Check out these options for a new motherboard for your son's PC.
Check out these options for a new motherboard for your son's PC.
I think the motherboard is malfunctioning (only one DIMM slot seems functional). I've re-flashed the BIOS twice but it didn't help. RAM appears to work only in the first slot. I want to note he's content with his current setup, and since he hasn't requested CPU or GPU upgrades for special occasions like birthdays or holidays, that shouldn't affect my advice. If he decides to upgrade anything, it'll probably be me surprising him with a new CPU (5600x) or GPU around Christmas. Current specs: Ryzen 5 2600X, MSI B450 Gaming Plus Max (the one being replaced), AMD Radeon RX580 8GB/16GB Crucial Ballistix 3600MHz. I don’t have a nearby MicroCenter, so my choices are Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy. A couple of suggestions I’ve received: MSI PRO B550-VC $119.99, MSI B550 Gaming Plus $139.99. Any other ideas or tips? Thanks!
I’m sure the GPU route is the way to go, even though it remains a challenge. Both boards I recommend are reliable—I’ve used the latest B450 model on my own, and it comes with a strong VRM setup. If you’re heading north in the Amazon, an Asrock B550m Pro4 is available for around $102, offering solid performance too.