MSI Expands Project Zero Lineup With New B850M and B860M Motherboards Featuring Rear-Facing Connectors
MSI is bringing its innovative Project Zero concept to more mainstream platforms with the expansion of connector-less motherboards in both AMD and Intel 800-series lineups. The latest leak, shared by reliable source @momomo_us, reveals three upcoming Micro-ATX motherboards one AMD-based and two Intel-based under MSI’s Pro Series, each designed to offer a cleaner cable management experience with all major connectors shifted to the back of the PCB.
The Project Zero concept, launched by MSI to streamline PC building aesthetics and airflow, hides traditional front-facing connectors by relocating them behind the motherboard tray. This cleaner design results in neater, more visually appealing system builds, especially for windowed cases.
New Project Zero Models
According to the leak, MSI is preparing the following boards:
MSI PRO B850M-A WiFi PZ (AMD)
Already listed on MSI’s official site, this Micro-ATX motherboard comes with AMD’s new B850 chipset and supports AM5 CPUs. Its rear-facing design includes an 8+4-pin EPS combo, 24-pin ATX connector, USB 3.0, USB-C, multiple SATA ports, PCIe 8-pin GPU power input, and RGB/fan headers. Notably, it features four PCIe x16 slots, which is a rare configuration for Micro-ATX boards.
MSI PRO B860M-A WiFi PZ (Intel)
This board is expected to follow the same rear-connector approach, featuring the Intel B860 chipset and support for LGA 1851 socket processors. While visuals are not yet confirmed, its layout is presumed similar to its AMD counterpart with minor chipset-specific differences.
MSI PRO B860M-VC WiFi PZ (Intel)
The second Intel-based option in the leak, the VC model's exact feature set is still unknown, but likely includes slight variations in power delivery or expansion slot options compared to the standard B860M-A.
These models follow in the footsteps of MSI’s PRO Z890-S WiFi PZ, which is currently the only known Intel 800-series motherboard to adopt the Project Zero design. Until now, MSI had yet to release any connector-less X870 AMD boards, focusing instead on B850-class motherboards to balance innovation with affordability.
Why It Matters
Connector-less motherboards like Project Zero are still relatively niche, but they represent a forward-thinking approach to DIY PC building. By relocating power and data connectors to the back of the motherboard, cable routing becomes dramatically simpler, cooling improves, and aesthetics are elevated.
MSI appears to be targeting budget and mid-range segments by implementing the design on Micro-ATX form factors, a category often overlooked for premium features. This could significantly increase the appeal of compact, high-performance builds that look great and are easy to assemble.
Awaiting Official Confirmation
As of now, MSI has not officially announced the B860M models, but with product listings already live for the B850M-A WiFi PZ and leaked names gaining attention, more detailed reveals are expected soon. Builders looking for stylish and efficient cable-free builds should keep an eye on these upcoming Project Zero additions.
What do you think of the rear-connector motherboard trend — is it the future of PC building or just a niche gimmick? Let us know in the comments!
