MSI Motherboard FAQ's
How to update bios on MSI motherboard?
Updating the BIOS on an MSI motherboard is a crucial task for gamers to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the latest hardware and software. Here's a step-by-step guide in a user-friendly tone:
Step 1: Identify Your Motherboard Model
Before you start, it's essential to know your motherboard model. You can find this information in your motherboard's manual or on the motherboard itself. Make sure to visit MSI's official website to locate the support page for your specific model.
Step 2: Download the Latest BIOS Version
On MSI's support page for your motherboard, you'll find a list of available BIOS versions. Download the latest version and save it to a USB flash drive.
Step 3: Preparing the USB Drive
Format a USB flash drive to FAT32 and ensure it's empty. Copy the downloaded BIOS file to the root directory of the USB drive.
Step 4: Accessing the BIOS
Restart your PC and enter the BIOS settings by pressing the designated key during the boot-up process. For MSI motherboards, this key is usually "Delete" or "F2." Consult your motherboard manual for the specific key.
Step 5: Updating the BIOS
Within the BIOS, navigate to the "M-FLASH" utility. This tool enables you to update the BIOS directly from the USB drive. Select the BIOS file you copied earlier and follow the on-screen instructions to begin the update.
Step 6: Do Not Interrupt
Once the update starts, it's crucial not to turn off your PC or interrupt the process. Wait patiently until it's completed, which may take a few minutes. The PC may restart during this process.
Step 7: Confirm the Update
After a successful update, enter the BIOS settings again to ensure the new BIOS version is correctly installed.
Step 8: Restore BIOS Settings
Sometimes, updating the BIOS can reset your BIOS settings to default. Double-check and adjust any settings if necessary.
Step 9: Enjoy Improved Performance
With the updated BIOS, your MSI motherboard should now be compatible with the latest hardware and offer improved stability and performance for your gaming endeavours.
Always remember that updating the BIOS carries some risks, so it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. In most cases, the process is straightforward and can lead to a smoother gaming experience.
What is the best MSI motherboard?
The best MSI motherboard for your gaming setup can vary depending on your specific needs and budget. MSI offers a range of options, each tailored to different requirements. Here, we'll highlight a few MSI motherboards known for their gaming prowess:
MSI MPG B550 Gaming Edge Wi-Fi: This motherboard combines affordability and performance. It supports AMD Ryzen processors and offers features like Wi-Fi 6, USB-C, and M.2 slots, making it a great choice for gamers looking for a balance between performance and price.
MSI MEG X570 Unify: For enthusiasts and serious gamers, this motherboard boasts impressive power delivery and a clean, sleek design. With support for PCIe 4.0, Wi-Fi 6, and 2.5G LAN, it's perfect for those who demand top-tier performance.
MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk: This is a cost-effective option that doesn't compromise on quality. It supports AMD Ryzen CPUs, has USB-C ports, and features a robust power design, making it suitable for gaming rigs on a budget.
MSI MPG Z590 Gaming Carbon Wi-Fi: If you prefer Intel processors, this motherboard supports the latest 10th and 11th Gen CPUs. It offers features like Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G LAN, making it ideal for high-performance gaming and content creation.
MSI MPG B450 Gaming Pro Carbon Max Wi-Fi: A slightly older model but still very capable. It supports AMD Ryzen processors, offers Wi-Fi, and comes with premium features like Mystic Light RGB.
When choosing the best MSI motherboard for your gaming PC, consider factors such as CPU compatibility, the number of PCIe slots and M.2 ports, available USB ports, and networking capabilities. If you're into overclocking, look for models with robust power delivery and cooling solutions.
Can you use MSI afterburner on any motherboard?
MSI Afterburner is a versatile and powerful overclocking utility primarily designed for MSI graphics cards. While it is primarily used to fine-tune and monitor the performance of MSI GPUs, it's important to note that it isn't limited to MSI motherboards. Afterburner can be used in conjunction with motherboards from various manufacturers. It allows you to monitor and control various aspects of your graphics card's performance, such as core clock speeds, memory clock speeds, voltage, and fan speed. However, it's important to keep in mind that the overclocking and tweaking capabilities of MSI Afterburner primarily apply to the GPU, not the motherboard. When using MSI Afterburner, ensure that your motherboard supports the specific GPU you have, but the motherboard brand itself is not a limiting factor.
So yes, you can use MSI Afterburner on a wide range of motherboards, regardless of the manufacturer. Just make sure your primary focus is on your GPU when using this tool for overclocking and performance tuning.