Msi MEG Z890 ATX Motherboard Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You are looking for msi meg z890 ace gaming motherboard alternatives to find a board that matches your specific build requirements. The original MSI MEG Z890 ACE supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors via the LGA 1851 socket. It features a robust 24+1+2+1 power phase design, Wi-Fi 7, and 10G Ethernet. These specs cater to enthusiasts who need maximum throughput and modern connectivity standards.
However, you might prefer a different CPU socket, a lower price point, or a distinct brand. Some builders may need support for older Intel generations or AMD Ryzen processors. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original. Each option shares key traits like the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 lanes. This ensures you have viable choices that maintain high performance levels while offering different platform compatibility or feature sets.
Our top pick: MSI MEG Z890 ATX Motherboard.
How alternatives compare to MSI
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero uses the older LGA 1700 socket, so it does not support Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors. It fits builders sticking with 13th or 14th Gen Intel CPUs. Like the MSI MEG Z890, it offers Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 for modern connectivity. However, it lacks the 10G Ethernet port found on the MSI board, relying instead on standard gigabit speeds. You should choose this if you already own a compatible CPU and want Thunderbolt 4 support. The MSI MEG Z890 remains the better choice for future-proofing with the new Core Ultra series and faster wired networking.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi also uses the LGA 1700 socket, limiting it to 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors. It shares the ATX form factor and DDR5 memory support with the MSI MEG Z890. This board provides Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0, matching the connectivity standards of the original. However, it drops the 10G Ethernet speed, offering only 2.5GbE instead. You might pick this if you are building a budget-friendly system with current-gen Intel chips. The MSI MEG Z890 is superior for those needing the latest Core Ultra support and higher throughput network speeds.
ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0
The ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi 7 targets budget builders using the LGA 1700 socket. It supports DDR5 memory and includes Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0, matching key features of the MSI MEG Z890. However, it lacks support for Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors. This board offers only 1GbE Ethernet, which is significantly slower than the 10Gbps connection on the MSI model. You should consider this if you are on a tight budget and do not need the newest CPU generation. The MSI MEG Z890 is better for enthusiasts who require high-speed networking and future-ready processor compatibility.
ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors via the LGA 1851 socket, aligning with the original MSI board's CPU compatibility. It features Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0, matching the modern connectivity standards. However, it provides only 2.5GbE Ethernet, falling short of the 10Gbps speed on the MSI MEG Z890. This board is designed for practical builds, prioritizing efficient power delivery over high-end overclocking features. You should pick this if you want a cost-effective solution for Core Ultra Series 2. The MSI MEG Z890 offers superior networking speeds and more robust power phases for demanding workloads.
MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi is built for AMD Ryzen processors using the AM5 socket, making it incompatible with Intel Core Ultra Series 2 chips. It shares the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, Wi-Fi 7, and PCIe 5.0 standards with the MSI MEG Z890. This board is ideal for gamers building with AMD platforms who want modern connectivity. You should choose this if you are switching to AMD Ryzen 9000 or 7000 series CPUs. The MSI MEG Z890 remains the correct choice for Intel-based builds requiring LGA 1851 support and 10G Ethernet.
MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi also uses the AM5 socket, so it does not support Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors. It matches the MSI MEG Z890 in form factor, DDR5 memory support, Wi-Fi 7, and PCIe 5.0. This board is suited for AMD Ryzen 9000 or 7000 series gaming builds. You should consider this if you prioritize AMD platform compatibility and modern thermal efficiency. The MSI MEG Z890 is necessary for Intel builders. It offers the specific LGA 1851 socket and 10G Ethernet connectivity that AMD boards cannot provide, making it the only option for your specific Intel Core Ultra needs.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI MEG Z890 ATX Motherboard
Best for: High-end Intel Core Ultra Series 2 builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1851
- Chipset
- Z890
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 7
View on Amazon: MSI MEG Z890 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors via the LGA 1851 socket. It features a robust 24+1+2+1 power phase design and dual-channel DDR5 memory support up to 256GB. You get Wi-Fi 7 for high-speed wireless connectivity and 10G Ethernet for fast wired networking. PCIe 5.0 lanes provide future-proof expansion. It suits users building high-end desktops with the latest Intel CPUs.
Pros
- Supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors on LGA 1851 socket
- 24+1+2+1 power phase configuration with 110A SPS
- Wi-Fi 7 with 320MHz channel width
- 10Gbps Ethernet port for secure networking
- Dual-channel DDR5 support up to 256GB
Cons
- Heavier build at 5 pounds
- Larger ATX dimensions may not fit smaller cases
- Premium tier features may exceed basic needs
Good fit if
- You need the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 2 support
- You require 10Gbps wired networking speeds
- You want Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
Skip if
- You are using older Intel 12th or 13th Gen CPUs
- You need a smaller form factor than ATX
- You prefer DDR4 memory compatibility
Verdict: MSI MEG Z890 ACE Gaming delivers top-tier power delivery and modern connectivity for Intel Core Ultra Series 2 builders. It fits enthusiasts who need 10G Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7 in a standard ATX chassis.
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero
Best for: High-end Intel 13th/14th Gen 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 uses an LGA 1700 socket for Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors. It features a 20+1+2 power stage design with robust VRM cooling. You get Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and dual Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports. The board includes one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot and four PCIe 4.0 slots. It is built for high-end gaming systems requiring extensive connectivity.
Pros
- Supports Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen CPUs via LGA 1700 socket
- 20+1+2 power stages with large heatsinks for stable voltage delivery
- Wi-Fi 7 and dual Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C ports
- One PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot plus four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots
Cons
- LGA 1700 socket does not support newer Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors
- Uses DDR5 memory only, limiting compatibility with older DDR4 systems
- Heavier at 1.5 pounds, which may require reinforced mounting
Good fit if
- You are building a high-end PC with 13th or 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for fast external storage or docks
- You want Wi-Fi 7 for the latest wireless standards
Skip if
- You plan to use Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors
- You prefer AMD Ryzen processors and need an AM5 socket
- You want a motherboard that supports DDR4 memory
Verdict: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero ATX suits users building with 13th or 14th Gen Intel CPUs who need Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 7. It does not fit those seeking support for newer Core Ultra chips or AMD platforms.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th-14th Gen LGA 1700 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 for Intel LGA 1700 processors. It supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz and features PCIe 5.0 connectivity. The board includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet for fast networking. Its 16+1+1 power phase design aims to handle high-performance tasks. This board suits gamers and creators building on the current Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen platforms.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet
- Features PCIe 5.0 slots and M.2 support
- 16+1+1 power phase arrangement for stable power delivery
Cons
- Uses the older LGA 1700 socket instead of the latest LGA 1851
- Built on the Z790 chipset rather than the newer Z890
- Heavier at 3.66 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
Good fit if
- You are building a system with Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen processors
- You want Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet connectivity
- You prefer a standard ATX form factor with robust power delivery
Skip if
- You need support for the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors
- You want the newest Z890 chipset features
- You are building an AMD-based system
Verdict: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX offers strong connectivity and power specs for Intel LGA 1700 builds. It is a solid choice for users sticking with current-gen Intel CPUs who want modern networking standards.
ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0
Best for: Budget 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 uses the Intel Z790 chipset with an LGA 1700 socket for 12th through 14th Gen processors. It features a 14+1 DrMOS power design and supports DDR5 memory. You get Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. It includes three M.2 slots for storage. This board suits gamers who want modern standards without premium pricing.
Pros
- 14+1 DrMOS power phases for stable delivery
- Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity
- PCIe 5.0 support for future expansion
- Three M.2 slots for storage
Cons
- 1Gb Ethernet speed is slower than competitors
- LGA 1700 socket limits CPU upgrades
- Heavier build at 2.15 pounds
Good fit if
- You are building with 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- You want Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0
- You need three M.2 storage slots
Skip if
- You plan to upgrade to Core Ultra Series 2 processors
- You require 2.5Gb or faster Ethernet
- You prefer AMD Ryzen processors
Verdict: ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi 7 offers solid power delivery and modern connectivity for LGA 1700 builds. It fits users who want Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 on a budget.
ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard
Best for: 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 Gaming B860-PLUS WiFi is an ATX motherboard built for Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors. It features a B860 chipset and LGA 1851 socket. The board includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 GbE networking. It offers three M.2 slots, with one supporting PCIe 5.0. This setup provides solid connectivity and storage options for modern gaming systems.
Pros
- LGA 1851 socket supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 for high-speed wireless connectivity
- Features one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot for fast storage
- Equipped with 2.5 GbE Ethernet for reliable wired networking
Cons
- B860 chipset lacks the advanced overclocking features of Z-series boards
- Only one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot compared to dual slots on higher-end models
- No mention of Thunderbolt support in the specifications
Good fit if
- You are building a system with Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors
- You want Wi-Fi 7 connectivity without a premium price tag
- You need reliable 2.5 GbE networking for your setup
Skip if
- You require extensive CPU overclocking capabilities beyond stock settings
- You need multiple PCIe 5.0 storage slots for extreme performance
- You are using older 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel CPUs
Verdict: ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi ATX is a practical choice for builders using Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors who value modern Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 GbE connectivity. It suits users who prioritize efficient power delivery and solid storage expansion over high-end overclocking features.
MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 gaming builds
- 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 the X870 chipset, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. You get Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps LAN for fast networking. A USB 4 port adds high-speed data transfer. This board suits gamers who want modern AMD platform features without the premium cost of top-tier models.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 series CPUs via AM5 socket
- Includes USB 4 port for 40Gbps data transmission
- Features Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps Ethernet
- Uses DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 standards
Cons
- Weighs 4 pounds, which is heavier than lighter alternatives
- Lacks the extended VRM heatsinks found on the MEG ACE series
- Does not include a built-in display output for troubleshooting
Good fit if
- You are building an AMD AM5 system with Ryzen 7000 or newer
- You need Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps LAN for your network
- You want PCIe 5.0 support for future GPU or SSD upgrades
Skip if
- You are using an Intel processor and need an LGA socket
- You require USB 4 connectivity but this is your only port
- You prefer a lighter board under 3 pounds for small cases
Verdict: MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi delivers solid AM5 performance with Wi-Fi 7 and USB 4 for gamers who value modern connectivity over premium heatsink designs.
MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: AMD Ryzen 9000/7000 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 for AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors. It features an AM5 socket and DDR5 memory support. You get PCIe 5.0 for high-speed data transfer and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. The board includes dual LAN with 5 Gbps Ethernet. It is built for gaming and offers robust thermal design for sustained performance.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 series CPUs
- PCIe 5.0 for maximum transfer speeds
- Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps Ethernet
- Heavy plated MOSFET heatsink with heat-pipe
Cons
- Heavier build at 5.49 pounds
- AM5 socket limits CPU compatibility to AMD
- ATX form factor requires larger cases
Good fit if
- You are building an AMD Ryzen 9000 or 7000 series PC
- You need PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing storage or graphics
- You want Wi-Fi 7 and fast wired networking
Skip if
- You are using an Intel processor
- You prefer a smaller ITX or micro-ATX board
- You need DDR4 memory support
Verdict: MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX is a solid choice for AMD gamers who want PCIe 5.0 and Wi-Fi 7. It fits users prioritizing modern connectivity and thermal efficiency in a standard ATX chassis.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI MEG Z890 ATX Motherboard | ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard | ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0 | ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard | MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard | MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1851 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1851 | AM5 | AM5 |
| Chipset | Z890 | Intel Z790 | Z790 | Z790 | B860 | X870 | X870E |
| 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 | 5 | not stated | 3 | 3 | not stated | not stated |
| 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 | 10Gbps | not stated | 2.5Gbps | 1Gb | 2.5 GbE | 5Gbps LAN | 5Gbps LAN |
| Power Phases | 24+1+2+1 | 20+1+2 | 16+1+1 | 14+1 | 12+1+2+1 | not stated | 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 | 12.9 × 11.3 × 3.38 inches | not stated | 12 × 9.6 × 1.75 inches | 13.3 × 9.21 × 1.57 inches | 12 × 9.61 × 2.76 inches | 13.5 × 10.6 × 2.76 inches | 13.5 × 10.6 × 2.76 inches |
| Weight | 5 pounds | 1.5 pounds | 3.66 pounds | 2.15 pounds | 1.94 pounds | 4 pounds | 5.49 pounds |
| Model | MEG Z890 ACE | ROG MAXIMUS Z790 DARK HERO | MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi | Z790 GAMING WIFI7 | TUF GAMING B860-PLUS WIFI | MAG X870 TOMAHAWK WIFI | MPG X870E CARBON WIFI |
| Size | not stated | Z790 Dark Hero|M.2 x5|WiFi 7| | ATX | Z790|M.2 x3|WiFi7 | TUF B860-PLUS|M.2 x3|WiFi 7 | 13.4"L x 10.9"W x 3"H | 13.6"L x 3"W x 10.7"H |
| Color | not stated | BLACK | not stated | BLACK | BLACK | not stated | Carbon Black |
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Frequently asked questions
Which motherboard supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors?
The MSI MEG Z890 ATX and the ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX support Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors. The MSI MEG Z890 is designed for high-end builds with 10G Ethernet. The ASUS TUF B860-PLUS offers practical power delivery and 2.5 GbE connectivity for efficient gaming systems.
Can I use an AMD Ryzen processor with these alternatives?
Yes, the MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi and the MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 support AMD Ryzen processors. Both use the AM5 socket and support Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series CPUs. They provide PCIe 5.0 and Wi-Fi 7 for modern AMD gaming builds.
Do these motherboards include Wi-Fi 7?
All listed alternatives include Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. This ensures faster wireless speeds and lower latency for gaming. The MSI MEG Z890, ASUS ROG Maximus Z790, and MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX all feature this standard alongside their respective Ethernet ports.
What is the difference between LGA 1700 and LGA 1851 sockets?
LGA 1851 supports newer Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors, while LGA 1700 supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel CPUs. The MSI MEG Z890 uses LGA 1851. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 and MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX use the older LGA 1700 socket.
Which board offers the fastest Ethernet connection?
The MSI MEG Z890 ATX offers the fastest Ethernet connection with 10G Ethernet support. Other boards provide slower speeds. The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX and ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 offer 2.5GbE. The ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi 7 provides standard 1GbE connectivity.
Are there budget-friendly options for LGA 1700 builds?
The ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard is listed as the best budget option for LGA 1700 builds. It includes Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 support. It fits users who want modern connectivity without the higher cost of premium enthusiast boards. It maintains solid power delivery for gaming.
Do AMD alternatives support DDR5 memory?
Yes, both AMD alternatives support DDR5 memory. The MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi and MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 use the AM5 socket. They are designed for Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors. DDR5 provides higher bandwidth for modern gaming workloads.