ASUS ROG STRIX B550-F Gaming Motherboard Review

How Much Does it Cost?

Of course, I’m writing this review before the stock is available on Amazon. However, I will update the prices as the stock goes live after we publish the review. For now, though, you can check the up to date stock of the ASUS ROG STRIX B550-F Gaming on Amazon UK here, and on Amazon US here.

Overview

OK so let’s get one thing pretty clear (again), we’ve reviewed two ASUS motherboards today and they are very similar to each other, one is called the ASUS ROG STRIX B550-E Gaming and the other is the ASUS ROG STRIX B550-F Gaming. The E is the more powerful and feature-packed of the two, but overall they are mostly the same.

Build Quality & Design

The ASUS ROG STRIX B550-F Gaming is a premium motherboard, make no mistake there. However, it’s a little less equipped than the E, but as a result, it’s a little less expensive too. It doesn’t have WiFi, an only the top PCIe slot is armoured. It also has to “make do” with just a 12+2 Power Stage, but overall that’s still an awesome setup for AM4.

It’s certainly a well-made motherboard though, and they’ve used nothing but premium components all over. It is fantastically designed too, with matte black hardware, black digital decals, and some hints of cool graffiti and RGB thrown in for good measure.

You also get huge VRM heatsinks, M.2 heatsinks, and the rear I/O shield is pre-installed.

Performance

This is about the best you can expect from the B550 chipset, the board is very well engineered for overclocking and long-term stability. For most, it’s likely overkill and it’s pretty close to X570 in terms of hardware. For those who plan to put their system under stress for long periods though, you’ll be glad for the STRIX hardware. Plus, you still get other modern luxuries like PCIe Gen 4 and Gen 4 on one of the M.2 mounts too.

Added Value

It’s not so much added value as much as it’s a more expensive motherboard rammed full of features. I’m not saying it’s bad value for money, it just is expensive. Of course, the E Gaming is more expensive, but if you want more armour, more VRM (you don’t need more VRM IMO), and WiFi 6 you may want to step up. However, if you’re happy with 2.5 GbE LAN, the F is a great way to say a few quid and still get a premium board.

Should I Buy One?

A master class in motherboard design, one of the best looking and performing options for the B550 launch, but you will pay a premium for it.