Msi B360 Gaming Plus Vs B360m Mortar
So, you're diving into the world of PC building and staring at a bunch of motherboards with names that sound like they came straight out of a fantasy novel? I get it!
Let's talk about two contenders from the MSI stable: the B360 Gaming Plus and the B360M Mortar. Think of them as cousins – related, but with distinct personalities.
Round 1: Size Matters (or Does It?)
The B360 Gaming Plus is the older sibling, rocking a full-size ATX form factor. This means it's like the SUV of motherboards – roomy, comfortable, and has space for everything.
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Need extra slots for sound cards, capture cards, or that random gadget you swear you'll use someday? The Gaming Plus has you covered!
The B360M Mortar, on the other hand, is a Micro-ATX board. Picture it as the sporty hatchback – compact, efficient, and perfect for smaller cases.
If you're building a mini-PC or just want a cleaner look, the Mortar is your go-to.
Winner: It Depends on Your Case!
There's no clear winner here. It all boils down to your case and how much expandability you crave.
Think of it like choosing an apartment – do you want a sprawling penthouse or a cozy studio?
Round 2: The Looks Department
Let's be honest, aesthetics matter! We want our PCs to look as good as they perform.
The B360 Gaming Plus sports a classic black and red color scheme. It's like the reliable friend who always looks good without trying too hard.
It also has some subtle LED accents to add a touch of flair.
The B360M Mortar goes for a more modern, minimalist look. Think black and silver with sharp angles – sleek and sophisticated.
It also features RGB lighting, allowing you to customize the look to your heart's content. Imagine your motherboard glowing with the colors of the rainbow!
Winner: Subjective Style Points!
This is purely a matter of personal preference. Do you prefer the classic gaming aesthetic or something more modern and customizable?
It's like choosing between a leather jacket and a bomber jacket – both are cool, but they appeal to different styles.
Round 3: Feature Frenzy
Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty – the features that make these motherboards tick.
Both boards support 8th and 9th generation Intel Core processors. That means they can handle your i3, i5, or i7 CPU with ease.
They also both have M.2 slots for super-fast NVMe SSDs. Say goodbye to loading screens!
The B360 Gaming Plus has a slight edge in terms of PCIe slots. More slots mean more options for expansion.
It also boasts a slightly more robust VRM (Voltage Regulator Module). VRM helps deliver clean and stable power to the CPU, especially important if you're pushing your processor.
The B360M Mortar, despite its smaller size, doesn't skimp on essential features. It has reinforced PCIe slots for heavier graphics cards.
It also often comes with a slightly better audio codec, resulting in cleaner and more immersive sound.
Winner: The Devil's in the Details!
The Gaming Plus offers a bit more expandability and a slightly stronger VRM. The Mortar counters with reinforced slots and possibly better audio.
Consider what features are most important to you. Are you planning on adding multiple expansion cards? Or is audio quality a top priority?
Round 4: Overclocking? Not Really…
Here's the deal: the B360 chipset isn't designed for overclocking. That means you won't be pushing your CPU to its absolute limit.
If overclocking is your main goal, you'll want to look at a Z-series chipset motherboard instead. Those are like the race cars of the motherboard world!
However, both the Gaming Plus and the Mortar can handle turbo boosting. This means your CPU can still automatically increase its clock speed when needed.
Winner: No Contest!
Neither board is ideal for overclocking. Consider a Z-series chipset if you want to unleash the full potential of your CPU.
Round 5: Price Point
Price is always a factor! Nobody wants to break the bank on a motherboard.
Generally, the B360M Mortar tends to be slightly more affordable than the B360 Gaming Plus. This is partly due to its smaller size and fewer features.
However, prices can fluctuate, so it's always worth checking current deals.
Winner: The Mortar (Usually)!
The Mortar typically offers a better value proposition. It provides a great balance of features and performance at a more budget-friendly price.
The Final Verdict: Choose Your Champion!
So, who wins the ultimate motherboard showdown? It depends on your needs and budget!
If you need maximum expandability and have a larger case, the B360 Gaming Plus is a solid choice. Think of it as the versatile all-rounder.
If you're building a smaller PC or want to save some money, the B360M Mortar is an excellent option. It's like the compact powerhouse.
Consider your case size, desired features, and budget to make the best decision. Happy building!
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun! Building a PC is a rewarding experience. Good luck with your build and may your framerates be high and your temperatures low!