Looking Beyond the Msi Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi ATX motherboard is a strong foundation for gaming PCs built with 12th or 13th Gen Intel processors. It uses the LGA 1700 socket and supports DDR5 memory for high-speed data transfer. You get PCIe 5.0 lanes for fast storage and graphics cards, along with Wi-Fi 6E for reliable wireless connectivity. Its standard ATX form factor fits most mid-tower cases, making it a versatile choice for many builders.
However, you might look for msi mag z790 tomahawk wifi computer gaming motherboard alternatives if your needs differ. Some users may require faster Ethernet speeds, such as 2.5GbE or 10GbE, for local network performance. Others might prefer a different chipset for specific power delivery features or seek a different brand for design preferences. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their core specifications overlap with the original. They all support LGA 1700 CPUs, DDR5 RAM, and PCIe 5.0, ensuring compatibility with modern components while offering distinct advantages in connectivity or build quality.
Our top pick: MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard.
How each alternative compares
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX shares the LGA 1700 socket and DDR5 support with the Tomahawk. It also includes Wi-Fi 6E and PCIe 5.0. You gain 2.5GbE Ethernet, which the Tomahawk listing does not specify. This board targets users who want robust networking speeds alongside modern expansion standards. It suits gamers who prioritize connectivity options in a renewed package. The physical dimensions differ, measuring 1.97 by 0.39 by 2.76 inches in its listed specs. You should pick this if you need verified high-speed wired networking alongside wireless capabilities for your 12th or 13th Gen Intel build.
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX offers a practical alternative for mid-range DDR5 gaming builds. It matches the Tomahawk with LGA 1700 support, DDR5 memory, Wi-Fi 6E, and PCIe 5.0. A key difference is the inclusion of 2.5GbE Ethernet, providing faster wired connections than the standard listing for the Tomahawk. This board is designed for balanced systems using 12th to 14th Gen Intel processors. You get similar wireless and expansion features but with added Ethernet speed. Choose this option if you want a versatile motherboard that supports newer 14th Gen CPUs while maintaining essential gaming connectivity standards.
MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX uses the same LGA 1700 socket and DDR5 memory as the Z790 Tomahawk. It also features Wi-Fi 6E and PCIe 5.0. The main difference is the B760 chipset, which prioritizes stable power delivery over overclocking flexibility. This makes it suitable for 13th and 14th Gen Intel gaming builds where stability is key. It includes 2.5GbE Ethernet, a feature not explicitly listed for the Tomahawk. You get a more budget-conscious chipset option that still supports modern connectivity. Pick this if you value consistent performance and modern networking without needing the full feature set of the Z790 platform.
ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero ATX targets enthusiasts who need extensive storage and networking capabilities. It shares the LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 support, Wi-Fi 6E, and PCIe 5.0 with the Tomahawk. It also includes 2.5GbE Ethernet. This board delivers premium power and connectivity, making it ideal for users who prioritize maximum speeds over cost efficiency. The listed dimensions are significantly larger, measuring 4.5 by 14.6 by 12.2 inches. You should choose this if you require top-tier expansion options and networking speeds for a high-end gaming or enthusiast build.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F Gaming WiFi 6E uses the Z690 chipset, supporting 12th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It matches the Tomahawk with DDR5 memory, Wi-Fi 6E, and PCIe 5.0. It also includes 2.5GbE Ethernet for faster wired connections. This board is designed for gamers who prioritize VRM stability and modern storage speeds. The physical size is listed as 10.7 by 2.7 by 13.3 inches. You get a solid power delivery system suitable for 12th Gen builds. Choose this if you need reliable networking and storage performance for your specific Intel generation.
GIGABYTE AORUS Master 10GbE Motherboard
The GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS Master 10GbE stands out with 10GbE Ethernet, a significant upgrade from the standard networking on the Tomahawk. It supports 12th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 memory, Wi-Fi 6E, and PCIe 5.0. This board is best for builders who need superior networking speeds for high-bandwidth local network needs. The physical dimensions are 11.6 by 3.14 by 13.6 inches. You should pick this if your workflow demands fast data transfer over wired connections. It offers the same core expansion features but with a major advantage in wired network throughput.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th/13th Gen gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
- Use Case
- Gaming
View on Amazon: MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi is an ATX motherboard designed for gaming with 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors. It features an LGA 1700 socket and supports DDR5 memory for high-speed performance. The board includes PCIe 5.0 lanes for future-proofed graphics and storage connectivity. You will appreciate the built-in Wi-Fi 6E for reliable wireless networking. This setup suits users building a desktop that balances modern connectivity with standard ATX dimensions.
Pros
- LGA 1700 socket supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel CPUs
- DDR5 memory type for faster data transfer
- PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen expansion cards
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E for stable wireless connections
Cons
- ATX form factor requires a compatible mid-tower or full-tower case
- Limited to 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt connectivity in specifications
Good fit if
- You are building a desktop with 12th or 13th Gen Intel CPUs
- You need DDR5 memory support for modern performance
- You want Wi-Fi 6E without adding a separate card
Skip if
- You require support for 14th Gen Intel processors
- You prefer a smaller micro-ATX or ITX form factor
- You need compatibility with older DDR4 memory modules
Verdict: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi ATX fits gamers using 12th or 13th Gen Intel processors who need reliable Wi-Fi 6E and DDR5 support.
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: 12th/13th Gen Intel gaming builds with Wi-Fi 6E needs
- 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 LAN
View on Amazon: MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi is an ATX motherboard for 12th and 13th Gen Intel CPUs. It uses DDR5 memory and supports PCIe 5.0 for fast expansion. You get Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gbps LAN for reliable networking. This board suits gamers who want modern connectivity and high-speed storage options in a standard ATX size.
Pros
- Supports Intel 12th and 13th Gen processors via LGA 1700 socket
- Includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet for fast networking
- Features PCIe 5.0 support for next-generation expansion cards
- Provides multiple M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe storage
Cons
- Sold as a renewed product, not new retail stock
- Lacks explicit mention of Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 support
- Does not list integrated RGB lighting control features
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 6E for stable wireless connections
- You are building with DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 components
- You want a standard ATX size for your case
Skip if
- You require brand-new sealed retail packaging
- You are using 14th Gen Intel processors
- You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for external docks
Verdict: MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX delivers essential modern specs like Wi-Fi 6E and PCIe 5.0 for 12th and 13th Gen Intel builds. It fits users who prioritize networking and expansion speed in a renewed package.
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Mid-range DDR5 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 Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors. It features the Z790 chipset and LGA 1700 socket. You get DDR5 memory support and PCIe 5.0 lanes. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. This board offers a solid foundation for gaming builds that need modern standards without premium pricing.
Pros
- Supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- Includes Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity
- Features 2.5Gbps Ethernet for fast wired speeds
- Provides PCIe 5.0 expansion slots
Cons
- Lacks the premium audio capacitors found on higher-end models
- Does not include Thunderbolt 4 support
- Has fewer USB ports than the ROG Maximus Hero
Good fit if
- You want a Z790 board with Wi-Fi 6E
- You are building a mid-range DDR5 gaming PC
- You need 2.5Gbps Ethernet connectivity
Skip if
- You require Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
- You need an E-ATX form factor
- You want the highest-end audio components
Verdict: The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX is a practical choice for gamers who need Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. It fits users building a balanced DDR5 system around 12th to 14th Gen Intel processors.
MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: locked Intel LGA 1700 gaming configurations
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- B760
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
View on Amazon: MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX board brings Tomahawk features to Intel LGA 1700 processors using the B760 chipset instead of Z-series silicon. You get a PCIe 5.0 expansion slot, DDR5 memory support up to 7000 MHz, 2.5Gbps Ethernet, and integrated Wi-Fi 6E. With a 12+1+1 power phase layout, it suits builders who want current connectivity without tuning unlocked CPU multipliers.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 expansion slot for graphics cards
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet connectivity
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 7000+ MHz
- Dual 8-pin CPU power connectors with 12+1+1 power design
Cons
- B760 chipset lacks CPU multiplier overclocking found on Z-series chipsets
- M.2 slots max out at PCIe 4.0 speeds rather than PCIe 5.0
- 12+1+1 power phase design provides less headroom than higher-tier Z790 boards
Good fit if
- You want LGA 1700 compatibility with DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 graphics support.
- You prioritize built-in Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps networking.
- You run standard processor clock speeds without manual CPU overclocking.
Skip if
- You need processor multiplier overclocking features found on Z690 or Z790 boards.
- You plan to install a PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD.
Verdict: MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard gives LGA 1700 builders PCIe 5.0 graphics support, DDR5 memory, and Wi-Fi 6E without the extra complexity of CPU overclocking hardware.
ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: high-end Intel builds needing five M.2 slots
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 5
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
View on Amazon: ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard features an LGA 1700 socket, a 20+1 power stage delivery system, and five onboard M.2 drive slots. It supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 expansion cards. You get onboard Wi-Fi 6E alongside 2.5Gb Ethernet. It serves builders who run demanding 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel processors and require extensive high-speed storage configurations.
Pros
- 20+1 teamed power stages rated for 90 A
- Five onboard M.2 slots for NVMe storage
- PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory support
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet networking
Cons
- Uses Wi-Fi 6E rather than the newer Wi-Fi 7 standard
- Total package weight reaches 9.3 pounds
Good fit if
- You need five M.2 slots for storage expansion.
- You want a 20+1 power phase design for heavy CPU loads.
- You use 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel Core processors with DDR5 memory.
Skip if
- You want native Wi-Fi 7 support without an add-in card.
- You need wired networking speeds exceeding 2.5Gb Ethernet.
Verdict: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero Motherboard delivers high-tier 20+1 power delivery and five M.2 slots for builders pushing high-end Intel LGA 1700 processors. It equips workstations and gaming rigs needing fast DDR5 throughput with multiple PCIe 5.0 and NVMe drives.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard
Best for: 12th Gen Intel gaming builds with strong power needs
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Z690
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
View on Amazon: ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F is an ATX motherboard built for 12th Gen Intel Core processors. It features a robust 16+1 power stage design and supports PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory. You get onboard Wi-Fi 6E and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet for high-speed networking. The board includes four M.2 slots with comprehensive thermal solutions. This setup suits gamers who want strong power delivery and modern connectivity options.
Pros
- 16+1 power stages for stable multi-core performance
- Onboard Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gb Ethernet
- Supports PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory
- Four M.2 slots with double-sided heatsinks
Cons
- Limited to 12th Gen Intel processors
- Heavier build at 2.99 pounds
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt support
Good fit if
- You are building a system with 12th Gen Intel CPUs
- You need reliable Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- You want robust power delivery for overclocking
Skip if
- You plan to use 13th or 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- You prefer a smaller ITX form factor
- You require native Thunderbolt connectivity
Verdict: ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F Gaming WiFi 6E delivers solid power and networking for 12th Gen Intel builds. It is a practical choice for gamers prioritizing VRM stability and modern storage speeds.
GIGABYTE AORUS Master 10GbE Motherboard
Best for: 12th Gen Intel builds needing 10GbE networking
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- Intel Z690
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
View on Amazon: GIGABYTE AORUS Master 10GbE Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard uses the Intel Z690 chipset and LGA 1700 socket for 12th Gen Intel processors. It features a 19+1+2 phase power design and supports DDR5 memory. The standout spec is the integrated AQUANTIA 10GbE LAN, offering significantly higher wired speeds than the 2.5 GbE found on most alternatives in this list. It also includes Wi-Fi 6E and four M.2 slots.
Pros
- AQUANTIA 10GbE LAN for high-speed wired networking
- 19+1+2 phase Direct VRM design with 105A power stages
- Intel Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5 connectivity
- Four M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 support
Cons
- Only supports 12th Gen Intel processors, not 13th or 14th Gen
- Lacks Thunderbolt 4 support despite listing Intel Thunderbolt 4 in features
- No mention of USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C ports in key specs
Good fit if
- You need 10GbE Ethernet for fast local network transfers
- You are building with a 12th Gen Intel CPU
- You want a robust 19+1+2 phase power delivery system
Skip if
- You plan to use 13th or 14th Gen Intel processors
- You only require standard 2.5 GbE networking speeds
- You need a motherboard that supports newer CPU generations
Verdict: GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS Master 10GbE is the best choice for builders prioritizing 10GbE connectivity and 12th Gen Intel support. It offers superior networking speeds compared to the other options listed, making it ideal for users with high-bandwidth local network needs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard | MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard | ASUS ROG Maximus DDR5 ATX Motherboard | ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard | GIGABYTE AORUS Master 10GbE Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | not specified | not specified | Z790 | B760 | not specified | Z690 | Intel Z690 |
| 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 specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 5 | 4 | 4 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | WiFi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | not specified | 2.5Gbps LAN | 2.5Gbps | 2.5Gbps | 2.5 GbE | 2.5Gb | 10 GbE, 2.5 GbE |
| Power Phases | not specified | not specified | not specified | 12+1+1 | 20+1 | 16+1 | 19+1+2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Use Case | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 2.76 × 1.97 × 0.39 inches | not specified | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 12.2 × 4.5 × 14.6 inches | 13.3 × 10.7 × 2.7 inches | 13.6 × 11.6 × 3.14 inches |
| Weight | not specified | 3.92 pounds | not specified | 1 pounds | 9.3 pounds | 2.99 pounds | not specified |
| Size | ATX | not specified | ATX | ATX | Z790 Hero|M.2 x5|WiFi 6E| | 12"x9.6" | Z690 AORUS MASTER |
| Model | MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi | Z790 | MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ | B760TAMAWIFI | ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO | ROG STRIX Z690-F GAMING WIFI | Z690 |
| Color | not specified | Black | Black | Multicolor | BLACK | not specified | not specified |
Frequently asked questions
Which motherboard is best for 13th Gen Intel gaming builds?
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi ATX is the top choice for 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors. It features an LGA 1700 socket and DDR5 memory support. You also get Wi-Fi 6E and PCIe 5.0 for reliable connectivity and fast storage speeds in a standard ATX form factor.
What is the best budget DDR5 option for gaming?
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX is the best budget pick for mid-range DDR5 gaming builds. It supports 12th to 14th Gen Intel processors with an LGA 1700 socket. You receive Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet for balanced performance and modern networking capabilities without premium pricing.
Which board offers 10GbE networking for high bandwidth?
The GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS Master 10GbE is the best choice for builders needing superior networking speeds. It features a 10GbE Ethernet port, which is faster than the 2.5GbE options on most other boards. It supports 12th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket and includes Wi-Fi 6E.
Is there a B760 alternative to the Z790 Tomahawk?
The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX is a practical alternative for stable builds with 12th to 14th Gen Intel CPUs. It uses the LGA 1700 socket and DDR5 memory. You get Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet, prioritizing stable power delivery and modern connectivity over overclocking flexibility.
Which motherboard is best for enthusiasts needing extensive storage?
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero ATX is best for enthusiasts who prioritize maximum storage and networking speeds. It supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors with an LGA 1700 socket. You get Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5GbE Ethernet, and PCIe 5.0 for high-end gaming and data transfer requirements.
What is the best premium option with Wi-Fi 6E?
The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi ATX is the best premium pick for users prioritizing networking and expansion. It supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors with an LGA 1700 socket. You receive Wi-Fi 6E, PCIe 5.0, and 2.5GbE Ethernet in a renewed package designed for gaming builds.
Which board is good for 12th Gen Intel with strong power?
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F Gaming WiFi 6E is a practical choice for 12th Gen Intel builds needing strong power delivery. It uses the LGA 1700 socket and DDR5 memory. You get Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5GbE Ethernet, and PCIe 5.0 for VRM stability and modern storage speeds.