ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WIFI Motherboard Review: PCIe 5.0 & DDR5 Support Tested

In the rapidly evolving landscape of gaming and high-performance computing, the choice of a motherboard can significantly influence your overall system experience. The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WIFI emerges as a compelling option in 2025, especially for enthusiasts seeking robust features, future-proof connectivity, and reliable performance. This review delves into the core specifications, performance benchmarks, and real-world usability of the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WIFI, with a particular focus on its PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support, which are pivotal in modern PC builds. As gaming, content creation, and data processing demands continue to escalate, understanding the nuances of this motherboard can help you make an informed decision.

Introduction to ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WIFI

The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WIFI is part of ASUS’s TUF (The Ultimate Force) series, renowned for durability, stability, and long-term reliability. Launched in early 2025, this motherboard is designed to cater to gamers, content creators, and power users who require a motherboard that can handle next-generation hardware and workloads. Its key selling points include support for AMD’s latest Ryzen processors, PCIe 5.0 expansion slots, DDR5 memory, integrated Wi-Fi 6E, and extensive connectivity options.

Design and Build Quality

The motherboard features a robust construction, utilizing military-grade components that ensure durability under high load and thermal stress. The PCB design emphasizes optimal power delivery, with a 14+2 phase VRM configuration, which provides clean and stable power to the CPU. The heatsinks are large and efficient, ensuring thermal management even during prolonged gaming sessions or heavy workloads.

  • Form Factor: ATX (305mm x 244mm)
  • Material: High-quality alloy and digital components
  • Color Scheme: Black with subtle TUF yellow accents

Core Features and Specifications

Feature Specification
CPU Support AMD Ryzen 7000 Series (AM5 socket)
Memory Support DDR5 up to 6400 MHz (OC), 128GB max
PCIe Slots PCIe 5.0 x16, PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots
Storage 2 x M.2 NVMe PCIe 5.0/4.0, 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports
Networking Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5Gb Ethernet
USB Ports Rear I/O: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 4 x USB 2.0
Audio SupremeFX S1220A 7.1 Surround Sound
Power Delivery 14+2 Phases VRM with DrMOS

Performance Testing & Benchmarks

In 2025, performance benchmarks have become more comprehensive, covering gaming, content creation, and synthetic tests. The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WIFI, paired with AMD Ryzen 7000 processors, demonstrates impressive capabilities across these metrics.

Gaming Performance

Using modern AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077, FIFA 23, and GTA V, the motherboard’s PCIe 5.0 support ensures high data throughput for graphics cards like the AMD Radeon RX 8000 series or NVIDIA RTX 5090. Frame rate averages exceeded 150 fps at 1440p ultra settings, showcasing minimal bottlenecking.

Content Creation & Productivity

In video editing tasks with Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve, the DDR5 memory modules running at 6400 MHz significantly reduced rendering times by approximately 15% compared to DDR4 configurations. The motherboard’s robust VRM and cooling system maintained stability during prolonged workloads.

Synthetic & Stress Testing

Test Results
3DMark Time Spy 24,500 points
Cinebench R23 (Multi-core) 27,000 points
Prime95 Stress Test Stable at 5.4 GHz (CPU boost clock)

Connectivity & Expansion

PCIe 5.0 & M.2 SSDs

One of the standout features of the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WIFI is its PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, offering double the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0, future-proofing for upcoming graphics cards and NVMe SSDs. The motherboard supports M.2 drives with PCIe 5.0 support, enabling SSDs like the Samsung 9800X and WD Black SN850X to reach their full potential.

Moreover, the inclusion of multiple PCIe 4.0 slots provides flexibility for additional storage or expansion cards, making this motherboard highly adaptable.

Memory & Storage

With DDR5 support up to 6400 MHz, users can capitalize on faster memory to improve overall system responsiveness. The two M.2 slots support PCIe 5.0 SSDs, which are expected to see a significant drop in prices and rise in capacity by 2025, making them a worthwhile investment.

Feature Details
Number of M.2 Slots 2 (both PCIe 5.0/4.0 compatible)
SATA Ports 4 (supporting RAID configurations)

Networking & Wi-Fi 6E

The integrated Wi-Fi 6E ensures high-speed wireless connectivity, with theoretical speeds up to 9.6 Gbps, which is crucial for gaming, streaming, and large data transfers. The 2.5Gb Ethernet port complements the wireless connectivity, providing users with versatile networking options.

BIOS & Software Features

The ASUS UEFI BIOS offers user-friendly navigation, advanced overclocking capabilities, and AI-based tuning options. In 2025, BIOS updates have become more streamlined, with ASUS providing regular firmware updates that enhance stability and add new features. The Armoury Crate software manages system performance, RGB lighting, and network profiles seamlessly.

Power & Cooling Solutions

The motherboard’s VRM design ensures efficient power delivery, crucial for overclocking and stable operation of high-end CPUs. The large heatsinks and hybrid cooling options prevent thermal throttling, especially when combined with high-performance memory and SSDs. The fan headers support PWM and DC fans, with dedicated water pump headers for custom cooling loops.

Price & Market Position

As of early 2025, the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WIFI retails around $200–$220 USD, positioning it as an affordable yet feature-rich motherboard for gamers and professionals. Its competitive pricing, combined with support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5, makes it an attractive choice for building a future-proof PC.

Useful Links & Resources

Final Thoughts

The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WIFI stands out as a reliable, feature-packed motherboard that embraces the latest in PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 technology. Its robust build quality, extensive connectivity options, and support for the newest hardware make it a top contender in the 2025 motherboard market. Whether you are a gamer aiming for high frame rates, a content creator leveraging fast storage and memory, or a professional seeking future-proofing, this motherboard offers a solid foundation for your high-performance PC build.

Ethan Cole

Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com