ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard provides a solid foundation for Intel LGA 1700 builds, featuring 16+1 power phases, DDR5 memory support, four M.2 slots, and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. When evaluating asus tuf gaming z790 plus wifi alternatives, your PC build plan might require different hardware specifications. You might prefer alternative brands such as MSI or GIGABYTE, updated Wi-Fi 6E networking, higher power phase counts like 20+1, or a different chipset generation like Intel Z690.
These 6 alternatives were chosen because their technical specifications closely overlap with the original motherboard. Every model listed provides an ATX form factor, PCIe 5.0 expansion, DDR5 slots, and fast 2.5GbE networking for Intel systems. Examining how these published specs align across boards helps you identify meaningful differences, such as five M.2 slots instead of four, so you can assemble your ideal desktop.
Comparing Alternative LGA 1700 Motherboards
GIGABYTE Aorus Ultra DDR5 ATX Motherboard
The GIGABYTE Aorus Ultra DDR5 ATX Motherboard steps back to the Intel Z690 chipset while matching the original board with four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots, DDR5 memory support, and a PCIe 5.0 slot. You get the same 2.5GbE wired LAN and Wi-Fi 6 wireless networking for LGA 1700 processors. At 2.2 pounds, this board is lighter than the 2.91-pound ASUS TUF Gaming. You give up the newer Z790 chipset platform found on the baseline TUF model. Choose this GIGABYTE board if your build focuses on LGA 1700 DDR5 setups needing quad M.2 storage on the Z690 architecture.
ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690 ATX Motherboard provides a similar foundation to the original TUF Z790, sharing DDR5 support, PCIe 5.0 capability, four M.2 storage slots, Wi-Fi 6, and a 2.5GbE port. It weighs less at 2 pounds compared to the 2.91-pound TUF Z790 and measures 8.66 by 3.15 by 1.18 inches. You give up the upgraded Z790 chipset, retaining the earlier Z690 platform. You also give up the 16+1 power phases documented on the Z790 version. Pick this model if you are assembling a 12th Gen Intel LGA 1700 gaming build with DDR5 and do not require the Z790 chipset update.
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi Motherboard upgrades wireless networking to Wi-Fi 6E, whereas the ASUS TUF Gaming board includes Wi-Fi 6. Both boards share the Intel Z790 chipset, an ATX form factor, DDR5 compatibility, PCIe 5.0 support, and a 2.5GbE Ethernet port for LGA 1700 processors. At 3.92 pounds, the MSI board is heavier than the 2.91-pound TUF Gaming. It arrives as a renewed package rather than new hardware. You give up the specified 16+1 power phase design and four M.2 slot configuration detailed on the original TUF. Choose this MSI board if your 12th or 13th Gen Intel build benefits from Wi-Fi 6E networking.
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard matches the original ASUS TUF Gaming with an Intel Z790 foundation, LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 support, and a 2.5GbE LAN interface. For wireless connectivity, MSI provides Wi-Fi 6E instead of standard Wi-Fi 6 on the TUF. However, you give up the four verified M.2 slots and the 16+1 power phases specifically listed for the TUF Gaming board, as MSI does not specify phase counts or slot totals in its specs. Select the MSI Gaming Plus if you want an ATX DDR5 motherboard with Wi-Fi 6E for a current Intel gaming system.
ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero ATX Motherboard steps above the TUF Gaming with 20+1 power stages compared to 16+1 on the TUF. It also adds a fifth M.2 slot for storage, offering five slots against the original's four, and upgrades wireless connectivity from Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 6E. Both boards share PCIe 5.0, DDR5 support, a 2.5GbE LAN port, and an LGA 1700 ATX layout. In return, the ROG Maximus adds substantial bulk, weighing 9.3 pounds compared to the 2.91-pound TUF. Choose this motherboard if you plan an enthusiast Intel build requiring maximum power phases and five high-speed M.2 drive slots.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard upgrades your wireless connection to Wi-Fi 6E, improving on the Wi-Fi 6 standard found on the TUF Gaming board. Both motherboards feature a 16+1 power delivery design, four M.2 slots, DDR5 memory support, a PCIe 5.0 slot, and a 2.5GbE Ethernet port. You give up the Z790 chipset, as this ROG Strix board runs on the Intel Z690 chipset. At 2.99 pounds, it matches the TUF model's 2.91-pound weight closely. Pick this alternative if you want ROG Strix styling and Wi-Fi 6E while remaining comfortable with a Z690 DDR5 gaming configuration.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel LGA 1700 gaming PC builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
This board is an ATX platform built for Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors on the LGA 1700 socket. You get a PCIe 5.0 slot for modern graphics cards, four M.2 slots for solid-state storage, and DDR5 memory compatibility. It features a 16+1 power phase design, onboard Wi-Fi 6, and a 2.5GbE wired network port. It suits you if you want a balanced full-size gaming foundation.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 graphics support
- Four onboard M.2 storage slots
- Fast 2.5GbE ethernet and Wi-Fi 6
- 16+1 power phase layout
Cons
- Uses standard Wi-Fi 6 rather than Wi-Fi 6E
- ATX form factor does not fit compact enclosures
Good fit if
- You run an Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen LGA 1700 processor.
- You need four M.2 slots for solid-state storage.
- You want DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 hardware compatibility.
Skip if
- You need the newer Wi-Fi 6E networking standard.
- You plan to build inside a compact mini-ITX or microATX case.
Verdict: ASUS TUF Gaming Z790 WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 support, four M.2 slots, and solid 16+1 power phases for modern Intel setups. It remains a dependable baseline for standard full-tower builds.
GIGABYTE Aorus Ultra DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: power-heavy DDR5 builds needing quad M.2 storage
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Intel Z690
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
The GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS Ultra is an ATX gaming motherboard built on the Intel Z690 chipset with an LGA 1700 socket. It pairs a direct 16+1+2 phase VRM design with PCIe 5.0 capability and DDR5 memory support. You get four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for high-speed storage plus 2.5GbE networking. This board suits you if you need heavy power delivery and multi-drive expansion.
Pros
- 16+1+2 direct power phase design with 105A power stages
- Four onboard PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 storage slots
- PCIe 5.0 readiness and DDR5 memory compatibility
- Integrated 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6 wireless networking
Cons
- Wi-Fi standard is Wi-Fi 6 rather than Wi-Fi 6E
- Data explicitly specifies 12th Gen Intel Core processor support
Good fit if
- You need four high-speed PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for storage.
- You want a direct 16+1+2 phase VRM with 105A power stages.
- You plan to build an LGA 1700 system with DDR5 memory.
Skip if
- You require 6GHz band connectivity from Wi-Fi 6E.
- You prefer an Intel Z790 chipset rather than Z690.
Verdict: GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS Ultra ATX Motherboard delivers robust power stages and four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for storage-heavy DDR5 builds. It provides capable VRM cooling and fast 2.5GbE networking for Intel LGA 1700 processors.
ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: 12th Gen Intel gaming builds using DDR5
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 6
This ATX motherboard equips your build with an Intel LGA 1700 socket designed for 12th Gen processors, pairing high-bandwidth PCIe 5.0 expansion with fast DDR5 memory. You get four M.2 slots for NVMe storage, a 14+2 power stage delivery system, and 2.5Gb Ethernet alongside built-in WiFi 6. It suits you if you want TUF-tier durability and solid connectivity without stepping up to newer chipset tiers.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 expansion slot for high-speed graphics cards
- Four M.2 NVMe slots for multiple solid-state drives
- 14+2 DrMOS power stages with Digi+ VRM
- Equipped with 2.5Gb LAN and integrated WiFi 6
- Includes rear USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C and Thunderbolt 4 header
Cons
- Product specifications only list out-of-box support for 12th Gen Intel CPUs
- Uses standard WiFi 6 rather than the 6GHz band of WiFi 6E
Good fit if
- You plan to build with a 12th Gen Intel Core desktop processor and DDR5 memory.
- You need four M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe storage drives.
- You want 2.5Gb wired Ethernet paired with onboard wireless connectivity.
Skip if
- You require built-in WiFi 6E networking.
- You want a motherboard with documented out-of-box 13th or 14th Gen Intel support.
Verdict: ASUS TUF Gaming Z690 ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 capability, DDR5 support, and four M.2 slots for a reliable 12th Gen Intel setup.
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th and 13th Gen DDR5 builds
- 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
This MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX Motherboard pairs an LGA 1700 socket with DDR5 memory support and a PCIe 5.0 expansion slot. You get integrated Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5 Gbps wired networking, multiple M.2 storage slots, and USB 3.2 connectivity. It suits your build if you plan to install a 12th or 13th Generation Intel Core processor and need high-speed wireless and PCIe 5.0 connectivity on a full-size ATX board.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 expansion slot support
- Compatible with DDR5 system memory
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet
- Multiple M.2 high-speed storage slots
Cons
- Supplied as a renewed hardware product
- Processor support specified for 12th and 13th Gen Intel CPUs
Good fit if
- You use a 12th or 13th Gen Intel Core processor on socket LGA 1700.
- You need PCIe 5.0 expansion alongside DDR5 system memory.
- You want built-in Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gbps wired networking.
Skip if
- You prefer a brand-new retail unit rather than a renewed component.
- You build inside a compact microATX or Mini-ITX computer case.
Verdict: MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 support, DDR5 memory compatibility, and Wi-Fi 6E networking for LGA 1700 desktop builds. It provides full ATX expansion for 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors in a renewed package.
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: DDR5 Intel gaming builds needing PCIe 5.0
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
This ATX motherboard runs the Intel Z790 chipset on the LGA 1700 socket. It supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors alongside DDR5 system memory and PCIe 5.0 expansion. You get integrated Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for local networking. This board fits your setup if you want current-generation Intel connectivity and high-bandwidth components without switching away from standard ATX PC cases.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 support for high-speed expansion cards
- Fast 2.5Gbps wired Ethernet and onboard Wi-Fi 6E
- Compatible with Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen LGA 1700 CPUs
- DDR5 memory architecture
Cons
- Requires DDR5 memory with no DDR4 backward compatibility
- LGA 1700 socket limits use to compatible Intel processors only
Good fit if
- You want a full-size ATX board pairing an Intel LGA 1700 processor with DDR5 RAM.
- You need PCIe 5.0 readiness along with 2.5Gbps wired networking.
Skip if
- You plan to carry over existing DDR4 RAM modules to your new build.
- You use an AMD processor instead of Intel LGA 1700.
Verdict: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 support, DDR5 memory compatibility, and 2.5Gbps networking on the LGA 1700 platform. It serves as a balanced Intel Z790 foundation for current-generation gaming builds.
ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: enthusiast multi-drive Intel LGA 1700 builds
- 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
This ATX motherboard runs Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors on the LGA 1700 socket with DDR5 memory. You get five M.2 slots for high-capacity storage, a 20+1 power-phase delivery system rated at 90 amps, and PCIe 5.0 expansion support. Integrated 2.5Gb Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E handle networking needs. It fits your build if you need extensive drive expansion and high power headroom for intensive computing setups.
Pros
- 20+1 teamed power stages rated for 90A
- Five onboard M.2 storage slots
- PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory support
- Wi-Fi 6E and Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet
Cons
- Limited to Wi-Fi 6E instead of newer Wi-Fi 7
- Wired networking caps at 2.5Gb Ethernet
Good fit if
- You need five M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe storage.
- You want a heavy-duty 20+1 power delivery design.
- You use an Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen LGA 1700 processor.
Skip if
- You require built-in Wi-Fi 7 connectivity.
- You need 5Gb or 10Gb wired Ethernet ports.
Verdict: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero DDR5 Motherboard delivers robust 20+1 power stages and five M.2 slots for storage-heavy LGA 1700 setups. It serves users who prioritize high thermal headroom and fast PCIe 5.0 expansion.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard
Best for: DDR5 gaming builds needing quad M.2 storage
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z690
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
This ATX board gives you an alternative to TUF Gaming platforms with its 16+1 power stages and four onboard M.2 slots. Built on the Intel Z690 chipset, it supports LGA 1700 processors alongside DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 expansion. You get integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gb Ethernet for networking. It suits you if you need dense M.2 storage and capable power delivery.
Pros
- 16+1 power stages for CPU power delivery
- Four onboard M.2 storage slots with heatsinks
- PCIe 5.0 expansion support and DDR5 compatibility
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gb Ethernet
Cons
- Uses previous-generation Z690 chipset instead of Z790
- Out-of-box processor listing specified for 12th Gen Intel CPUs
Good fit if
- You want four M.2 drive slots for high-speed NVMe storage.
- You need a 16+1 power stage setup for multi-core LGA 1700 processors.
- You plan to run DDR5 memory with PCIe 5.0 hardware.
Skip if
- You prefer a native Z790 chipset platform.
- You need a smaller microATX or Mini-ITX form factor.
Verdict: ASUS ROG Strix DDR5 ATX Motherboard provides robust 16+1 power delivery, four M.2 slots, and DDR5 support on the Z690 chipset. It serves as a feature-rich ATX alternative for LGA 1700 gaming rigs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard | GIGABYTE Aorus Ultra DDR5 ATX Motherboard | ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard | MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard | ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard | ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | Z790 | Intel Z690 | not specified | not specified | Z790 | not specified | Z690 |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| Memory Type | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 4 | 4 | 4 | not specified | not specified | 5 | 4 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | not specified | Wi-Fi 6 | WiFi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | WiFi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | not specified | 2.5 GbE | 2.5Gb LAN | 2.5Gbps LAN | 2.5Gbps | 2.5 GbE | 2.5Gb |
| Power Phases | 16+1 | 16+1+2 | 14+2 | not specified | not specified | 20+1 | 16+1 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Use Case | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 10.7 × 2.75 × 14 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | 8.66 × 3.15 × 1.18 inches | 2.76 × 1.97 × 0.39 inches | not specified | 12.2 × 4.5 × 14.6 inches | 13.3 × 10.7 × 2.7 inches |
| Weight | 2.91 pounds | 2.2 pounds | 2 pounds | 3.92 pounds | not specified | 9.3 pounds | 2.99 pounds |
| Color | BLACK | not specified | not specified | Black | Black | BLACK | not specified |
| Model | TUF GAMING Z790-PLUS WIFI | Z690 | TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI | Z790 | MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ | ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO | ROG STRIX Z690-F GAMING WIFI |
| Size | not specified | Z690 AORUS ULTRA | not specified | not specified | ATX | Z790 Hero|M.2 x5|WiFi 6E| | 12"x9.6" |
If you need a compatible graphics card, you can compare asus tuf gaming geforce rtx alternatives by their specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers more M.2 slots than the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790?
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero provides five M.2 slots for high-capacity storage configurations. In contrast, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-PLUS WIFI includes four M.2 slots. If you plan to install multiple high-speed drives without using add-in PCIe storage cards, the ROG Maximus board gives you the highest onboard drive capacity among the listed options on this platform.
Can you use an Intel Z690 motherboard instead of the Z790?
Yes, you can substitute an Intel Z690 board because both chipsets share the LGA 1700 processor socket. Alternatives like the GIGABYTE Z690 Aorus Ultra, ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WIFI, and ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F support DDR5 memory alongside PCIe 5.0 connectivity. They deliver identical form factors and core expansion features for compatible 12th and 13th Gen Intel desktop processors.
Which motherboard alternatives upgrade your wireless connectivity to Wi-Fi 6E?
The MSI MPG Z790 Edge, MSI Z790 Gaming Plus, ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero, and ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F all feature Wi-Fi 6E networking. The standard ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-PLUS WIFI includes Wi-Fi 6. Choosing a Wi-Fi 6E board allows you to access the dedicated 6 GHz wireless frequency band when paired with a compatible home network router.
What VRM power stage configurations do these alternative motherboards offer?
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790 features 16+1 power phases, matching the power delivery design found on the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F. If your build demands higher thermal headroom for heavy workloads, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero expands this setup with 20+1 power stages. Robust power delivery ensures stable voltage regulation during sustained multi-threaded computing tasks.
Do all of these alternative motherboards support DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0?
Yes, every alternative listed across these 6 picks supports both DDR5 system memory and PCIe 5.0 expansion. Whether you choose an Intel Z790 model or a Z690 board from MSI, GIGABYTE, or ASUS, you retain access to high-bandwidth system memory and the newest high-speed expansion bus for your primary discrete graphics card.
What wired networking speeds do these LGA 1700 motherboards support?
All 6 motherboards compared here provide 2.5GbE Ethernet ports as standard equipment. This includes the base ASUS TUF Gaming Z790, both MSI options, the GIGABYTE Z690 Aorus Ultra, and the ASUS ROG models. A 2.5Gbps connection delivers more throughput than standard gigabit LAN, accommodating fast local file transfers across your home or office local network.