GALAX B650M Wi-Fi Black Warrior PLUS V2 Downgrades Specs

GALAX released a revised version of its Alliance B650M Wi-Fi Black Warrior PLUS motherboard that strips away several key features from the original launch model. This downgrade matters because buyers expecting the initial V1 specifications will receive a significantly less capable board for the same slot in the market. The V2 revision prioritizes cost reduction over performance, affecting users planning high-end AM5 builds.

GALAX reduces power delivery and connectivity in revised motherboard

The new motherboard retains the AMD B650 chipset but modifies its layout to reduce manufacturing costs. GALAX moved the primary PCIe x16 slot position and removed the pre-installed rear I/O shield from the chassis. These changes indicate a shift in assembly priorities, requiring users to install the metal shield separately.

Specifications

• VRM Configuration: 10+2+1 phases 60A DrMOS (downgraded from 12+2+1)
• Memory Overclocking Support: 6400+ MT/s (downgraded from 7600+ MT/s)
• USB 10Gbps Ports: Reduced by 2 ports
• Wi-Fi Module: RTL8851BE 1T1R (downgraded from RTL8852BE 2T2R)
• PCIe Slots: 1x PCIe Gen5 x16, 1x PCIe Gen4 x1

Power delivery and memory support saw the most substantial reductions in the V2 model. The voltage regulator module configuration dropped from 12+2+1 phases to 10+2+1 phases, all still using 60A DrMOS components. Maximum memory overclocking support fell from 7600+ MT/s to 6400+ MT/s, limiting the potential for high-speed RAM kits. The board still includes three M.2 slots, with two supporting PCIe Gen5 x4 speeds for fast storage.

Connectivity options were also trimmed in this revision. The number of USB 10Gbps ports decreased by two compared to the previous version. The wireless networking module changed from a 2T2R RTL8852BE chip to a 1T1R RTL8851BE chip, reducing Wi-Fi 6 bandwidth potential. Ethernet connectivity remains at 2.5GbE RJ45, and the board includes one PCIe Gen4 x1 slot for expansion.

GALAX confirmed these specification changes as part of the V2 production run released in August 2024. The company did not disclose pricing details or specific availability dates for this revised model. Users should verify the revision before purchase to avoid receiving the downgraded V2 hardware if they require V1 specifications.