ASRock Z790 Lightning Wi-Fi Motherboard Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

Alternatives compared to ASRock

MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard

The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi shares the same LGA 1700 socket and DDR5 memory support as the ASRock Z790 Lightning. Both boards feature PCIe 5.0 lanes and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for modern performance. You get identical 2.5GbE Ethernet speeds on both models. The main difference lies in the target audience. The ASRock board emphasizes a robust 16+1+1 phase power design and premium thermal management for overclocking. The MSI PRO model strips back those enthusiast-grade features to focus on essential functionality. If you need a budget-friendly option that still delivers core Z790 specs without the extra power stages, this MSI board is a practical choice. It sacrifices the ASRock's advanced audio and extensive M.2 cooling for a simpler, more affordable build.

MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard

The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX matches the ASRock Z790 Lightning in key areas like DDR5 support and PCIe 5.0 readiness. Both utilize Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN for consistent networking. However, the MSI MPG model is positioned as a premium gaming option. While the ASRock focuses on raw power delivery with its 16+1+1 phase architecture, the MSI board targets gamers using 12th or 13th Gen Intel CPUs who need reliable performance. The MSI option may offer more specialized gaming features, whereas the ASRock provides a broader set of storage and connectivity ports. If your priority is a balanced gaming build with strong networking, the MSI MPG fits well. You give up the ASRock's specific overclocking power design for a board optimized for standard gaming workflows.

MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard

The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX offers the same foundational specs as the ASRock Z790 Lightning. Both boards support LGA 1700 processors, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0 graphics cards. They also share Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet capabilities. The primary distinction is in their design philosophy. The ASRock board includes a comprehensive audio solution with Nahimic Audio and extensive storage options with three Hyper M.2 slots. The MSI Gaming Plus model focuses on core performance, stripping away some of the premium aesthetics and audio enhancements. It is ideal for users who want standard ATX gaming performance without extra features. If you do not need the ASRock's high-end audio or extensive M.2 cooling, this MSI board provides a straightforward alternative with identical connectivity and processing speeds.

ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero stands out as a high-end enthusiast board compared to the ASRock Z790 Lightning. Both support LGA 1700, DDR5, and PCIe 5.0, with Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The ASUS model prioritizes extreme storage expansion and robust power stages for serious overclocking. It offers five M.2 slots, whereas the ASRock provides three. The ASUS board is larger and heavier, designed for users who need maximum connectivity and power stability. If you are building a high-end gaming or content creation rig, the ASUS ROG Maximus gives you more storage options and premium power delivery. You pay for these extensive features, but you get a more versatile board for future upgrades and heavy workloads compared to the ASRock's balanced approach.

ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F Gaming WiFi 6E is a previous-generation option compared to the ASRock Z790 Lightning. Both boards support LGA 1700, DDR5, and PCIe 5.0, along with Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The Z690 chipset is older than the Z790, which may limit some future CPU compatibility. However, it still offers robust power delivery and networking for 12th Gen Intel CPUs. The ASUS board is designed for gamers who want strong performance without the latest chipset features. If you are building with a 12th Gen processor and want a reliable ATX board, this ASUS model is a solid choice. You trade the Z790's newer features and potentially better power efficiency for a proven platform that still delivers excellent gaming performance and connectivity.

ASUS ROG Strix Z690 ATX Motherboard

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi 6E shares the same chipset and core specs as the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F. It matches the ASRock Z790 Lightning in supporting LGA 1700, DDR5, and PCIe 5.0, with Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The Z690-E is geared toward users who need high storage capacity and strong power for 12th Gen builds. Like the other Z690 option, it lacks the latest Z790 features. The ASUS board offers extensive connectivity and robust power stages suitable for gaming. If you prioritize storage expansion and proven networking over the newest chipset technology, this ASUS model is a viable alternative. You give up the Z790's potential for better CPU support and efficiency, but gain a high-quality board with ample M.2 slots and reliable performance for current-gen Intel processors.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

ASRock Z790 Lightning Wi-Fi Motherboard

Best for: PCIe 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6E builds

CPU Socket

LGA1700

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

M.2 Slots

3

Wi-Fi Standard

WiFi 6E

Ethernet Speed

2.5G LAN

View on Amazon: ASRock Z790 Lightning Wi-Fi Motherboard Affiliate link

The ASRock Z790 Lightning WiFi supports Intel 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors via the LGA1700 socket. It features a 16+1+1 phase power design and DDR5 memory support up to 7600+ MHz. You get PCIe 5.0 graphics slots and Wi-Fi 6E with Bluetooth. This board suits users needing robust power delivery and high-speed connectivity for modern builds.

Pros

• 16+1+1 phase power architecture for stable overclocking
• DDR5 support up to 7600+ MHz
• PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for future GPUs
• Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6E with Bluetooth
• Three Hyper M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots

Cons

• Realtek ALC897 codec limits audio fidelity
• Only three M.2 slots available
• No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt support

Good fit if

• You want PCIe 5.0 graphics support
• You need Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth
• You plan to overclock DDR5 memory

Skip if

• You require Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
• You prefer high-end audio codecs
• You need more than three M.2 slots

Verdict: ASRock Z790 Lightning WiFi offers strong power delivery and modern connectivity. It fits builders who prioritize PCIe 5.0 and high-speed Wi-Fi over premium audio features.

2 Best budget

MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard

Best for: Budget DDR5 builds with Wi-Fi 6E

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

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 supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors on an LGA 1700 socket. It features DDR5 memory slots for up to 128GB and includes PCIe 5.0 support for fast data transfer. You get Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and 2.5Gbps LAN for reliable connectivity. This ATX board offers a solid foundation for mainstream builds that need modern standards without premium pricing.

Pros

• Supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel CPUs
• Includes four DDR5 memory slots for up to 128GB
• Features PCIe 5.0 interface for high-speed transfers
• Provides Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3

Cons

• Lacks the premium VRM heatsinks found on ROG Strix models
• Does not include USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
• Has only one M.2 slot with PCIe 5.0 support

Good fit if

• You want DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E at a lower price
• You are building a standard ATX desktop for general use
• You need reliable 2.5Gbps wired networking

Skip if

• You require Thunderbolt 4 expansion capabilities
• You plan to overclock heavily with high-end CPUs
• You need multiple PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots

Verdict: The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ATX delivers essential modern specs like DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E for budget-conscious builders who do not need enthusiast-grade features.

3 Also great

MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard

Best for: Gaming builds with 12th/13th Gen Intel CPUs

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6E

Ethernet Speed

2.5Gbps LAN

View on Amazon: MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link

The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors on the LGA 1700 socket. It uses DDR5 memory and offers PCIe 5.0 expansion. You get Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gigabit LAN for fast networking. This ATX board suits gamers who need modern connectivity and high-speed storage options for their desktop builds.

Pros

• Supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors
• Includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN
• Features PCIe 5.0 and multiple M.2 slots
• Uses DDR5 memory for modern performance

Cons

• Listed as a renewed product
• Limited to 12th and 13th Gen CPU support
• Weighs 3.92 pounds

Good fit if

• You need Wi-Fi 6E for fast wireless connections
• You are building a gaming PC with DDR5
• You want PCIe 5.0 for future expansion

Skip if

• You require support for 14th Gen Intel processors
• You prefer brand new inventory without refurbishment
• You need a smaller form factor than ATX

Verdict: MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX fits gamers who want Wi-Fi 6E and DDR5 support. It suits builders using 12th or 13th Gen Intel CPUs who need reliable networking and fast storage options.

4 Also great

MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard

Best for: Standard ATX gaming builds with Wi-Fi

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

Chipset

Z790

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6E

View on Amazon: MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard Affiliate link

The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi is an ATX motherboard for LGA 1700 Intel processors. It supports DDR5 memory and features PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing. You get built-in Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet for reliable connectivity. This board suits gamers who want solid Z790 performance without premium pricing. It fits standard mid-tower cases well.

Pros

• Supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel CPUs
• Includes Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
• Features 2.5GbE Ethernet port
• Offers PCIe 5.0 support
• Uses DDR5 memory

Cons

• Lacks the advanced VRM cooling of ROG Hero models
• Does not include USB4 connectivity
• Has fewer M.2 slots than higher-end Z790 boards

Good fit if

• You need reliable Wi-Fi 6E for gaming
• You are building a standard ATX desktop
• You want PCIe 5.0 for future GPUs

Skip if

• You require USB4 connectivity
• You need extensive RGB customization
• You are building a mini-ITX system

Verdict: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX delivers essential Z790 features like DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E for standard gaming builds. It fits users who prioritize core performance over premium aesthetics.

5 Best premium

ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard

Best for: high-end builds needing five M.2 slots

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

M.2 Slots

5

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6E

View on Amazon: ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link

This ATX motherboard features the Intel LGA 1700 socket, built for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors. You get DDR5 memory support, PCIe 5.0 lanes, and five M.2 slots for fast storage. With a 20+1 power stage setup rated at 90 A, it handles heavy processing workloads for users building high-demand gaming rigs.

Pros

• 20+1 teamed power stages rated for 90 A
• Five onboard M.2 storage slots
• PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory support
• Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet and onboard Wi-Fi 6E

Cons

• Features Wi-Fi 6E rather than newer Wi-Fi 7
• Ethernet is limited to 2.5GbE without a 5GbE or 10GbE port

Good fit if

• You need five M.2 slots for expansive high-speed storage.
• You run high-draw 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel CPUs using 90 A power stages.
• You plan to build with DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0 hardware.

Skip if

• You require factory Wi-Fi 7 support.
• You need wired Ethernet speeds above 2.5GbE.

Verdict: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero ATX Motherboard delivers heavy-duty 20+1 power delivery and five M.2 slots for enthusiasts running unlocked Intel processors.

6 Also great

ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard

Best for: 12th Gen Intel gaming builds with Wi-Fi 6E

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

Chipset

Z690

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

M.2 Slots

4

View on Amazon: ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard Affiliate link

This ATX motherboard uses the Intel Z690 chipset with an LGA 1700 socket for 12th Gen Intel Core processors. It features PCIe 5.0 support and DDR5 memory for high performance. The board includes onboard Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet for fast networking. A 16+1 power stage design helps handle multi-core loads. It offers robust thermal solutions for sustained gaming sessions.

Pros

• 16+1 power stages for stable multi-core performance
• Onboard Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
• Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet with LANGuard
• PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support

Cons

• Limited to 12th Gen Intel Core processors
• No mention of 13th or 14th Gen compatibility
• Heavier build at 2.99 pounds

Good fit if

• You are building a system with 12th Gen Intel CPUs
• You need Wi-Fi 6E without external adapters
• You want PCIe 5.0 readiness for future GPUs

Skip if

• You plan to use 13th or 14th Gen Intel processors
• You require Wi-Fi 7 support
• You prefer a smaller form factor than ATX

Verdict: ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F Gaming WiFi 6E is a solid choice for builders using 12th Gen Intel CPUs who want robust networking and power delivery. It suits gamers prioritizing PCIe 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6E on a standard ATX board.

7

ASUS ROG Strix Z690 ATX Motherboard

Best for: 12th Gen Intel gaming builds with high storage needs

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

M.2 Slots

5

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6E

View on Amazon: ASUS ROG Strix Z690 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi 6E is an ATX motherboard built for Intel 12th Gen processors. It features an LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. The board includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 GbE networking. Its 18+1 power stages provide robust power delivery. This setup suits gamers needing high-speed storage and reliable wireless performance.

Pros

• 18+1 power stages for stable multi-core performance
• Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 GbE networking
• Five M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 support
• Comprehensive DIY features like BIOS FlashBack

Cons

• Supports only 12th Gen Intel processors
• Heavier build at 6 pounds
• No mention of USB 4 or Thunderbolt support

Good fit if

• You are building a system with 12th Gen Intel CPUs
• You need fast Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
• You require multiple M.2 storage options

Skip if

• You plan to use 13th or 14th Gen Intel processors
• You prefer a smaller micro-ATX form factor
• You need native Thunderbolt 4 connectivity

Verdict: ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi 6E delivers strong power and networking for 12th Gen builds. It is a solid choice for gamers prioritizing speed and storage expansion.

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