MSI B550 TOMAHAWK WIFI Adds Wi-Fi 6E, Cuts SATA Ports

MSI updated its B550 TOMAHAWK WIFI motherboard to bring modern wireless standards to the aging AM4 platform. This release matters to budget builders because it adds Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 to a board that previously lacked them. The change allows users to upgrade older systems without replacing the entire motherboard. Buyers looking for a cost-effective AM4 board with current wireless features will find this option relevant.

Modernized AM4 board swaps older wireless for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3

The B550 TOMAHAWK WIFI serves as a modernized variant of the original B550 TOMAHAWK. It targets AMD Socket AM4 processors, which remain popular for gaming and general computing. The motherboard maintains the established TOMAHAWK aesthetic while incorporating updated internal hardware specifications. These configuration choices aim to maintain a competitive price point suitable for mainstream consumers.

Specifications

• Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E & Bluetooth 5.3
• Ethernet: 1x 2.5GbE
• SATA Ports: 4
• M.2 Slots: 2 (1x Gen4, 1x Gen3)
• VRM: 8+2+1 phases

MSI reduced the number of SATA ports from six to four on this new model. The Ethernet connectivity also changed, dropping from a dual-port setup to a single 2.5GbE port. The motherboard uses a 6-layer 2oz copper PCB to maintain signal integrity. Power delivery relies on an 8+2+1 phase VRM design with a single EPS 8-Pin connector.

Memory support allows for overclocking speeds up to 5100+ MT/s. Storage options include two M.2 slots, one supporting PCIe Gen4 x4 and the other PCIe Gen3 x4. PCIe expansion features one Gen4 x16 slot, one full-length Gen3 x4 slot, and two Gen3 x1 slots. Rear connectivity includes a USB-C port with 10Gbps speeds, while the front panel offers a 5Gbps USB-C header.

We looked at ASRock B550 Rock WiFi Motherboard Launches earlier while tracking Msi launches. Both boards target the same AM4 market segment with different feature sets. The MSI board distinguishes itself with its specific VRM configuration and PCB layer count. This comparison helps readers weigh the trade-offs between different B550 options.

The B550 TOMAHAWK WIFI confirms MSI's strategy to refresh older chipsets with updated wireless and connectivity features. The reduction in SATA and Ethernet ports reflects a shift toward modern storage and networking standards. Users can expect a stable platform for AM4 CPUs with current Wi-Fi capabilities.