AM4 or LGA 1700 Motherboards? Compared by Specs
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Choosing between an AM4 and LGA 1700 motherboard depends on your platform needs. Both boards use the ATX form factor and support high-speed connectivity. The main difference lies in the CPU socket and memory technology. One supports AMD Ryzen processors with DDR4 RAM, while the other handles Intel 12th through 14th Gen chips with DDR5. This choice affects your processor upgrade path and system performance. We compare these specs to help you decide.
Key differences
| Aspect | MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard | MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | AM4 | LGA 1700 |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR5 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | not listed | 2.5GbE |
| Chipset | AMD X570 | Intel Z790 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard if
- You are building an AMD Ryzen system and want to use existing DDR4 memory.
- You prioritize PCIe 4.0 bandwidth for current-generation storage and GPU devices.
- You prefer the established AM4 platform for stable, long-term support.
Choose MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard if
- You need the latest Intel processors and DDR5 memory for higher bandwidth.
- You want faster Wi-Fi 6E and built-in 2.5GbE Ethernet.
- You plan to use PCIe 5.0 devices for future-proof data transfer speeds.
Verdict: Choose the AM4 board if you are sticking with AMD Ryzen and DDR4 memory. Pick the LGA 1700 option if you want Intel support, DDR5 speed, and newer wireless standards. Both are ATX boards, so they fit standard cases.
AM4 vs LGA 1700 Spec Comparison
cpu socket
The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge uses the AM4 socket, supporting 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors. This platform has established a long track record with mature BIOS support and a wide range of compatible CPUs. In contrast, the MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries features the LGA 1700 socket. This socket is designed for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors. You choose AM4 for AMD ecosystems and LGA 1700 for Intel. The socket determines which CPU generation you can install, making this the primary decision point for your build.
memory type
Memory technology differs significantly between these two boards. The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge supports DDR4 RAM. DDR4 is a mature standard that offers reliable performance at typically lower costs. The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries supports DDR5 memory. It includes four slots for up to 128GB of RAM. DDR5 provides higher bandwidth and improved efficiency for data-intensive tasks. If you need the latest memory speeds and capacity, the Z790 board has the advantage. If you prefer cost-effective DDR4 modules, the X570 is the better fit.
pcie version
Expansion slot speeds vary by generation. The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge supports PCIe 4.0. This version offers ample bandwidth for current NVMe drives and graphics cards. The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries supports PCIe 5.0. This newer standard doubles the data transfer rates of PCIe 4.0, preparing your system for future high-speed peripherals. While PCIe 4.0 is sufficient for most users today, PCIe 5.0 provides a longer upgrade path. The Z790 board offers superior raw throughput for next-generation components.
wi-fi
Wireless connectivity standards have advanced between these platforms. The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge includes Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with MU-MIMO support. This provides solid wireless performance for general use and gaming. The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries features Wi-Fi 6E. This standard operates on the less congested 6GHz band and offers higher speeds and lower latency. Wi-Fi 6E also includes Bluetooth 5.3 for better peripheral connections. The Z790 board provides a more modern and robust wireless experience.
ethernet speed
Wired network speeds are listed for one board but not the other. The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries specifies 2.5Gbps Ethernet. This speed exceeds standard Gigabit connections, allowing for faster file transfers and reduced network congestion. The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge does not list its Ethernet speed in the provided data. You should check the full specifications if wired speed is critical. However, the explicit 2.5GbE support on the Z790 board gives it a clear advantage for high-bandwidth wired connections.
Which motherboard fits your needs
Budget-conscious AMD Ryzen users
Choose the MSI MPG X570 if you are building with an AM4 socket. It supports 2nd and 3rd Gen Ryzen processors and uses DDR4 memory. This option is ideal for upgrading existing systems or building a cost-effective platform that relies on established, mature technology rather than the latest components.
Users wanting latest Intel and DDR5
Select the MSI PRO Z790-P if you need the LGA 1700 socket for 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors. It features DDR5 memory for higher bandwidth and PCIe 5.0 support. This board offers modern connectivity including Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet for faster data transfers.
Those needing high-speed wireless
The MSI PRO Z790-P provides Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for superior wireless performance. In contrast, the MSI MPG X570 only includes Wi-Fi 5. If you require the latest wireless standards for low-latency gaming and smooth streaming, the Z790’s advanced connectivity features are the better technical choice.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard | AM4 Ryzen gamers needing PCIe 4.0 and Wi-Fi 5 | Check price of MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard on Amazon |
| 2 | MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard | Intel 12th-14th Gen DDR5 builds | Check price of MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard on Amazon |
The products compared
MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM4 Ryzen gamers needing PCIe 4.0 and Wi-Fi 5
- CPU Socket
- AM4 (what this guide is about)
- Chipset
- X570
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi 5
View on Amazon: MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This MSI motherboard uses the AM4 socket for 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors. It features the X570 chipset and PCIe 4.0 support for fast data transfer. You get DDR4 memory slots and built-in Wi-Fi 5. The ATX form factor fits standard cases. This board suits gamers who want reliable connectivity and modern PCIe speeds without moving to a new socket platform.
Pros
- AM4 socket supports 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors
- PCIe 4.0 for high-speed storage and graphics cards
- On-board Wi-Fi 5 with MU-MIMO support
- Audio Boost 4 with Nahimic 3 software
Cons
- Uses Wi-Fi 5 instead of newer Wi-Fi 6 standards
- Limited to DDR4 memory instead of DDR5
- Heavier build at 4.1 pounds compared to lighter boards
Good fit if
- You are building a PC with an AMD Ryzen processor
- You need PCIe 4.0 support for modern components
- You want integrated Wi-Fi for your gaming setup
Skip if
- You require the latest Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- You plan to use DDR5 memory for future-proofing
- You are building with an Intel LGA 1700 processor
Verdict: MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge WiFi is a solid AM4 board for Ryzen users who value PCIe 4.0 speeds and built-in wireless connectivity. It fits gamers looking for a reliable platform without upgrading to newer sockets.
MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th-14th Gen DDR5 builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700 (what this guide is about)
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
- Ethernet Speed
- 2.5Gbps
View on Amazon: MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries is an ATX motherboard built for Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors on the LGA 1700 socket. It uses DDR5 memory slots supporting up to 128GB and features PCIe 5.0 support for fast data transfers. You get Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and 2.5Gbps Ethernet for reliable connectivity. This board suits users who need modern standards and stable performance for current Intel CPUs.
Pros
- Supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors
- Four DDR5 memory slots with 128GB max capacity
- PCIe 5.0 interface for high-speed data transfer
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3
- 2.5Gbps LAN for faster wired networking
Cons
- Limited to DDR5 memory only, no DDR4 support
- Wi-Fi 6E requires compatible router for full speed
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 support
Good fit if
- You are building a new system with Intel 12th Gen or newer
- You need DDR5 memory for high bandwidth tasks
- You want integrated Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3
Skip if
- You already own DDR4 memory and want to reuse it
- You are using an older AM4 socket CPU
- You need PCIe 4.0 only and want to save on board cost
Verdict: MSI PRO Z790-P LGA 1700 DDR5 delivers modern connectivity and DDR5 support for Intel 12th through 14th Gen users. It fits builders who want a straightforward, spec-heavy platform without legacy memory constraints.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard | MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | AM4 | LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | X570 | not stated |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR5 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | not stated | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | not stated | 2.5Gbps |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Use Case | Gaming | not stated |
| Dimensions | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 5.91 × 1.57 × 5.91 inches |
| Weight | 4.1 pounds | 1.25 pounds |
| Size | 1 | not stated |
| Model | MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge WiFi | PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use DDR5 RAM with an AM4 motherboard?
No. The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge supports DDR4 memory only. It uses the AMD X570 chipset, which is designed for older Ryzen processors that do not support DDR5. You must use DDR4 sticks for this platform. If you need DDR5, you must choose an LGA 1700 board like the MSI PRO Z790-P, which is built for modern Intel 12th through 14th Gen CPUs.
Does the AM4 board support Wi-Fi 6E?
No. The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge includes built-in Wi-Fi 5. It does not offer the faster speeds or lower latency of Wi-Fi 6E. If you require Wi-Fi 6E, you should look at the LGA 1700 MSI PRO Z790-P. That board provides newer wireless standards along with PCIe 5.0 and 2.5GbE Ethernet for faster wired connections.
Which motherboard offers PCIe 5.0 support?
The LGA 1700 MSI PRO Z790-P supports PCIe 5.0. The AM4 MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge is limited to PCIe 4.0. PCIe 5.0 doubles the bandwidth available for your graphics card and storage drives compared to version 4.0. This makes the LGA 1700 option better for future-proofing your build with high-speed peripherals.
Is the AM4 board suitable for modern gaming?
Yes. The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge is designed for gaming. It features the AMD X570 chipset and PCIe 4.0 lanes for fast data transfer. It also includes Wi-Fi 5 for stable wireless connections. While it uses older DDR4 memory, the platform remains reliable for Ryzen gamers who do not need the latest DDR5 speeds or PCIe 5.0 bandwidth.
What is the difference in Ethernet speed between these boards?
The LGA 1700 MSI PRO Z790-P includes 2.5GbE Ethernet, offering faster wired network speeds than standard Gigabit ports. The AM4 MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge data does not list a specific Ethernet speed, but it focuses on wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi 5. For the fastest wired performance, the LGA 1700 board with its 2.5GbE port is the superior choice.
Can I upgrade my existing AM4 system with an LGA 1700 board?
No. You cannot swap an AM4 motherboard into an existing AM4 CPU socket. The MSI MPG X570 uses the AM4 socket, while the MSI PRO Z790-P uses LGA 1700. These sockets are physically and electrically different. Upgrading to LGA 1700 requires buying a new Intel CPU, new DDR5 RAM, and the new motherboard. It is a complete platform change, not a simple part swap.