.0, M.2 Slots |
| MSI B550-A PRO | £117.18 | 4.5 | AMD AM4, DDR4, HDMI/DP |
| MSI B650 Gaming Plus WiFi | £133.99 | 4.5 | WiFi, PCIe 4.0, USB 3.2 |
| Gigabyte B550M AORUS ELITE AX | £132.23 | 4.5 | WiFi 6, HDMI/DP, USB 3.2 |
| ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero | £1,004.84 | 4.3 | WiFi 6E, PCIe 5.0, DDR5 |
| MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus | £109.00 | 4.5 | AMD AM4, PCIe 4.0, M.2 |
MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI
The MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI is a powerful contender in the motherboard market, particularly for gamers and performance enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Strong build quality with great cooling solutions.
- Integrated WiFi for seamless connectivity.
- Ample expansion options, including PCIe 4.0.
Cons:
- Pricier than some other B550 options.
- Limited USB Type-C ports.
MSI B550-A PRO
The MSI B550-A PRO is a budget-friendly motherboard that doesn’t skimp on essential features.
Pros:
- Cost-effective for those on a budget.
- Reliable performance for everyday use.
- Multiple display outputs for flexibility.
Cons:
- Lacks WiFi capabilities.
- Basic aesthetic design.
MSI B650 Gaming Plus WiFi
A step up in the MSI lineup, offering WiFi connectivity and solid gaming performance.
Pros:
- Integrated WiFi for easy connectivity.
- Good balance of performance and price.
- Modern design with RGB lighting.
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than B550 models.
- Limited overclocking features compared to higher-end models.
Gigabyte B550M AORUS ELITE AX
Known for its solid performance and compact size, the Gigabyte B550M AORUS ELITE AX is a great choice for small builds.
Pros:
- Compact mATX form factor.
- Integrated WiFi 6 for high-speed internet.
- Good value for money.
Cons:
- Limited expansion slots due to mATX size.
- Not the best for extreme overclocking.
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is designed for enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance.
Pros:
- Supports the latest Intel processors.
- Loaded with advanced features, including Thunderbolt 4.
- Excellent power delivery for overclocking.
Cons:
- Expensive option catering to high-end users.
- Overkill for most casual users.
MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus
The MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus is a mid-range motherboard ideal for gamers who want good value for money.
Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- Good gaming features for its price.
- Decent build quality.
Cons:
- Lacks integrated WiFi.
- Basic design and aesthetics.
FAQs
- What is the main difference between the MSI MPG B550 and Raspberry Pi 5?
The MSI MPG B550 is a full-sized motherboard designed for gaming and high-performance tasks, whereas the Raspberry Pi 5 is a compact single-board computer aimed at DIY projects and educational purposes.

- Can the Raspberry Pi 5 replace a traditional motherboard for gaming?
No, the Raspberry Pi 5 is not designed to replace a gaming motherboard. It lacks the hardware capabilities needed for modern gaming.
- Which is more budget-friendly, MSI MPG B550 or Raspberry Pi 5?
The Raspberry Pi 5 is generally more budget-friendly compared to buying a full MSI MPG B550 setup, which requires additional components like a CPU, RAM, and GPU.
- Does the MSI MPG B550 have integrated WiFi?
Yes, the MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI and the MSI B650 Gaming Plus WiFi models have integrated WiFi.
Frequently Asked Questions
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