6 Best Alternatives to the ASRock Z790 LiveMixer ATX Motherboard (2026)

How alternatives compare to LiveMixer

MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard

The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi adds Wi-Fi 6E to the mix, which the ASRock LiveMixer lacks entirely. Both boards share the Z790 chipset, LGA1700 socket, and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The MSI model also supports PCIe 5.0. You gain wireless connectivity for modern routers and devices. The trade-off is a different BIOS interface and potentially higher cost. If you need reliable Wi-Fi 6E without buying a separate card, this MSI board is a direct upgrade in connectivity. It suits gamers who want a complete package. The LiveMixer remains the choice for pure wired performance enthusiasts who do not need wireless features.

MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard

The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi includes Wi-Fi 6E, a feature absent on the ASRock LiveMixer. Both use DDR5 memory and the LGA1700 socket. The MSI board offers 2.5GbE Ethernet and PCIe 5.0 support, matching the LiveMixer’s core specs. You get built-in wireless networking with this alternative. The LiveMixer focuses on a no-frills approach. This MSI model provides a more complete feature set for users who need both high-speed wired and wireless connections. It is ideal for gamers who want modern standards without extra adapters. The LiveMixer is better if you strictly prefer wired connections and want to save on unused wireless hardware.

ASUS Prime DDR5 ATX Motherboard

The ASUS Prime Z690-A uses the older Z690 chipset instead of the Z790 found in the ASRock LiveMixer. It still supports LGA1700 sockets and DDR5 memory. Both boards feature 2.5GbE Ethernet and PCIe 5.0. The Z690 chipset may limit some newer CPU features compared to Z790. However, it remains a solid choice for 12th Gen Intel processors. You trade the latest chipset generation for a potentially more affordable option. This board suits builders who prioritize wired networking and multiple M.2 slots. The LiveMixer offers newer chipset benefits. Choose the ASUS if you are building with older 12th Gen CPUs and want reliable performance without paying for Z790 extras.

ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard

The ASUS TUF Z690 WiFi 6 uses Wi-Fi 6 rather than the Wi-Fi 6E found in some competitors, and lacks Wi-Fi entirely on the LiveMixer. Both boards support DDR5, LGA1700, and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The TUF board includes four M.2 slots, offering more storage expansion options than the LiveMixer. You gain wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 6, which is slightly older than Wi-Fi 6E. The LiveMixer is a Z790 board, while this is Z690. This alternative fits users who need Wi-Fi 6 and extra storage. The LiveMixer is better for those who do not need wireless at all and want the latest Z790 chipset features.

ASUS Prime Z790-A ATX Motherboard

The ASUS Prime Z790-A WiFi 6E matches the LiveMixer’s Z790 chipset and LGA1700 socket. It includes Wi-Fi 6E, which the LiveMixer does not have. Both boards support DDR5, PCIe 5.0, and 2.5GbE Ethernet. You get wireless networking with this ASUS model. The LiveMixer is a no-wireless option. This ASUS board provides a comprehensive feature set for Intel 12th through 14th Gen CPUs. It suits users who want multiple M.2 slots and reliable Wi-Fi 6E. The LiveMixer remains the choice for builders who prefer a simpler board without wireless hardware. Choose the ASUS if you need Wi-Fi 6E and a robust power design.

MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard

The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi uses the B760 chipset, which is a step down from the Z790 in the ASRock LiveMixer. Both boards support DDR5, LGA1700, and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The MSI board includes Wi-Fi 6E, a feature the LiveMixer lacks. You gain wireless connectivity but lose some Z790-specific features like CPU overclocking flexibility. This board is designed for stable gaming builds. It suits users who want modern connectivity without the premium Z790 price. The LiveMixer is better for enthusiasts who need full Z790 capabilities. Choose the MSI if you prioritize Wi-Fi 6E and stability over advanced chipset features.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

ASRock Z790 LiveMixer ATX Motherboard

Best for: Performance-focused DDR5 builds with wired networking

CPU Socket

LGA1700

Chipset

Z790

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

Ethernet Speed

2.5 GbE

View on Amazon: ASRock Z790 LiveMixer ATX Motherboard Affiliate link

The ASRock Z790 LiveMixer is an ATX motherboard built for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors. It features an LGA1700 socket and supports DDR5 memory up to 7200+ MHz with overclocking. The board includes PCIe 5.0 support and 2.5 GbE networking. Its 2oz copper PCB aids in heat dissipation. This platform suits users seeking high-speed memory performance and modern connectivity in a standard ATX form factor.

Pros

• Supports DDR5 memory up to 7200+ MHz (OC)
• Compatible with 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core CPUs
• Features PCIe 5.0 for future-proof expansion
• Includes 2.5 GbE Ethernet for faster networking

Cons

• No integrated Wi-Fi or Bluetooth mentioned in specifications
• Lacks visible audio codec or premium audio components in data
• Standard ATX size may not fit smaller cases

Good fit if

• You need high-speed DDR5 memory support for overclocking
• You prefer wired 2.5 GbE networking over wireless
• You are building a standard ATX desktop with Intel 12th-14th Gen CPUs

Skip if

• You require built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
• You are using a micro-ATX or mini-ITX case
• You need premium onboard audio hardware for studio use

Verdict: The ASRock Z790 LiveMixer ATX Motherboard fits builders who prioritize raw memory speed and wired networking. It delivers essential Z790 features without wireless extras, making it ideal for focused performance builds.

2 Also great

MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard

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

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 is an ATX motherboard for Intel 12th and 13th Gen processors. It supports DDR5 memory and offers PCIe 5.0 expansion. You get Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gigabit LAN for networking. This board is designed for gaming builds that need modern connectivity. It is a renewed product tested for performance.

Pros

• Supports Intel 12th and 13th Gen Core processors
• Includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN
• Features PCIe 5.0 expansion support
• Multiple M.2 storage slots for high-speed drives

Cons

• Sold as a renewed product
• Lacks Wi-Fi 7 support found in competitors
• No mention of Thunderbolt connectivity

Good fit if

• You want Wi-Fi 6E for stable wireless connections
• You need PCIe 5.0 for future-proof storage
• You are building with DDR5 memory

Skip if

• You require the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard
• You prefer a brand-new unit with full warranty
• You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity

Verdict: MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX suits gamers who need reliable Wi-Fi 6E and PCIe 5.0 speed. It fits builds using 12th or 13th Gen Intel CPUs.

3 Best budget

MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard

Best for: Gamers needing solid DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E

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 built for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors. It features a Z790 chipset and LGA 1700 socket. You get DDR5 memory support and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. Wireless needs are covered by Wi-Fi 6E, and wired connections reach 2.5Gbps. This board suits gamers who want solid modern specs without premium pricing.

Pros

• Supports DDR5 memory for high bandwidth
• Includes Wi-Fi 6E for fast wireless
• Features 2.5Gbps Ethernet for wired speed
• Offers PCIe 5.0 for future GPUs

Cons

• Lacks Wi-Fi 7 support found on some rivals
• Does not mention USB4 or Thunderbolt connectivity
• No RGB lighting details provided in specs

Good fit if

• You need reliable Wi-Fi 6E for streaming
• You are building with DDR5 RAM
• You want a standard ATX size

Skip if

• You require Wi-Fi 7 speeds
• You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
• You prefer a smaller micro-ATX form factor

Verdict: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX delivers essential modern features like DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E. It fits users who prioritize core performance and connectivity over niche extras.

4 Best intel z690

ASUS Prime DDR5 ATX Motherboard

Best for: 12th Gen Intel builds with wired networking

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

M.2 Slots

4

Ethernet Speed

2.5 GbE

View on Amazon: ASUS Prime DDR5 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link

This ASUS Prime Z690-A motherboard supports 12th Gen Intel Core processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a robust 16+1 DrMOS power design and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. You get four M.2 slots and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet. DDR5 memory support is included. It suits builders needing stable power delivery and modern expansion options for Intel platforms.

Pros

• 16+1 DrMOS power phases for stable voltage
• PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen graphics
• Four M.2 slots with dedicated heatsinks
• Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet connectivity

Cons

• Supports only 12th Gen Intel CPUs
• No built-in Wi-Fi module included
• Heavier build at 3.55 pounds

Good fit if

• You are building with a 12th Gen Intel processor
• You need multiple M.2 storage drives
• You prefer wired 2.5 Gb Ethernet

Skip if

• You require support for 13th or 14th Gen CPUs
• You need integrated Wi-Fi connectivity
• You are using an older LGA 1200 socket CPU

Verdict: ASUS Prime Z690-A ATX Motherboard provides a solid foundation for 12th Gen Intel builds with its 16+1 DrMOS power design and PCIe 5.0 support. It fits users who prioritize wired networking and multiple M.2 slots over wireless features.

5 Best premium

ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard

Best for: 12th Gen Intel gaming builds

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

M.2 Slots

4

Wi-Fi Standard

WiFi 6

View on Amazon: ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard Affiliate link

The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WiFi uses an LGA 1700 socket for 12th Gen Intel processors. It features DDR5 memory support and PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing. The board includes four M.2 slots and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. A 14+2 power phase setup provides stable power delivery. This ATX motherboard suits gamers who need reliable networking and fast storage options.

Pros

• Wi-Fi 6 AX201 connectivity
• 14+2 DrMOS power stages
• Four M.2/NVMe SSD slots
• PCIe 5.0 support
• 2.5Gb LAN port

Cons

• Supports only 12th Gen Intel CPUs
• Wi-Fi 6 is older than Wi-Fi 6E
• No Thunderbolt 4 built into I/O

Good fit if

• You are building with 12th Gen Intel processors
• You need Wi-Fi 6 for gaming
• You want multiple M.2 storage drives

Skip if

• You plan to use 13th or 14th Gen Intel CPUs
• You require Wi-Fi 6E speeds
• You want built-in Thunderbolt 4 connectivity

Verdict: ASUS TUF Z690 WiFi 6 ATX delivers solid 12th Gen support with four M.2 slots and Wi-Fi 6. It fits builders who prioritize reliable networking and storage expansion over newer wireless standards.

6 Also great

ASUS Prime Z790-A ATX Motherboard

Best for: Intel 12th-14th Gen builds needing M.2 storage

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

M.2 Slots

4

Wi-Fi Standard

WiFi 6E

View on Amazon: ASUS Prime Z790-A ATX Motherboard Affiliate link

The ASUS Prime Z790-A is an ATX motherboard for Intel 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors. It features an LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 lanes. You get four M.2 slots, Wi-Fi 6E, and 2.5 Gb Ethernet. The 16+1 power phases provide stable delivery. This board suits users who want modern connectivity and robust power for high-end builds.

Pros

• Supports PCIe 5.0 for future-proof expansion
• Includes four M.2 slots with heatsinks
• Features Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gb Ethernet
• 16+1 DrMOS power phases for stability

Cons

• Limited to Wi-Fi 6E instead of newer Wi-Fi 7
• Lacks Thunderbolt 4 support on rear I/O
• Heavier build at 3.68 pounds

Good fit if

• You need multiple M.2 drives for storage
• You want Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
• You are building with Intel 12th to 14th Gen CPUs

Skip if

• You require Wi-Fi 7 for maximum speed
• You need Thunderbolt 4 on the rear panel
• You prefer a smaller micro-ATX form factor

Verdict: The ASUS Prime Z790-A WiFi 6E ATX delivers solid power and connectivity for Intel 12th through 14th Gen builds. It is a practical option for users who prioritize multiple M.2 slots and reliable wireless performance.

7 Also great

MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard

Best for: stable gaming builds with DDR5

CPU Socket

LGA 1700

Chipset

B760

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

Wi-Fi Standard

Wi-Fi 6E

View on Amazon: MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard Affiliate link

The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a 12+1+1 phase power design and DDR5 memory support up to 7000+ MHz. The board includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. You get PCIe 5.0 expansion and robust thermal solutions. This ATX motherboard suits gamers seeking stable performance with modern connectivity standards.

Pros

• 12+1+1 Duet Rail Power System for stable CPU power delivery
• Supports DDR5 memory speeds up to 7000+ MHz (OC)
• Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet connectivity
• PCIe 5.0 slot and Lightning Gen 4 M.2 for fast storage

Cons

• B760 chipset lacks CPU overclocking capabilities compared to Z790 models
• DDR5 only; DDR4 option exists but requires selecting a different variation
• No USB-C front panel header visible in specifications

Good fit if

• You want a reliable ATX board for 12th through 14th Gen Intel CPUs
• You prioritize Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps wired networking
• You plan to use DDR5 memory for high bandwidth

Skip if

• You need to overclock your Intel processor
• You prefer DDR4 memory to save on RAM costs
• You require a smaller form factor than ATX

Verdict: MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX delivers solid power and modern connectivity for mainstream gaming builds. It fits users who want stability and speed without the premium price of a Z790 board.

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Frequently asked questions