MSI Prepares the First B840 Chipset Motherboard With Connectors on the Back
MSI has quietly unveiled a new addition to its Project Zero and EVO motherboard lineup. The company has released the PRO B840M P EVO WiFi6E PZ, a redesigned version of the existing PRO B840M P WiFi6E that relocates nearly all front facing connectors to the back of the PCB. This approach is intended to provide cleaner cable management and a simplified building experience, similar to what users have seen on MSI’s Project Zero series for Intel platforms.
Compared to the standard PRO B840M P WiFi6E, this EVO PZ model brings several structural upgrades. It features additional PCI Express slots, expanded storage connectivity, and more onboard heatsinks. The general layout remains familiar, and many of the specifications match the original design. This includes support for DDR5 memory up to 8000 MT per second with capacities up to 256 GB, identical rear I and O layouts, 2.5 G Ethernet, and WiFi 6E connectivity.
The most significant change is the relocation of connectors. The motherboard places the eight pin EPS connector, twenty four pin ATX connector, USB 3.0 front panel header, USB Type C front panel header, SATA ports, fan headers, and RGB or ARGB headers on the back side. This design helps conceal cables behind the motherboard tray, providing a cleaner appearance inside the chassis.
MSI’s product page highlights that this board includes a sixty four MB BIOS chip. This is notable because it positions the motherboard to support AMD’s upcoming Zen 6 processors. While earlier reports suggested that thirty two MB BIOS chips would be sufficient, MSI’s choice to adopt a larger BIOS capacity suggests preparation for future CPU generations. Although Zen 6 was once rumored for a 2026 release, AMD has since confirmed that Zen 6 will launch in early 2027.
The PRO B840M P EVO WiFi6E PZ also retains a seven plus two plus one power phase VRM and MSI’s suite of EZ installation features. These include EZ GPU and simplified M.2 mounting systems that streamline the building process for new users and enthusiasts alike.
If this model is indeed the first B840 motherboard to adopt a back facing connector layout and the first to include a sixty four MB BIOS, it will set a new precedent for AM5 motherboards in the mid range segment. MSI has not yet announced pricing or retail availability, although more details are expected soon as motherboard vendors finalize their B840 lineups.
Are back facing connectors the future of DIY PC building, or do you prefer traditional layouts? Share your thoughts below.
