Msi Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are looking for msi mpg z390 gaming pro alternatives because the original MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon ATX is a strong foundation for Intel 8th and 9th Gen builds. It features an LGA 1151 socket, ATX form factor, and dual M.2 slots with thermal shielding. The board supports DDR4 memory up to 4400 MHz and includes robust USB 3.1 Gen 2 connectivity. These specs make it a practical choice for gamers who need reliable storage speeds and stable performance.
However, you might prefer a different configuration. Some buyers want built-in Wi-Fi, which the standard Carbon model lacks. Others may need a smaller form factor or a different chipset for future upgrades. This list compares 6 similar picks that share key specifications with the original. The alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original, including compatible sockets, memory types, and ATX dimensions. You can compare options like the ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC for budget stability or the MSI Gaming Edge AC for integrated wireless capabilities. Each option offers distinct advantages based on your specific connectivity and storage requirements.
Our top pick: MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard.
How the alternatives differ
ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard
The ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC shares the same LGA 1151 socket and Z390 chipset as the MSI Gaming Pro Carbon, making it compatible with the same 8th and 9th Gen Intel processors. It targets users seeking a stable foundation without premium features. While the MSI board emphasizes high-speed USB 3.1 Gen 2 and advanced audio solutions, the ASRock model focuses on core stability for gaming builds. It does not offer PCIe 4.0 speeds, aligning it with the original Z390 limitations. This board suits builders who prioritize essential connectivity and reliability over extended multimedia features or aggressive overclocking headroom.
MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC also uses the LGA 1151 socket and ATX form factor, ensuring compatibility with your existing 8th or 9th Gen Intel CPU. It retains the dual M.2 slot configuration found in the original Carbon model, supporting fast NVMe storage. The Edge AC adds built-in Wi-Fi, a feature absent in the standard Carbon version. This makes it a practical choice for users who value wireless connectivity alongside storage speed. It sacrifices some of the premium audio and lighting customization of the Carbon board but delivers essential gaming performance and modern networking in a similar physical footprint.
MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon AC is nearly identical to the original board, sharing the LGA 1151 socket, ATX size, and Z390 chipset. The primary difference is the inclusion of built-in Wi-Fi, which the standard Carbon model lacks. Both boards feature dual M.2 slots with thermal shielding and high-speed USB ports. This variant suits gamers who want the same robust power delivery and storage options as the original but require wireless networking capabilities. It maintains the same physical dimensions and weight, ensuring it fits into standard ATX cases while providing enhanced connectivity for modern gaming setups.
GIGABYTE AORUS Z390 ATX Motherboard
The Gigabyte AORUS Z390 ATX motherboard matches the original with an LGA 1151 socket and Z390 chipset, supporting the same Intel processors. It offers integrated wireless capabilities, removing the need for external adapters. The board features solid power delivery suitable for 8th and 9th Gen builds. While the MSI board emphasizes specific audio boosts and RGB lighting effects, the Gigabyte model focuses on reliable connectivity and thermal management. It is a practical alternative for users who want integrated Wi-Fi and stable performance without the specific multimedia features of the MSI Gaming Pro Carbon.
Gigabyte Aorus Elite ATX Motherboard
The Gigabyte X570 AORUS Elite ATX differs significantly by using an AMD socket and chipset, making it incompatible with your Intel 8th or 9th Gen CPU. It supports PCIe 4.0 storage, offering faster data transfer rates than the Z390 platform. This board is designed for Ryzen 3000 processors, not Intel cores. It suits users willing to switch platforms for future-proofing and higher bandwidth storage speeds. If you are committed to Intel, this option is not viable. It provides stable voltage regulation and modern expansion options but requires a completely different processor and memory configuration.
GIGABYTE Gaming X AX DDR4 Motherboard
The Gigabyte B660M Gaming X AX DDR4 uses an LGA 1700 socket, supporting 12th Gen Intel processors rather than the older 8th or 9th Gen chips. It features Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5GbE Ethernet, offering faster networking than the Z390 boards. The compact form factor differs from the standard ATX size of the original. This model suits users building new systems with modern components who prioritize current wireless standards and storage speeds. It is not a direct replacement for LGA 1151 builds but represents a significant generational upgrade in connectivity and processor compatibility.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 8th/9th Gen gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Use Case
- Gaming
View on Amazon: MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon is an ATX motherboard for Intel 8th and 9th Gen processors. It features the Z390 chipset and LGA 1151 socket. You get dual-channel DDR4 support up to 4400 MHz overclocking. It includes two M.2 slots with thermal shielding and Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports. This board suits gamers needing reliable connectivity and expandability for high-performance builds.
Pros
- Supports 9th Gen Intel Core processors via LGA 1151 socket
- Dual-channel DDR4 memory support up to 4400 MHz (OC)
- Two M.2 slots with M.2 Shield Frozr thermal protection
- Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 connectivity on the rear I/O
Cons
- Limited to Intel LGA 1151 socket, excluding AMD platforms
- No mention of built-in Wi-Fi in the specifications
- Requires separate GPU for display output via HDMI or DP
Good fit if
- You are building a system with an Intel 8th or 9th Gen CPU
- You need dual M.2 storage options with thermal management
- You prefer the ATX form factor for larger cases
Skip if
- You require an AMD AM4 processor socket
- You need integrated wireless networking capabilities
- You are looking for a smaller ITX or Micro-ATX board
Verdict: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon ATX delivers solid performance for Intel 8th and 9th Gen users. It is a practical choice for gamers who need dual M.2 storage and robust USB connectivity.
ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel Z390 gaming builds needing stability
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 3.0
- Use Case
- Gaming
View on Amazon: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ASRock motherboard uses the Intel Z390 chipset and LGA 1151 socket for 8th and 9th Gen processors. It supports DDR4 memory up to 64GB and offers ATX form factor flexibility. The board includes PCIe 3.0 lanes for standard expansion. You get a stable power delivery system designed for continuous operation. It is a practical option for users building or upgrading a gaming PC with Intel components.
Pros
- Supports Intel 8th and 9th Gen processors via LGA 1151 socket
- ATX form factor for standard case compatibility
- DDR4 memory support up to 64GB capacity
- Stabilized power supply module for system stability
Cons
- Limited to PCIe 3.0 instead of newer PCIe 4.0
- No explicit mention of built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth in specs
- Basic thermal management relies on user chassis airflow
Good fit if
- You need a reliable ATX board for Intel Z390 builds
- You are upgrading an existing LGA 1151 system
- You prioritize stable power delivery for gaming workloads
Skip if
- You require PCIe 4.0 connectivity for next-gen GPUs
- You need integrated Wi-Fi without adding a card
- You are building with AMD Ryzen processors
Verdict: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX is a solid choice for Intel LGA 1151 gaming builds that do not require PCIe 4.0 speeds.
MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 8th and 9th Gen gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Use Case
- Gaming
View on Amazon: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This MSI motherboard targets Intel 8th and 9th Gen processors via the LGA 1151 socket. It features the Z390 chipset and supports DDR4 memory up to 4400 MHz. You get two M.2 slots and Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports. The ATX form factor includes an extended heatsink and Wi-Fi connectivity. It suits gamers needing reliable multi-GPU support and robust storage options.
Pros
- Supports Intel 8th and 9th Gen Core processors
- Two M.2 slots for fast NVMe storage
- Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 connectivity
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Cons
- Limited to Intel processors only
- Supports DDR4 memory, not DDR5
- No mention of rear USB-C ports
Good fit if
- You are building with an Intel 8th or 9th Gen CPU
- You need dual M.2 storage slots
- You want built-in Wi-Fi for gaming
Skip if
- You are using an AMD Ryzen processor
- You require DDR5 memory support
- You prefer a smaller micro-ATX form factor
Verdict: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX is a solid choice for Intel 8th and 9th Gen builds. It offers essential gaming features like dual M.2 slots and Wi-Fi. It fits users who prioritize connectivity and storage speed over future-proofing.
MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi
Best for: Intel 8th and 9th Gen gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Wi-Fi Standard
- 802.11ac
View on Amazon: MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard supports Intel 8th and 9th Gen processors via the LGA 1151 socket. It features dual-channel DDR4 memory support up to 4400 MHz overclocking. The board includes two M.2 slots with thermal shielding and built-in 802.11ac Wi-Fi. You get Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports and Mystic Light RGB control. It is designed for gaming builds requiring multi-GPU setups.
Pros
- Supports Intel 9th and 8th Gen Core processors on LGA 1151 socket
- Dual M.2 slots with M.2 Shield Frozr thermal protection
- Built-in 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Turbo USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports for high-speed data transfer
- DDR4 memory support up to 4400 MHz overclocking
Cons
- Limited to 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard instead of newer Wi-Fi 6
- Requires separate graphics cards for multi-GPU SLI or CFX configurations
- No mention of native USB-C port on the rear I/O panel
Good fit if
- You are building a gaming PC with Intel 8th or 9th Gen CPUs
- You need dual M.2 storage drives with thermal management
- You want built-in wireless networking without adding a separate card
Skip if
- You require the latest Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- You are using AMD Ryzen processors that need the AM4 socket
- You need a motherboard with integrated USB-C ports on the back panel
Verdict: MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon AC ATX is a solid choice for gamers building with Intel 8th or 9th Gen processors who value dual M.2 slots and built-in Wi-Fi. It suits users who prioritize thermal protection for NVMe drives and high-speed USB connectivity.
GIGABYTE AORUS Z390 ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 8th/9th Gen gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA1151
- Chipset
- Z390
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Wi-Fi Standard
- 802.11ac
View on Amazon: GIGABYTE AORUS Z390 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard supports 8th and 9th Gen Intel Core processors via the LGA1151 socket. It features a 12+1 phase digital VRM with DrMOS for stable power delivery. You get onboard 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5. Storage options include two M.2 slots with thermal guards. The board also includes an Intel Gigabit LAN and high-quality audio components for gaming.
Pros
- 12+1 phase digital VRM solution with DrMOS
- Onboard Intel CNVi 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5
- Dual M.2 slots with Thermal Guard technology
- ALC1220 audio codec with WIMA capacitors
Cons
- Limited to 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard
- Only two M.2 slots available
- Heavier build at 3.09 pounds
Good fit if
- You need onboard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- You want strong VRM power phases
- You prefer ATX form factor
Skip if
- You require PCIe 4.0 support
- You need more than two M.2 slots
- You prefer newer Wi-Fi standards
Verdict: Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Pro Wi-Fi ATX offers solid power delivery and connectivity for Intel 8th and 9th Gen builds. It suits gamers who want integrated wireless capabilities without needing external adapters.
Gigabyte Aorus Elite ATX Motherboard
Best for: AMD Ryzen 3000 gaming builds
- Chipset
- X570
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- M.2 Slots
- 2
- Power Phases
- 12
View on Amazon: Gigabyte Aorus Elite ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard uses the AMD X570 chipset for Ryzen 3000 processors. It features a 12-phase digital VRM with an extended heatsink. You get two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots with thermal guards. It supports DDR4 memory and includes front USB Type-C. This board suits gamers needing reliable power delivery and fast storage connectivity.
Pros
- 12-phase digital VRM with extended heatsink
- Dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots with thermal guard
- Supports AMD Ryzen 3000 series processors
- Front USB Type-C connectivity
Cons
- Only two M.2 slots available
- No built-in Wi-Fi listed in specifications
- Requires external fan for chipset cooling
Good fit if
- You build a PC with AMD Ryzen 3000 CPUs
- You need dual fast NVMe drives
- You want a standard ATX form factor
Skip if
- You require integrated Wi-Fi
- You prefer smaller mATX or ITX boards
- You use Intel processors
Verdict: Gigabyte X570 AORUS Elite ATX delivers solid power for Ryzen 3000 builds. It is a practical pick for users prioritizing PCIe 4.0 storage and stable voltage regulation.
GIGABYTE Gaming X AX DDR4 Motherboard
Best for: Compact 12th Gen Intel gaming builds
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Chipset
- B660
- Form Factor
- M-ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- M.2 Slots
- 2
View on Amazon: GIGABYTE Gaming X AX DDR4 Motherboard Affiliate link
This M-ATX motherboard supports 12th Gen Intel Core processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a B660 chipset with dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for fast storage. You get WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5, and 2.5GbE LAN for reliable connectivity. The 8+1+1 VRM design and comprehensive thermal cooling help maintain stable performance. It is a compact option for gamers who want modern connectivity in a smaller form factor.
Pros
- Supports 12th Gen Intel Core processors on LGA 1700 socket
- Dual PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots for high-speed storage
- WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5 for wireless connectivity
- 2.5GbE LAN for faster wired networking
- 8+1+1 hybrid digital VRM design with thermal guards
Cons
- M-ATX form factor is smaller than the ATX boards on this list
- Uses DDR4 memory instead of newer DDR5 options
- B660 chipset offers fewer expansion options than higher-end chipsets
Good fit if
- You need a compact M-ATX build for a smaller case
- You are building with 12th Gen Intel processors
- You want WiFi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN in a budget-friendly package
Skip if
- You require full-size ATX dimensions for maximum expansion
- You plan to use DDR5 memory for future-proofing
- You need a Z-series chipset for extensive overclocking capabilities
Verdict: Gigabyte B660M Gaming X AX DDR4 is a solid compact choice for 12th Gen Intel builds that prioritize modern wireless connectivity and storage speeds over maximum expansion slots.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI Gaming Pro Carbon ATX Motherboard | ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX Motherboard | MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX Motherboard | MSI LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi | GIGABYTE AORUS Z390 ATX Motherboard | Gigabyte Aorus Elite ATX Motherboard | GIGABYTE Gaming X AX DDR4 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 | LGA1151 | not specified | LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | Z390 | Z390 | Z390 | Z390 | Z390 | X570 | B660 |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | M-ATX |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 |
| PCIe Version | not specified | PCIe 3.0 | not specified | not specified | not specified | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 4.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 2 | not specified | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | not specified | not specified | not specified | 802.11ac | 802.11ac | not specified | WiFi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Gigabit | not specified | 2.5GbE |
| Power Phases | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 12+1 | 12 | 8+1+1 |
| Wi-Fi | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Use Case | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Series | not specified | Core i7 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches | not specified | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 1.2 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | 10.6 × 10.6 × 2.67 inches |
| Weight | 3.3 pounds | not specified | 3.3 pounds | 3.3 pounds | 3.09 pounds | 3 pounds | not specified |
| Size | ATX | One Size | ATX | ATX | not specified | not specified | B660M GAMING X AX DDR4 |
| Model | MPG Z390 GAMING PRO CARBON | LFDDDAGCB | 007B17-002R | MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon AC | Z390 AORUS PRO WIFI | X570 AORUS ELITE | B660M |
| Color | not specified | One Color | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | black |
Frequently asked questions
Which motherboard is best for Intel 8th and 9th Gen gaming?
The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon ATX is the top pick for these processors. It features an LGA 1151 socket and Z390 chipset, providing a practical foundation for gaming builds. It includes dual M.2 slots for fast storage and robust USB connectivity for peripherals.
What is the best budget alternative to the MSI Z390?
The ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4/AC ATX serves as the best budget option. It uses the same LGA 1151 socket and Z390 chipset, ensuring compatibility with 8th and 9th Gen Intel CPUs. It is designed for users who need stability without requiring PCIe 4.0 speeds.
Does the MSI Gaming Edge AC have Wi-Fi?
Yes, the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC ATX includes built-in Wi-Fi. It targets users who prioritize connectivity and storage speed. The board supports DDR4 memory and features dual M.2 slots, making it a solid choice for Intel 8th and 9th Gen gaming builds.
Which board offers PCIe 4.0 for AMD Ryzen 3000?
The Gigabyte X570 AORUS Elite ATX is the only option listed with PCIe 4.0 support. It uses the AMD X570 chipset and is designed for AMD Ryzen 3000 gaming builds. It delivers stable voltage regulation and prioritizes high-speed storage capabilities for modern AMD systems.
Is there an ATX board for 12th Gen Intel processors?
The Gigabyte B660M Gaming X AX DDR4 supports 12th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It is an ATX board that includes Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5GbE Ethernet. It is a compact choice for users who want modern wireless connectivity and storage speeds.
Which motherboard has the largest physical dimensions?
The Gigabyte Z390 AORUS PRO WIFI ATX measures 13.2 inches in length and 10.6 inches in width. It is slightly larger than the MSI options, which are typically 12 inches by 9.6 inches. This board offers integrated wireless capabilities for Intel 8th and 9th Gen builds.