Looking Beyond the Msi MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX motherboard offers a solid foundation for AMD Ryzen gaming builds. It features an AM5 socket, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. You also get Wi-Fi 7 and a USB 4 port for fast data transfer. If you are looking for msi mag x870 tomahawk wifi gaming motherboard alternatives, you might want different specs or features. Some users prefer a smaller form factor or a different brand. Others may need more M.2 slots or a different Ethernet speed. The alternatives listed here share key specifications with the original. They all support AM5 processors and DDR5 memory. You will find options with Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 across the board. This guide helps you compare these 6 alternatives based on their published specifications. Each choice fits specific build needs without requiring you to compromise on core performance. You can find a board that matches your exact requirements for size, connectivity, and expansion.
How alternatives compare to the Tomahawk
MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi shares the same ATX dimensions and AM5 socket as the Tomahawk. It also supports DDR5 memory and Wi-Fi 7. The primary difference is the chipset. This model uses the X870E, which typically offers more PCIe lanes than the X870. It weighs slightly more at 5.49 pounds. You should pick this if you need extra expansion slots for multiple high-speed drives. It targets users who want premium thermal design and robust power delivery for Ryzen 9000 series processors without sacrificing modern networking speeds.
ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi
The ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi is physically larger than the Tomahawk. It measures 13.9 inches by 10.8 inches. Both boards use the AM5 socket and support DDR5 memory. They both feature Wi-Fi 7. However, the ASUS model uses a 2.5GbE Ethernet port, while the Tomahawk offers 5 Gbps connectivity. The ASUS board weighs only 2 pounds. You should choose this option if you prioritize reliable VRMs and a lighter build over maximum wired network speeds. It is a solid choice for gamers who do not need the ultra-fast 5G LAN connection found on the Tomahawk.
GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard
The Gigabyte X870 Gaming X WiFi7 is similar in size to the Tomahawk. It also uses the AM5 socket and supports DDR5 memory. Both boards include Wi-Fi 7 and USB4 connectivity. The Gigabyte model features a 2.5GbE Ethernet port, whereas the Tomahawk provides 5 Gbps Ethernet. This board weighs 4.59 pounds. You should pick this alternative if you want modern connectivity like USB4 but do not require extreme overclocking features. It is a practical mid-range option for AM5 gamers who value standard networking speeds over the higher-end wired performance of the Tomahawk.
ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi ATX
The ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi is a compact ATX board. It measures 12 inches by 9.61 inches, making it smaller than the Tomahawk. It supports the AM5 socket and DDR5 memory. Like the Tomahawk, it includes Wi-Fi 7. However, it uses a 2.5GbE Ethernet port instead of 5 Gbps. This model weighs 4.2 pounds. You should consider this if you prioritize Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and want a slightly smaller footprint. It fits users who need solid power delivery but do not require the maximum expansion lanes or the faster wired network speeds offered by the Tomahawk.
ASRock B850 Phantom Gaming Riptide WiFi 7
The ASRock B850 Phantom Gaming Riptide WiFi 7 is an ATX board designed for AM5 processors. It supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0. It includes Wi-Fi 7 for modern wireless connectivity. This board weighs 2.2 pounds, which is significantly lighter than the Tomahawk. It uses the B850 chipset, which offers fewer expansion lanes than the X870. You should pick this if you prioritize high-speed memory support and a lighter build. It is suitable for gamers who want reliable performance and Wi-Fi 7 without needing the extensive I/O options of the Tomahawk.
ASUS ROG Strix AM5 PCIe 5.0 Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WIFI7 NEO is a white ATX board. It supports the AM5 socket and DDR5 memory. It includes Wi-Fi 7 and four M.2 slots for high-speed storage. This board weighs 2.5 pounds. It uses the X870E chipset, which provides more PCIe lanes than the X870 in the Tomahawk. You should choose this if you need four M.2 slots for extensive storage setups. It is ideal for gamers building with Ryzen 9000 or 7000 series CPUs who prioritize AI-ready features and robust networking over the specific USB 4 port of the Tomahawk.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: AMD Ryzen gaming builds with USB 4 needs
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- X870
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
View on Amazon: MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors. It features an AM5 socket, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. You get Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps Ethernet for fast networking. The board includes a USB 4 port for high-speed data transfer. It uses an extended heatsink design to keep components cool. This board suits gamers who need reliable performance and modern connectivity options.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series CPUs
- Includes a built-in USB 4 port with 40Gbps speed
- Features 5 Gbps Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7
- Uses an extended PWM heatsink for better thermal management
- Supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0
Cons
- ATX form factor requires a mid-tower or full-tower case
- Heavier build at 4 pounds compared to some competitors
- Limited to 5 Gbps Ethernet instead of 10 Gbps
Good fit if
- You are building a desktop with AMD Ryzen 7000 or newer processors
- You need USB 4 connectivity for fast external storage
- You want Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps LAN speeds
Skip if
- You are using an Intel processor
- You need a smaller ITX or micro-ATX board
- You require 10 Gbps Ethernet speeds
Verdict: The MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX is a solid choice for AMD Ryzen gamers who value USB 4 and Wi-Fi 7. It provides stable power delivery for high-end CPUs and modern networking speeds.
MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: high-performance AMD Ryzen gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- X870E
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
View on Amazon: MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors. It features the X870E chipset and supports DDR5 memory. You get dual LAN connectivity with 5 Gbps Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7. The board includes a robust thermal design with heavy plated MOSFET heatsinks. It also offers Lightning Gen 5 for maximum transfer speeds.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 series processors
- X870E chipset with PCIe 5.0 support
- Dual LAN with 5 Gbps Ethernet
- Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- Heavy plated MOSFET heatsink with heat-pipe
Cons
- Heavier build at 5.49 pounds
- Larger dimensions than some compact boards
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt support
Good fit if
- You need high-speed 5 Gbps Ethernet
- You want PCIe 5.0 for future GPUs
- You prefer robust thermal solutions
Skip if
- You need a smaller ITX form factor
- You are on a tight budget
- You require USB4 connectivity
Verdict: MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi suits gamers who value high-speed networking and robust thermal design. It is ideal for users building with AMD Ryzen 9000 series processors who need PCIe 5.0 readiness.
ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi
Best for: AM5 gamers needing strong power and Wi-Fi 7
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- X870
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
View on Amazon: ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Affiliate link
The ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for AMD AM5 processors. It features a robust 16+2+1 power phase design with 80A SPS stages. You get four M.2 slots and PCIe 5.0 support for fast storage. Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gb LAN provide modern connectivity. This board suits users seeking reliable power delivery and ample expansion for gaming builds.
Pros
- 16+2+1 power phases with 80A SPS stages
- Four M.2 slots for storage expansion
- Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gb Ethernet
- PCIe 5.0 support for future-proofing
Cons
- Limited to 2.5Gb Ethernet speed
- No mention of USB4 connectivity
- Standard ATX form factor size
Good fit if
- You need strong power delivery for high-end CPUs
- You require multiple M.2 drives
- You want Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
Skip if
- You need 10Gb Ethernet speeds
- You prefer a smaller ITX board
- You require USB4 support
Verdict: ASUS TUF X870-Plus WiFi ATX delivers solid power and connectivity for AM5 systems. It fits gamers who value reliable VRMs and modern wireless standards over premium extras.
GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM5 gamers 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
- 3
View on Amazon: GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors via the AM5 socket. It features a 16+2+2 power design and DDR5 memory slots with AMD EXPO support. You get three M.2 slots, PCIe 5.0 lanes, dual USB4 ports, and Wi-Fi 7. The 2.5GbE LAN handles wired connections. Thermal guards protect the VRM and M.2 drives.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series CPUs
- Includes dual USB4 ports and front/rear USB-C connectivity
- Features Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE Ethernet
- Provides three M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 support
Cons
- Heavier build at 4.59 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Limited to 2.5GbE Ethernet instead of 10GbE
- Standard ATX size may not fit smaller cases
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for high-speed wireless networking
- You want dual USB4 ports for future-proof connectivity
- You are building an AMD AM5 gaming PC
Skip if
- You require 10GbE Ethernet for professional workloads
- You are looking for a compact ITX form factor
- You prefer Intel processors over AMD Ryzen
Verdict: Gigabyte X870 Gaming X WiFi7 ATX is a solid mid-range option for gamers who value modern connectivity like Wi-Fi 7 and USB4. It suits those building on the AM5 platform who do not need extreme overclocking features.
ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi ATX
Best for: AM5 gaming builds needing Wi-Fi 7
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- B850
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
View on Amazon: ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi ATX Affiliate link
The ASUS TUF Gaming B850-PLUS WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for AMD AM5 processors. It features a 14+2+1 power phase design with 80A stages for stable performance. You get Wi-Fi 7, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and PCIe 5.0 support for both graphics and storage. This board suits gamers who want modern connectivity and reliable power delivery without premium pricing.
Pros
- 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages
- Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gb Ethernet
- One PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot
- Thunderbolt (USB4) header support
Cons
- B850 chipset offers fewer expansion lanes than X870E
- Only one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot
- Lacks rear USB 20Gbps Type-C port
Good fit if
- You want Wi-Fi 7 on a budget
- You need PCIe 5.0 for one drive
- You prefer ATX form factor
Skip if
- You need multiple PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots
- You require X870E chipset features
- You need rear USB4 connectivity
Verdict: ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi AM5 ATX delivers solid power and modern Wi-Fi 7 for AM5 builds. It fits users who prioritize connectivity over maximum expansion lanes.
ASRock B850 Phantom Gaming Riptide WiFi 7
Best for: AM5 gamers needing WiFi 7 and high-speed memory support
- 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 Phantom Gaming Riptide WiFi 7 Affiliate link
The ASRock B850 Phantom Gaming Riptide WiFi 7 is an ATX motherboard for AMD AM5 Ryzen processors. It features a 14+2+1 phase power design and supports DDR5 memory overclocked to 8000+ MHz. You get PCIe 5.0 for graphics and storage, plus WiFi 7 and 2.5G LAN. It includes four M.2 slots and Lite Release design for easier installation. This board suits gamers seeking modern connectivity and robust power delivery.
Pros
- 14+2+1 phase power design with 80A Dr.MOS
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 8000+ MHz (OC)
- Includes PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and Blazing M.2 slot
- Features Killer 2.5G LAN and WiFi 7
- Four M.2 slots for extensive storage options
Cons
- B850 chipset lacks the full feature set of X870E boards
- Heavier at 2.2 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Only one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for graphics
Good fit if
- You want WiFi 7 and 2.5G LAN connectivity
- You plan to overclock DDR5 memory beyond standard speeds
- You need multiple M.2 slots for fast storage
Skip if
- You require the maximum number of PCIe 5.0 slots found in X870E models
- You prefer a lighter motherboard under 2 pounds
- You are building with older AM4 processors
Verdict: ASRock B850 Riptide WiFi ATX delivers strong power delivery and modern connectivity for AM5 builds. It fits users who prioritize high-speed memory support and WiFi 7 over the expanded expansion slots of higher-end chipsets.
ASUS ROG Strix AM5 PCIe 5.0 Motherboard
Best for: gamers needing Wi-Fi 7 and four M.2 slots
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 7
View on Amazon: ASUS ROG Strix AM5 PCIe 5.0 Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors via the AM5 socket. It features PCIe 5.0 connectivity, four M.2 slots, and Wi-Fi 7. The board includes 5Gb Ethernet and ASUS-exclusive memory technologies like NitroPath DRAM. It targets gamers needing robust AI computing capabilities and high-speed storage expansion.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series CPUs
- Includes four M.2 slots for storage expansion
- Features Wi-Fi 7 and 5Gb Ethernet connectivity
- Offers PCIe 5.0 support for future-proofing
Cons
- Heavier build at 2.5 pounds compared to lighter ATX options
- Limited to four M.2 slots while competitors offer five
- Lacks a built-in LCD display found in higher-end variants
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 and 5Gb LAN for fast networking
- You want four M.2 slots for multiple high-speed drives
- You plan to use AMD Ryzen 9000 or 7000 series processors
Skip if
- You prefer a lighter motherboard under 2 pounds
- You require five M.2 slots for maximum storage density
- You want a built-in LCD display for system monitoring
Verdict: ASUS ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WIFI7 NEO fits users who prioritize Wi-Fi 7 and four M.2 slots for high-speed storage. It suits gamers building with AMD Ryzen 9000 or 7000 series CPUs who need robust networking and AI-ready features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard | MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX Motherboard | ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi | GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard | ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi ATX | ASRock B850 Phantom Gaming Riptide WiFi 7 | ASUS ROG Strix AM5 PCIe 5.0 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 | AM5 |
| Chipset | X870 | X870E | X870 | X870 | B850 | B850 | not stated |
| 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 | not stated | not stated | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | WiFi 7 |
| Ethernet Speed | 5Gbps LAN | 5Gbps LAN | 2.5Gb | 2.5GbE | 2.5Gb LAN | 2.5 GbE | 5Gb |
| Power Phases | not stated | not stated | 16+2+1 | 16+2+2 | 14+2+1 | 14+2+1 | not stated |
| 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 | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 13.5 × 10.6 × 2.76 inches | 13.5 × 10.6 × 2.76 inches | 2.7 × 13.9 × 10.8 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.1 inches | 12 × 9.61 × 1.89 inches | not stated | 12 × 9.6 × 1.5 inches |
| Weight | 4 pounds | 5.49 pounds | 2 pounds | 4.59 pounds | 2.91 pounds | 2.2 pounds | 2.5 pounds |
| Size | 13.4"L x 10.9"W x 3"H | 13.6"L x 3"W x 10.7"H | ATX|M.2x4|WiFi7 | ATX | 3X M.2|WiFi7|2.5Gb LAN | ATX | X870E-A|Neo|White|M.2x4 |
| Model | MAG X870 TOMAHAWK WIFI | MPG X870E CARBON WIFI | TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI | X870 GAMING X WIFI7 | TUF GAMING B850-PLUS WIFI | B850 RIPTIDE WIFI | ROG STRIX X870E-A GAMING WIFI7 NEO |
| Color | not stated | Carbon Black | BLACK | GAMING | BLACK | not stated | BLACK |
Another guide worth a look: msi mag a600dn ii gaming alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which X870 motherboard offers the best USB 4 connectivity for gaming?
The MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi is a strong choice for users needing USB 4. It pairs this high-speed port with Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 support. This combination ensures fast data transfer and modern networking for AMD Ryzen builds. It balances premium features with stable power delivery for high-end CPUs.
What is the most premium AM5 alternative to the Tomahawk?
The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi serves as the best premium option. It features a robust thermal design and supports Wi-Fi 7 alongside PCIe 5.0. While it shares the same ATX dimensions as the Tomahawk, it weighs slightly more at 5.49 pounds. This model suits gamers building with AMD Ryzen 9000 series processors.
Are there budget-friendly AM5 boards with Wi-Fi 7?
Yes, the GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard is a solid mid-range option. It includes Wi-Fi 7 and USB4 connectivity, making it suitable for gamers who do not need extreme overclocking features. It supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0. This board offers modern connectivity without the higher cost of top-tier models.
Which motherboard provides four M.2 slots for storage expansion?
The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WIFI7 NEO is designed for users prioritizing storage. It features four M.2 slots for high-speed drives. It also supports Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 on the AM5 platform. This model fits gamers using AMD Ryzen 9000 or 7000 series CPUs who need extensive expansion capabilities.
Does the ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi support Wi-Fi 7?
Yes, the ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi includes Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. It is built for AM5 gaming builds and supports DDR5 memory. While it offers solid power delivery, it prioritizes connectivity over maximum expansion lanes. This makes it a practical choice for users who value modern wireless standards in their system.
How does the ASRock B850 Riptide compare in weight?
The ASRock B850 Phantom Gaming Riptide WiFi 7 weighs 2.2 pounds. It is lighter than many competitors in this category. The board supports DDR5 memory and Wi-Fi 7 for AM5 builds. It is ideal for users who prioritize high-speed memory support and modern networking over the expanded expansion slots found in higher-end chipsets.
Which board is best for reliable VRM power delivery?
The ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi delivers solid power for AM5 systems. It fits gamers who value reliable VRMs and modern wireless standards. It supports Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0. This model is suitable for those who prioritize consistent performance and connectivity over premium extras in their gaming build.