The MSI B650M Project Zero takes a creative approach to solving one of the most common frustrations in PC building — cable clutter. By relocating all the motherboard power, fan, and other connectors to the back of the board, MSI delivers a strikingly clean and organized interior once installed. The result is a minimalist, professional look that showcases components without the usual mess of wires crossing the case.
This micro-ATX motherboard is built for AMD’s Ryzen 7000, 8000, and even upcoming 9000 series processors, supporting DDR5 memory up to 7600 MHz overclocked. It comes equipped with all the modern features expected of a midrange board, including PCIe 4.0 slots, a fast USB-C 20 Gbps connection, Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and a solid 10+2+1 power phase design with 80A DrMOS. During stress testing, the board showed impressive thermal efficiency, keeping VRM temperatures low even under heavy workloads.
Performance is in line with what you’d expect from a quality B650 board. Paired with a Ryzen 7 7700X, the Project Zero maintained a stable 5.1 GHz under load while keeping the CPU at safe operating temperatures. These results make it clear that while the board’s standout feature is its unique layout, it doesn’t compromise on reliability or power delivery.
Where the board demands attention is during assembly. Since all the connectors are hidden behind the tray, it can be tricky to ensure cables are seated properly before you screw everything into place. It also requires a case that is designed to work with the Project Zero layout, otherwise many of the rear connectors will be inaccessible. Builders should double-check case compatibility before choosing this board, and take extra care when routing and plugging in cables during setup.
For those who value a sleek and streamlined appearance above all, the MSI B650M Project Zero is a great way to achieve a build that looks cleaner and more modern than most. It performs reliably, has the features needed for a capable gaming or productivity PC, and introduces a forward-thinking approach to cable management.
However, its unconventional design means it isn’t for everyone. If you’re willing to invest a little extra effort in planning your build and selecting the right case, the end result is one of the most visually appealing and organized systems you can assemble today. The MSI B650M Project Zero proves that innovation in PC building can still deliver meaningful improvements, provided you are prepared to work with its unique requirements.
