Choose a motherboard compatible with both R5 3600 and RX5600 XT.
Choose a motherboard compatible with both R5 3600 and RX5600 XT.
The MSI B450 Tomahawk Max is a solid choice and works well with Ryzen processors from the start. This setup looks perfect: PCPartPicker provides the necessary parts at various prices. A configuration like this is ideal: PCPartPicker lists components by type, price, and specifications. The CPU example shows an AMD Ryzen 5 3600 at $174.99, paired with a cooler from ARCTIC Freezer 34 for $38.99, and the motherboard costs $114.99. Storage is offered by Crucial BX500 at $99.99, while the video card is MSI Radeon RX 5700 8 GB for $272.99. The case, fan, power supply, and other accessories are also available from reputable sellers.
For the Ryzen 5 3600 there are several choices. If you aim for roughly $100, a B450 motherboard is an option. But many of these boards lack native third-gen support. A few updated models do work, such as the AsRock B450 Steel Legend or the MSI B450 Tomahawk Max—just confirm the box lists Ryzen 3rd gen compatibility. Alternatively, you could opt for an X570 board, which are also third-gen ready but priced between $150 and $200. Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget and preferences.
The MSI B450 Tomahawk Max is a solid pick, but if you prefer RGB and need to cut costs by $10, the AsRock B450 Steel Legend is a great alternative. I’m not suggesting the Tomahawk Max is inferior; they’re both decent motherboards. Just remember there are alternatives available.
Right now I'm in the same spot searching for a mobo for a 3600. Unfortunately, the Tomahawk Max is out of stock where I am, but the Mortar Max from MSI is also available in its third generation and offers solid specs at a similar price range. It's an MATX model, though you could go with a Gaming Pro Max from MSI if you have one that's ready to go. All these options share the same VRM ratings but look a bit different in appearance.