6 Best Alternatives to the GIGABYTE Z790 ATX Motherboard (2026)
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The GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC ATX motherboard offers a sturdy power delivery system with 16+1+1 power phases and supports Intel Core 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors. If you are looking for gigabyte z790 ud AC lga 1700 atx motherboard alternatives, you might want different specifications or brands. Some builders prefer newer Wi-Fi standards or distinct form factors. Others may seek more M.2 slots or specific connectivity options that this model does not emphasize. This list covers 6 options that share core compatibility while varying in key features.
We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original. All listed boards use the LGA 1700 socket and support DDR5 memory. They also feature PCIe 5.0 support for future graphics cards and storage devices. The choices range from budget-friendly models with Wi-Fi 7 to premium boards with extensive storage expansion. Each option provides a practical path for Intel LGA 1700 builds, allowing you to prioritize the specs that matter most to your specific use case without compromising on essential performance.
Our top pick: GIGABYTE Z790 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi 5.
How the alternatives compare
GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G DDR5 Motherboard
The GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G shares the same ATX form factor and LGA 1700 socket as the original. It upgrades wireless connectivity from Wi-Fi 5 to Wi-Fi 6E, providing faster and more reliable wireless speeds. The board retains the 2.5GbE Ethernet port and PCIe 5.0 support. You gain extensive M.2 storage options, making it ideal for users with many drives. The trade-off is a higher price point and a heavier weight of 4.41 pounds. This model suits builders who prioritize storage capacity and modern networking over budget constraints.
GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard
The GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX matches the original in form factor, memory type, and PCIe version. It also features Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The key difference is processor support. This board does not support 14th Gen Intel CPUs, limiting its lifespan for new builds. It is designed specifically for 12th and 13th Gen processors. The power delivery remains robust for gaming workloads. You should choose this if you are building with older Intel chips and want Wi-Fi 6E without paying for 14th Gen compatibility. It offers a practical path for upgrading existing systems.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi introduces Wi-Fi 7, a significant upgrade from the original's Wi-Fi 5. It maintains the ATX size and LGA 1700 socket. The board supports PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory, matching the original's core specs. It includes 2.5GbE Ethernet for wired connections. The physical dimensions are slightly smaller, measuring 9.6 by 12 inches. This model fits gamers who want future-proof wireless technology. It offers solid power delivery without the premium features of higher-end boards. You should pick this if Wi-Fi 7 speed is a priority for your setup.
GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX ATX Motherboard
The GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX provides Wi-Fi 6E, improving wireless performance over the original's Wi-Fi 5. It shares the same ATX form factor, LGA 1700 socket, and DDR5 support. The board supports 14th Gen Intel processors, matching the original's versatility. It retains the 2.5GbE Ethernet port and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. The design focuses on essential functionality rather than premium aesthetics. You get a robust power design suitable for standard builds. This model is ideal for users who need modern wireless standards and broad CPU support without extra features. It balances core performance with practical connectivity.
MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi upgrades from Wi-Fi 5 to Wi-Fi 6E for better wireless speeds. It keeps the ATX form factor and LGA 1700 socket. The board supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0, aligning with the original's specs. It includes 2.5GbE Ethernet for stable wired connections. The physical size is slightly different, measuring 10.2 by 14.1 inches. This model targets gamers who need reliable power phases and fast wireless connectivity. It offers a solid balance of performance and features. You should choose this if you prioritize Wi-Fi 6E and gaming-oriented stability over the original's specific power phase configuration.
MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi offers Wi-Fi 6E, a clear upgrade from the original's Wi-Fi 5. It maintains the ATX form factor and LGA 1700 socket. The board supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0, matching the original's core capabilities. It includes 2.5GbE Ethernet for wired networking. This model focuses on productivity and stability rather than gaming aesthetics. The design is practical for users who prioritize connectivity and reliability. You get a solid platform for stable DDR5 builds. This option suits builders who want modern wireless standards and a focus on professional use cases over gaming-specific features.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
GIGABYTE Z790 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi 5
Best for: Intel LGA 1700 builds needing strong power delivery
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
This ATX motherboard supports Intel Core 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a robust 16+1+1 power phase design with 60A DrMOS and dual-channel DDR5 memory support. You get PCIe 5.0 expansion, three PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, and 2.5GbE Ethernet. Wi-Fi 5 is included for wireless connectivity. It offers a solid foundation for mid-range builds.
Pros
- 16+1+1 power phase design with 60A DrMOS
- Dual-channel DDR5 memory support
- Three PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots
- PCIe 5.0 expansion support
- 2.5GbE Ethernet connectivity
Cons
- Wi-Fi 5 is slower than Wi-Fi 6E or 7
- Only three M.2 slots compared to five on the GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt support
Good fit if
- You want a reliable ATX board with strong VRMs
- You need multiple NVMe drives for storage
- You are building with Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen CPUs
Skip if
- You require the fastest Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 standards
- You need more than three M.2 storage slots
- You prefer a smaller micro-ATX form factor
Verdict: GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC ATX provides a sturdy power delivery system and ample storage options for Intel LGA 1700 builds. It is a practical choice for users who prioritize VRM capacity and storage flexibility over cutting-edge wireless speeds.
GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Extensive M.2 storage and high-speed networking
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Intel Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 5
The GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G is an ATX motherboard built for Intel 12th and 13th Gen processors on the LGA 1700 socket. It supports DDR5 memory and features five M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 support. You get fast networking via WiFi 6E and a 2.5GbE LAN port. This board suits users who need extensive storage expansion and high-speed connectivity for modern builds.
Pros
- Five M.2 slots for ample storage expansion
- PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen graphics and storage
- WiFi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN for fast networking
- Supports DDR5 memory with XMP profiles
Cons
- Heavier build at 4.41 pounds
- Only supports up to 13th Gen Intel processors
- No mention of USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C port in key specs
Good fit if
- You need five M.2 slots for large storage arrays
- You want PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing
- You prefer WiFi 6E connectivity
Skip if
- You are building with 14th Gen Intel processors
- You need USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C support
- You prefer a lighter motherboard under 4 pounds
Verdict: The GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G ATX is a solid choice for builders prioritizing storage capacity and high-speed networking. It fits those using 12th or 13th Gen Intel CPUs who need extensive M.2 expansion.
GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard
Best for: 12th/13th Gen Intel 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
This ATX motherboard supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a 16+2+1 phase VRM design and dual-channel DDR5 memory slots. You get PCIe 5.0 support for future graphics cards and storage. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN. The board uses a sturdy ATX form factor with comprehensive thermal guards for MOSFETs and M.2 slots.
Pros
- 16+2+1 phase digital VRM solution
- PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen components
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN
- Dual-channel DDR5 memory compatibility
Cons
- Only supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors
- No mention of 14th Gen CPU support
- Standard ATX size may not fit smaller cases
Good fit if
- You need reliable power delivery for 12th or 13th Gen CPUs
- You want PCIe 5.0 readiness for future upgrades
- You prefer Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
Skip if
- You require support for 14th Gen Intel processors
- You need a smaller form factor than ATX
- You want built-in Thunderbolt 4 support
Verdict: GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX ATX fits users building with 12th or 13th Gen Intel CPUs who need robust power phases and modern connectivity. It does not support 14th Gen processors, limiting its lifespan for new builds.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 support
- 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 for LGA 1700 sockets. It supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz and features PCIe 5.0 lanes. This board includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. Its 16+1+1 power design provides stable power for Intel Core processors. It suits users who need modern connectivity and high-speed memory support.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 connectivity for faster wireless speeds
- PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen graphics and storage
- 16+1+1 power phase design for stable performance
- DDR5 memory support up to 7800+ MHz
Cons
- Heavier build at 3.66 pounds
- Standard 2.5Gbps Ethernet instead of 10Gbps
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt support
Good fit if
- You want the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard
- You plan to use high-speed DDR5 RAM
- You need PCIe 5.0 for future upgrades
Skip if
- You require 10Gbps Ethernet speeds
- You prefer a smaller ITX form factor
- You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
Verdict: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi offers solid power delivery and modern Wi-Fi 7. It fits gamers who want future-proof PCIe 5.0 support without paying for premium features.
GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX ATX Motherboard
Best for: standard ATX builds needing Wi-Fi 6E
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Intel Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0, PCIe 4.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
The GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX is an ATX motherboard built for Intel 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors. It features a 12+1+1 phase power design and supports dual-channel DDR5 memory. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 GbE Ethernet. This board offers a solid foundation for standard builds without premium extras. It suits users who want reliable performance and modern standards at a lower price point.
Pros
- 12+1+1 phase digital VRM solution
- Supports DDR5 memory
- Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- 2.5 GbE Ethernet port
Cons
- Only three M.2 slots
- No included I/O shield
- Standard ATX form factor limits compact builds
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 6E for fast wireless connections
- You want a reliable 12+1+1 phase power design
- You prefer standard ATX size for easy installation
Skip if
- You require more than three M.2 slots
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for future-proofing
- You want an included I/O shield
Verdict: GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX ATX delivers essential specs like Wi-Fi 6E and a robust power design for Intel 12th through 14th Gen CPUs. It is a practical choice for builders who prioritize core functionality over premium features.
MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Gamers needing DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi uses the LGA 1700 socket for 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen Intel processors. It supports DDR5 memory with speeds over 7200 MHz and includes a PCIe 5.0 slot. The board features Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. Its 14+1+1 power design aims to handle high performance. This ATX motherboard suits gamers who need modern connectivity and stable power delivery.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 7200+ MHz overclocked
- Includes a PCIe 5.0 slot for future expansion
- Features Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet
- Uses a 14+1+1 phase power design with DrMOS
Cons
- Wi-Fi standard is 6E, not the newer 7
- Only one PCIe 5.0 slot for graphics cards
- M.2 storage uses Gen 4 speeds, not Gen 5
Good fit if
- You want a Z790 board with Wi-Fi 6E
- You plan to use DDR5 memory at high speeds
- You need a standard ATX form factor
Skip if
- You require the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard
- You need PCIe 5.0 support for M.2 storage
- You are building a compact ITX system
Verdict: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX offers solid DDR5 support and modern networking. It fits users who prioritize reliable power phases and fast wireless connectivity over cutting-edge Wi-Fi versions.
MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: productivity and stable 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
The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors. It features DDR5 memory support for up to 128GB and PCIe 5.0 for fast data transfer. You get Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity. A 2.5Gbps LAN port handles wired networks. This board suits users who need reliable performance without premium extras.
Pros
- Supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- Four DDR5 slots for up to 128GB RAM
- Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 included
- 2.5Gbps Ethernet for fast wired connections
- PCIe 5.0 support for future GPUs
Cons
- Lacks the extensive RGB lighting of gaming boards
- No Thunderbolt 4 header visible in specs
- Basic VRM cooling compared to Tomahawk models
Good fit if
- You want a stable platform for productivity
- You need DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E
- You prefer a no-frills ATX design
Skip if
- You require Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
- You want extensive RGB customization
- You need a smaller mATX form factor
Verdict: The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ATX delivers solid DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E performance for users who prioritize connectivity and stability over gaming aesthetics.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | GIGABYTE Z790 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi 5 | GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G DDR5 Motherboard | GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard | GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX ATX Motherboard | MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard | MSI PRO ATX DDR5 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | Z790 | Intel Z790 | Z790 | Z790 | Intel Z790 | Z790 | not specified |
| 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 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 3 | 5 | not specified | not specified | 3 | not specified | not specified |
| Wi-Fi Standard | not specified | WiFi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | 2.5GbE | 2.5GbE | 2.5GbE LAN | 2.5Gbps | 2.5 GbE | 2.5Gbps | 2.5Gbps |
| Power Phases | 16+1+1 | not specified | 16+2+1 | 16+1+1 | 12+1+1 | 14+1+1 | not specified |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Use Case | not specified | not specified | Gaming | Gaming | not specified | Gaming | not specified |
| Dimensions | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | 10.6 × 3.14 × 13.2 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.75 inches | 3.31 × 10.9 × 13.3 inches | 14.1 × 0.94 × 10.2 inches | 5.91 × 1.57 × 5.91 inches |
| Weight | 3.88 pounds | 4.41 pounds | 4.19 pounds | 3.66 pounds | 3.62 pounds | 3 pounds | 1.25 pounds |
| Size | Z790 | Z790 AERO G | ATX | ATX | Z790 | ATX | not specified |
| Model | Z790 UD AC | Z790 | Z790 GAMING X AX | MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi | Z790 EAGLE AX | Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ | PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries |
| Color | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Black | Black | not specified |
Frequently asked questions
Does the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX support Wi-Fi 7?
Yes, the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi includes Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. This newer standard offers faster wireless speeds and better performance than Wi-Fi 6E. It also provides PCIe 5.0 support for future-proofing your storage and graphics cards. This makes it a strong choice for gamers seeking modern networking capabilities without premium pricing.
Which motherboard supports 14th Gen Intel processors?
The GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX supports Intel 12th through 14th Gen CPUs. The GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC ATX also supports these processor generations. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX does not support 14th Gen processors. You should check the specific model details to ensure compatibility with your intended CPU before purchasing.
What is the difference between Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6E?
Wi-Fi 6E operates on the 6 GHz band, offering faster speeds and less interference than Wi-Fi 5. The GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC uses Wi-Fi 5, while models like the Z790 AERO G and Z790 Eagle AX feature Wi-Fi 6E. If you prioritize high-speed wireless connectivity, the Wi-Fi 6E boards are the better option.
Do these motherboards have 2.5GbE Ethernet ports?
Yes, all listed motherboards include 2.5GbE Ethernet ports. This provides faster wired network speeds compared to standard Gigabit Ethernet. Whether you choose the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC or the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX, you get this modern networking standard for reliable and high-speed wired connections.
Which board is best for extensive M.2 storage expansion?
The GIGABYTE Z790 AERO G is best for extensive M.2 storage. It is designed for builders who need significant storage capacity and high-speed networking. The GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC also offers ample storage options. Both boards support PCIe 5.0, allowing for fast data transfer rates with compatible NVMe drives.
Is the MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi suitable for productivity?
Yes, the MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi is suitable for productivity. It delivers solid DDR5 and Wi-Fi 6E performance for users who prioritize connectivity and stability. It lacks gaming-specific aesthetics, focusing instead on reliable operation. This makes it a practical choice for workstations or general computing tasks rather than high-end gaming.
What memory type do these Z790 motherboards use?
All listed motherboards use DDR5 memory. This includes the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC, Z790 AERO G, and MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX. DDR5 offers higher bandwidth and efficiency compared to previous generations. You must ensure your RAM modules are DDR5 compatible with these ATX boards.
Which motherboard is the best budget option with Wi-Fi 7?
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is the best budget option with Wi-Fi 7. It offers solid power delivery and modern connectivity without premium pricing. It supports PCIe 5.0, making it ideal for gamers who want future-proof features. It provides a strong balance of performance and value for Intel LGA 1700 builds.