Maxsun Challenger B860M-K specifications and in-depth review

Maxsun Challenger B860M-K

Manufacturer: Maxsun

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K is a Micro-ATX motherboard designed for custom PC builds. It features an LGA 1851 CPU socket and supports the B860 chipset, making it suitable for a variety of processors. Its support for up to 96GB of DDR5 memory ensures good compatibility with high-performance RAM, and it also comes with RGB lighting for a customizable aesthetic.

Technically, the motherboard supports dual BIOS for added stability and includes 2 M.2 sockets and 2 SATA 3 connectors for storage. It offers HDMI 2.0 output, 1 DisplayPort, and a single RJ45 port for networking. With a maximum RAM speed of 6400 MHz, it also supports overclocking to 8000 MHz, making it a flexible option for those seeking performance enhancements.

Pros
  • Supports a maximum of 96GB of DDR5 RAM for high-performance memory configurations.
  • Includes RGB lighting for customizable aesthetics.
  • Dual BIOS support for enhanced stability and backup options.
  • Has HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort outputs for flexible video connections.
  • Compact Micro-ATX form factor, suitable for smaller PC builds.
Cons
  • Does not support integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU for display output.
  • Lacks Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support, limiting wireless connectivity options.
  • Does not support RAID 0+1 for users needing advanced storage configurations.
  • Only has 2 memory slots, limiting future RAM expansion options.
  • No S/PDIF Out port for high-definition audio output.
Who is this for?

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K is ideal for users building a compact, stable, and customizable system. Its Micro-ATX form factor makes it a great choice for smaller PC builds, while its dual BIOS support adds a layer of reliability for users looking to overclock or require enhanced system stability. The motherboard is well-suited for users who prioritize performance and visual customization, as it also supports RGB lighting for a more personalized aesthetic.

Who is this NOT for?

This motherboard may not be suitable for users who require advanced wireless connectivity, as it lacks both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support. Additionally, users looking for integrated graphics or needing RAID 0+1 support for complex storage setups will find the Maxsun Challenger B860M-K lacking in those areas. Its limited memory slots (only two) also restrict future memory upgrades for users who require more than 96GB of RAM.

General info:

CPU socket LGA 1851
chipset B860
form factor Micro-ATX
release date January 2025
supports Wi-Fi
Has Bluetooth
HDMI version HDMI 2.0
Easy to overclock
has RGB lighting
Easy to reset BIOS
Has dual BIOS
CPU sockets 1
Has integrated graphics
warranty period 3 years
height 215 mm
width 235 mm
Has integrated CPU

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K features a Micro-ATX form factor with a single LGA 1851 CPU socket and supports the B860 chipset. It does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and lacks integrated graphics, making it a more focused option for users who prefer discrete components. The motherboard supports RGB lighting for customization, offers easy overclocking, and includes a dual BIOS for added stability. For connectivity, it provides HDMI 2.0 output, but does not include a VGA or DVI connector. It also has a 3-year warranty and a compact size of 215 mm by 235 mm.

Memory:

maximum memory amount 96GB
RAM speed (max) 6400 MHz
overclocked RAM speed 8000 MHz
memory slots 2
DDR memory version 5
memory channels 2
Supports ECC memory

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K motherboard supports up to 96GB of DDR5 memory, with a maximum RAM speed of 6400 MHz, and can be overclocked to 8000 MHz. It features 2 memory slots and supports dual memory channels for improved performance. However, it does not support ECC memory, making it more suited for general-use applications rather than server-grade stability.

Ports:

USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (USB-A) 0
USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (USB-A) 4
USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (USB-C) 0
USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (USB-C) 0
USB 2.0 ports 2
USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 ports 0
USB 4 40Gbps ports 0
USB 4 20Gbps ports 0
Thunderbolt 4 ports 0
Thunderbolt 3 ports 0
has an HDMI output
DisplayPort outputs 1
RJ45 ports 1
Has USB Type-C
eSATA ports 0
DVI outputs 0
has a VGA connector
PS/2 ports 0

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K offers a variety of connectivity options, including a USB Type-C port and 4 USB 3.2 Gen 1 USB-A ports for fast data transfer. It also features a single HDMI output and one DisplayPort for video connections. Additionally, it provides an RJ45 port for networking but does not support Thunderbolt, eSATA, or VGA connectors, nor does it include USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt ports.

Connectors:

SATA 3 connectors 2
M.2 sockets 2
Has TPM connector
U.2 sockets 0
Has mSATA connector
SATA 2 connectors 0

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K motherboard offers 2 SATA 3 connectors and 2 M.2 sockets for flexible storage options. It does not support mSATA or U.2 connectors, nor does it have a TPM module. Additionally, there are no SATA 2 connectors available on the board.

Expansion slots:

PCIe 4.0 x16 slots 0
PCIe 5.0 x16 slots 1
PCIe 3.0 x16 slots 0
PCIe x1 slots 1
PCI slots 0
PCIe 2.0 x16 slots 0
PCIe x4 slots 0
PCIe x8 slots 0

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K motherboard features a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for high-speed expansion, alongside a PCIe x1 slot for smaller cards. It does not have any PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, and there are no PCIe x4, x8, or PCIe 2.0 x16 slots available. This motherboard is designed with a focus on modern PCIe 5.0 expansion support.

Audio:

Has S/PDIF Out port
audio connectors 3

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K motherboard does not include an S/PDIF Out port but offers 3 audio connectors for basic audio output. This setup is suitable for users who require standard audio connections but do not need specialized high-definition audio ports.

Storage:

Supports RAID 0+1

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K motherboard does not support RAID 0+1, so users seeking this specific RAID configuration for mirrored and striped storage setups will need to consider other options.

Final Verdict

The Maxsun Challenger B860M-K is a solid choice for users seeking a compact, reliable motherboard with customizable aesthetics. Its dual BIOS support and RGB lighting make it an appealing option for builders focused on stability and personalization. However, its lack of integrated graphics, wireless connectivity, and RAID 0+1 support may limit its appeal for users with more demanding needs. Overall, it is best suited for small form-factor builds where customization and stability are prioritized.

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