Gigabyte's CONFUSING Motherboard... Gigabyte B850 Gaming X WiFi6E

Summary

In this video, the Gigabyte B850 Gaming X Wi-Fi 6E motherboard is examined as a budget-friendly option at around $190. It offers decent CPU support with 12+2+2 power phases and memory overclocking up to 8200 MT/s. The board includes three PCIe slots, three M.2 storage slots, multiple fan and RGB connectors, and a rear I/O with seven USB-A ports, one USB-C, PS/2, HDMI, DisplayPort, 2.5 Gb Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6E. While it has some unique perks like dual video outputs and PS/2, it also has limitations compared to similarly priced boards. A slightly cheaper Wi-Fi 6 variant exists with a different layout and fewer heatsinks. Overall, it’s a niche but capable budget option.

Takeaways

• 💰 The Gigabyte B850 Gaming X Wi-Fi 6E motherboard is priced at $190, making it a mid-range budget option.
• ⚡ It has a 12+2+2 power phase design rated at 60A, which is lower than some competitors but still sufficient for high-end CPUs.
• 🧠 Supports memory overclocking up to 8200 MT/s, though most users may not fully utilize this capability.
• 🖥️ PCIe expansion includes three slots: one Gen 5 x16 and two Gen 3 x16 (physical), with no true x1 slots.
• 💾 Storage options include three M.2 slots (one Gen 5, two Gen 4 x4) and four SATA connectors.
• 🔌 Internal connectors feature six fan headers, three addressable RGB headers, and one non-addressable RGB header.
• 🖱️ Rear I/O provides seven USB Type-A ports (two Gen 2), one USB-C, PS/2 port, HDMI and DisplayPort for integrated graphics, 2.5 GbE Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and three audio jacks (no optical S/PDIF).
• 🔄 There is a Wi-Fi 6 variant costing $10 less, with fewer heatsinks, downgraded Wi-Fi, and an extra PCIe slot.
• 🤔 Despite decent specs, the motherboard is a confusing choice at this price, with some higher-end boards offering better value for slightly more money.
• 👍 Pros include PS/2 port, dual video output options, and good memory overclock potential; cons include limited USB-C, audio options, and fewer PCIe lanes.

Q & A

What is the price of the Gigabyte B850 Gaming X Wi-Fi 6E motherboard?

The motherboard costs $190.

How is the CPU power delivery on this motherboard designed?

It has a 12+2+2 power phase design, rated at a maximum of 60 amps, with fewer than two full 8-pin CPU power connectors.

Can high-end CPUs perform well on this motherboard despite its power design?

Yes, even high-end chips will perform fine on this board despite the lower power phase rating.

What is the maximum memory overclock supported by this motherboard?

The motherboard supports a maximum memory overclock of 8200 MT/s.

How many PCIe slots are available, and what are their specifications?

There are three PCIe slots: the main slot is Gen 5 x16, while the other two are physically x16 but electrically Gen 3 x1. There are no physical x1 slots.

What storage options does the motherboard offer?

It has three M.2 slots: one Gen 5 and two Gen 4 x4, along with four SATA connectors.

What types of internal connectors are provided for fans and RGB lighting?

There are six fan connectors (splitters may be needed) and four RGB connectors: three addressable and one standard.

What is included in the rear I/O, and are there any notable features?

The rear I/O includes seven USB Type-A ports (two Gen 2), one Type-C port, HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, 2.5 Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, three audio jacks (no optical S/PDIF), and a PS/2 port.

How does the Wi-Fi 6E variant compare to the standard Wi-Fi 6 version?

The Wi-Fi 6 variant costs $10 less, has downgraded Wi-Fi, fewer heat sinks, a different design, and an additional PCIe slot.

What are the main advantages and disadvantages of this motherboard?

Advantages include PS/2 support, HDMI+DisplayPort combo, and Wi-Fi 6E on a budget. Disadvantages include limited USB ports, fewer power connectors, limited audio options, and overall weaker competitiveness compared to similarly priced X870 boards.

Is this motherboard recommended for users who prioritize high-end gaming performance?

While it can handle high-end CPUs, its feature cuts and limitations in expansion and connectivity make it less ideal compared to higher-end alternatives for gaming enthusiasts.

Why might someone still consider buying this motherboard despite its drawbacks?

Users who specifically need PS/2 support, HDMI and DisplayPort outputs together, or Wi-Fi 6E on a budget may find this motherboard suitable.