Going for a 5Gbps USB connection is actually quite common at this price point and I am happy with decision. There is a caveat, however MSI routes this port with a 5Gbps USB 3.0 link rather than the higher speed 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 alternative we are more used to.

I am very pleased to see MSI including an internal USB Type-C front panel header as many competing solutions around this price point omit the important connection. The four DIMM slots can take up to 128GB of system memory. MSI’s QVL highlights support for a DDR4 memory kit as high as 5100MHz. You get a subtle RGB glow from beneath the chipset heatsink. The PCB is a 6-layer design, which is a positive sign of quality. That is a good decision for keeping costs down. There is nothing fancy on the rear as MSI does not opt for a backplate. Most notable when looking at the motherboard are the sizable VRM heatsinks – one of which doubles up as the rear IO cover. A large swathe of black, dark grey, and silvers form the colour scheme and there are no real contrasting elements. The MSI B550 Tomahawk follows MSI’s usual styling for this SKU. You get a couple of SATA cables, screws for the M.2 slots, a case sticker, and the usual documentation.

MSI includes a basic bundle with the B550 Tomahawk.

Msi b550 fan control