Integrated WiFi has transitioned from a premium luxury to a standard feature on many modern motherboards, offering significant convenience for system builders. A motherboard with built-in WiFi eliminates the need for external adapters or PCIe cards, providing a clean and streamlined solution for wireless connectivity right out of the box. An antenna, typically included with the motherboard, connects to the rear I/O panel to ensure a stable and robust signal. This guide provides a purely informational, objective analysis of ten popular motherboards featuring integrated WiFi, with up-to-date specifications to deliver a clear picture of the current landscape.
Understanding the Essentials of WiFi-Enabled Motherboards
Choosing a motherboard is a foundational step in building a PC, as it dictates compatibility with all other components. When wireless connectivity is a priority, understanding the specifications related to it is crucial.
Key Considerations Before Choosing
CPU Socket & Chipset Compatibility
The most critical factor is ensuring the motherboard’s CPU socket and chipset match your chosen processor. For example, AMD’s AM4 socket supports Ryzen 3000/5000 series CPUs, while the newer AM5 socket is for Ryzen 7000 series and beyond. For Intel, the LGA 1700 socket supports 12th, 13th, and 14th generation CPUs. The chipset (e.g., B550, Z790, A620) acts as the nervous system, and understanding the differences, such as the B550 vs X570, is vital for performance and features.
Form Factor (ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX)
Motherboard size, or form factor, determines case compatibility and the number of available expansion slots. The three main sizes are ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX. While Mini-ITX boards almost always include WiFi due to limited space for expansion cards, larger ATX vs Micro-ATX vs Mini-ITX boards offer it as a feature for convenience and to free up PCIe slots.
WiFi Standards (WiFi 5, WiFi 6, WiFi 6E)
The WiFi standard determines the maximum potential speed and performance in congested network environments.
- WiFi 5 (802.11ac): An older but still functional standard, suitable for general internet use and streaming.
- WiFi 6 (802.11ax): Offers significant speed improvements and, more importantly, better performance and efficiency in environments with many connected devices.
- WiFi 6E (802.11ax): Extends WiFi 6 capabilities into the 6 GHz band, providing much more non-overlapping channels for reduced interference and higher bandwidth. This is ideal for high-density environments and demanding applications like VR streaming and competitive online gaming.
Memory and Storage Options
Verify the type of RAM supported, such as DDR4 or the newer DDR5. Also, check the number of M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe SSDs and traditional SATA ports for other drives. Understanding how many M.2 slots a motherboard has is important for planning your storage configuration.
2025 Comparison of Popular Motherboards with WiFi
This table provides a high-level overview of the key specifications for each motherboard. Note that some older models are included for reference and are compared against modern alternatives.
| Feature | ASUS ROG Strix B550-F WiFi II | GIGABYTE B450 AORUS PRO WiFi | MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WIFI | MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi | ASUS Prime B550M-A WiFi II | MSI B450 TOMAHAWK MAX | MSI B560M PRO-VDH WiFi | Gigabyte B450M DS3H WiFi | ASUS Prime Z690-P WiFi D4 | GIGABYTE A520M DS3H AC |
| Status | Current | Outdated | Discontinued | Current | Current | Outdated | Discontinued | Outdated | Current | Current |
| CPU Socket | AM4 | AM4 | LGA 1200 | AM4 | AM4 | AM4 | LGA 1200 | AM4 | LGA 1700 | AM4 |
| Chipset | AMD B550 | AMD B450 | Intel Z490 | AMD B550 | AMD B550 | AMD B450 | Intel B560 | AMD B450 | Intel Z690 | AMD A520 |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX | ATX | Micro-ATX | Micro-ATX | ATX | Micro-ATX | Micro-ATX | ATX | Micro-ATX |
| Memory Type | 4x DDR4 | 4x DDR4 | 4x DDR4 | 4x DDR4 | 4x DDR4 | 4x DDR4 | 4x DDR4 | 4x DDR4 | 4x DDR4 | 4x DDR4 |
| Max Memory | 128 GB | 64 GB | 128 GB | 128 GB | 128 GB | 128 GB | 128 GB | 64 GB | 128 GB | 128 GB |
| GPU PCIe Slot | PCIe 4.0 x16 | PCIe 3.0 x16 | PCIe 3.0 x16 | PCIe 4.0 x16 | PCIe 4.0 x16 | PCIe 3.0 x16 | PCIe 4.0 x16 | PCIe 3.0 x16 | PCIe 5.0 x16 | PCIe 3.0 x16 |
| M.2 Slots | 1x PCIe 4.0, 1x PCIe 3.0 | 2x PCIe 3.0 | 2x PCIe 3.0 | 1x PCIe 4.0, 1x PCIe 3.0 | 1x PCIe 4.0, 1x PCIe 3.0 | 1x PCIe 3.0 | 1x PCIe 4.0, 1x PCIe 3.0 | 1x PCIe 3.0 | 3x PCIe 4.0 | 1x PCIe 3.0 |
| WiFi Standard | WiFi 6E | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | N/A (No WiFi) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Ethernet | 2.5 Gbps | 1 Gbps | 2.5 Gbps | 1 Gbps | 1 Gbps | 1 Gbps | 2.5 Gbps | 1 Gbps | 2.5 Gbps | 1 Gbps |
| Rear USB-C | Yes (3.2 Gen 2) | Yes (3.1 Gen 2) | Yes (3.2 Gen 2×2) | No | No | Yes (3.2 Gen 2) | No | No | Yes (3.2 Gen 2×2) | No |
Detailed Analysis of Motherboards with Integrated WiFi
This section provides a deeper look into each specific model, its features, and its relevance.
ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II
Overview
A highly popular and feature-rich ATX motherboard for the AMD AM4 platform. The “WiFi II” revision updates the wireless capabilities to WiFi 6E, making it a very capable board for gaming and content creation. It features a robust power delivery system, comprehensive cooling options, and premium audio, positioning it as a top-tier choice for builders not yet moving to the AM5 platform.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: AM4
- Chipset: AMD B550
- Form Factor: ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 128GB, speeds up to 5100MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4 mode), 3x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Storage: 1x M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4, 1x M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4, 6x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, Intel WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
- Audio: ROG SupremeFX S1220A 7.1 Surround Sound HD Audio CODEC
GIGABYTE B450 AORUS PRO WiFi
Overview
The GIGABYTE B450 AORUS PRO WiFi was a solid mid-range ATX option for the AM4 socket when it was released. It offered a good balance of features for its time, including integrated WiFi 5 and USB Type-C connectivity.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: AM4
- Chipset: AMD B450
- Form Factor: ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 64GB, speeds up to 3600MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4 mode), 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x1 mode), 1x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Storage: 2x M.2 PCIe 3.0, 6x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Intel Gigabit Ethernet, Intel Dual Band WiFi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.2
- Audio: Realtek ALC1220-VB HD Audio CODEC
2025 Perspective & Alternative
This motherboard is outdated for new builds. The B450 chipset lacks PCIe 4.0 support, which is a significant limitation for modern GPUs and NVMe SSDs. Its WiFi 5 standard is also two generations behind.
Suggested Alternative: MSI MAG B650 TOMAHAWK WIFI
For a modern AMD build, a B650 motherboard is a far superior choice. It supports the latest AM5 CPUs, DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, and WiFi 6E, offering a significant leap in performance and future-proofing.
- CPU Socket: AM5
- Chipset: AMD B650
- Memory: 4x DDR5, up to 192GB
- Networking: Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet, WiFi 6E
MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WIFI
Overview
This was a popular ATX motherboard for Intel’s 10th and 11th generation processors on the LGA 1200 socket. It provided a premium feature set, including WiFi 6, 2.5Gb LAN, and a robust VRM design for overclocking.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: LGA 1200
- Chipset: Intel Z490
- Form Factor: ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 128GB, speeds up to 5000MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4 mode), 2x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Storage: 2x M.2 PCIe 3.0, 6x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Realtek 2.5Gb LAN, Intel WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.1
- Audio: Realtek ALC1200-VD1 Codec
2025 Perspective & Alternative
This motherboard is discontinued and obsolete for new systems. The LGA 1200 socket and Z490 chipset have been superseded by the LGA 1700 platform. Building a new PC on this platform is not advisable. Learning how to update the motherboard BIOS would be necessary even for its intended CPUs.
Suggested Alternative: MSI PRO Z790-A WIFI
For a current Intel build, a Z790 motherboard is the standard. It offers support for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen CPUs, PCIe 5.0, and DDR5 memory.
- CPU Socket: LGA 1700
- Chipset: Intel Z790
- Memory: 4x DDR5, up to 128GB+
- Networking: Intel 2.5Gb LAN, WiFi 6E
MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi
Overview
This Micro-ATX motherboard is a popular choice for budget-conscious builders using the AMD AM4 platform. It provides essential features, including PCIe 4.0 support for the primary graphics card and M.2 slot, along with basic WiFi 5 connectivity, making it a versatile and cost-effective option.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: AM4
- Chipset: AMD B550
- Form Factor: Micro-ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 128GB, speeds up to 4400MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 2x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Storage: 1x M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4, 1x M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4, 4x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Realtek Gigabit LAN, WiFi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.2
- Audio: Realtek ALC897 Codec
ASUS Prime B550M-A WiFi II
Overview
Similar to the MSI PRO-VDH, the ASUS Prime B550M-A WiFi II targets the budget to mid-range Micro-ATX market for AMD AM4 builds. The “WiFi II” revision upgrades the networking to WiFi 6, providing a more modern wireless solution than many of its direct competitors in the same price bracket.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: AM4
- Chipset: AMD B550
- Form Factor: Micro-ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 128GB, speeds up to 4866MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 2x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Storage: 1x M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4, 1x M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4, 4x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Realtek 1Gb Ethernet, WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.2
- Audio: Realtek 7.1 Surround Sound HD Audio CODEC
MSI B450 TOMAHAWK MAX
Overview
The MSI B450 TOMAHAWK series was legendary among PC builders for its strong VRM performance and value on the AM4 platform. The “MAX” version ensured compatibility with 3rd Gen Ryzen CPUs out of the box. It is important to note that the standard B450 Tomahawk MAX does not include built-in WiFi. A separate WiFi-enabled model or a PCIe card would be required.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: AM4
- Chipset: AMD B450
- Form Factor: ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 128GB, speeds up to 4133MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1x PCIe 2.0 x16 (x4 mode), 3x PCIe 2.0 x1
- Storage: 1x M.2 PCIe 3.0, 6x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Realtek 1Gb Ethernet
- Audio: Realtek ALC892/ALC897 Codec
2025 Perspective & Alternative
This motherboard is outdated for new builds. Like other B450 boards, it lacks PCIe 4.0 and relies on older connectivity standards. Its acclaim was based on its value at the time of release.
Suggested Alternative: MSI PRO B760M-A WIFI DDR4
For a budget-conscious build, a B760 board for the Intel LGA 1700 platform offers a better value proposition. It supports DDR4 to save costs but provides modern features like PCIe 4.0 and WiFi 6E.
- CPU Socket: LGA 1700
- Chipset: Intel B760
- Memory: 4x DDR4, up to 128GB
- Networking: Realtek 2.5Gb LAN, WiFi 6E
MSI B560M PRO-VDH WiFi
Overview
A Micro-ATX motherboard for the Intel LGA 1200 socket, this board was a cost-effective solution for 10th and 11th Gen Intel Core processors. A key feature of the B560 chipset was that it enabled memory overclocking, a feature previously locked to the high-end Z-series chipsets. It also featured PCIe 4.0 support when paired with an 11th Gen CPU.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: LGA 1200
- Chipset: Intel B560
- Form Factor: Micro-ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 128GB, speeds up to 5066MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 2x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Storage: 1x M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4, 1x M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4, 6x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Realtek 2.5Gb LAN, Intel WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
- Audio: Realtek ALC897 Codec
2025 Perspective & Alternative
This motherboard is discontinued and not recommended for new builds. The LGA 1200 platform is two generations old. For a modern Intel system, LGA 1700 is the current standard.
Suggested Alternative: MSI PRO B760M-A WIFI DDR4
This board serves as an excellent modern replacement, offering a similar value proposition but on the current Intel platform with superior connectivity options like WiFi 6E and 2.5Gb LAN.
- CPU Socket: LGA 1700
- Chipset: Intel B760
- Memory: 4x DDR4, up to 128GB
- Networking: Realtek 2.5Gb LAN, WiFi 6E
Gigabyte B450M DS3H WiFi
Overview
This is an entry-level Micro-ATX motherboard for the AMD AM4 socket. It was designed to provide the most basic features needed to build a functional system, including rudimentary WiFi 5 capabilities, at a very low cost.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: AM4
- Chipset: AMD B450
- Form Factor: Micro-ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 64GB, speeds up to 3600MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1x PCIe 2.0 x16 (x4 mode), 1x PCIe 2.0 x1
- Storage: 1x M.2 PCIe 3.0, 4x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Realtek 1Gb Ethernet, Integrated WiFi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.2
- Audio: Realtek ALC887 Codec
2025 Perspective & Alternative
This motherboard is severely outdated. It lacks key features like PCIe 4.0 and uses an old chipset and networking standards. It should only be considered for maintenance or repair of an existing older system. If you find yourself needing to test if your motherboard is dead, replacing it with a like-for-like model might be necessary, but not for a new build.
Suggested Alternative: GIGABYTE A620M GAMING X AX
For a modern, entry-level AMD build, an A620 motherboard for the AM5 socket is a much better starting point. It supports DDR5 memory, offers PCIe 4.0, and includes modern WiFi 6E.
- CPU Socket: AM5
- Chipset: AMD A620
- Memory: 4x DDR5, up to 192GB
- Networking: Realtek Gigabit LAN, WiFi 6E
ASUS Prime Z690-P WiFi D4
Overview
This ATX motherboard is a solid entry point into Intel’s LGA 1700 platform, offering a strong feature set that includes PCIe 5.0 support for the main graphics slot. The “D4” in its name signifies its use of DDR4 memory, making it a cost-effective choice for users who want a modern platform without investing in more expensive DDR5 RAM.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: LGA 1700
- Chipset: Intel Z690
- Form Factor: ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 128GB, speeds up to 5333MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 (x4 mode), 2x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4 mode), 1x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Storage: 3x M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4, 4x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet, Intel WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
- Audio: Realtek 7.1 Surround Sound HD Audio CODEC
GIGABYTE A520M DS3H AC
Overview
The A520M DS3H AC is a basic, entry-level Micro-ATX motherboard for AMD’s AM4 socket. It is one of the most affordable ways to build a PC with a Ryzen 3000 or 5000 series processor. It lacks PCIe 4.0 support but includes WiFi 5 (802.11ac) for essential wireless connectivity.
Key Specifications
- CPU Socket: AM4
- Chipset: AMD A520
- Form Factor: Micro-ATX
- Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM, up to 128GB, speeds up to 4733MHz (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 2x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Storage: 1x M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4, 4x SATA 6Gb/s
- Networking: Realtek Gigabit LAN, Intel Dual Band WiFi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.2/5.0 (varies by revision)
- Audio: Realtek HD Audio Codec
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary benefit of a motherboard with built-in WiFi?
The primary benefit is convenience. It eliminates the need to purchase and install a separate WiFi adapter, freeing up a USB port or an internal PCIe slot. This results in a cleaner build and ensures wireless connectivity is available immediately after system assembly and driver installation.
What happens if a motherboard does not have integrated WiFi?
If a motherboard lacks integrated WiFi, you can still connect to the internet in two ways. You can use a physical Ethernet cable for a wired connection to your router, or you can purchase a separate adapter, which comes as either a USB dongle or a PCIe card that you install in one of the available PCIe slots on the motherboard.
Is a dedicated WiFi card a better option than integrated WiFi?
Performance can be comparable, but it depends on the specific models. A high-end PCIe WiFi card with a large external antenna may offer better signal reception than a budget motherboard’s integrated solution. However, motherboards with modern WiFi 6E often use high-quality Intel modules that are on par with the best dedicated cards.
Do motherboards with WiFi also include Bluetooth?
Yes, in virtually all modern cases. The wireless module used on motherboards is a combination chip that provides both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. The version of Bluetooth (e.g., 5.1, 5.2, 5.3) is tied to the specific WiFi module installed.
How does the WiFi antenna connect to the motherboard?
The motherboard’s rear I/O panel will have two small, threaded connectors. An external antenna, which is included in the motherboard box, screws onto these connectors. The antenna can then be positioned on top of or near the PC case to achieve the best possible signal strength.
Does the quality of integrated WiFi vary between motherboards?
Absolutely. The quality and speed are determined by the WiFi standard (e.g., WiFi 5, WiFi 6, WiFi 6E) and the specific wireless module used. Premium motherboards typically feature the latest standards like WiFi 6E and high-performance modules from manufacturers like Intel, while budget boards may use older standards like WiFi 5. When evaluating a motherboard, checking its detailed networking specifications is essential.
Holding a Ph.D. in Computer Science, Dr. Alistair Finch is our chief PC Component Benchmark Analyst. He provides meticulous, data-driven analysis of CPUs and GPUs, moving beyond marketing claims to reveal their true performance. His guides help readers understand the intricate relationship between hardware architecture and real-world gaming frame rates.