Tips for B450 motherboards and Ryzen 7 3700X builds
Tips for B450 motherboards and Ryzen 7 3700X builds
Hi everyone, I'm checking if there are any B450 motherboards that don't need flashing for a Ryzen 7 3700X. I was thinking about the MSI M450 Gaming Pro Carbon but don’t have the CPU ready to flash the BIOS yet (currently using an i7-7700). I heard the MSI B450 TOMAHAWK MAX doesn’t require flashing, but I’d like some advice before buying. Any other board suggestions would be helpful—I just want something that works smoothly without extra steps. Thanks!
It's challenging to confirm since the B450 model launched before the Ryzen 3000. Some B450 boards were released after the Ryzen 3000 was introduced, such as certain MSI MAX boards like the Tomahawk MAX. Just because a B450 came out early doesn't guarantee it was made before the Ryzen 3000. After the Ryzen 3000's release, all B450 boards were updated in the factory, making them compatible today. In summary:
- MSI MAX boards remain functional
- Most others should also work due to post-Ryzen 3000 manufacturing
- Check with your retailer if the image matches the box
Noted, the Tomahawk supports only one M.2 port. Are you sure the Asus ROG Strix B450-F fits?
It would work well with Ryzen 3000 boards like the MSI MAX series, but the B450-F falls short, particularly for a 3700X. I’d prefer the MSI B450 Mortar MAX or Aorus B450 Elite instead—the latter is likely compatible now due to manufacturing updates.
Reviewed the compatibility list and BIOS patches on the Asus website. The board is listed as compatible without any restrictions or updates. Also checked the BIOS update page and found an update you may need: Version 3003 2019/12/26, 9.59 MB, ROG STRIX B450-F GAMING BIOS 3003. Includes patch 1.0.0.4 for AM4 combo PI 1.0.0.4 and a fix for M.2 compatibility with Ryzen 3000 CPUs. You might want to install this update before using M.2 drives, especially if the board isn't already updated. I can't confirm your exact BIOS version at purchase.
I would steer clear of ASUS B450 boards since they deliver poor voltage regulation. They work fine at 3600W but fall short at 3800W.
You're looking to buy a Ryzen 7 3700X board within a budget of around £150. Since you're familiar with Intel but new to Ryzen, I recommend checking out M.2 slots for compatibility. You could also consider using an affordable AM4 CPU if you prefer a simpler setup. Just remember, there are plenty of options available that work well out of the box.
I've been examining this one too—maybe it seems small in my Bequiet dark 700 case though, hehe