Msi Tomahawk ATX AM5 Motherboard Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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Finding msi mag b850 tomahawk max wifi motherboard alternatives makes sense if your build requires specific features. The MSI Tomahawk ATX AM5 Motherboard provides a B850 chipset, an AM5 socket for AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 readiness. It also includes Wi-Fi 7 and 5G LAN for fast networking, along with an 80A SPS power design on a standard ATX layout.
You might still want another option based on individual platform requirements. You may need dual USB4 ports, four M.2 slots, an X870 chipset, or a different brand like ASRock or GIGABYTE. Other builds might require different aesthetics, like silver accents, or standard 2.5GbE wired networking. These 6 alternatives were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original pick. Every model provides an AM5 socket, an ATX form factor, DDR5 support, PCIe 5.0 expansion, and Wi-Fi 7.
Comparing AM5 Tomahawk Motherboard Alternatives
MSI Pro Series AM5 Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard
The MSI Pro Series AM5 Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard shifts from the B850 chipset to the AMD X870 platform. Both boards share key platform specifications, including standard ATX sizing, DDR5 memory compatibility, PCIe 5.0 support, Wi-Fi 7, and a fast 5 Gbps Ethernet port. Visually, the Pro X870-P sports a multi-tone silver, black, and white finish, contrasting with the solid black finish of the Tomahawk. While the Tomahawk highlights an 80A SPS power delivery system, the Pro X870-P focuses on standard X870 foundation essentials. Pick this board if you need the updated X870 chipset alongside 5 Gbps LAN. Stick with the Tomahawk for its all-black styling and 80A power stages.
GIGABYTE Eagle AM5 Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard
The Gigabyte Eagle AM5 Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard steps up to the AMD X870 chipset and adds dual USB4 ports, which are not listed on the Tomahawk. It also specifies a 14+2+2 power phase setup for clean processor power delivery. However, it steps down its wired networking speed to a 2.5GbE port, whereas the Tomahawk includes a faster 5G LAN controller. Both motherboards support the AM5 socket, DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 lanes, and Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity within a full ATX layout. You should choose the Gigabyte Eagle if high-bandwidth USB4 peripherals are central to your setup. Choose the Tomahawk if your local network demands 5 Gbps wired transfer speeds.
MSI B850 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI B850 Gaming Plus WiFi Motherboard shares the same core AMD B850 foundation as the Tomahawk. Both boards offer AM5 socket compatibility, DDR5 support, PCIe 5.0 expansion, Wi-Fi 7, and 5 Gbps wired networking in an all-black ATX form factor. At 3.5 pounds, the Gaming Plus is slightly lighter than heavier comparative ATX options. The Tomahawk distinguishes itself by explicitly specifying an 80A SPS VRM configuration for power delivery, which is omitted on the Gaming Plus specification sheet. Choose the Gaming Plus if you want standard B850 functionality with identical high-speed 5G LAN and Wi-Fi 7 specs. Pick the Tomahawk if you specifically require its published 80A SPS power stage specifications.
ASRock B850 Steel Legend WiFi ATX Motherboard
The ASRock B850 Steel Legend WiFi Motherboard matches the Tomahawk's B850 chipset, AM5 socket, DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 graphics lane, and Wi-Fi 7 support. Its clear advantage is storage expansion, offering four dedicated M.2 slots directly on the board. In exchange, it drops wired networking throughput to 2.5GbE, trailing the 5G LAN port built into the Tomahawk. Its visual styling also shifts from the Tomahawk's stealth black look to a multicolor aesthetic. You should choose the Steel Legend if you plan to install up to four separate M.2 NVMe drives in your build. Select the Tomahawk if you prioritize faster 5 Gbps Ethernet connectivity and a solid black theme.
MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi Motherboard moves past the B850 tier to AMD's X870E chipset. It retains the Tomahawk's top networking specifications, matching both its 5 Gbps Ethernet port and Wi-Fi 7 wireless module. It expands functionality by incorporating high-speed USB4 connectivity alongside standard PCIe 5.0 lanes and DDR5 memory support on the AM5 socket. The trade-off is moving away from the Tomahawk's specific 80A SPS power stage classification. You should select the X870E Gaming Plus if your build demands the expanded connectivity of the X870E platform and native USB4 peripheral support. Stick with the Tomahawk if your configuration requires only the B850 chipset without needing external USB4 bandwidth.
ASRock X870 Pro-A WiFi ATX Motherboard
The ASRock X870 Pro-A WiFi Motherboard upgrades to the X870 chipset, bringing dual high-speed USB4 Type-C ports that the Tomahawk lacks. Both boards supply standard ATX dimensions, AM5 socket readiness, DDR5 memory compatibility, PCIe 5.0 lane support, and Wi-Fi 7. For networking, the Pro-A scales back to a 2.5GbE port compared to the 5G LAN found on the Tomahawk. It also specifies a limit of three M.2 storage drives. Choose the ASRock X870 Pro-A if you want modern X870 architecture and require dual external USB4 ports for accessories. Pick the Tomahawk if you require 5 Gbps wired LAN or its robust 80A SPS power design.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI Tomahawk ATX AM5 Motherboard
Best for: balanced AMD AM5 ATX gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- B850
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
The MSI Tomahawk B850 Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard provides an AM5 platform for AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors. It pairs an 80A Smart Power Stage design with PCIe 5.0 support, DDR5 memory capability, and 5G wired networking. You also get integrated Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. This board suits you if you want modern standard networking and high-bandwidth expansion for an AMD desktop build in a standard ATX enclosure.
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi 7 and 5G LAN wired networking
- PCIe 5.0 expansion and Gen5 M.2 support
- AM5 socket supporting Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors
- 80A Smart Power Stage power delivery
Cons
- Standard ATX form factor does not fit micro-ATX or mini-ITX cases
- Uses the B850 chipset rather than an X870 or X870E alternative
Good fit if
- You want fast 5G wired LAN and Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity.
- You plan to run an AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000, or 9000 series processor on DDR5 memory.
- You need PCIe 5.0 and Gen5 M.2 storage support in a standard ATX build.
Skip if
- You are building inside a compact micro-ATX or mini-ITX case.
- You require an X870 or X870E chipset board.
Verdict: MSI Tomahawk B850 Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 readiness, 5G LAN, and Wi-Fi 7 on the AM5 socket. It provides a solid foundation for standard ATX builds using current AMD Ryzen processors.
MSI Pro Series AM5 Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard
Best for: budget AM5 builds needing Wi-Fi 7
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- X870
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
This ATX motherboard runs on the AMD AM5 socket with an X870 chipset, supporting Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors. You get high-speed connectivity via Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps Ethernet, alongside PCIe 5.0 capability and DDR5 memory support. It suits you if you want modern AM5 platform connectivity, high-bandwidth networking, and automated Frozr AI cooling controls for a practical, full-size desktop build.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 wireless support with 320MHz channel capability
- 5 Gbps Ethernet port for high-speed wired networks
- PCIe 5.0 support and DDR5 memory compatibility
- Pre-installed I/O shielding for easier installation
Cons
- Triple M.2 connectors are limited to PCIe 4.0 speed
- Offers only three onboard M.2 storage slots
Good fit if
- You need 5 Gbps wired networking or Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity.
- You pair your system with an AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, or 7000 series CPU.
- You want an ATX board with PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support.
Skip if
- You need PCIe 5.0 speeds on your M.2 solid-state drives.
- You require more than three onboard M.2 drives.
Verdict: MSI Pro X870 ATX Motherboard delivers essential AM5 platform features with 5 Gbps LAN and Wi-Fi 7 support. It provides dependable PCIe 5.0 expansion capability without superfluous extras.
GIGABYTE Eagle AM5 Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM5 builds needing dual USB4 and Wi-Fi 7
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- X870
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
This ATX motherboard runs on the AMD X870 chipset and fits AMD AM5 processors from the Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series. You get high-speed connectivity through built-in Wi-Fi 7, 2.5GbE LAN, and dual USB4 ports. It also supplies a 14+2+2 power phase design and PCIe 5.0 support. It suits you if you want modern peripheral speeds and reliable power delivery for your next desktop setup.
Pros
- Dual USB4 ports alongside front and rear USB-C
- Fast Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE wired network support
- 14+2+2 power phase VRM design
- PCIe 5.0 connectivity for fast expansion
Cons
- Provides 3 M.2 storage slots instead of 4
- Wired networking limited to 2.5GbE
Good fit if
- You need dual USB4 ports for external devices.
- You want built-in Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity.
- You pair it with an AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, or 7000 series CPU.
Skip if
- You require four or more M.2 solid-state drives.
- You need wired LAN speeds higher than 2.5GbE.
Verdict: Gigabyte Eagle Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard delivers dual USB4 connectivity, robust 14+2+2 power phases, and modern wireless networking for AM5 processors. It gives you solid PCIe 5.0 expansion without unnecessary extras.
MSI B850 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: high-speed networking and PCIe 5.0 AM5 builds
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- AMD B850
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0, PCIe 4.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
The MSI Gaming Plus WiFi ATX AM5 Motherboard provides an AMD B850 foundation for Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 processors. You get a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for modern graphics cards alongside a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot for high-speed storage. Built-in networking features 5Gbps LAN and Wi-Fi 7. It suits your build if you want high-speed networking and current-generation bus standards across four DDR5 memory slots without stepping into higher-tier chipsets.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 and 5Gbps wired Ethernet connectivity
- PCIe 5.0 x16 expansion slot for graphics cards
- Dedicated PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 storage slot
- Four DDR5 memory slots supporting up to 8200+ MT/s
Cons
- Third M.2 slot runs at PCIe 4.0 x2 speed
- Rear Type-C port caps at 10Gbps throughput
Good fit if
- You want 5Gbps wired Ethernet alongside Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity.
- You plan to run a PCIe 5.0 graphics card and a PCIe 5.0 NVMe drive.
Skip if
- You require 20Gbps or USB4 transfer rates on external drives.
- You need more than one high-speed PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot.
Verdict: MSI Gaming Plus WiFi ATX AM5 Motherboard balances modern PCIe 5.0 expansion with 5Gbps networking for high-performance AM5 setups.
ASRock B850 Steel Legend WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: WiFi 7 and four M.2 storage slots
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- B850
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
View on Amazon: ASRock B850 Steel Legend WiFi ATX Motherboard
The ASRock Steel Legend ATX Motherboard uses the AMD B850 chipset for AM5 processors. It includes a 14+2+1 power phase layout, four DDR5 slots, and four M.2 slots for solid-state storage. One M.2 slot and the primary x16 expansion slot support PCIe 5.0 speeds. Wired 2.5G LAN and WiFi 7 provide network connectivity. This motherboard suits you if you need modern networking, PCIe 5.0 graphics, and multiple M.2 drives.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 support on the primary x16 slot and one M.2 slot
- Integrated WiFi 7 and 2.5G LAN networking
- Four M.2 slots for NVMe storage drives
- 14+2+1 phase power design with 80A Dr.MOS
Cons
- Only one of the four M.2 slots runs at PCIe 5.0 speeds
- SATA storage limited to four ports
Good fit if
- You want four M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 support on the primary slot.
- You need high-speed wireless connectivity via WiFi 7.
- You plan to build with an AMD AM5 processor and DDR5 memory.
Skip if
- You need more than one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot for storage.
- You require more than four SATA ports for older drives.
Verdict: ASRock Steel Legend ATX Motherboard provides PCIe 5.0 graphics, four M.2 slots, and WiFi 7 on the B850 chipset. It is a capable AM5 option for builds needing fast storage and modern wireless networking.
MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Wi-Fi 7 networking and USB4 connectivity
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- AMD X870E
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
This ATX motherboard runs on the AMD X870E chipset and supports AM5 processors. You get a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for modern graphics cards, alongside three total M.2 slots, including one Gen5 connection. Networking features 5 Gbps Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7. Rear connectivity includes a 40 Gbps USB4 Type-C port with display output. It suits you if you need fast networking and a 14-phase power design for your setup.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 7 module with Bluetooth 5.4 and 5 Gbps LAN
- Rear USB4 Type-C 40 Gbps port with display output
- One PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and one Gen5 M.2 connector
- 14-phase 60A SPS VRM power design
Cons
- Only three total M.2 slots available
- Only one M.2 slot supports PCIe 5.0 speeds
Good fit if
- You want high-speed networking with 5 Gbps Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7.
- You need USB4 connectivity with display output on the rear panel.
- You plan to run high-speed DDR5 memory up to 8200+ MT/s.
Skip if
- You need more than three onboard M.2 solid-state drives.
- You require multiple PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots for high-speed storage.
Verdict: MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi Motherboard delivers reliable X870E performance with PCIe 5.0 support, 5 Gbps LAN, and Wi-Fi 7. It offers strong connectivity for modern systems without unnecessary complexity.
ASRock X870 Pro-A WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: USB4 connectivity and Wi-Fi 7 AM5 builds
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
The ASRock X870 Pro-A WiFi ATX Motherboard is an AM5 platform built for AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors. You get high-speed connectivity via dual rear USB4 Type-C ports, Wi-Fi 7, and 2.5GbE LAN. Its PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and Gen5 M.2 connector support fast graphics and storage. With a 16+2+1 power phase design, this board suits you if you want modern USB4 connectivity and solid hardware support for AM5 builds.
Pros
- Dual rear USB4 Type-C ports
- PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and Blazing Gen5x4 M.2 slot
- Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE LAN networking
- 16+2+1 power phase design with 80A Dr.MOS
Cons
- Only three total M.2 slots provided
- Third M.2 slot limited to PCIe Gen3x2 or SATA speeds
- Uses standard Realtek ALC897 audio codec
Good fit if
- You want dual rear USB4 Type-C ports for high-bandwidth external devices.
- You plan to use a PCIe 5.0 graphics card and a Gen5 NVMe SSD.
- You need Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE LAN for high-speed network connections.
Skip if
- You need four or more high-speed M.2 NVMe drives on one board.
- You prefer an upgraded integrated audio codec over the Realtek ALC897.
Verdict: ASRock X870 Pro-A WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 support, dual USB4 Type-C ports, and Wi-Fi 7 for modern AM5 systems. It provides robust core connectivity if you do not require more than three M.2 storage drives.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI Tomahawk ATX AM5 Motherboard | MSI Pro Series AM5 Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard | GIGABYTE Eagle AM5 Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard | MSI B850 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard | ASRock B850 Steel Legend WiFi ATX Motherboard | MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard | ASRock X870 Pro-A WiFi ATX Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 |
| Chipset | B850 | X870 | X870 | AMD B850 | B850 | AMD X870E | 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 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | not specified | not specified | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | WiFi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Ethernet Speed | 5G LAN | 5 Gbps | 2.5GbE | 5 Gbps | 2.5G LAN | 5 Gbps | 2.5GbE |
| Power Phases | not specified | not specified | 14+2+2 | not specified | 14+2+1 | 14 | 16+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 |
| Dimensions | not specified | 13.5 × 10.6 × 2.76 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.1 inches | 13.4 × 2.8 × 10.6 inches | not specified | 11.7 × 7.4 × 2.1 inches | 12.2 × 10.6 × 1.97 inches |
| Weight | not specified | 4 pounds | 4 pounds | 3.5 pounds | 4 pounds | not specified | 3.97 pounds |
| Color | Black | Silver, Black, White | EAGLE | Black | Multicolor | not specified | not specified |
| Model | MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI | PRO X870-P WIFI | X870 EAGLE WIFI7 | B850GPW | B850 STEEL LEGEND WIFI | X870E Gaming Plus WiFi | X870 Pro-A WiFi |
| Size | not specified | Pack of 1 | ATX | not specified | ATX | 11.7 x 7.4 x 2.1 inches | ATX |
If you need a power supply for your build, evaluate msi mag a650bn alternatives to compare wattage specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Which AM5 alternatives offer built-in USB4 support?
You can select the GIGABYTE Eagle Wi-Fi 7, ASRock X870 Pro-A WiFi, or MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi for built-in USB4 capability. The GIGABYTE Eagle provides dual USB4 ports alongside a 14+2+2 power design, while the ASRock X870 Pro-A includes dual USB4 Type-C connections. These options give you higher external transfer bandwidth than standard B850 boards lacking dedicated USB4 controllers.
Do all Tomahawk alternatives share the same wired Ethernet speed?
No, these motherboards offer either 5 Gbps or 2.5 Gbps wired networking. The MSI Pro Series, MSI Gaming Plus WiFi, and MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi match the Tomahawk with 5 Gbps LAN controllers. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Eagle, ASRock B850 Steel Legend, and ASRock X870 Pro-A feature 2.5GbE ports. You should choose based on your local network switch and router hardware capabilities.
Which Tomahawk alternative provides the most M.2 storage slots?
The ASRock B850 Steel Legend WiFi provides the most identified storage expansion with four M.2 slots. By comparison, the ASRock X870 Pro-A WiFi limits internal high-speed drive installations to three M.2 storage drives. Both motherboards support PCIe 5.0 technology and Wi-Fi 7 networking, but the Steel Legend accommodates more solid-state drives directly on the printed circuit board for your storage needs.
Do all listed ATX motherboards support PCIe 5.0 devices?
Yes, every motherboard on this list includes PCIe 5.0 support for modern components. Whether you choose the MSI Pro X870, GIGABYTE Eagle, or an ASRock model, you get high-speed PCIe 5.0 lanes alongside standard DDR5 memory compatibility. This common spec ensures you can run current AM5 processors with next-generation expansion cards and fast storage devices without sacrificing bandwidth.
Which alternative is best if you want an X870E chipset motherboard?
The MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi is the only option here built on the AMD X870E chipset. It pairs PCIe 5.0 hardware support with 5 Gbps LAN, Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity, and dedicated USB4 ports. This gives you a step up in platform connectivity over standard B850 boards like the Tomahawk while maintaining the standard ATX form factor and DDR5 memory support.
What wireless networking standard do these AM5 motherboards use?
Every alternative in this comparison comes equipped with Wi-Fi 7 wireless networking. This includes models from MSI, GIGABYTE, and ASRock across both B850 and X870 platform variants. If you pair any of these motherboards with a compatible wireless router, you get modern wireless protocol support right out of the box without needing to install an aftermarket wireless adapter card.