Msi MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You are looking for msi mag z790 tomahawk max wifi gaming motherboard alternatives because the original board has specific strengths that may not fit every build. The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi offers a 16+1+1 phase power design and supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz. It also includes Wi-Fi 7 and a 2.5GbE Ethernet port. These specs make it a strong choice for Intel 12th through 14th Gen gaming systems. However, you might want a different option if you need a different CPU socket or a different wireless standard.
We selected 6 alternatives that share key specifications with the Tomahawk MAX. Each board in this list supports DDR5 memory and features PCIe 5.0 connectivity. Some options use the LGA 1700 socket, while others use AM5 for AMD processors. You might choose a board with Wi-Fi 6E if Wi-Fi 7 is not essential. You might also prefer a different form factor or power phase count. This guide compares these specs so you can find the right match for your hardware needs.
Our top pick: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard.
How alternatives compare to MSI
GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard
The GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX shares the LGA 1700 socket, ATX form factor, and PCIe 5.0 support found in the MSI Tomahawk MAX. It also uses DDR5 memory and offers 2.5GbE Ethernet. The key difference lies in its power delivery and wireless connectivity. GIGABYTE provides a 16+2+1 phase design, which offers slightly more robust VRM stages compared to the MSI’s 16+1+1 arrangement. However, it uses Wi-Fi 6E instead of Wi-Fi 7. You should choose this board if you prioritize maximum power stability for high-end CPUs and do not need the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard.
MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi is another ATX option for Intel 12th through 14th Gen processors. It matches the Tomahawk MAX in using LGA 1700, DDR5, and PCIe 5.0. It also includes 2.5GbE Ethernet. The main trade-off is its wireless capability, as it relies on Wi-Fi 6E rather than the Tomahawk’s Wi-Fi 7. This board offers similar power and connectivity for gaming but skips the newest wireless standard. It is a practical choice if you want the same MSI ecosystem and core performance features but do not require the fastest available Wi-Fi generation for your network setup.
ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0
The ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi7 targets Intel 12th through 14th Gen builders with LGA 1700, ATX sizing, and PCIe 5.0 support. Like the MSI Tomahawk MAX, it includes Wi-Fi 7 for modern wireless connectivity. It also uses DDR5 memory. The significant difference is its Ethernet speed, which is limited to 1GbE compared to the 2.5GbE found on the MSI board. This makes it suitable for users who prioritize Wi-Fi 7 and solid power delivery but do not need high-speed wired networking. It serves as a capable alternative if your network relies primarily on wireless connections.
ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi represents a shift to the newer Intel Core Ultra Series 2 platform. It shares the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 standard with the MSI Tomahawk MAX. It also includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE Ethernet. Unlike the Tomahawk, which uses the LGA 1700 socket for 12th-14th Gen chips, this board supports the latest Intel Core Ultra processors. It is designed for users who want future-proofing with modern connectivity and storage speeds. Choose this option if you are building a new system with the newest Intel CPUs rather than upgrading an existing LGA 1700 setup.
ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi ATX
The ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi is an ATX motherboard designed for AMD AM5 processors, differing from the Intel-focused MSI Tomahawk MAX. It shares the ATX size, DDR5 memory type, and PCIe 5.0 standard. It also features Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE Ethernet, matching the Tomahawk’s connectivity specs. The primary distinction is the CPU socket and chipset, which support AMD Ryzen processors instead of Intel Core. This board is ideal for builders who want similar modern features like Wi-Fi 7 and fast storage but are switching to the AMD platform for their next gaming build.
ASUS X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7
The ASUS X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7 is another AMD AM5 option, sharing the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0 support with the MSI Tomahawk MAX. It includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE Ethernet, aligning with the Tomahawk’s wireless and wired capabilities. The difference is the platform, as it supports AMD Ryzen CPUs via the AM5 socket. This board is suited for users who want robust power delivery and modern connectivity like USB4 and Wi-Fi 7. It serves as a strong alternative for AMD builders who value these specific features without needing excessive M.2 slots.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th-14th Gen gaming builds
- 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 built for Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors. It features a robust 16+1+1 power phase design and supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+(OC) MHz. You get PCIe 5.0 connectivity and Wi-Fi 7 for fast networking. This board suits gamers who need reliable power delivery and modern expansion options for high-performance builds.
Pros
- 16+1+1 mirrored power arrangement for stable CPU performance
- Supports DDR5 memory speeds up to 7800+(OC) MHz
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gbps Ethernet
- Features PCIe 5.0 slots and Lightning Gen 5 M.2
Cons
- Heavier at 3.66 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Limited to LGA 1700 socket, excluding newer platforms
- No mention of integrated USB-C front panel headers
Good fit if
- You are building with Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen CPUs
- You want high-speed DDR5 memory support
- You need Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
Skip if
- You are using AMD processors
- You prefer smaller micro-ATX or ITX form factors
- You need support for Intel Core Ultra series on LGA 1851
Verdict: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX delivers solid power and modern connectivity for Intel 12th through 14th Gen builds. It is a strong match for gamers prioritizing DDR5 speed and Wi-Fi 7.
GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th/13th Gen 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
View on Amazon: GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX 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 and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. This ATX board suits builders who need robust power delivery and modern expansion options for gaming.
Pros
- 16+2+1 phase digital VRM solution
- PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen GPUs
- Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity
- Dual-channel DDR5 memory support
Cons
- Wi-Fi 6E is slower than Wi-Fi 7
- Ethernet is limited to 2.5GbE
- Heavier build at 4.19 pounds
Good fit if
- You want PCIe 5.0 for future GPU upgrades
- You need Wi-Fi 6E for stable wireless
- You build with 12th or 13th Gen Intel CPUs
Skip if
- You require Wi-Fi 7 for maximum speed
- You need 10GbE Ethernet for high bandwidth
- You use AMD AM5 processors
Verdict: GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX ATX provides a strong 16+2+1 phase power design and PCIe 5.0 support for Intel 12th and 13th Gen builds. It fits users who prioritize stable VRM performance and modern wireless standards over the latest Wi-Fi 7.
MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th-14th Gen 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
View on Amazon: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a 14+1+1 phase power design and DDR5 memory support up to 7200+ MHz. You get PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. This ATX board targets gamers who need solid power delivery and fast data transfer speeds without premium extras.
Pros
- 14+1+1 Duet Rail Power System with DrMOS
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 7200+ MHz
- PCIe 5.0 slot for next-gen graphics cards
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet
Cons
- Wi-Fi 6E instead of Wi-Fi 7
- 2.5Gbps Ethernet instead of 10Gbps
- Standard ATX form factor with basic cooling
Good fit if
- You want a reliable Z790 board for 12th-14th Gen Intel CPUs
- You need PCIe 5.0 support for future upgrades
- You prefer Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps networking
Skip if
- You require Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- You need 10Gbps Ethernet speeds
- You are building with LGA 1851 sockets
Verdict: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX delivers solid power and modern connectivity for Intel gamers. It fits users who prioritize PCIe 5.0 and stable DDR5 performance over cutting-edge wireless standards.
ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0
Best for: Intel 12th-14th Gen builders wanting Wi-Fi 7
- 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 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a 14+1 DrMOS power solution and Wi-Fi 7 for modern connectivity. You get three M.2 slots and PCIe 5.0 support. The 1Gb Ethernet port is standard for this tier. It suits builders seeking current-gen Intel performance with robust power delivery and future-proof wireless standards.
Pros
- 14+1 DrMOS power phases for stable CPU delivery
- Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt (USB4) header support
- Three M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 capability
- Large VRM heatsinks and AI Cooling II
Cons
- 1Gb Ethernet is slower than the 2.5Gb found on many competitors
- Only three M.2 slots, fewer than some Z790 alternatives
- LGA 1700 socket does not support newer Core Ultra processors
Good fit if
- You are building with 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- You want Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 support
- You need a reliable ATX board with strong VRM cooling
Skip if
- You need 2.5Gb Ethernet for faster wired speeds
- You plan to use the latest LGA 1851 Core Ultra CPUs
- You require more than three M.2 storage slots
Verdict: ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi7 ATX is a solid mid-range option for Intel 12th through 14th Gen users who prioritize Wi-Fi 7 and solid power delivery over top-tier Ethernet speeds or extra storage slots. It fits builders who want modern connectivity without the premium price tag of flagship boards.
ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard
Best for: New Intel Core Ultra Series 2 gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1851
- Chipset
- B860
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
View on Amazon: ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors on the LGA 1851 socket. It features a B860 chipset with Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 GbE Ethernet. The board includes three M.2 slots, with one supporting PCIe 5.0 speeds. Its 12+2+1 power stage design aims for stable performance. This setup suits users building a new AI-ready gaming PC.
Pros
- Supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 via LGA 1851 socket
- Includes one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot for fast storage
- Features Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 GbE Ethernet connectivity
- Equipped with 12+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages
Cons
- B860 chipset lacks the overclocking flexibility of Z-series boards
- Only one M.2 slot supports PCIe 5.0
- Heavier build at 1.94 pounds compared to smaller form factors
Good fit if
- You are building a system with Intel Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for high-speed wireless networking
- You want a standard ATX board with ample storage options
Skip if
- You plan to overclock your CPU extensively
- You require multiple PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots
- You are using 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel processors
Verdict: ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi ATX is a solid foundation for new Intel Core Ultra builds, offering modern connectivity and storage speeds. It fits users prioritizing future-proofing over extreme overclocking capabilities.
ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi ATX
Best for: AMD AM5 builders needing Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt
- 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 for AMD AM5 processors. It features a 14+2+1 power stage design with 80A DrMOS for stable power delivery. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 7, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and a Thunderbolt header. Storage options consist of one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot and two PCIe 4.0 slots. This board suits users building a future-proof AMD system with modern wireless standards.
Pros
- 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages for stable CPU power
- Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gb Ethernet for fast networking
- Three M.2 slots with one PCIe 5.0 option
- Thunderbolt (USB4) header support for high-speed expansion
Cons
- B850 chipset lacks overclocking flexibility of X870 boards
- Only one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot for storage
- No RGB lighting details provided in specifications
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for next-gen wireless speeds
- You want Thunderbolt header support for future devices
- You are building an AMD AM5 system with DDR5
Skip if
- You require an X870 chipset for maximum overclocking
- You need multiple PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots
- You are building with Intel processors
Verdict: ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi AM5 ATX delivers robust power and modern connectivity for AMD builders. It fits users who prioritize Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt support over advanced overclocking features.
ASUS X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7
Best for: AMD AM5 gaming builds needing Wi-Fi 7
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
View on Amazon: ASUS X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7 Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard supports AMD AM5 processors, including Ryzen 9000 and 7000 series. It features a robust 12+2+1 80A DrMOS power solution and an 8-layer PCB for stable performance. You get Wi-Fi 7, PCIe 5.0 connectivity, and USB4 ports. The design includes comprehensive cooling and DIY-friendly tools. It suits gamers seeking modern AMD platforms with high-speed networking and future-proof expansion options.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series CPUs
- Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gb Ethernet for fast connectivity
- 12+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages with 8-layer PCB
- USB4 ports and PCIe 5.0 x16 slot
Cons
- Only three M.2 slots compared to four in some competitors
- White PCB may not match dark-themed builds
- Relies on software suite for RGB and fan control
Good fit if
- You are building a new AMD AM5 gaming PC
- You need Wi-Fi 7 and USB4 connectivity
- You prefer a white or light-colored motherboard
Skip if
- You are using an Intel processor
- You need more than three M.2 drives
- You prefer a black PCB for stealth builds
Verdict: ASUS X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7 AM5 delivers strong power delivery and modern connectivity for AMD Ryzen users. It is a solid choice for builders who want Wi-Fi 7 and USB4 without needing excessive M.2 slots.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard | GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard | MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard | ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0 | ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard | ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi ATX | ASUS X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1851 | AM5 | AM5 |
| Chipset | Z790 | Z790 | Z790 | Z790 | B860 | 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 | not stated | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Ethernet Speed | 2.5Gbps | 2.5GbE LAN | 2.5Gbps | 1Gb | 2.5 GbE | 2.5Gb LAN | 2.5Gb LAN |
| Power Phases | 16+1+1 | 16+2+1 | 14+1+1 | 14+1 | 12+1+2+1 | 14+2+1 | 12+2+1 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Use Case | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 12 × 9.6 × 1.75 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | 14.1 × 0.94 × 10.2 inches | 13.3 × 9.21 × 1.57 inches | 12 × 9.61 × 2.76 inches | 12 × 9.61 × 1.89 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 3.66 pounds | 4.19 pounds | 3 pounds | 2.15 pounds | 1.94 pounds | 2.91 pounds | not stated |
| Size | ATX | ATX | ATX | Z790|M.2 x3|WiFi7 | TUF B860-PLUS|M.2 x3|WiFi 7 | 3X M.2|WiFi7|2.5Gb LAN | ATX|M.2x3|WiFi7 |
| Model | MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi | Z790 GAMING X AX | Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ | Z790 GAMING WIFI7 | TUF GAMING B860-PLUS WIFI | TUF GAMING B850-PLUS WIFI | X870 MAX GAMING WIFI7 W |
| Color | not stated | not stated | Black | BLACK | BLACK | BLACK | not stated |
Another guide worth a look: msi mag a600dn ii gaming alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which motherboard offers the latest Wi-Fi standard for Intel builds?
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi and the ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi7 both feature Wi-Fi 7. This standard provides faster wireless speeds and lower latency compared to Wi-Fi 6E found on the GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX and MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi. You get modern connectivity on either Intel option.
Are there AMD AM5 alternatives to the MSI Z790 board?
Yes, the ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi and ASUS X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7 are built for AMD AM5 sockets. These boards support DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0. They offer Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE Ethernet. They are suitable for Ryzen users seeking similar gaming performance on the AMD platform.
Does the ASUS TUF B860-PLUS support new Intel processors?
The ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi is designed for Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors. It uses an ATX form factor and supports DDR5 memory. It includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE Ethernet. This board fits users who want future-proofing for the latest Intel architecture without extreme overclocking features.
Which board has the lightest weight among these ATX options?
The ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi is the lightest at 1.94 pounds. The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi follows at 3 pounds. The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi weighs 3.66 pounds. The ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi is heaviest at 4.2 pounds. Weight varies by model and component density.
What Ethernet speeds do these motherboards provide?
Most listed boards offer 2.5GbE Ethernet for faster wired connections. This includes the MSI Tomahawk MAX, GIGABYTE Gaming X, MSI Gaming Plus, ASUS TUF B860-PLUS, ASUS TUF B850-PLUS, and ASUS X870 MAX. The ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi7 is the exception, providing only 1GbE Ethernet for standard connectivity.
Can I use DDR5 memory with these alternatives?
All listed motherboards support DDR5 memory. This includes the Intel LGA 1700 boards like the MSI Tomahawk MAX and GIGABYTE Gaming X. It also covers the AMD AM5 boards like the ASUS TUF B850-PLUS and X870 MAX. DDR5 provides higher bandwidth for gaming and productivity tasks on these platforms.
Which motherboard is best for builders wanting Thunderbolt support?
The ASUS TUF B850-PLUS WiFi is highlighted for Thunderbolt support. It targets AMD AM5 builders who need high-speed external connectivity. Other boards like the MSI Tomahawk MAX or ASUS X870 MAX do not explicitly list Thunderbolt in their provided attributes. You should verify specific port availability in the full spec sheet.
Do these boards support PCIe 5.0 for graphics cards?
Yes, every motherboard in this list supports PCIe 5.0. This includes the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX, GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X, and all ASUS TUF and X870 models. PCIe 5.0 allows for faster data transfer rates with compatible graphics cards and storage devices, ensuring modern performance for gaming builds.