6 Best Alternatives to the GIGABYTE AORUS ATX DDR5 Motherboard (2026)
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The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite X ATX motherboard supports Intel Core 12th through 14th Gen processors with LGA 1700. It features a 16+1+2 phase power design and Wi-Fi 7 for modern connectivity. If you are looking for gigabyte z790 aorus elite x alternatives, you may want different specifications or a different brand. Some builders prefer lighter boards or specific wireless standards like Wi-Fi 6E. Others might prioritize Ethernet speeds or distinct aesthetic choices. The alternatives listed here share core specs with the original, such as ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 lanes. These products are selected because their technical attributes overlap significantly with the Z790 chipset requirements. You can find options that offer similar power delivery or storage capacity with slight variations in weight, size, or wireless technology. This guide helps you compare these practical differences to find the right fit for your build needs.
Our top pick: GIGABYTE AORUS ATX DDR5 Motherboard.
How alternatives compare to the original
MSI Pro ATX Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard
The MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi shares the same LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 memory support, and Wi-Fi 7 standard as the GIGABYTE. Both boards offer 2.5 GbE Ethernet and PCIe 5.0 lanes. The MSI model weighs 4 pounds, which is slightly lighter than the GIGABYTE’s 4.89 pounds. It also has a smaller height of 1.75 inches compared to 3.14 inches. You get similar power delivery for Intel 12th through 14th Gen CPUs. Choose this if you want a lighter board with identical wireless and storage specs.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi matches the GIGABYTE in using LGA 1700, DDR5, and Wi-Fi 7. It also provides 2.5 GbE Ethernet and PCIe 5.0 support. The Tomahawk weighs 3.66 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the GIGABYTE’s 4.89 pounds. Its height is 1.75 inches, much lower than the GIGABYTE’s 3.14 inches. This board targets gamers with strong power delivery. Pick this alternative if you prioritize a lighter form factor while keeping the same modern connectivity and processor support.
MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi uses LGA 1700 and DDR5 like the GIGABYTE, but it drops Wi-Fi 7 for Wi-Fi 6E. It still includes 2.5 GbE Ethernet and PCIe 5.0 lanes. The weight is listed as 1.25 pounds, which is far lighter than the GIGABYTE. This model suits users who do not need the latest wireless standard. You get solid connectivity for Intel builds. Choose this if Wi-Fi 6E is sufficient for your network and you want a lighter motherboard with comparable wired speeds.
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi matches the GIGABYTE in socket type, memory type, and PCIe 5.0 support. It features Wi-Fi 6E instead of Wi-Fi 7. The Ethernet speed remains 2.5 GbE. The weight is 3.92 pounds, which is lighter than the GIGABYTE. This board is designed for standard ATX builds with proven networking standards. Select this alternative if you prefer Wi-Fi 6E over Wi-Fi 7. It offers similar core performance for Intel processors while providing a lighter chassis option.
ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS TUF Z790-Plus WiFi shares the LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 support, and 2.5 GbE Ethernet with the GIGABYTE. It uses Wi-Fi 6 instead of Wi-Fi 7. PCIe 5.0 support is present on both boards. The ASUS model weighs 2.91 pounds, making it much lighter than the GIGABYTE. It targets gamers who do not need Wi-Fi 7. Choose this if you want a lighter board with solid gaming specs. You trade the latest wireless standard for a reduced weight and similar wired performance.
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi matches the GIGABYTE in using LGA 1700, DDR5, and PCIe 5.0. It features Wi-Fi 6E rather than Wi-Fi 7. The Ethernet speed is 2.5 GbE on both boards. This MSI model is a practical mid-range option for gamers. It does not require the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard. Pick this if you prioritize DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support without needing Wi-Fi 7. It offers similar core specs for Intel builds while providing a lighter alternative.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
GIGABYTE AORUS ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th-14th Gen builds needing Wi-Fi 7
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite X is an ATX motherboard built for Intel 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a robust 16+1+2 phase VRM design and supports dual-channel DDR5 memory with XMP 3.0. Storage options include four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots. Connectivity is handled by Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 GbE Ethernet, making it a solid foundation for modern builds.
Pros
- Supports Intel Core 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 GbE Ethernet
- Features four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots
- Uses a 16+1+2 phase digital VRM solution
Cons
- M.2 slots are limited to PCIe 4.0, not PCIe 5.0
- Ethernet speed is 2.5 GbE, not 10 GbE
- Weighs 4.89 pounds, which is heavier than many ATX boards
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for high-speed wireless connectivity
- You want four M.2 slots for extensive storage expansion
- You are building with Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen CPUs
Skip if
- You require 10 GbE Ethernet speeds
- You need PCIe 5.0 support for M.2 drives
- You prefer a lighter motherboard for easier handling
Verdict: The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite X ATX provides reliable power and modern wireless standards for Intel users. It suits builders who prioritize Wi-Fi 7 and ample M.2 storage over the fastest possible PCIe generation for drives.
MSI Pro ATX Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard
Best for: Intel LGA 1700 builds needing Wi-Fi 7
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
- Ethernet Speed
- 2.5Gbps
The MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi is an ATX motherboard for LGA 1700 Intel processors. It supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+MHz overclocked speeds. The board features a 16+1+1 power phase design with 80A SPS. It includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. This setup suits users needing reliable connectivity and strong power delivery for modern CPUs.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+MHz (OC)
- 16+1+1 power phases with 80A SPS
- Built-in Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- 2.5Gbps Ethernet port
Cons
- Heavier at 4 pounds
- Only 2.5Gbps Ethernet speed
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt support
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for fast wireless speeds
- You want a stable 16+1+1 power design
- You are building with DDR5 memory
Skip if
- You require 10Gbps Ethernet speeds
- You prefer a lighter build under 3 pounds
- You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
Verdict: MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi ATX offers solid power and modern Wi-Fi 7 for Intel builds. It fits users who prioritize stable VRMs and wireless standards over higher Ethernet speeds or lighter weight.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Gamers needing Wi-Fi 7 and strong power
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
View on Amazon: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for LGA 1700 processors. It supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz and features Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. The board includes a 16+1+1 power phase design and PCIe 5.0 slots for high performance. It weighs 3.66 pounds and offers 2.5 Gbps Ethernet. This board suits gamers who want robust power delivery and modern wireless standards.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 for fast wireless connections
- Features a 16+1+1 mirrored power arrangement
- Provides PCIe 5.0 slots and M.2 support
Cons
- Heavier build at 3.66 pounds
- Limited to 2.5 Gbps Ethernet speed
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt support
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- You want strong 16+1+1 power phases
- You prefer ATX form factor boards
Skip if
- You require 10 Gbps Ethernet
- You need a lighter motherboard
- You want USB4 or Thunderbolt ports
Verdict: The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is a solid choice for gamers seeking Wi-Fi 7 and strong power delivery. It fits users who prioritize modern wireless standards and DDR5 speed over lighter builds.
MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Intel builds needing Wi-Fi 6E and 128GB RAM
- 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
The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries is an ATX motherboard built for 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors. It features four DDR5 slots supporting up to 128GB of RAM. You get PCIe 5.0 for fast data transfer. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. A 2.5Gbps LAN port handles wired networks. This board suits users who need reliable connectivity and modern standards without extra gaming features.
Pros
- Supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- Four DDR5 slots with 128GB max capacity
- Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 included
- 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for wired speeds
Cons
- Wi-Fi 6E is slower than Wi-Fi 7
- No mention of RGB lighting control
- Standard ATX size may not fit small cases
Good fit if
- You want Wi-Fi 6E for fast wireless
- You need 128GB DDR5 memory support
- You prefer a no-frills ATX board
Skip if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- You require RGB lighting customization
- You are building a compact mini-ITX PC
Verdict: MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ATX offers solid connectivity and memory support for Intel builds. It fits users who prioritize wired and wireless speeds over gaming aesthetics.
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: Standard ATX 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 LAN
The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi is an ATX motherboard for 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors. It supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 expansion. Networking includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gigabit LAN. This renewed unit is inspected for performance. It suits builders needing reliable wired and wireless connectivity for gaming or desktop tasks.
Pros
- Supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors via LGA 1700 socket
- Features PCIe 5.0 for next-generation component compatibility
- Includes integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN
- Provides multiple M.2 slots for high-speed storage
Cons
- Listed as a renewed product rather than new
- Wi-Fi 6E is slower than the Wi-Fi 7 found on competitors
- 2.5Gbps Ethernet is slower than 10Gbps options
Good fit if
- You want PCIe 5.0 support for future upgrades
- You need reliable Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- You are building a standard ATX desktop
Skip if
- You require the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard
- You prefer a brand-new unit over renewed stock
- You need 10Gbps Ethernet speeds
Verdict: The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX offers solid PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support with Wi-Fi 6E. It fits users who value proven networking standards over cutting-edge Wi-Fi 7 speeds.
ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard
Best for: Gamers needing Wi-Fi 6 and 4 M.2 slots
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a 16+1 power phase design and PCIe 5.0 support for future-proofing. You get four M.2 slots and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. This ATX board suits gamers who want solid connectivity and expansion without the cost of Wi-Fi 7.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 wireless connectivity
- 16+1 power phase design
- Four M.2 storage slots
- PCIe 5.0 support
Cons
- Wi-Fi 6 instead of Wi-Fi 7
- Heavier build at 2.91 pounds
- No mention of USB-C front panel headers
Good fit if
- You want reliable Wi-Fi 6 speeds
- You need four M.2 slots for storage
- You prefer a 16+1 power design
Skip if
- You require the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard
- You need a smaller micro-ATX form factor
- You want a lighter motherboard under 2 pounds
Verdict: ASUS TUF Z790-Plus WiFi ATX delivers solid gaming specs with Wi-Fi 6 and ample storage options, making it a practical pick for users who do not need Wi-Fi 7.
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Gamers needing DDR5 and 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
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It uses DDR5 memory and offers PCIe 5.0 connectivity for future-proofing. Wireless performance relies on Wi-Fi 6E, while wired connections use 2.5Gbps Ethernet. This ATX board targets gamers who need reliable core specs without the premium features found on higher-end models.
Pros
- Supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- Includes PCIe 5.0 for high-speed expansion
- Features Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- Provides 2.5Gbps Ethernet for fast networking
Cons
- Limited to Wi-Fi 6E instead of Wi-Fi 7
- Lacks the premium VRM heatsinks of AORUS Elite X
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt support
Good fit if
- You want a solid ATX board for gaming
- You use DDR5 memory and need PCIe 5.0
- You prefer Wi-Fi 6E over Wi-Fi 7
Skip if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- You want premium AORUS aesthetics and features
- You are building a mini-ITX system
Verdict: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX is a practical mid-range option for gamers who prioritize DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support. It fits users who do not require the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | GIGABYTE AORUS ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI Pro ATX Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard | MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard | ASUS TUF Gaming PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard | MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | Z790 | not specified | Z790 | not specified | not specified | Z790 | Z790 |
| 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 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 4 | not specified |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | not specified | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | 2.5 GbE | 2.5Gbps | 2.5Gbps | 2.5Gbps | 2.5Gbps LAN | not specified | 2.5Gbps |
| Power Phases | 16+1+2 | 16+1+1 | 16+1+1 | not specified | not specified | 16+1 | not specified |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Use Case | not specified | not specified | Gaming | not specified | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | 12 × 9.9 × 1.75 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.75 inches | 5.91 × 1.57 × 5.91 inches | 2.76 × 1.97 × 0.39 inches | 10.7 × 2.75 × 14 inches | not specified |
| Weight | 4.89 pounds | 4 pounds | 3.66 pounds | 1.25 pounds | 3.92 pounds | 2.91 pounds | not specified |
| Size | ATX | ATX | ATX | not specified | not specified | not specified | ATX |
| Model | Z790 AORUS ELITE X WIFI7 | PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi | MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi | PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries | Z790 | TUF GAMING Z790-PLUS WIFI | MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ |
| Color | not specified | Multicolor | not specified | not specified | Black | BLACK | Black |
Frequently asked questions
Which motherboard offers the lightest weight for an ATX build?
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is the lightest option at 3.66 pounds. It retains full ATX dimensions with a 12 by 9.6 inch footprint. This makes it easier to handle during installation compared to heavier boards like the GIGABYTE AORUS, which weighs 4.89 pounds.
Do all these alternatives support the latest Wi-Fi standard?
No, only the top three models support Wi-Fi 7. The MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi and MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi both include this standard. Other options like the ASUS TUF Z790-Plus WiFi offer Wi-Fi 6, while the MSI PRO Z790-P uses Wi-Fi 6E.
Which board is best for users who want four M.2 slots?
The ASUS TUF Z790-Plus WiFi is noted for providing ample storage options, including four M.2 slots. This makes it a practical choice for builders who need extensive drive space without requiring the newer Wi-Fi 7 connectivity found in other models on this list.
Are there options that support up to 128GB of RAM?
Yes, the MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi explicitly supports up to 128GB of RAM. It also includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 GbE Ethernet. This makes it suitable for users prioritizing high memory capacity and solid wired and wireless speeds for their Intel LGA 1700 builds.
Which motherboard is specifically designed for gaming aesthetics and performance?
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is categorized as best for gamers needing strong power and Wi-Fi 7. It features an ATX form factor with DDR5 support and PCIe 5.0 lanes, targeting users who value modern standards and robust power delivery for gaming applications.
Do all listed motherboards use the LGA 1700 socket?
Yes, every motherboard on this list uses the LGA 1700 socket. This ensures compatibility with Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors. All models also support DDR5 memory and offer at least 2.5 GbE Ethernet, providing a consistent foundation for modern Intel builds.
Which board is the best choice if you do not need Wi-Fi 7?
The ASUS TUF Z790-Plus WiFi is a practical pick for users who do not need Wi-Fi 7. It offers Wi-Fi 6 and four M.2 slots. This board delivers solid gaming specs and connectivity without requiring the latest wireless standard, making it a versatile alternative.