The AM4 platform remains relevant in 2025 and 2026, offering solid performance for specific applications.
The AM4 platform remains relevant in 2025 and 2026, offering solid performance for specific applications.
I'm looking to refresh my motherboard with two NVMe ports and built-in Wi-Fi. The current board only has one NVMe slot and another M.2 that isn't NVMe. I'm considering a B550 chipset board to meet these needs. The main concern is whether it makes sense to stick with an AM4 board in the middle of the decade. I don’t play the latest high-end AAA titles or modern action games, mostly older releases and indie/AAA games. I also experiment with AI-related projects where storage, VRAM, and RAM matter.
Because it required replacing your motherboard, I wouldn't recommend it.
I'm not familiar with the Asian market or stock trends. However, AM4 remains a good choice for those with limited funds since prices are very low, particularly on the used side in North America and Western Europe. You can combine it with a PCIE x1 Wi-Fi card, your 4060 occupies two slots, and then add an PCIE x16 M.2 card as needed. It's quite feasible without needing a new motherboard. In the worst case, you might rely on USB Wi-Fi using a rear port and isolated USB connections.
Already mentioned having a PCIe Wi-Fi card on my Steel Legend motherboard. Looking for a device with two NVMe ports; my current setup has one NVMe plus an mSATA slot, which I discovered while trying to add another SSD. Ended up needing an external case. Integrated Wi-Fi is a nice feature, though not essential. Found a compatible motherboard, the MSI B550M Pro-VDH WIFI, offering both Wi-Fi and two NVMe slots.
AM4 is mainly worth thinking about when you're working with a very limited budget. Regardless, it looks like there are some unusual developments around DDR5 pricing that could make this a less favorable time. Personally, adding a B550 board with an extra NVMe port and built-in Wi-Fi doesn't seem essential unless you're upgrading other components. A B550 will still function with your existing setup, but you're still dealing with a platform that's rapidly becoming outdated. With AM5, there are more opportunities for improvement.
You need to provide more information about the type of Wi-Fi card required. Are you looking for a card that fits a specific slot size, like an X1 or an X16? Adding M.2 drives on a PCIe X16 card will keep them NVMe-based. Some cards even come with just one M.2 drive. Upgrading your motherboard could resolve the issue, potentially saving you three times the cost.
I believe Gigabyte offers a comparable board, the B550M DS3H AC R2, which is marginally more affordable than the MSI model you mentioned on Shopee.