Another batch of motherboards (it never stops), with models from MSI. This time it’s the Intel B860 and H810 series, entry-level and mid-range boards for Arrow Lake-S processors. As a reminder, Intel took advantage of CES to launch its Core Ultra 200 non-K processors and the chipsets that go with them. So now it’s time for MSI’s nine boards.
The MSI B860 :
Clearly, with these chipsets, we won’t be seeing models as prestigious as the MEG Ace or MPG Carbon series, no, we’re sticking with a much more rational offering. The top-of-the-range boards will be the B860 Tomahawk and Mortar models, in ATX and micro-ATX formats respectively.
With these boards, we have all the connectivity you need for a high-performance configuration. PCIe 5.0 is available for the graphics card and an M.2 slot for SSDs. In terms of memory, there are four DDR5 DIMM slots for 9200 MT/s RAM. Finally, the rear connectivity features 5 Gbps Ethernet Killer from Intel, WiFi 7 and ALC897 audio. Finally, the boards share the same 12+1+1+1 phase power supply stage.
Next, the brand presents a total of three cards from its Pro range, two ATX models with the Pro B860-P WiFi and non-WiFi and a small Pro B860M-A WiFi. Here, we’re moving downmarket, even if the number of power supply phases is inherited from the Tomahawk and Mortar series. The memory will run at a maximum of 8600 MT/s, while all the M.2s will not have an integrated heatsink. However, there will be no change on the network or audio side… That is, if the network is managed by a Realtek 8126 5GbE chip and not a Killer E5000.
Finally, there are two small models from the Gaming Plus range, one in ATX and the other in micro-ATX. There’s not much to say here, they’re simply Pro cards with a different skin.
The small H810 :
Finally, we end with the H810 motherboards, models clearly aimed at the entry-level sector. The aim here is to have a functional PC without any great pretensions. In fact, when you look at the design of the boards, it’s non-existent: all you get is a piece of PCB with connectors.
With the Pro H870M-C EX, we find a PCIe x16 slot , surprisingly standard 5.0, which will be complemented by two other x1 slots and a PCI (not express). There are also M.2 slots, but these have no dedicated heatsink, whereas they have a PCIe 4.0 interface.
For the time being, product data sheets are not available. However, as far as networking is concerned, it looks like we won’t be getting 5 GbE Ethernet. The same goes for audio, where we can expect an old chip.
Finally, on its website, the brand unveils a Pro H810M-B, but the card remains hidden and its technical data incomplete. However, it remains in micro-ATX format like the other model.