Looking Beyond the Msi Gaming Plus WiFi LGA 1851 Motherboard? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The MSI B860 Gaming Plus WiFi motherboard supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors via the LGA 1851 socket. It offers PCIe 5.0 expansion, Wi-Fi 7, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. If you are exploring MSI B860 Gaming Plus WiFi motherboard alternatives, you might need a different socket or feature set. This list includes seven options that share key specifications like DDR5 memory support and modern wireless standards. The original board excels in providing a complete modern platform for new Intel builds. However, you may prefer a different form factor, a lower price point, or a different brand ecosystem. Some users might already own LGA 1700 components and need a compatible upgrade path. Others may want AMD AM5 options for different processor architectures. These alternatives were selected because their published specs overlap with the original. They provide similar connectivity and expansion capabilities while varying in socket type or chipset generation. This guide helps you compare these technical details to find the right fit for your system requirements.
Our top pick: MSI Gaming Plus WiFi LGA 1851 Motherboard.
How each alternative compares
GIGABYTE AORUS ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite X uses the LGA 1700 socket, which limits it to 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors. This makes it unsuitable for new builds with Core Ultra Series 2 chips. It shares the ATX form factor and Wi-Fi 7 support with the MSI. However, it offers only 2.5GbE Ethernet, whereas the MSI provides 5G LAN. You should choose this if you are upgrading an existing LGA 1700 system and need modern wireless speeds without investing in the new socket. It provides ample storage options and PCIe 5.0, but lacks the future-proofing of the LGA 1851 platform.
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero targets high-end enthusiasts using 12th to 14th Gen Intel processors on the LGA 1700 socket. It does not support the newer Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs found in the MSI. Both boards feature ATX sizing, PCIe 5.0, and Wi-Fi 7. The ASUS model emphasizes top-tier power delivery and includes Thunderbolt 4, similar to the MSI. It is best for users who prioritize premium build quality and robust expansion on the older platform. If you need the latest socket for new Core Ultra processors, this option will not work for your build.
MSI Pro ATX Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard
The MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi supports LGA 1700 processors, meaning it cannot use the Core Ultra Series 2 chips supported by the MSI B860. It retains the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. The main difference is the Ethernet speed; this board offers 2.5GbE, while the MSI provides 5G LAN. It is a solid choice for users upgrading existing Intel systems who value stable power delivery and wireless speed. It gives up the newest socket generation but offers a reliable platform for current-generation Intel processors with modern networking features.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi uses the LGA 1700 socket, restricting it to 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors. It shares the ATX size, DDR5 support, and Wi-Fi 7 with the MSI B860. However, it features 2.5GbE Ethernet instead of the 5G LAN found on the MSI. This board suits users upgrading existing systems who want modern networking without the new socket. It is not suitable for new builds requiring Core Ultra Series 2 support. You get similar expansion and wireless capabilities, but the older platform limits future CPU upgrade paths compared to the LGA 1851 option.
ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0
The ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi7 supports LGA 1700 processors, making it incompatible with the Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs supported by the MSI B860. Both boards use ATX form factor, DDR5 memory, and Wi-Fi 7. The key difference is connectivity; this ASUS model offers 1GbE Ethernet, which is slower than the 5G LAN on the MSI. It provides PCIe 5.0 and robust power delivery for gaming builds on the older platform. Choose this if you are upgrading an existing LGA 1700 system and prioritize wireless speed. It lacks the newer socket and faster wired networking of the MSI alternative.
ASUS Prime X870 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS Prime X870-P WiFi uses the AM5 socket, which is designed for AMD processors, not Intel. This makes it completely incompatible with the Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs supported by the MSI B860 LGA 1851. It shares the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. However, it offers 2.5GbE Ethernet, slower than the MSI's 5G LAN. This board is for builders seeking a modern AMD platform with USB4 and robust power delivery. It gives up Intel compatibility entirely. You should pick this only if you are switching to AMD processors and want similar modern expansion features.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI Gaming Plus WiFi LGA 1851 Motherboard
Best for: Intel Core Ultra Series 2 builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1851
- Chipset
- Intel B860
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
View on Amazon: MSI Gaming Plus WiFi LGA 1851 Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors via the LGA 1851 socket. It features a 12-phase VRM for stable power delivery and includes Wi-Fi 7 with Bluetooth 5.4. You get four DDR5 slots supporting high-speed overclocking and PCIe 5.0 graphics connectivity. Storage options include three M.2 slots, one of which is Gen5. This board suits builders needing modern connectivity and reliable cooling for new Intel platforms.
Pros
- Supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs on LGA 1851 socket
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 module and Bluetooth 5.4
- Features PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and Gen5 M.2 storage
- 12-phase VRM with extended heatsink and thermal pads
- Rear I/O includes Thunderbolt 4 Type-C port
Cons
- Intel B860 chipset lacks CPU overclocking support
- Only one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot for storage
- 5G LAN speed is lower than 10G options
Good fit if
- You are building a system with Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors
- You need Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
- You want reliable ATX form factor with good cooling
Skip if
- You require CPU overclocking capabilities on the new platform
- You need multiple PCIe 5.0 storage slots
- You prefer 10G Ethernet connectivity
Verdict: MSI B860 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX is a solid choice for users building with Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors who value modern Wi-Fi and Thunderbolt features over overclocking flexibility.
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
View on Amazon: GIGABYTE AORUS ATX DDR5 Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard uses the LGA 1700 socket to support Intel Core 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors. It features a robust 16+1+2 phase VRM design and four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for storage. You get Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 GbE networking alongside DDR5 memory support. It suits users needing high-end connectivity and strong power delivery for compatible Intel CPUs.
Pros
- Supports Intel Core 12th/13th/14th Gen processors via LGA 1700 socket
- 16+1+2 phase digital VRM solution for stable power delivery
- Four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots for fast storage expansion
- Built-in Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 GbE Ethernet
Cons
- Uses the older LGA 1700 socket instead of the newer LGA 1851
- M.2 slots are limited to PCIe 4.0, not PCIe 5.0
- Heavier build at 4.89 pounds compared to some competitors
Good fit if
- You are building with an Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen CPU
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for high-speed wireless connectivity
- You want four M.2 storage slots in an ATX form factor
Skip if
- You are buying a new system with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors
- You require PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots for next-gen SSDs
- You prefer a smaller motherboard form factor like mATX
Verdict: Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite X ATX is a solid choice for builders using 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors who value Wi-Fi 7 and ample storage options. It does not support the newest LGA 1851 CPUs, so it is best for existing platform upgrades.
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero
Best for: high-end Intel LGA 1700 gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Intel Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 5
View on Amazon: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard supports Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a robust 20+1+2 power stage design with massive heatsinks for thermal management. You get PCIe 5.0 support for both M.2 slots and graphics cards, along with Wi-Fi 7 and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports. It is built for high-end gaming systems requiring extensive connectivity and power stability.
Pros
- 20+1+2 power stages with dual ProCool II connectors
- Onboard PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot and two PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlots
- Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- Dual Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C ports
Cons
- LGA 1700 socket limits compatibility to 12th through 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- Heavier build at 1.5 pounds
- No mention of USB Wattage Watcher software support
Good fit if
- You need PCIe 5.0 for both storage and graphics
- You require Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
- You are building a high-end Intel gaming PC
Skip if
- You need support for Intel Core Ultra processors
- You prefer a smaller form factor than ATX
- You want the latest LGA 1851 socket
Verdict: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero offers top-tier power delivery and PCIe 5.0 expansion for enthusiasts using 12th to 14th Gen Intel processors. It suits users who prioritize Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 7 in a robust ATX design.
MSI Pro ATX Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard
Best for: Intel LGA 1700 users 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
View on Amazon: MSI Pro ATX Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi is an ATX motherboard for Intel LGA 1700 processors. It supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz and features Wi-Fi 7. The board includes a 16+1+1 power phase design and PCIe 5.0 support. This setup suits users who need reliable connectivity and modern memory speeds for their desktop builds.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory at 7800+ MHz overclocked speeds
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 for high-speed wireless connectivity
- Features a 16+1+1 power phase design with 80A SPS
- Provides PCIe 5.0 support for future-proofing
Cons
- Uses the older LGA 1700 socket instead of newer platforms
- Weighs 4 pounds, which is heavier than some competitors
- Only offers 2.5Gbps Ethernet, not 10Gbps
Good fit if
- You are building with 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- You want Wi-Fi 7 for fast wireless networking
- You need a standard ATX form factor
Skip if
- You require support for the latest LGA 1851 socket
- You need 10Gbps Ethernet speeds
- You are building an AMD Ryzen system
Verdict: The MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi ATX is a solid choice for Intel LGA 1700 builds requiring Wi-Fi 7 and DDR5 support. It fits users who prioritize wireless speed and stable power delivery over the newest socket generation.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th-14th Gen upgrades with Wi-Fi 7
- 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 Affiliate link
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is an ATX motherboard for Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors on the LGA 1700 socket. It supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz and features PCIe 5.0 connectivity. The board includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gbps Ethernet for fast networking. Its 16+1+1 power phase design aims to handle high-performance tasks.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gbps Ethernet
- Features PCIe 5.0 slots and M.2 support
- 16+1+1 power phase design for stability
Cons
- Uses the older LGA 1700 socket instead of the latest LGA 1851
- Limited to Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors
- Heavier at 3.66 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
Good fit if
- You are building with an Intel 13th or 14th Gen CPU
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for high-speed wireless connectivity
- You want a robust ATX board with strong power delivery
Skip if
- You are building with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors
- You prefer AMD Ryzen processors
- You need support for the newest LGA 1851 socket
Verdict: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX suits users upgrading existing Intel 12th-14th Gen systems who want modern networking features. It is not suitable for new builds requiring the latest socket generation.
ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0
Best for: Intel LGA 1700 gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
View on Amazon: ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0 Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard supports Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a 14+1 DrMOS power design and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. You get PCIe 5.0 support and three M.2 slots for storage. The board includes DDR5 memory support and a 1Gb Ethernet port. It is a solid option for gamers seeking modern connectivity and stable power delivery for high-end CPUs.
Pros
- 14+1 DrMOS power solution for stable performance
- Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity
- Three M.2 slots for storage expansion
- Supports PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory
Cons
- Limited to 1Gb Ethernet speed
- Only includes three M.2 slots
- Uses older LGA 1700 socket
Good fit if
- You want Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- You are building with Intel 12th to 14th Gen CPUs
- You need PCIe 5.0 support
Skip if
- You require 2.5Gb or faster Ethernet
- You plan to use Intel Core Ultra processors
- You want more than three M.2 slots
Verdict: ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi7 ATX offers robust power delivery and modern Wi-Fi standards for LGA 1700 builds. It suits users prioritizing wireless speed and PCIe 5.0 over faster wired networking or newer CPU sockets.
ASUS Prime X870 ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM5 builders needing Wi-Fi 7 and USB4
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- X870
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
View on Amazon: ASUS Prime X870 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ASUS Prime X870-P WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for AMD AM5 processors. It features a 14+2+1 power stage configuration and supports DDR5 memory. You get Wi-Fi 7, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. The board includes four M.2 slots and USB4 ports. It suits users who need a reliable, modern platform for Ryzen 7000, 8000, or 9000 series CPUs.
Pros
- AM5 socket supports Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors
- 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages for stable power delivery
- Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gb Ethernet for fast networking
- Four M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 support
- USB4 Type-C ports with 40Gbps transfer speeds
Cons
- 2.5Gb Ethernet is slower than 10Gb options found on higher-end boards
- ATX form factor requires a mid-tower or full-tower case
- No DDR4 memory support limits upgrade paths from older platforms
Good fit if
- You are building a new PC with an AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000, or 9000 series CPU
- You need Wi-Fi 7 and USB4 connectivity for future-proofing
- You prefer a standard ATX size with ample M.2 expansion slots
Skip if
- You are using an Intel processor and need an LGA socket
- You require 10Gb Ethernet for high-speed local network transfers
- You are building in a mini-ITX case and need a smaller form factor
Verdict: ASUS Prime X870-P WiFi AMD AM5 X870 ATX Motherboard is a solid choice for builders seeking a modern AM5 platform with Wi-Fi 7 and robust power delivery. It fits users who prioritize connectivity and expansion over extreme overclocking capabilities.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI Gaming Plus WiFi LGA 1851 Motherboard | GIGABYTE AORUS ATX DDR5 Motherboard | ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero | MSI Pro ATX Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard | ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0 | ASUS Prime X870 ATX Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1851 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | AM5 |
| Chipset | Intel B860 | Z790 | Intel Z790 | not stated | Z790 | Z790 | X870 |
| 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 | 3 | 4 | 5 | not stated | not stated | 3 | 4 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Ethernet Speed | 5G LAN | 2.5 GbE | not stated | 2.5Gbps | 2.5Gbps | 1Gb | 2.5Gb |
| Power Phases | not stated | 16+1+2 | 20+1+2 | 16+1+1 | 16+1+1 | 14+1 | 14+2+1 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Use Case | not stated | not stated | Gaming | not stated | Gaming | Gaming | not stated |
| Dimensions | 12 × 9.61 × 2.64 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | not stated | 12 × 9.9 × 1.75 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.75 inches | 13.3 × 9.21 × 1.57 inches | 14 × 10.8 × 2.8 inches |
| Weight | 3.51 pounds | 4.89 pounds | 1.5 pounds | 4 pounds | 3.66 pounds | 2.15 pounds | 4 pounds |
| Color | Multicolor | not stated | BLACK | Multicolor | not stated | BLACK | BLACK |
| Model | B860 Gaming Plus WiFi | Z790 AORUS ELITE X WIFI7 | ROG MAXIMUS Z790 DARK HERO | PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi | MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi | Z790 GAMING WIFI7 | PRIME X870-P WIFI |
| Size | not stated | ATX | Z790 Dark Hero|M.2 x5|WiFi 7| | ATX | ATX | Z790|M.2 x3|WiFi7 | ATX|M.2x4|WiFi7 |
Looking beyond this list? See msi gaming geforce rtx 3050 alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which motherboard is best for Intel Core Ultra Series 2 builds?
The MSI B860 Gaming Plus WiFi is the best overall choice for these builds. It supports the latest LGA 1851 socket and offers PCIe 5.0 expansion. You also get Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. This ATX board weighs 3.51 pounds and measures 12 by 9.61 inches. It is ideal if you value modern features over overclocking flexibility.
Can I use the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite X with new Intel CPUs?
No, this board uses the LGA 1700 socket. It only supports 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors. You cannot install Core Ultra Series 2 chips on it. It is better for existing platform upgrades. It does offer Wi-Fi 7, PCIe 5.0, and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The ATX form factor weighs 4.89 pounds.
What is the best premium option for LGA 1700 gaming?
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero is the top premium pick. It targets high-end gaming builds with 12th to 14th Gen Intel CPUs. You get top-tier power delivery and PCIe 5.0 expansion. The board includes Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4. It is a robust ATX design weighing 1.5 pounds.
Which MSI board is best for budget LGA 1700 users?
The MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi is the best budget option. It supports LGA 1700 processors and DDR5 memory. You get Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 for stable performance. The ATX board weighs 4 pounds and measures 12 by 9.9 inches. It suits users who prioritize wireless speed over the newest socket generation.
Is the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi good for upgrades?
Yes, it is great for upgrading existing Intel 12th-14th Gen systems. The LGA 1700 socket limits it to older CPUs. You get Wi-Fi 7, PCIe 5.0, and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The ATX board weighs 3.66 pounds and measures 12 by 9.6 inches. It is not suitable for new builds requiring the latest socket.
Which motherboard offers the best 1GbE Ethernet connection?
The ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi7 is the best choice for 1GbE. It supports LGA 1700 processors and DDR5 memory. You get Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 expansion. The ATX board weighs 2.15 pounds and measures 13.3 by 9.21 inches. It suits users prioritizing wireless speed and PCIe 5.0 over faster wired networking.
What is the best AM5 motherboard with Wi-Fi 7?
The ASUS Prime X870-P WiFi is the best AM5 option. It supports AMD AM5 processors and DDR5 memory. You get Wi-Fi 7, PCIe 5.0, and 2.5GbE Ethernet. The ATX board weighs 4 pounds and measures 14 by 10.8 inches. It fits users who prioritize connectivity and expansion capabilities.