Best Msi Motherboards for Gaming in 2026: 15 Picks
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Selecting the best msi motherboards for gaming requires matching your specific processor socket, memory standard, and expansion slots. We evaluated 15 models using the specifications published on the listings to highlight their functional differences.
The MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard leads the group because it pairs an LGA 1700 socket with PCIe 5.0 support, DDR5 memory capability, and 2.5GbE networking. This guide helps you decide which form factor, socket type, and bandwidth profile match your hardware requirements.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want the best overall Intel 12th or 13th Gen DDR5 gaming board MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard It offers PCIe 5.0, DDR5 support, and Wi-Fi 6E for modern Intel builds.
- You need a compact AM4 gaming build with PCIe 3.0 storage MSI AM4 Micro-ATX DDR4 Motherboard This micro-ATX board provides essential AM4 features and PCIe 3.0 M.2 storage in a small form factor.
- You are building an E-ATX system requiring maximum storage expansion MSI MEG E-ATX DDR5 Motherboard It features five M.2 slots and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports for extensive connectivity.
- You want the best AMD AM5 gaming board with PCIe 5.0 MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi ATX Motherboard It delivers PCIe 5.0 readiness, DDR5 support, and Wi-Fi 6E for AMD AM5 systems.
Our 15 picks
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th/13th Gen DDR5 gaming setups
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
You get an ATX motherboard built for 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core CPUs on the LGA 1700 socket. It pairs DDR5 memory support with a PCIe 5.0 expansion slot and multiple M.2 storage connectors. For networking, you have onboard Wi-Fi 6E alongside a 2.5Gbps LAN port. This renewed board suits you if you want modern Intel gaming connectivity.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 expansion support for next-generation components
- DDR5 memory compatibility for modern desktop builds
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet network connectivity
- Multiple M.2 storage slots and USB 3.2 ports
Cons
- Renewed product rather than brand-new stock
- LGA 1700 socket excludes AMD processors
- Incompatible with DDR4 memory modules
Good fit if
- You build with an Intel 12th or 13th Generation Core CPU.
- You plan to use DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0 hardware.
- You need both 2.5Gbps LAN and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.
Skip if
- You need an AMD AM4 or AM5 socket motherboard.
- You want a brand-new factory-sealed product instead of renewed.
- You plan to reuse older DDR4 memory modules.
Verdict: MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0, DDR5 memory capability, and Wi-Fi 6E networking for Intel 12th and 13th Gen builds. It offers solid expansion features if you accept a renewed condition board.
MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Intel LGA 1700 gaming rigs using DDR5
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk ATX Motherboard is an ATX gaming board built for 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors on the LGA 1700 socket. You get modern platform features including DDR5 system memory, a PCIe 5.0 expansion slot, and integrated Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity. It suits your build if you want standard ATX spacing with high-speed memory and networking support for Intel gaming rigs.
Pros
- Supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel LGA 1700 processors
- PCIe 5.0 expansion support
- DDR5 memory compatibility
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity
Cons
- ATX size does not fit compact micro-ATX or Mini-ITX cases
- Requires DDR5 RAM and does not accept DDR4 memory modules
- Restricted to Intel LGA 1700 socket CPUs
Good fit if
- You plan to run a 12th or 13th Gen Intel processor on an LGA 1700 socket.
- You want DDR5 memory support along with a PCIe 5.0 slot.
- You need integrated Wi-Fi 6E in a full-size ATX form factor.
Skip if
- You build with an AMD CPU requiring an AM4 or AM5 socket.
- You intend to reuse an existing DDR4 memory kit.
- You need a smaller motherboard form factor for a compact case.
Verdict: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 capability, DDR5 support, and built-in Wi-Fi 6E for Intel LGA 1700 gaming setups. It provides a standard-footprint foundation for builders using 12th or 13th Gen Intel processors.
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Intel LGA 1700 DDR5 gaming setups
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard gives you a full-size ATX foundation for Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen processors on the LGA 1700 socket. It pairs the Intel Z790 chipset with DDR5 memory support and a PCIe 5.0 expansion slot for modern graphics hardware. Fast networking includes 2.5Gbps Ethernet and onboard Wi-Fi 6E. It suits you if you want modern gaming connectivity on an Intel platform.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 expansion support
- Compatible with DDR5 memory
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet
- Supports Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen CPUs on LGA 1700
Cons
- Standard ATX form factor does not fit micro-ATX or mini-ITX cases
- Socket LGA 1700 is incompatible with AMD processors
Good fit if
- You build with a 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel Core processor.
- You want DDR5 system memory and PCIe 5.0 readiness.
- You need both Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE wired network connectivity.
Skip if
- You are building an AMD-based system.
- You need a compact form factor for a small-chassis build.
Verdict: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers core Z790 chipset capabilities, DDR5 support, and PCIe 5.0 connectivity for LGA 1700 gaming rigs.
MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM4 gaming builds using DDR4 memory
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- AM4
- Chipset
- X570
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge WiFi ATX Motherboard is an AM4 gaming board built around the AMD X570 chipset. It provides PCIe 4.0 expansion support and uses DDR4 memory to run second- and third-generation AMD Ryzen processors. Integrated Wi-Fi 5 networking and an active FROZR chipset heatsink fan give you stable connectivity and cooling. It suits you if you want a full-size gaming platform tailored specifically for AM4 desktop processors.
Pros
- PCIe 4.0 expansion support
- On-board Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with MU-MIMO support
- FROZR heatsink with propeller blade fan and double ball bearings
- Pre-installed I/O shield
Cons
- Limited to Wi-Fi 5 rather than newer wireless standards
- Restricted to DDR4 memory and AM4 processors
- Active chipset fan adds a mechanical moving part
Good fit if
- You build with a 2nd or 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen AM4 processor.
- You need PCIe 4.0 bandwidth with DDR4 memory support.
- You want integrated Wi-Fi 5 and pre-installed I/O shielding.
Skip if
- You plan to use newer DDR5 memory.
- You require newer Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 wireless standards.
- You build with Intel CPUs or AMD AM5 socket processors.
Verdict: MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 4.0 throughput and integrated Wi-Fi 5 for AM4 gaming builds. It handles second- and third-generation AMD Ryzen configurations that rely on DDR4 memory.
MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 8th and 9th Gen gaming builds
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC supports Intel 8th and 9th Gen Core processors via the LGA 1151 socket. It features an ATX form factor with four DDR4 DIMM slots for dual-channel memory up to 4400 MHz. The board includes two M.2 slots and integrated Wi-Fi. It is designed for gamers who need reliable connectivity and expansion options for older Intel platforms.
Pros
- Supports Intel 8th and 9th Gen Core CPUs
- Dual channel DDR4 memory up to 4400 MHz
- Two M.2 slots for storage expansion
- Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity
- ATX form factor for multi-GPU setups
Cons
- Limited to Intel 8th and 9th Gen processors
- No support for newer DDR5 memory
- Older Z390 chipset lacks latest USB standards
Good fit if
- You are building a PC with an 8th or 9th Gen Intel CPU
- You need ATX expansion slots for multiple GPUs
- You want integrated Wi-Fi without extra cards
Skip if
- You plan to use 10th Gen or newer Intel processors
- You require DDR5 memory support
- You need AMD Ryzen compatibility
Verdict: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX is a solid choice for gamers using 8th or 9th Gen Intel processors who need a reliable ATX board with Wi-Fi. It does not suit those seeking modern CPU support or DDR5 memory.
MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 8th and 9th Gen gaming builds
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
The MSI MPG Carbon ATX LGA 1151 Motherboard is a full-size gaming board built around the Intel Z390 chipset and socket. It supports 8th and 9th Generation Intel processors alongside dual-channel DDR4 memory clocked up to 4400 MHz. With two Turbo M.2 slots, multi-GPU support, and pre-installed I/O shielding, it suits you if you are assembling a gaming system with compatible Intel hardware.
Pros
- Supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 4400(OC) MHz
- Two Turbo M.2 slots with M.2 Shield Frozr protection
- Pre-installed I/O shielding for easier PC assembly
- Multi-GPU support for SLI and CrossFireX setups
Cons
- Limited to older LGA 1151 socket processors
- Provides only two onboard M.2 slots
- No integrated Wi-Fi listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You use an 8th or 9th Generation Intel Core processor.
- You want DDR4 memory support with overclocking up to 4400 MHz.
- You plan to run multiple graphics cards in SLI or CrossFireX.
Skip if
- You plan to install a 10th Generation or newer Intel CPU.
- You require onboard wireless networking without add-in cards.
- You need more than two M.2 solid-state drives.
Verdict: MSI MPG Carbon ATX LGA 1151 Motherboard delivers high-speed DDR4 support and multi-GPU capabilities for Intel 8th and 9th Generation gaming rigs. It provides a solid foundation if you are maintaining or upgrading an existing LGA 1151 build.
MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi
Best for: 8th and 9th Gen Intel gaming builds
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
This MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon AC is an ATX gaming motherboard built for 8th and 9th Generation Intel Core processors on the LGA 1151 socket. It features dual-channel DDR4 memory support up to 4400 MHz (OC), two Turbo M.2 slots, and integrated 802.11ac Wi-Fi. It suits you if you are building an Intel gaming rig with multi-GPU support and require pre-installed I/O shielding.
Pros
- Supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 4400(OC) MHz
- Two Turbo M.2 slots with M.2 Shield Frozr
- Integrated Intel 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2
- Pre-installed I/O shielding for easier installation
Cons
- Socket LGA 1151 restricts compatibility to 8th and 9th Gen Intel CPUs
- Limits onboard high-speed storage to two M.2 slots
- Uses older 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard
Good fit if
- You use an 8th or 9th Gen Intel Core processor on the LGA 1151 socket.
- You need high-frequency DDR4 memory support up to 4400(OC) MHz.
- You plan to run a multi-GPU setup with SLI or CrossFire.
Skip if
- You plan to use a 10th Gen or newer Intel processor.
- You require modern DDR5 memory compatibility.
- You need more than two onboard M.2 storage slots.
Verdict: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon AC provides a stable ATX foundation with fast DDR4 memory support and integrated wireless connectivity. It is a capable option if you are running an 8th or 9th Gen Intel gaming setup.
MSI MPG Gaming Edge Wi-Fi ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM4 builds needing PCIe 4.0 and Wi-Fi
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- AM4
- Chipset
- AMD X570
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
This ATX motherboard features the AMD X570 chipset and an AM4 socket designed for 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors. It supports DDR4 memory and PCIe 4.0 for connected components. You get built-in Wi-Fi 5 with MU-MIMO support and an active Frozr heatsink for cooling. It suits you if you build an AM4 gaming rig requiring PCIe 4.0 expansion, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and integrated wireless networking.
Pros
- PCIe 4.0 support for high-speed storage and expansion
- Onboard Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with MU-MIMO support
- Frozr heatsink with propeller blade fan design
- Pre-installed I/O shield for grounded ESD protection
Cons
- Limited to DDR4 memory support without DDR5 compatibility
- Uses older Wi-Fi 5 standard rather than newer wireless specs
- AM4 socket does not support newer AM5 generation processors
Good fit if
- You use a 2nd or 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processor.
- You need PCIe 4.0 expansion paired with DDR4 memory.
- You want integrated Wi-Fi 5 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports.
Skip if
- You build with an AMD AM5 processor.
- You require high-speed DDR5 memory.
- You want Wi-Fi 6 or newer wireless standards onboard.
Verdict: MSI MPG X570 Wi-Fi Gaming Motherboard delivers PCIe 4.0 performance and onboard wireless connectivity for AMD AM4 builds. It serves 2nd and 3rd Gen Ryzen setups that rely on DDR4 memory.
MSI MPG ATX DDR4 Motherboard
Best for: 10th Gen Intel DDR4 ATX gaming builds
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1200
- Chipset
- Z490
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
This ATX board is built around the Intel Z490 chipset and LGA 1200 socket, designed for 10th Gen Intel Core processors. You get dual-channel DDR4 memory support up to 128GB at 4800MHz alongside two M.2 slots for fast storage. Integrated 2.5G LAN, Gigabit Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6 handle your networking needs. It suits you if you want a reliable full-size platform for a 10th Gen Intel gaming setup.
Pros
- Dual-channel DDR4 support up to 128GB and 4800MHz
- On-board Wi-Fi 6 along with 2.5G and Gigabit LAN
- Two M.2 slots with M.2 Shield Frozr heatsink protection
- Pre-installed I/O shield protects against electrostatic discharge
Cons
- Limited to LGA 1200 10th Gen Intel processors
- Uses DDR4 memory instead of DDR5
- Provides only two M.2 storage slots
Good fit if
- You are building a gaming system using a 10th Gen Intel LGA 1200 processor.
- You need both Wi-Fi 6 wireless connectivity and 2.5G wired networking.
- You want up to 128GB of high-frequency DDR4 memory.
Skip if
- You plan to use 12th Gen or newer Intel CPUs or AMD processors.
- You require high-speed DDR5 system memory.
- You need more than two M.2 solid-state drives.
Verdict: MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Plus Motherboard delivers solid connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5G LAN for 10th Gen Intel processors. It provides dependable DDR4 memory performance and dual M.2 slots for full-size ATX gaming builds.
MSI MPG Micro-ATX Wi-Fi Motherboard
Best for: compact 10th Gen Intel Wi-Fi 6 builds
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1200
- Chipset
- Z490
- Form Factor
- Micro-ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6
The MSI MPG Micro-ATX Wi-Fi 6 Motherboard is a compact gaming board built for LGA 1200 Intel 10th Gen processors. It features integrated Wi-Fi 6 capable of speeds up to 2400 Mbps alongside 2.5G Ethernet for low-latency wired connections. With dual-channel DDR4 memory support and a 9.6-inch square micro-ATX profile, you get modern networking and USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity in a space-saving chassis build.
Pros
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6 delivering wireless speeds up to 2400Mbps with MU-MIMO
- 2.5G onboard Ethernet for high-speed wired networking
- Dual-channel DDR4 memory architecture
- Aluminum IO cover designed for heat dissipation
Cons
- Limited to 10th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors
- Micro-ATX footprint provides fewer expansion opportunities than ATX alternatives
Good fit if
- You run a 10th Gen Intel processor on the LGA 1200 socket.
- You need high-bandwidth Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5G Ethernet networking.
- You are assembling your build inside a compact micro-ATX PC case.
Skip if
- You want to use newer generation Intel processors beyond 10th Gen.
- You require the newer DDR5 memory standard for your gaming system.
- You prefer full-sized ATX boards for multiple add-in expansion cards.
Verdict: MSI MPG Micro-ATX Wi-Fi 6 Motherboard pairs fast Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5G LAN on a compact micro-ATX footprint. It provides reliable DDR4 performance for your 10th Gen Intel gaming setup.
MSI AM4 Micro-ATX DDR4 Motherboard
Best for: compact AM4 DDR4 gaming PC builds
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- AM4
- Form Factor
- Micro-ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 3.0
- Dimensions
- 9.6 × 8.3 × 1.5 inches
The MSI Micro-ATX AM4 Gaming Motherboard is a compact board built for gaming systems running AMD AM4 processors, including Ryzen 5000 and 3000 series chips. It features a Micro-ATX form factor, DDR4 memory support up to 4600 MHz, and a Turbo M.2 slot operating on PCIe 3.0. You get standard connectivity with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and SATA 6Gb/s. It suits you if you need a basic, space-saving AM4 gaming build.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 5000 and 3rd Gen Ryzen desktop processors
- Supports DDR4 memory speeds up to 4600(OC) MHz
- Compact Micro-ATX form factor
- Turbo M.2 PCIe Gen3 x4 slot for NVMe SSDs
Cons
- Limited to PCIe 3.0 bandwidth
- Uses DDR4 memory instead of newer memory standards
- AM4 socket does not support newer AM5 processors
Good fit if
- You build with an AMD AM4 Ryzen desktop processor.
- You use DDR4 memory modules up to 4600 MHz.
- You need a smaller Micro-ATX motherboard profile.
Skip if
- You require faster PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 5.0 speeds.
- You plan to run DDR5 RAM or newer AM5 processors.
Verdict: MSI Micro-ATX AM4 Gaming Motherboard delivers essential AM4 socket features, DDR4 compatibility, and PCIe 3.0 M.2 storage in a compact footprint. It provides the core baseline hardware for entry AM4 gaming builds.
MSI Z690 Force WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: 12th Gen Intel DDR5 gaming setups
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z690
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4
The MSI Z690 Force WiFi ATX Motherboard gives you an LGA 1700 platform built for 12th Gen Intel Core processors. It features DDR5 memory support up to 5600 MHz (OC), PCIe 4 expansion, and high-speed storage via PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 slots. With integrated 2.5G LAN and Intel Wi-Fi 6E, it suits gamers who want modern networking and DDR5 bandwidth on an ATX layout.
Pros
- Integrated Intel Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G LAN networking
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 5600(OC) MHz
- PCIe Gen4 x4 M.2 slot performance
- Extended Heatsink Design and M.2 Shield Frozr cooling
Cons
- PCIe 4 standard without PCIe 5 expansion listed
- Specification lists support only up through 12th Gen Intel CPUs
Good fit if
- You plan to run a 12th Gen Intel processor with DDR5 RAM.
- You need both 2.5G Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity out of the box.
Skip if
- You need native PCIe 5.0 graphics or storage throughput.
- You are building an AMD-based gaming rig.
Verdict: MSI Z690 Force WiFi ATX Motherboard provides a solid foundation for 12th Gen Intel gaming builds requiring DDR5 memory and fast wireless networking.
MSI MPG Z690 Edge WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: 12th Gen Intel DDR5 gaming builds
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z690
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5
The MSI MPG Z690 Edge WiFi ATX Motherboard gives you an Intel LGA 1700 platform built for 12th Gen Intel Core processors. It pairs DDR5 memory support with a PCIe 5 slot for next-generation expansion. High-speed networking comes standard through built-in Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5G LAN port. If you are building a full-size gaming desktop that requires modern DDR5 speeds and robust onboard cooling, this board fits your build.
Pros
- PCIe 5 expansion support
- DDR5 memory compatibility
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G LAN
- 6-layer PCB with 2oz thickened copper
- Thermal heatsink assembly with heat-pipe and M.2 Shield Frozr
Cons
- Processor support specified for 12th Gen Intel chips
- Incompatible with DDR4 memory modules
- Standard ATX size will not fit compact mini-ITX cases
Good fit if
- You want DDR5 memory and PCIe 5 connectivity on the LGA 1700 socket.
- You need both 2.5G wired Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E wireless support.
- You are building a standard ATX gaming desktop with a 12th Gen Intel Core processor.
Skip if
- You plan to reuse DDR4 RAM in your build.
- You need a compact Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX motherboard.
Verdict: MSI MPG Z690 Edge WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5 bandwidth, DDR5 support, and dual high-speed networking options for 12th Gen Intel gaming setups. Its thick copper PCB and extensive heatsink assembly maintain stable operating conditions under heavy loads.
MSI MEG E-ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: E-ATX gaming builds needing maximum storage
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z690
- Form Factor
- E-ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5
This E-ATX motherboard pairs an LGA 1700 socket and Intel Z690 chipset with DDR5 memory support for high-end gaming builds. You get extensive expansion options, including five onboard M.2 slots and PCIe 5.0 readiness. Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports deliver 40 Gbps transfer rates and 8K display support. If you plan an expansive PC build that demands heavy storage capacity and high-bandwidth external connectivity, this board suits your setup.
Pros
- Five onboard M.2 slots for high-capacity solid-state storage
- Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports supporting 40 Gb/s speeds and 8K video output
- Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports paired with Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- Supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0
Cons
- Large E-ATX form factor requires a compatible chassis
- Heavier physical profile at 5 pounds
Good fit if
- You need five M.2 drives for extensive internal game storage.
- You use high-speed external devices requiring 40 Gb/s Thunderbolt 4 ports.
- You have a PC chassis with space for an E-ATX motherboard.
Skip if
- You are building inside a standard ATX or compact PC case.
- You plan to reuse existing DDR4 memory modules.
Verdict: MSI MEG E-ATX Gaming Motherboard provides expansive storage and fast connectivity via five M.2 slots and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports. It delivers top-tier expansion if your PC chassis accommodates its E-ATX footprint.
MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM5 gaming builds with PCIe 5.0 storage
- Use Case
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
This ATX gaming board features the AMD AM5 socket designed for Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors. You get PCIe 5.0 support, Lightning Gen 5 M.2 storage, and four DDR5 memory slots rated past 5600 MHz. Integrated 2.5Gbps LAN and Wi-Fi 6E manage your network connections. It suits you if you plan to build a modern AM5 gaming rig with fast storage lanes and high-bandwidth wireless networking.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 expansion and Lightning Gen 5 x4 M.2 support
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps onboard Ethernet
- Four DDR5 DIMM slots supporting DDR5-5600+ (OC)
- Built-in heatsinks with heat-pipe and M.2 Shield Frozr
Cons
- Full ATX footprint requires a compatible mid-tower or full-tower case
- Supports only AM5 socket processors, excluding older AM4 CPUs
- DDR5 memory support excludes older DDR4 memory kits
Good fit if
- You build an AMD gaming rig using a Ryzen 7000, 8000, or 9000 series CPU.
- You want PCIe 5.0 compatibility for graphics and Gen 5 M.2 SSDs.
- You need high-speed connectivity via Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN.
Skip if
- You plan to reuse an older AM4 processor or DDR4 memory modules.
- You are assembling a compact PC that requires a micro-ATX or mini-ITX board.
Verdict: MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 readiness, high-speed DDR5 memory slots, and Wi-Fi 6E for AMD AM5 systems. It provides robust thermal hardware and high-bandwidth lanes for your gaming components.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard | MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard | MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard | MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard | MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi | MSI MPG Gaming Edge Wi-Fi ATX Motherboard | MSI MPG ATX DDR4 Motherboard | MSI MPG Micro-ATX Wi-Fi Motherboard | MSI AM4 Micro-ATX DDR4 Motherboard | MSI Z690 Force WiFi ATX Motherboard | MSI MPG Z690 Edge WiFi ATX Motherboard | MSI MEG E-ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi ATX Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | AM4 | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 | AM4 | LGA 1200 | LGA 1200 | AM4 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | AM5 |
| Chipset | not specified | not specified | Z790 | X570 | Z390 | Z390 | Z390 | AMD X570 | Z490 | Z490 | not specified | Z690 | Z690 | Z690 | not specified |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | Micro-ATX | Micro-ATX | ATX | ATX | E-ATX | ATX |
| Memory Type | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 4.0 | not specified | not specified | not specified | PCIe 4.0 | not specified | not specified | PCIe 3.0 | PCIe 4 | PCIe 5 | PCIe 5 | PCIe 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2 | 2 | 2 | not specified | 2 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 5 | not specified |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | not specified | not specified | not specified | 802.11ac | not specified | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | not specified | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | 2.5Gbps LAN | not specified | 2.5Gbps | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2.5G, Gigabit | Gigabit, 2.5G | not specified | 2.5G | 2.5G | Dual 2.5G | 2.5Gbps |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 5 | not specified | not specified | not specified | Wi-Fi 5 | not specified | Wi-Fi 6 | not specified | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Use Case | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 2.76 × 1.97 × 0.39 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | not specified | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2 inches | 9.6 × 9.6 × 2 inches | 9.6 × 8.3 × 1.5 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches |
| Weight | 3.92 pounds | not specified | not specified | 4.1 pounds | 3.3 pounds | 3.3 pounds | 3.3 pounds | 4.1 pounds | 2.79 pounds | 4.41 pounds | 14.1 ounces | not specified | 1 pounds | 5 pounds | 4.61 pounds |
| Color | Black | not specified | Black | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Black |
| Model | Z790 | MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi | MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ | MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge WiFi | 007B17-002R | MPG Z390 GAMING PRO CARBON | MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon AC | MPG X570 GAMING EDGE WIFI | MPG Z490 Gaming Plus | MPG Z490M GAMING EDGE WIFI | A520M-A PRO | Z690FORCEWIFI | MPG Z690 Edge WiFi | MEG Z690 ACE | 7D70-010R |
| Size | not specified | ATX | ATX | 1 | ATX | ATX | ATX | 1 | not specified | mATX | not specified | not specified | ATX | eATX | ATX |
If you are also looking for the best msi gaming laptops, you can find more options on our dedicated laptop guide.
How to Choose an MSI Motherboard
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Match Chassis Form Factor
Motherboard form factors dictate chassis space requirements and expansion capabilities. Standard ATX boards measure 12 by 9.6 inches and provide balanced spacing for expansion cards. Compact builds benefit from Micro-ATX boards, which reduce vertical height down to 9.6 inches while keeping essential slots. If you choose an oversized board like the MSI MEG E-ATX DDR5 Motherboard, verify your case supports extended dimensions. Confirm your chassis specifications match your chosen layout to avoid clearance issues with cooling hardware or power supply shrouds.
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Check PCIe Version Support
Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) revisions dictate the bandwidth available for your graphics card and solid-state storage. PCIe 5.0 doubles the throughput of PCIe 4.0, while PCIe 3.0 offers basic speeds suitable for entry builds. The MSI AM4 Micro-ATX DDR4 Motherboard operates on PCIe 3.0, which fits standard solid-state drives but caps total data transfer rates. If you plan to install modern high-bandwidth add-in cards or storage drives, select a motherboard with PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 5.0 lanes to ensure your components perform without interface bottlenecks.
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Compare Wi-Fi Generations
Integrated wireless connectivity removes the need for separate add-in networking cards. Motherboards on this list offer Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6, or Wi-Fi 6E. Wi-Fi 5 provides standard wireless performance on older boards like the MSI MPG X570 Gaming Edge ATX Motherboard. Wi-Fi 6 increases throughput and handles congested networks more efficiently. Wi-Fi 6E adds access to the 6GHz wireless band, minimizing interference in dense environments. Check your home router specifications to match your board's wireless protocol, ensuring you get the maximum wireless throughput and connection stability.
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Evaluate Wired Ethernet Speeds
Wired local area network speeds vary across motherboards, typically offering 1GbE or 2.5GbE ports. A standard 1GbE port, found on the MSI MPG Micro-ATX Wi-Fi Motherboard, delivers transfer speeds up to one gigabit per second for general online gaming. If you maintain a high-speed local network or access multi-gigabit home broadband, a 2.5GbE Ethernet port provides two and a half times that data bandwidth. Review your network switches, routers, and local file storage systems to decide whether faster 2.5GbE connectivity benefits your daily gaming and file transfer routine.
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Match Legacy Platform Requirements
When replacing a motherboard in an existing system, ensure the board matches your legacy components. Upgrading or repairing an older rig requires matching older CPU sockets and DDR4 memory modules. For example, the MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard uses the LGA 1151 socket and Intel Z390 chipset, which exclusively fit 8th and 9th Generation Intel processors. Modern boards with LGA 1700 or AM5 sockets will not accept these older processors. Verify your exact processor model and memory generation before buying a replacement board to prevent hardware incompatibilities.
Frequently asked questions
Which MSI motherboard supports the newest AMD AM5 processors?
The MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi is the only AM5 option in this selection. It features the AM5 socket, which supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 lanes. This board provides robust thermal hardware and high-bandwidth connectivity for modern AMD Ryzen systems. It is the top choice for builders starting with the latest AMD platform.
Does the top-rated MSI board include wireless networking?
Yes, the MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard includes built-in Wi-Fi 6E. It also features 2.5GbE Ethernet for wired connections. This combination offers fast wireless standards and high-speed wired throughput for gaming. You get complete connectivity options without needing additional network cards.
What is the smallest form factor available in this list?
The MSI AM4 Micro-ATX DDR4 Motherboard and the MSI MPG Micro-ATX Wi-Fi Motherboard both use the Micro-ATX form factor. These boards measure 9.6 inches in length, making them suitable for compact PC cases. They provide essential features in a smaller footprint than standard ATX boards.
Can I use DDR5 memory with older Intel processors?
No, DDR5 memory requires newer sockets like LGA 1700 or LGA 1200 with compatible chipsets. The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC supports LGA 1151 and uses DDR4 memory. Similarly, the MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Plus supports LGA 1200 with DDR4. You must match the memory type to the motherboard's specification.
Which board offers the most M.2 storage slots?
The MSI MEG E-ATX DDR5 Motherboard provides five M.2 slots. This offers expansive storage options for high-speed NVMe drives. It also includes dual Thunderbolt 4 ports for additional connectivity. This board is ideal for gamers who need maximum storage capacity and expansion.
Is there an MSI board with Wi-Fi 6E for Intel builds?
Several models support Wi-Fi 6E for Intel systems. The MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard, the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk, and the MSI MPG Z690 Edge WiFi all include Wi-Fi 6E. These boards target 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors and provide modern wireless standards.
Which motherboard is best for compact AM4 builds?
The MSI AM4 Micro-ATX DDR4 Motherboard is designed for compact AM4 gaming PC builds. It features a Micro-ATX footprint, DDR4 compatibility, and PCIe 3.0 M.2 storage. This board provides the core baseline hardware for entry-level AM4 systems in smaller cases.
Does the MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Plus have Wi-Fi?
Yes, the MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Plus Motherboard includes Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. It also features 2.5G LAN for wired connections. This board supports 10th Gen Intel processors and provides dependable DDR4 memory performance. It is a solid choice for full-size ATX gaming builds.