In general, AMD typically releases its high-end product line first, followed by more affordable options, a strategy that is reflected in the CPU, motherboard, and GPU product lines. However, it seems that AMD's product launch plans have been adjusted recently. The 800 series chipset motherboards, originally scheduled to debut in 2024, are now expected to be delayed until 2025. Meanwhile, AMD plans to launch the X870 and X870E chipsets for the Ryzen 9000 series processors this year.
According to a report by ComputerBase, AMD will launch B850 and B840 chipset motherboards in early 2025. The X870 and X870E chipsets are scheduled for September, possibly September 30. AMD has already announced the Ryzen 9000 series processors based on the Zen 5 architecture this month, and at the same time, several motherboard manufacturers are preparing to launch corresponding X870/X870E chipset motherboards in September.
It's unclear why the release interval between high-end and mainstream products has been extended, which could mean that users with limited budgets will need to choose between existing B650 or B650E chipset motherboards, or wait for the release of 800 series chipset motherboards. Existing 600 series chipset motherboards will need to be updated to support the latest generation of Ryzen 9000 processors, while 800 series motherboards will come with an updated BIOS to ensure full compatibility. The postponement may be related to the fact that more mainstream CPU options are expected to be available next year, so the timing of the release may be adjusted to keep pace with these new products.
Figure: AMD B850 and B840 chipset motherboards (Source: AMD)
And, for the first time, the X40 series chipset will only support PCIe 3.0. The B840 chipset appears to be the successor to the AX20 chipset and is aimed at the entry-level market. The B850 chipset is an upgrade to the B650, although it's unclear if AMD intends to launch the B850E chipset. The X870/X870E and B850 chipsets will support CPU overclocking, while the B840 will not.
Similar to their predecessors, AMD's X870 and X870E chipset motherboards will offer native PCIe 5.0 support and are expected to compete with Intel's Z790 chipset. But given that the Zen 5 architecture is designed to compete with newer Intel processors, the X870/E chipset could compete with the Z890 motherboard, as well as the upcoming Arrow Lake CPU. It is reported that the Z890 motherboard will be released on October 17, only a few weeks later than the X870/X870E motherboard.
The introduction of these new motherboards will align closely with AMD's processor roadmap to ensure users can take full advantage of the performance potential of the Ryzen 9000 Series processors. As the early 2025 release date approaches, we can expect more official information on the detailed specifications and features of these motherboards.
