BIOS Overview

Taking a look at the MSI MEG X670E ACE BIOS, first impressions are a fairly typical set up for the company, whether is a Intel or AMD motherboard. Generally, this the same layout and placement of settings you'll find with other MSI motherboards, which is good for those already familiar with the brand. Using the same layout will not help first time users, but does allow for older internet guides to still be somewhat relevant, even if the voltages may be different when it comes to overclocking. Upon first boot, you'll come across the "EZ Mode." This menu is designed for casual users, who do not want to dive deep into the BIOS settings. Here you can set the memory profile, drive boot priority and adjust the fans.

After pressing F7 in the easy mode, you'll be greeted with the main menu that allows you to pick different categories. The obvious choice for many users is of course the OC Menu, which is where most of the CPU OC settings people are looking for is located. This is where MSI has done an exceptional job at allowing the user to change almost every setting. It's very hands-off from MSI, in the sense that, if you want to change something that potentially could cause damage to your processor, you can make that change in this menu. That shouldn't be a deterrent for new users, just be aware that caution is advised when changing voltages if you're unsure what they do. For those more advanced users, there is a "Memory Try It!" function for memory overclocking / tuning. This unfortunately will probably not work because AMD DDR5 memory support is finicky. Those who are adventurous can always try it, and use the clear CMOS button on the back of the motherboard for easy restoration to default settings

Among the many settings for memory, there is a Context Restore function, which allows the motherboard to the previous memory sub-timings from the prior system boot and skip the regular memory training that happens for every boot. This can lower the boot times from an average of one minute to fifteen seconds depending on the configuration. There's also a "high efficiency mode" that will change the sub-timings for higher performance. Both of these features should be considered experimental as they may not work as intended. There are so many different memory configurations and memory kits, so it is impossible to guarantee they will all work with these settings enabled.

On the other end of the spectrum, if you're looking for maximum CPU stability, there is the ability to change to PWM frequency, the ability to change load line calibration and even to override some of the voltage protections. Overall the takeaway here is that MSI understands the easy mode is for the majority of users those who do not want to venture into the Advanced BIOS menu. Those who do, should be able to change whatever settings they like. This is often missed completely for other vendors motherboards, especially when it's not the Flagship or overclocking centric model. The only issue found so far is the memory voltage being locked to 1.430 V, which is coincidentally the same as a locked DRAM PMIC controller. Some AMD motherboard manufacturers have included BIOS updates to allow for higher DRAM voltages already. It is possible MSI will do this in the future as well. Why is this limited in the first place? Well, that remains a mystery considering MSI Intel motherboards can go up 2.0 V.

EZ-Mode

Main Menu + Settings

OC Menu

Other

AMD PBO Menu