ASRock Taichi Intel Z390 Motherboard Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The ASRock Taichi Intel Z390 Motherboard supports 8th and 9th Gen Intel Core processors via the LGA1151 socket. It offers dual-channel DDR4 memory and flexible PCIe 3.0 expansion across multiple slots. If you need different form factors, newer chipsets, or AMD compatibility, exploring asrock motherboard alternatives helps you find a better fit. You might want a smaller board for a compact case or a platform that supports 12th Gen CPUs instead of older generations.
This list compares 6 similar picks based on overlapping specifications. The alternatives share key traits like ATX sizing, DDR4 support, and Z390 or newer chipsets. Some options focus on gaming features like Wi-Fi 6E, while others provide essential connectivity for budget builds. Each choice maintains the core functionality of the original, such as reliable expansion slots and stable memory handling. You can select a board that matches your specific CPU socket, memory capacity, or networking needs without sacrificing essential performance.
How alternatives compare to Taichi
MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard
The MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX also uses the Intel Z390 chipset and LGA1151 socket for 8th and 9th Gen Intel processors. It supports dual-channel DDR4 memory, similar to the ASRock Taichi. However, it is smaller at 12 by 9.6 inches and weighs 3.3 pounds, making it lighter and more compact than the Taichi’s 12.2 by 14-inch design. It emphasizes dual M.2 expansion and wired networking. You should pick this if you want a standard ATX board with a focus on storage and network stability rather than the Taichi’s specific lane splitting capabilities.
ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard
The ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard shares the Z390 chipset, LGA1151 socket, DDR4 memory support, and PCIe 3.0 expansion with the Taichi. It is designed for gaming setups with Core i7 hardware. While it offers a stable foundation for similar Intel builds, it lacks the detailed lane configuration specs provided for the Taichi. You should choose this budget option if you need basic Z390 functionality for gaming without the specific multi-GPU flexibility or larger physical footprint of the Taichi model.
NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard
The NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard is a modern upgrade using the Intel Z790 chipset instead of Z390. It supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors, not the 8th or 9th Gen used by the Taichi. It includes Wi-Fi 6E support, which the older Taichi lacks. The board is black and measures 15.1 by 12.1 inches. You should pick this if you are building a new system with recent Intel CPUs and want updated wireless connectivity, rather than sticking with the older Z390 platform and LGA1151 socket.
ASUS Prime AM4 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS Prime AM4 ATX Motherboard uses the AMD AM4 socket and supports DDR4 memory, differing significantly from the Intel LGA1151 and Z390 combination in the Taichi. It is an ATX board measuring 12 by 9.6 inches and weighing 2.29 pounds, which is lighter than the Taichi. It features specialized cooling headers and reinforced expansion slots. You should select this if your build requires AMD processors and wired Gigabit LAN, as it is incompatible with Intel CPUs and the Z390 chipset architecture found in the Taichi.
MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard shares the Z390 chipset, LGA1151 socket, and DDR4 memory support with the ASRock Taichi. It is designed for Intel 8th and 9th Gen gaming builds. It is smaller at 12 by 9.6 inches and weighs 3.3 pounds, compared to the Taichi’s larger size and 4.5-pound weight. It prioritizes M.2 storage and wireless connectivity. You should choose this if you value integrated wireless networking and a more compact form factor over the Taichi’s specific PCIe lane splitting options.
MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi
The MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi uses the Z390 chipset and LGA1151 socket, supporting 8th and 9th Gen Intel processors like the Taichi. It supports dual-channel DDR4 memory and PCIe 3.0 expansion. It is an ATX board measuring 12 by 9.6 inches and weighing 3.3 pounds, which is smaller and lighter than the Taichi. It offers integrated wireless networking and multi-GPU support. You should pick this if you want a well-rounded alternative with built-in Wi-Fi and a more compact design for compatible Intel systems.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
ASRock Taichi Intel Z390 Motherboard
Best for: Intel 8th and 9th Gen builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA1151
- Chipset
- Intel Z390
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 3.0
- Dimensions
- 12.2 × 14 × 3.5 inches
- Weight
- 4.5 pounds
The ASRock Taichi Intel Z390 Motherboard uses an LGA1151 socket designed for 8th and 9th Generation Intel Core processors. It features four DDR4 memory slots that support dual-channel configurations up to 64GB of RAM. For expansion, you get three PCIe 3.0 x16 slots alongside two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. This board suits you if you need multi-card expansion lanes and reliable memory support for compatible Intel desktop processors.
Pros
- Supports 8th and 9th Generation Intel Core processors via LGA1151 socket
- Three PCIe 3.0 x16 slots support x16, x8/x8, or x8/x4/x4 lane configurations
- Four DDR4 DIMM slots support up to 64GB total system memory
- Two flexible PCIe 3.0 x1 slots for add-in cards
Cons
- Maximum memory capacity capped at 64GB
- PCIe expansion limited to PCIe 3.0 transfer rates
- CPU compatibility restricted to LGA1151 socket processors
Good fit if
- You run an 8th or 9th Generation Intel Core processor
- You need multiple PCIe 3.0 x16 slots for expansion cards
- You plan to install up to 64GB of DDR4 memory
Skip if
- You use AMD CPUs or newer Intel socket types
- You need PCIe 4.0 or faster expansion interfaces
- You require more than 64GB of system RAM
Verdict: ASRock Taichi Intel Z390 Motherboard delivers dependable PCIe 3.0 expansion and dual-channel DDR4 support for Intel LGA1151 builds. It gives you flexible lane splitting across multiple full-length slots for compatible desktop setups.
MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard
Best for: 8th and 9th Gen Intel gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Use Case
- Gaming
This MSI Z390 Carbon ATX Motherboard offers a direct alternative for your LGA 1151 socket build. It supports 8th and 9th Generation Intel Core processors alongside dual-channel DDR4 memory rated up to 4400 MHz when overclocked. You get two Turbo M.2 slots, multi-GPU capability, and pre-installed I/O shielding. It suits you if you need a dependable ATX platform for high-speed DDR4 memory and dual graphics card setups.
Pros
- Supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 4400(OC) MHz
- Includes two Turbo M.2 slots with M.2 Shield Frozr cooling
- Features pre-installed I/O shielding and multi-GPU support
- Provides USB 3.1 Gen 2, DisplayPort, and HDMI connectivity
Cons
- No integrated Wi-Fi networking listed in specifications
- Restricted to Intel 8th and 9th Generation LGA 1151 CPUs
- Limits onboard high-speed storage to two M.2 drives
Good fit if
- You run an 8th or 9th Gen Intel processor on an LGA 1151 socket.
- You want DDR4 memory support with overclocking headroom up to 4400 MHz.
- You configure multi-GPU graphics or require DisplayPort and HDMI outputs.
Skip if
- You need integrated Wi-Fi connectivity directly on the board.
- You require three or more onboard M.2 NVMe drives.
- You plan to use newer generation Intel or AMD processors.
Verdict: MSI Z390 Carbon ATX Motherboard delivers high-frequency DDR4 support and dual M.2 expansion for Intel 8th and 9th Gen systems. It serves as a capable foundation when your setup prioritizes wired networking and multi-GPU compatibility.
ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard
Best for: LGA 1151 DDR4 gaming PC builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 3.0
- Use Case
- Gaming
View on Amazon: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard
This ATX board features the Intel Z390 chipset and an LGA 1151 socket. It supports DDR4 memory up to 64GB alongside PCIe 3.0 expansion. Designed for gaming builds, it accommodates compatible Core i7 processors and standard ATX chassis layouts. You get dedicated power supply module stabilization for heavy system loads. It suits you if you need a direct LGA 1151 replacement board without changing your existing DDR4 RAM or PCIe 3.0 hardware.
Pros
- Intel Z390 chipset with LGA 1151 CPU socket
- Supports DDR4 memory up to 64GB
- PCIe 3.0 expansion interface
- Standard ATX form factor
Cons
- PCIe support limited to generation 3.0
- Maximum listed DDR4 capacity capped at 64GB
Good fit if
- You use an LGA 1151 processor such as a Core i7.
- You need a standard ATX motherboard with PCIe 3.0 support.
- You plan to run a DDR4 memory setup up to 64GB.
Skip if
- You require newer PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 5.0 expansion slots.
- You need a board that supports DDR5 memory.
Verdict: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard provides LGA 1151 CPU support, DDR4 memory capability, and PCIe 3.0 expansion in a standard ATX format. It gives you a stable Z390 foundation for gaming setups running Core i7 hardware.
NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard
Best for: 12th and 13th Gen Intel gaming builds
- Chipset
- Intel Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 6E
- Use Case
- Gaming
- Dimensions
- 15.1 × 12.1 × 3.9 inches
The NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard is an ATX board built on the Intel Z790 chipset. It supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors instead of legacy Z390 CPUs. You get integrated Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for high-speed wireless setups and an ATX layout designed for gaming systems. This board fits your build if you need updated Intel socket support and modern networking.
Pros
- Intel Z790 chipset
- Supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- Full-size ATX form factor
Cons
- Not compatible with 8th or 9th Gen Intel CPUs
- Standard ATX size will not fit smaller Micro-ATX cases
Good fit if
- You build with a 12th or 13th Gen Intel CPU.
- You want built-in Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.
- You have an ATX-compatible PC case.
Skip if
- You need a replacement board for an older 8th or 9th Gen Intel processor.
- You are assembling a compact Mini-ITX or Micro-ATX system.
Verdict: NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard provides an updated Intel Z790 platform with Wi-Fi 6E support. It is a solid modern upgrade if you are moving past older Z390 hardware.
ASUS Prime AM4 ATX Motherboard
Best for: AMD AM4 builds using DDR4 memory
- CPU Socket
- AM4
- Chipset
- X470
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Ethernet Speed
- Gigabit LAN
- Dimensions
- 12 × 2.8 × 9.6 inches
The ASUS Prime AM4 ATX Motherboard gives you a full-size ATX platform centered around the AMD X470 chipset and AM4 socket. It supports AMD Ryzen 2 and 7th Generation Athlon processors alongside DDR4 memory. You also get NVMe M.2 storage connectivity, Gigabit LAN, and 8-channel Realtek S1220A HD audio. This board suits you if you want a dedicated desktop setup with dynamic fan controls and support for heavy graphics cards.
Pros
- Realtek S1220A 8-channel HD audio
- Front-panel USB 3.1 Gen2 and NVMe M.2 connectivity
- Integrated AIO pump header with Fan Expert 4 controls
- SafeSlot reinforced metal PCIe slot for heavyweight graphics cards
Cons
- No built-in Wi-Fi listed in specifications
- Networking speed capped at standard Gigabit LAN
Good fit if
- You are building an AMD AM4 system with DDR4 memory.
- You need dedicated AIO pump headers and advanced fan controls.
- You want reinforced PCIe slots for heavyweight graphics cards.
Skip if
- You require integrated onboard Wi-Fi without adding an adapter.
- You plan to use an Intel processor requiring an LGA socket.
Verdict: ASUS Prime AM4 ATX Motherboard gives you essential AM4 and DDR4 connectivity paired with specialized cooling headers and reinforced expansion slots. It remains a dependable option if your build relies strictly on wired Gigabit LAN.
MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 8th/9th Gen gaming builds with M.2 needs
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Use Case
- Gaming
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC is an ATX motherboard built for Intel 8th and 9th Gen processors. It features an LGA 1151 socket and supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 4400 MHz. You get two M.2 slots and Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 connectivity. The board includes Wi-Fi and Mystic Light RGB control. It suits gamers needing solid performance and modern expansion options.
Pros
- Supports Intel 8th and 9th Gen Core processors via LGA 1151 socket
- Includes two M.2 slots for fast NVMe storage
- Features Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 and built-in Wi-Fi
- Supports DDR4 memory up to 4400 MHz overclocked
- Offers Mystic Light RGB synchronization for peripherals
Cons
- Limited to LGA 1151 socket for older Intel CPUs
- No mention of integrated HDMI or DisplayPort video outputs
- Lacks explicit support for newer Intel 10th Gen or later processors
Good fit if
- You are building a gaming PC with Intel 8th or 9th Gen CPUs
- You need dual M.2 slots for high-speed storage
- You want built-in Wi-Fi without adding a separate card
Skip if
- You plan to use Intel 10th Gen or newer processors
- You require an ITX or smaller form factor
- You need integrated video outputs for direct display connection
Verdict: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX is a capable gaming motherboard for Intel 8th and 9th Gen builds. It fits users who prioritize M.2 storage and wireless connectivity over newer CPU support.
MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi
Best for: Intel 8th and 9th Gen gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Wi-Fi Standard
- 802.11ac
This ATX motherboard runs on the Intel Z390 chipset with an LGA 1151 socket, giving you direct support for 8th and 9th Generation Intel processors. It provides dual-channel DDR4 memory speeds up to 4400 MHz alongside two Turbo M.2 slots for high-speed storage. Built-in 802.11ac Wi-Fi delivers wireless connectivity immediately. It suits you if you need a balanced foundation for multi-GPU gaming configurations.
Pros
- Supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 4400(OC) MHz
- Includes integrated Intel 802.11ac Wi-Fi
- Dual Turbo M.2 slots with M.2 Shield Frozr heatsink
- Pre-installed I/O shield for easier case installation
Cons
- Wireless limited to 802.11ac standard
- Provides two M.2 storage slots
Good fit if
- You have an 8th or 9th Gen Intel LGA 1151 processor.
- You want onboard 802.11ac Wi-Fi without using a PCIe slot.
- You plan to run a multi-GPU configuration with SLI or CrossFire.
Skip if
- You use an AMD processor or a different Intel CPU socket.
- You need more than two M.2 storage slots.
Verdict: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Carbon AC ATX Motherboard delivers dependable multi-GPU support, high-speed DDR4 memory handling, and integrated wireless networking for LGA 1151 systems. It offers a solid, well-rounded alternative for compatible Intel processors.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ASRock Taichi Intel Z390 Motherboard | MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard | ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard | NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard | ASUS Prime AM4 ATX Motherboard | MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard | MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA1151 | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 | not specified | AM4 | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 |
| Chipset | Intel Z390 | Z390 | Z390 | Intel Z790 | X470 | Z390 | Z390 |
| Form Factor | not specified | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | not specified | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 3.0 | not specified | PCIe 3.0 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| M.2 Slots | not specified | 2 | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2 | 2 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | not specified | not specified | not specified | WiFi 6E | not specified | not specified | 802.11ac |
| Ethernet Speed | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Gigabit LAN | not specified | not specified |
| Wi-Fi | not specified | not specified | not specified | Wi-Fi 6E | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Use Case | not specified | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | not specified | Gaming | Gaming |
| Series | not specified | not specified | Core i7 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 12.2 × 14 × 3.5 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches | not specified | 15.1 × 12.1 × 3.9 inches | 12 × 2.8 × 9.6 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches |
| Weight | 4.5 pounds | 3.3 pounds | not specified | not specified | 2.29 pounds | 3.3 pounds | 3.3 pounds |
| Model | Z390 TAICHI | MPG Z390 GAMING PRO CARBON | LFDDDAGCB | N7-Z79XT-B1 | Prime X470-Pro | 007B17-002R | MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon AC |
| Size | not specified | ATX | One Size | not specified | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| Color | not specified | not specified | One Color | Black | not specified | not specified | not specified |
For cooling hardware with compatible lighting headers, you can review thermaltake ux200 5v motherboard argb alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which motherboard is the best alternative to the ASRock Taichi Z390?
The MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard is the top alternative. It shares the Intel Z390 chipset and LGA1151 socket for 8th and 9th Gen processors. It supports high-frequency DDR4 memory and dual M.2 expansion. This board fits users who prioritize wired networking and multi-GPU compatibility in a standard ATX form factor.
What is the best budget Z390 motherboard for LGA 1151?
The ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard is the best budget pick. It provides LGA 1151 CPU support and DDR4 memory capability. It features PCIe 3.0 expansion in a standard ATX format. This board gives you a stable Z390 foundation for gaming setups running Core i7 hardware.
Can I use the ASRock Taichi Z390 with 12th Gen Intel CPUs?
No, the ASRock Taichi Z390 does not support 12th Gen Intel CPUs. It is designed for 8th and 9th Gen processors via the LGA1151 socket. If you need support for newer 12th and 13th Gen Intel gaming builds, you should look at the NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard instead.
Does the MSI Gaming Pro Carbon have Wi-Fi?
The MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard focuses on wired networking. The product data highlights its capability for wired connectivity and multi-GPU compatibility. It does not list integrated wireless networking features. If you need Wi-Fi 6E support, consider the newer NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard.
Is the ASUS Prime AM4 a good alternative for Intel builds?
No, the ASUS Prime AM4 ATX Motherboard is not suitable for Intel builds. It uses the AM4 CPU socket and supports AMD processors. It provides essential AM4 and DDR4 connectivity. You should choose a motherboard with an LGA1151 socket for Intel 8th and 9th Gen systems.
Which Z390 motherboard offers the best wireless connectivity?
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Carbon AC ATX Motherboard is a strong choice. It delivers integrated wireless networking for LGA1151 systems. It also offers dependable multi-GPU support and high-speed DDR4 memory handling. This board serves as a solid, well-rounded alternative for compatible Intel processors who need wireless options.
What is the difference between the Taichi and the Gaming Pro Carbon?
The ASRock Taichi weighs 4.5 pounds and measures 14 inches wide. The MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX weighs 3.3 pounds and measures 12 inches wide. Both use the Intel Z390 chipset and LGA1151 socket. The Taichi offers flexible lane splitting, while the Gaming Pro Carbon prioritizes wired networking and multi-GPU support.