Looking Beyond the GIGABYTE AORUS LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 7 motherboard targets 8th Generation Intel builds with a focus on storage and connectivity. It features an LGA 1151 socket, ATX form factor, and three M.2 slots for high-speed drives. You also get dual Gigabit LAN ports and USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C support for modern peripherals. This setup works well for dedicated gaming systems that need robust wired networking and fast storage expansion.
If you need a different socket, memory type, or chipset, these gigabyte z370 aorus gaming 7 motherboard alternatives offer relevant specs. The list includes options for the newer LGA 1700 platform with DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 support. You will also find other LGA 1151 choices if you prefer to stay on the older Intel generation but want a different chipset like Z390. For AMD users, an AM4 option with Wi-Fi 6E is included. We selected these products because their published specifications overlap with your needs, whether you want a direct replacement or a platform upgrade.
Our top pick: GIGABYTE AORUS LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard.
How each alternative compares
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
This MSI Z790 board represents a full platform leap from the Gigabyte Z370. You move from LGA 1151 to LGA 1700, which supports newer Intel processors. The switch to DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 offers significantly higher bandwidth for future graphics cards and storage. Networking improves with 2.5GbE Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E, replacing the original’s dual Gigabit LAN. You lose the triple M.2 setup, but gain modern connectivity standards. This is the right choice if you are building a new system from scratch rather than upgrading an existing 8th Gen Intel rig.
MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk also requires a complete platform change to LGA 1700. It supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0, providing a modern foundation for gaming. Unlike the Gigabyte’s Z370 chipset, this Z790 design offers updated power delivery and connectivity features. It includes Wi-Fi 6E, which the original board lacks. You sacrifice the specific triple M.2 configuration of the AORUS model for a more contemporary architecture. This board suits users ready to replace their CPU and RAM entirely to access faster memory speeds and newer interface standards.
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
This MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi moves you to the LGA 1700 socket and DDR5 memory. It features PCIe 5.0 support for next-generation components. The networking upgrades include 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster wired and wireless speeds than the Gigabyte’s Gigabit Ethernet. You give up the triple M.2 slots and USB Type-C header found on the AORUS board. This alternative is best for builders who want a clean, modern LGA 1700 platform with essential wireless connectivity and high-speed data transfer capabilities for current generation hardware.
MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC stays on the LGA 1151 socket, allowing you to keep your existing 8th Gen Intel CPU. It uses the Z390 chipset, which is a step up from the Z370 in the Gigabyte board. This model supports DDR4 memory, maintaining compatibility with your current RAM. It offers dual M.2 slots instead of the original’s triple configuration. You gain USB speed improvements and storage flexibility without changing your core platform. This is a practical choice if you want better features on the same socket without investing in new memory or a new CPU.
MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard
This MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon also retains the LGA 1151 socket and DDR4 memory support. It pairs with the Z390 chipset for improved stability over the Z370. The board supports multi-GPU configurations, similar to the Gigabyte model. It features dual M.2 slots, so you lose one storage expansion option compared to the original’s triple setup. It lacks onboard Wi-Fi, requiring a separate adapter if you need wireless connectivity. This motherboard is ideal for users who want a reliable Z390 platform for 8th or 9th Gen Intel processors without the cost of a new memory type.
The MSI MPG Z390 Wi-Fi board keeps the LGA 1151 socket and DDR4 memory, ensuring compatibility with your current 8th or 9th Gen Intel CPU. It upgrades the chipset to Z390 for better performance. Unlike the Gigabyte Z370, this model includes integrated 802.11ac Wi-Fi, adding wireless capability you might otherwise miss. It supports multi-GPU setups and offers dual M.2 slots. You trade the original’s triple M.2 expansion for built-in wireless networking. This is a solid alternative if you prioritize wireless connectivity and multi-GPU support while staying on the established LGA 1151 platform.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
GIGABYTE AORUS LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard
Best for: 8th Gen Intel builds needing triple M.2
- CPU Socket
- LGA1151
- Chipset
- Z370
- Form Factor
- ATX
- M.2 Slots
- 3
- Ethernet Speed
- Gigabit LAN
- Use Case
- Gaming
View on Amazon: GIGABYTE AORUS LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard is built around the Intel LGA 1151 socket and Z370 chipset. You get three M.2 slots for storage, dual Gigabit LAN ports powered by Killer E2500 and Intel controllers, and front-panel USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C connectivity. It suits you if you need a dedicated platform for an 8th Generation Intel Core processor with multi-drive storage arrays and wired networking setups.
Pros
- Three M.2 slots with M.2 Thermal Guard
- Dual Ethernet with Killer E2500 and Intel Gigabit LAN
- Front-panel USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C header
- Multi-zone RGB Fusion lighting
Cons
- Processor support limited to 8th Generation Intel Core CPUs
- No integrated Wi-Fi listed in specifications
- Operating system support specified only for Windows 10 64-bit
Good fit if
- You run an 8th Generation Intel Core processor on an LGA 1151 socket.
- You need three M.2 solid-state drive slots on an ATX board.
- You want dual wired Ethernet connections using Intel and Killer controllers.
Skip if
- You use a 9th Generation or newer Intel processor.
- You require built-in Wi-Fi connectivity out of the box.
- You plan to run an operating system other than Windows 10 64-bit.
Verdict: Gigabyte Aorus Z370 ATX Motherboard provides robust triple M.2 storage expansion and dual wired Gigabit LAN for LGA 1151 builds. It delivers targeted performance for dedicated 8th Generation Intel systems requiring high-speed front and rear USB connections.
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: modern LGA 1700 DDR5 gaming builds
- 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
This MSI ATX motherboard uses the Intel Z790 chipset and an LGA 1700 socket. It supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Generation Intel processors. You get modern platform features including PCIe 5.0 expansion, DDR5 memory support, Wi-Fi 6E wireless networking, and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. It suits you if you want an updated ATX platform with fast networking and next-generation connectivity standards for gaming instead of older LGA 1151 hardware.
Pros
- Supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel LGA 1700 CPUs
- PCIe 5.0 support for expansion
- High-speed DDR5 memory compatibility
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet
Cons
- Incompatible with older LGA 1151 processors
- Does not support DDR4 RAM modules
Good fit if
- You plan to build with a 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel LGA 1700 processor.
- You intend to use DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 hardware.
- You need integrated Wi-Fi 6E alongside 2.5Gbps wired networking.
Skip if
- You want to reuse an older LGA 1151 Intel processor.
- You plan to carry over existing DDR4 RAM kits.
Verdict: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support on Intel's LGA 1700 platform. It gives you 2.5Gbps LAN and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for contemporary gaming builds.
MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk MAX WiFi
Best for: budget AMD AM4 gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- AMD AM4
- Chipset
- B550
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
View on Amazon: MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk MAX WiFi Affiliate link
This MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for AMD AM4 processors. It supports DDR4 memory and features PCIe 4.0 for fast data transfer. You get built-in Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for stable wireless connections. The board measures 12 by 9.6 inches. It is designed for gaming tasks. This setup suits users who want reliable performance with modern wireless standards on the AM4 platform.
Pros
- Supports AMD AM4 CPU sockets
- Includes Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity
- Features PCIe 4.0 expansion slots
- Uses DDR4 memory modules
Cons
- Uses the older AM4 socket instead of newer LGA1700
- Relies on DDR4 memory rather than DDR5
- B550 chipset offers fewer advanced features than Z-series boards
Good fit if
- You are building a budget-friendly AMD gaming PC
- You want reliable Wi-Fi 6E without extra hardware
- You are upgrading an existing AM4 system
Skip if
- You need support for the latest Intel 14th Gen processors
- You require DDR5 memory for maximum bandwidth
- You are building a high-end workstation with PCIe 5.0 needs
Verdict: MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk MAX WiFi fits users seeking a cost-effective AM4 gaming platform with modern Wi-Fi 6E. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing value and connectivity over the newest CPU generations.
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: modern DDR5 gaming builds with fast networking
- 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 built for 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors on the LGA 1700 socket. It updates your setup beyond older LGA 1151 hardware with fast DDR5 memory support, a PCIe 5.0 expansion slot, and multiple M.2 slots. With integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN, this board suits you if you want modern platform bandwidth and upgraded wired or wireless networking for gaming.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 expansion
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN networking
- Multiple M.2 storage slots and USB 3.2 connectivity
- Compatible with 12th and 13th Gen Intel LGA 1700 CPUs
Cons
- Renewed product rather than factory-new unit
- Incompatible with older LGA 1151 processors
- Requires DDR5 memory instead of DDR4
Good fit if
- You plan to run a 12th or 13th Gen Intel Core processor.
- You want PCIe 5.0 expansion alongside DDR5 memory speeds.
- You need 2.5Gbps LAN and Wi-Fi 6E wireless support.
Skip if
- You want to reuse an existing LGA 1151 CPU.
- You plan to carry over existing DDR4 RAM modules.
- You prefer a brand-new board instead of a renewed model.
Verdict: MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi Motherboard provides modern LGA 1700 compatibility with PCIe 5.0, DDR5, and multi-gigabit networking. It serves as a direct platform leap when you want updated connectivity.
MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: modern DDR5 gaming system upgrades
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
- Use Case
- Gaming
View on Amazon: MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard Affiliate link
If you want to upgrade beyond an older LGA 1151 system, this ATX board offers an Intel LGA 1700 socket for 12th and 13th Gen processors. You get modern DDR5 memory support, high-bandwidth PCIe 5.0 hardware connectivity, and built-in Wi-Fi 6E wireless networking. It suits you if you are building an updated gaming platform and need faster data transfer speeds alongside current standard component interfaces.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 expansion standard
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E wireless
- DDR5 memory support
- LGA 1700 socket for 12th and 13th Gen Intel CPUs
Cons
- Incompatible with older LGA 1151 processors
- Does not support DDR4 RAM modules
Good fit if
- You plan to use a 12th or 13th Gen Intel CPU on socket LGA 1700.
- You want DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0 support in a standard ATX layout.
- You need integrated Wi-Fi 6E connectivity out of the box.
Skip if
- You want to reuse an existing LGA 1151 processor.
- You plan to build with DDR4 memory kits.
Verdict: MSI MAG Tomahawk ATX Motherboard provides modern LGA 1700 socket compatibility, PCIe 5.0, and DDR5 support for updated gaming builds. It serves as a full-generation platform leap rather than a direct socket drop-in replacement.
MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard
Best for: LGA 1151 gaming builds with dual M.2 needs
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Use Case
- Gaming
View on Amazon: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC is an ATX motherboard for Intel 8th and 9th Gen LGA 1151 processors. It features the Z390 chipset and supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 4400 MHz via OC. You get two M.2 slots and Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports. This board suits gamers who want solid connectivity and RGB lighting without needing the latest socket generation.
Pros
- Supports Intel 8th and 9th Gen Core processors
- Includes dual-channel DDR4 support up to 4400 MHz
- Features two M.2 slots for fast storage
- Provides Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 connectivity
Cons
- Only two M.2 slots compared to three on the Gigabyte AORUS
- Limited to Intel LGA 1151 socket generation
- No mention of built-in Wi-Fi in the provided data
Good fit if
- You own an 8th or 9th Gen Intel CPU
- You need an ATX board with dual M.2 slots
- You want USB 3.1 Gen 2 speeds
Skip if
- You plan to use 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- You require more than two M.2 storage options
- You need native support for AMD processors
Verdict: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX is a capable mid-range option for existing LGA 1151 builds. It fits users who prioritize USB speed and storage flexibility over newer socket compatibility.
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
View on Amazon: MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard runs on the Intel Z390 chipset with an LGA 1151 socket. It supports 8th and 9th Generation Intel Core processors alongside dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 4400 MHz when overclocked. You get two Turbo M.2 slots, USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, and support for multi-GPU setups using SLI or CrossFire. It suits you if you want a reliable base for an 8th or 9th Gen gaming rig.
Pros
- Supports DDR4 memory speeds up to 4400 MHz (OC)
- Two Turbo M.2 slots with M.2 Shield Frozr cooling
- Compatible with multi-GPU SLI and CrossFire configurations
- Pre-installed I/O shield and USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports
Cons
- Limits storage expansion to two M.2 slots
- No integrated Wi-Fi listed in specifications
- Restricted to 8th and 9th Gen Intel LGA 1151 processors
Good fit if
- You run an 8th or 9th Gen Intel LGA 1151 processor.
- You plan to use a multi-GPU SLI or CrossFire graphics configuration.
- You want fast DDR4 memory support reaching up to 4400 MHz.
Skip if
- You need more than two onboard M.2 solid-state drives.
- You require integrated Wi-Fi networking directly from the board.
- You plan to build with a 10th Gen or newer Intel processor.
Verdict: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon ATX Motherboard provides a solid foundation for 8th and 9th Gen Intel builds with fast DDR4 support and multi-GPU capabilities. It delivers dependable performance if you do not need onboard Wi-Fi or more than two M.2 drives.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | GIGABYTE AORUS LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard | MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk MAX WiFi | MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard | MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard | MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA1151 | LGA 1700 | AMD AM4 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 |
| Chipset | Z370 | Z790 | B550 | not stated | not stated | Z390 | Z390 |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| Memory Type | not stated | DDR5 | DDR4 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR4 | DDR4 |
| PCIe Version | not stated | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | not stated | not stated |
| M.2 Slots | 3 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2 | 2 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | not stated | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | not stated | not stated |
| Ethernet Speed | Gigabit LAN | 2.5Gbps | not stated | 2.5Gbps LAN | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Wi-Fi | not stated | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | not stated | not stated |
| Use Case | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | not stated | 9.6 × 2.5 × 12 inches | 2.76 × 1.97 × 0.39 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches |
| Weight | 4.15 pounds | not stated | not stated | 3.92 pounds | not stated | 3.3 pounds | 3.3 pounds |
| Model | Z370 AORUS Gaming 7 | MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ | MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI | Z790 | MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi | 007B17-002R | MPG Z390 GAMING PRO CARBON |
| Size | not stated | ATX | MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI | not stated | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| Color | not stated | Black | not stated | Black | not stated | not stated | not stated |
If you prefer a portable system over a desktop build, you can review specifications for the best GIGABYTE gaming laptops.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these alternatives with my current LGA 1151 processor?
Only the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC and the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon support the LGA 1151 socket. The other listed boards use LGA 1700 or AM4 sockets, which are physically incompatible. You would need to purchase a new CPU and memory if you choose a different socket type.
Do these motherboards support DDR5 memory?
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi, MPG Z790 Edge WiFi, and MAG Tomahawk WiFi all support DDR5 memory. The Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 7 and the two MSI Z390 boards use DDR4. You must match your RAM to the motherboard's supported type to ensure compatibility.
Which alternative offers the fastest network connectivity?
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi, MPG Z790 Edge WiFi, and MAG Tomahawk WiFi feature 2.5GbE Ethernet ports. This provides faster wired speeds than the dual Gigabit LAN found on the Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 7. All three also include Wi-Fi 6E for improved wireless performance.
Is there a budget-friendly option for AMD processors?
The MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is the best budget choice for AMD builds. It uses the AM4 socket and supports DDR4 memory. It also includes Wi-Fi 6E and PCIe 4.0 support, making it a cost-effective platform for gaming without requiring an Intel CPU.
How many M.2 slots do these boards have?
The Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 7 features triple M.2 slots. The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC and MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon support dual M.2 drives. The newer LGA 1700 boards prioritize PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support, with specific M.2 counts determined by their individual designs.
What is the difference between LGA 1151 and LGA 1700 sockets?
LGA 1151 supports 8th and 9th Generation Intel processors, while LGA 1700 supports newer 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen CPUs. The socket pin layouts and physical dimensions differ, preventing cross-compatibility. LGA 1700 boards also support faster DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 standards.
Do I need a new CPU for the MSI Z790 boards?
Yes, you need a new CPU. The MSI Z790 boards use the LGA 1700 socket, which is incompatible with your existing LGA 1151 processor. You must upgrade to a 12th, 13th, or 14th Generation Intel Core processor to use these modern motherboards.