MSI A520M-A PRO AM4 AMD microATX Motherboard

Product Details

MSI A520M-A PRO AM4 AMD microATX Motherboard

The MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming motherboard is a versatile and budget-friendly option designed to cater to the needs of gamers and general PC users who are looking to build or upgrade their systems with AMD Ryzen processors. Built on the AMD A520 chipset, this Micro-ATX motherboard offers a blend of performance, functionality, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable foundation for their PC build without compromising on key features.

Key Features:

1. Socket and Chipset:

   • Socket: AM4
   • Chipset: AMD A520
   • The AM4 socket ensures compatibility with AMD Ryzen processors, providing a broad range of options from budget to high-performance CPUs. The A520 chipset offers essential features for modern computing while keeping costs lower compared to higher-end chipsets.

2. Processor Support:

   • The MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming supports AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors, as well as Ryzen 3000 and 4000 series processors (excluding Ryzen 3200G and Ryzen 3400G). This wide range of compatibility allows users to choose from various processors based on their performance needs and budget constraints.

3. Memory:

   • Slots: 2 DIMM slots
   • Type: DDR4
   • Maximum Capacity: 64 GB
   • Maximum Speed: Up to 4400 MHz (OC)
   • The motherboard supports high-speed DDR4 memory, providing users with the capability to install up to 64 GB of RAM. This is particularly beneficial for multitasking, gaming, and professional applications that require substantial memory.

4. Expansion Slots:

   • PCIe Slots:
     • 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot
     • 1 x PCIe 3.0 x1 slot
   • The primary PCIe 3.0 x16 slot is designed for a graphics card, enabling users to enjoy modern games and applications with enhanced visual performance. The secondary PCIe 3.0 x1 slot can be used for additional expansion cards, such as sound or network cards.

5. Storage:

   • SATA Ports: 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports
   • M.2 Slots:
     • 1 x M.2 slot (supports PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA modes)
   • The motherboard features multiple storage options, including four SATA 6Gb/s ports for traditional hard drives and SSDs, and a single M.2 slot for high-speed NVMe or SATA storage solutions. This flexibility allows users to configure their storage according to their needs for speed and capacity.

6. Graphics Outputs:

   • HDMI: 1 x HDMI 1.4b port
   • DVI-D: 1 x DVI-D port
   • The motherboard includes both HDMI and DVI-D ports, offering compatibility with a variety of display monitors. This is especially useful for users who are utilizing integrated graphics or who do not have a dedicated GPU.

7. USB Ports:

   • Rear I/O:
     • 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C
     • 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
     • 2 x USB 2.0
   • Internal Connectors:
     • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 headers
     • 2 x USB 2.0 headers
   • The motherboard provides a range of USB ports for connecting peripherals, including both USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports for faster data transfer and USB 2.0 ports for older devices. Internal headers allow for additional USB ports via the front panel of the PC case.

8. Networking:

   • LAN: Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit LAN
   • The onboard Realtek RTL8111H LAN chip ensures reliable and fast network connectivity, essential for online gaming and other network-intensive tasks.

9. Audio:

   • Codec: Realtek ALC892
   • Channels: 7.1-channel HD audio
   • The Realtek ALC892 codec provides high-definition audio with support for 7.1-channel surround sound. This delivers a rich and immersive audio experience for gaming, media consumption, and general use.

10. BIOS:

    • Type: UEFI BIOS
    • Features: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode
    • The UEFI BIOS offers a user-friendly interface with EZ Mode for beginners and Advanced Mode for experienced users. This flexibility allows for easy system configuration and optimization.

11. Form Factor:

    • Micro-ATX: 24.4 cm x 24.4 cm
    • The Micro-ATX form factor provides a compact yet spacious design, fitting into a wide range of PC cases and allowing for easy integration into various builds.

12. Build Quality and Design:

    • The motherboard features a black PCB with subtle gaming-themed accents. Integrated heatsinks on critical components help maintain stable temperatures, ensuring reliable performance even under load.

Specifications

Physical Dimensions:

• Form Factor: Micro-ATX
• Dimensions: 24.4 cm x 24.4 cm

Processor Compatibility:

• Socket Type: AM4
• Chipset: AMD A520
• Supported Processors: AMD Ryzen 3000, 4000, and 5000 series processors (excluding Ryzen 3200G and 3400G)

Memory:

• Type: DDR4
• Slots: 2 DIMM
• Maximum Capacity: 64 GB
• Maximum Speed: 4400 MHz (OC)

Expansion Slots:

• 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 Slot
• 1 x PCIe 3.0 x1 Slot

Storage:

• SATA Ports: 4 x SATA 6Gb/s
• M.2 Slot: 1 x M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA)

Networking:

• LAN: Realtek RTL8111H

Audio:

• Codec: Realtek ALC892
• Audio Channels: 7.1-channel HD audio

Graphics Outputs:

• HDMI: 1 x HDMI 1.4b
• DVI-D: 1 x DVI-D

USB Ports:

• Rear I/O:
  • 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C
  • 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • 2 x USB 2.0
• Internal:
  • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 headers
  • 2 x USB 2.0 headers

BIOS:

• Type: UEFI
• Features: EZ Mode, Advanced Mode

Cooling:

• Integrated heatsinks

Design:

• Black PCB with gaming-themed design elements

Review

The MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming motherboard offers a well-rounded package for budget-conscious users and those building entry-level to mid-range gaming systems. Here’s an in-depth look at its performance, build quality, features, and overall value.

Performance:

The motherboard provides a solid foundation for gaming and general computing tasks. It supports AMD’s Ryzen 5000 series processors, which are known for their impressive performance across a range of applications. The support for high-speed DDR4 memory up to 4400 MHz (OC) ensures that users can achieve fast and responsive system performance.

The inclusion of PCIe 3.0 slots allows for the installation of modern graphics cards, which is essential for gaming at higher resolutions and settings. The single M.2 slot provides the option for rapid NVMe storage, enhancing system boot times and load speeds for applications and games.

Build Quality:

MSI has designed the A520M-A PRO Gaming with durability and reliability in mind. The motherboard features a black PCB with subtle gaming-themed accents that contribute to a sleek aesthetic. Integrated heatsinks on critical components help to dissipate heat and maintain stable operation, even during extended periods of high usage.

Features:

The motherboard’s feature set is tailored to provide a balance between performance and cost. Key features include:

• Dual Memory Slots: Allow for easy upgrades and expansions with up to 64 GB of DDR4 RAM.
• PCIe Slots: Provide flexibility for adding a graphics card and additional expansion cards.
• Storage Options: Multiple SATA ports and a single M.2 slot accommodate a range of storage solutions.
• Graphics Outputs: HDMI and DVI-D ports offer compatibility with various display monitors.
• USB Ports: A mix of USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0 ports provide ample connectivity options.

The UEFI BIOS interface is user-friendly, offering both EZ Mode for novice users and Advanced Mode for those seeking more in-depth customization. This ensures that users can easily configure their system according to their needs.

User Experience:

The MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming delivers a reliable and stable performance for a wide range of computing tasks. Users will appreciate the ease of installation and the straightforward BIOS interface, which simplifies the process of system setup and optimization. The motherboard’s design ensures that it integrates well into various PC cases, and its cooling solutions maintain stable temperatures even under load.

Value for Money:

Considering its feature set and performance capabilities, the MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming motherboard offers excellent value for money. It provides a solid foundation for both gaming and general use without the high cost associated with premium motherboards. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious builders who still want a reliable and capable motherboard.

Warranty Details

MSI generally provides a 2-year limited warranty on their motherboards, including the A520M-A PRO Gaming. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, ensuring that the product is free from manufacturing flaws. However, the warranty does not cover damage resulting from improper installation, misuse, or modifications.

For warranty claims, users should contact MSI’s customer support or visit their official website for detailed procedures. It's important to keep the original purchase receipt and product packaging, as these may be required for warranty service.

Related Products

1. MSI B550-A PRO:

   • The MSI B550-A PRO is an upgrade from the A520 chipset, offering support for PCIe 4.0, which provides faster data transfer rates. It also includes additional features such as more robust power delivery and improved connectivity options.

2. MSI MPG X570 GAMING PLUS:

   • This motherboard features the X570 chipset, which supports PCIe 4.0 and provides additional high-end features for enthusiasts. It offers superior performance and more advanced cooling solutions compared to the A520 chipset.

3. ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming:

   • A competitor in the B550 category, the ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming motherboard offers a range of premium features, including enhanced power delivery, better cooling options, and a more extensive connectivity suite.

4. Gigabyte B450 AORUS M:

   • The Gigabyte B450 AORUS M is another Micro-ATX motherboard that offers a similar feature set to the MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming but with the B450 chipset. It provides good performance for its price and is suitable for users looking for a slightly older but still capable option.

5. ASRock B450M Pro4:

   • The ASRock B450M Pro4 is another budget-friendly Micro-ATX motherboard with the B450 chipset. It offers similar features to the A520M-A PRO Gaming and is a good alternative for users seeking a cost-effective solution.

The MSI A520M-A PRO Gaming motherboard stands out as a reliable and affordable choice for users building or upgrading their PCs. Its blend of performance, features, and value makes it a commendable option for budget-conscious gamers and general users alike.