6 Best Alternatives to the Msi Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard (2026)
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The MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ offers a balanced foundation for Intel LGA 1700 builds with DDR5 support and PCIe 5.0 bandwidth. If you are searching for msi z790 gaming plus wifi amz gaming motherboard alternatives, you might want different features or a distinct brand. Some users prefer a different chipset for overclocking limits, while others need more M.2 slots or a smaller form factor. The alternatives listed here share core specifications like the LGA 1700 socket and DDR5 memory type, ensuring compatibility with your processor and RAM. These boards provide similar connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet, which are standard for modern gaming setups. You might choose an alternative if you prioritize a specific aesthetic, such as the multicolor design of the MAG Tomahawk, or if you need extra storage expansion found in the ASUS ROG Strix series. Each option in this list overlaps with the original product’s key specs, allowing you to compare practical differences in power delivery, storage capacity, and network standards. This approach helps you find a board that fits your exact requirements without sacrificing essential performance metrics. The selection focuses on hardware specifications rather than subjective reviews, giving you clear data to make an informed decision for your desktop build.
Our top pick: MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard.
Comparing Gaming Plus Motherboard Alternatives
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard matches the original MSI Gaming Plus with an Intel LGA 1700 socket, standard ATX form factor, DDR5 memory channels, and a PCIe 5.0 slot for modern graphics cards. Both boards provide 2.5GbE wired networking alongside Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity. Unlike the standard retail Gaming Plus, this MPG option is noted as a renewed hardware component, weighing 3.92 pounds. It maintains the black color scheme and core Z790 architecture while giving you a direct alternative within the same platform generation. You should pick this board if you want identical LGA 1700 DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 specs while considering renewed hardware.
MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard steps down from the Z790 chipset to the B760 platform. It retains core LGA 1700 capabilities, including DDR5 memory compatibility, a PCIe 5.0 slot, 2.5GbE LAN, and Wi-Fi 6E. At 1 pound and measuring 12 by 9.6 by 2.5 inches, it features a multicolor finish rather than the solid black look of the Gaming Plus. You give up the Z790 chipset features, making this board focused strictly on non-overclocked systems. You should pick this alternative if you build a standard LGA 1700 gaming desktop and do not require the tuning features of the Z790 platform.
MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard shares the Z790 foundation with the MSI Gaming Plus. Both models support LGA 1700 processors, DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 graphics bandwidth, and Wi-Fi 6E wireless networking in a standard ATX layout measuring 12 by 9.6 by 2.5 inches. The Tomahawk brings a different hardware layout within the MAG series line, though its published specifications do not explicitly list the 2.5GbE Ethernet rating found on the Gaming Plus sheet. You should pick the MAG Z790 Tomahawk if you want a proven full-size ATX Z790 board with PCIe 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6E support for an Intel gaming build.
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero substantially expands hardware capacity compared to the MSI Gaming Plus. It upgrades the power delivery to a 20+1 power stage design and offers five M.2 storage slots for extensive NVMe drive arrays. Like the Gaming Plus, it provides LGA 1700 socket compatibility, DDR5 support, PCIe 5.0 speed, Wi-Fi 6E, and 2.5GbE networking. However, this heavy-duty board weighs 9.3 pounds and comes in larger packaging at 14.6 by 12.2 by 4.5 inches. You should pick this motherboard if you need maximum M.2 storage expansion and robust 20+1 power stages for high-demand Intel gaming or workstation systems.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F shifts from the Z790 platform to the Intel Z690 chipset while keeping the LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0 capability. It adds dedicated power and storage features over the Gaming Plus, delivering a 16+1 power stage layout and four M.2 slots for high-speed storage drives. Both motherboards include 2.5GbE wired LAN and Wi-Fi 6E wireless networking on a standard 12 by 9.6-inch ATX footprint. You give up the newer Z790 chipset generation in exchange for more M.2 slots. Choose this board if you want four M.2 slots on an Intel LGA 1700 build.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E trades the Z790 chipset for an Intel Z690 setup with elevated hardware expansion. It delivers 18+1 power stages, hardware troubleshooting tools, and five M.2 slots for multi-drive storage arrays. Both motherboards provide LGA 1700 processor support, DDR5 memory capability, PCIe 5.0 connectivity, 2.5GbE Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6E. At 6 pounds, this ASUS model is a heavier option than the Gaming Plus. You give up the Z790 chipset designation to gain five M.2 drives and an upgraded power stage layout. You should pick this alternative if you need five M.2 storage slots and onboard troubleshooting tools.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Intel LGA 1700 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 Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard is a full-size ATX board built on the Intel Z790 chipset and LGA 1700 socket. It pairs DDR5 memory support with PCIe 5.0 hardware readiness, alongside built-in Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5Gbps wired Ethernet port. You get direct compatibility with Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Generation processors. It suits you if you want modern standard connectivity for a balanced desktop gaming build.
Pros
- Supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors on LGA 1700
- PCIe 5.0 support for modern expansion
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet
- Configured for DDR5 system memory
Cons
- Full ATX form factor will not fit compact cases
- Restricted to Intel LGA 1700 socket CPUs
- Provides Wi-Fi 6E rather than Wi-Fi 7
Good fit if
- You plan to use a 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel processor.
- You want DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0 capability in an ATX chassis.
- You require both 2.5Gbps LAN and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.
Skip if
- You need a smaller micro-ATX or Mini-ITX motherboard.
- You are assembling an AMD-based system.
Verdict: MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard delivers a balanced foundation with DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 support, and fast networking for Intel LGA 1700 setups. It covers all core requirements for a standard ATX gaming PC without unnecessary complexity.
MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: PCIe 5.0 Intel desktop gaming builds
- 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 Edge DDR5 ATX Motherboard is an LGA 1700 board built for Intel 12th and 13th Gen Core processors. It features DDR5 memory compatibility, a PCIe 5.0 expansion slot, and multiple M.2 storage slots for high-speed drives. With integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN, this board gives you fast networking options. It suits you if you want a feature-rich ATX build with high-bandwidth expansion.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 expansion support
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet
- Multiple M.2 high-speed storage slots
- DDR5 memory compatibility
Cons
- Processor support list excludes 14th Gen Intel CPUs
- Renewed product status rather than factory new
Good fit if
- You build with an Intel 12th or 13th Gen LGA 1700 processor.
- You want PCIe 5.0 expansion paired with DDR5 memory.
- You need both Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps wired networking.
Skip if
- You require a brand-new factory-sealed motherboard rather than renewed hardware.
- You need documented out-of-the-box support for 14th Gen Intel CPUs.
Verdict: MSI MPG Edge DDR5 ATX Motherboard delivers PCIe 5.0 bandwidth, DDR5 support, and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for LGA 1700 systems. It provides robust expansion for users comfortable selecting a renewed hardware component.
MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: DDR5 Intel builds on B760 chipset
- 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 motherboard runs the Intel B760 chipset on the LGA 1700 socket. You get support for DDR5 memory clocked up to 7000+ OC MHz alongside a PCIe 5.0 expansion slot. It includes a 12+1+1 duet rail power delivery system, Wi-Fi 6E, and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. It suits you if you want modern DDR5 speeds and current-generation connectivity without stepping up to the Z790 platform.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 x16 expansion slot
- DDR5 memory support up to 7000+(OC) MHz
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps Ethernet networking
- 12+1+1 power phase design with dual 8-pin connectors
Cons
- Uses B760 chipset rather than Z-series
- M.2 slots capped at PCIe 4.0 speeds
Good fit if
- You need a DDR5 ATX motherboard with a PCIe 5.0 slot.
- You run a 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel LGA 1700 CPU.
- You want integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN.
Skip if
- You require a Z790 chipset for CPU multiplier tuning.
- You plan to install PCIe 5.0 M.2 NVMe drives.
Verdict: MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard delivers core LGA 1700 functionality with DDR5 support and a PCIe 5.0 slot. It serves as a practical foundation for non-overclocked Intel desktop setups.
MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: Full-size DDR5 gaming builds needing Wi-Fi 6E
- 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 ATX DDR5 Motherboard provides an LGA 1700 base for 12th and 13th Gen Intel CPUs. You get an ATX form factor equipped with DDR5 memory support, PCIe 5.0 bandwidth, and integrated Wi-Fi 6E. It suits builders assembling a standard desktop system who require modern expansion slots alongside fast wireless networking.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 expansion standard
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- Supports high-speed DDR5 memory
- Standard ATX form factor layout
Cons
- Listed support covers 12th and 13th Gen processors
- Full ATX dimensions will not fit smaller microATX cases
Good fit if
- You need PCIe 5.0 support for expansion hardware.
- You plan to use DDR5 memory on an LGA 1700 platform.
- You want integrated Wi-Fi 6E wireless networking.
Skip if
- You use a compact microATX or Mini-ITX computer case.
- You plan to build with DDR4 memory.
Verdict: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard delivers core modern platform features with PCIe 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6E support. It is a direct fit for full-size LGA 1700 desktop builds.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard
Best for: Z690 builds needing four M.2 storage slots
- 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
This ASUS ROG Strix DDR5 ATX Motherboard gives you an Intel Z690 foundation for LGA 1700 processors. You get a 16+1 power stage layout, DDR5 memory slots, and a PCIe 5.0 expansion slot. Networking includes Wi-Fi 6E alongside 2.5 Gb Ethernet. You also have four M.2 slots for storage expansion. It suits you if you want high-bandwidth networking and multiple drive slots on an established Intel chipset.
Pros
- 16+1 power stages with ProCool II power connector
- PCIe 5.0 support and DDR5 memory compatibility
- Four onboard M.2 slots with heatsinks
- Intel Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gb Ethernet
Cons
- Uses the older Intel Z690 chipset
- Product specs only list 12th Gen Intel Core processor readiness
Good fit if
- You want four M.2 slots for solid-state storage.
- You need Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gb Ethernet for high-speed networking.
- You plan to build with DDR5 memory on the LGA 1700 socket.
Skip if
- You want an Intel Z790 chipset motherboard.
- You need out-of-the-box listed support for 13th or 14th Gen Intel CPUs.
Verdict: ASUS ROG Strix DDR5 ATX Motherboard delivers a 16+1 power design, four M.2 slots, and fast Wi-Fi 6E networking. It serves as a solid Z690 option if you build around an LGA 1700 processor.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690 ATX Motherboard
Best for: multi-drive PCIe 5.0 gaming builds
- 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 Strix Z690 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ASUS ROG Strix DDR5 ATX Motherboard is an Intel LGA 1700 board built on the Z690 chipset. You get an 18+1 power stage design, DDR5 memory compatibility, and five M.2 slots, including one PCIe 5.0 lane. Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gb Ethernet provide networking. It suits you if you want extensive high-speed storage and dedicated power phases for a 12th Gen Intel gaming setup.
Pros
- Supports five M.2 drives, including one PCIe 5.0 slot
- 18+1 90A power stages with ProCool II connectors
- Wi-Fi 6E and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet networking
- Onboard BIOS FlashBack and Clear CMOS buttons
Cons
- Data lists processor support only for 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs
- Onboard HDMI port is limited to version 2.0
Good fit if
- You want up to five M.2 SSDs using the board and bundled expansion card.
- You run a 12th Gen Intel Core processor with DDR5 memory.
Skip if
- You need documented out-of-the-box support for 13th or 14th Gen Intel CPUs.
- You require an integrated HDMI 2.1 display port.
Verdict: ASUS ROG Strix DDR5 ATX Motherboard delivers 18+1 power stages and five M.2 slots for high-speed storage configurations. It gives you PCIe 5.0 readiness, Wi-Fi 6E, and hardware troubleshooting tools for 12th Gen Intel builds.
ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard
Best for: 12th Gen Intel gaming builds with high storage needs
- CPU Socket
- LGA 1700
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 6
View on Amazon: ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard Affiliate link
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WiFi supports 12th Gen Intel Core processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing. The board includes four M.2 slots and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. A 14+2 power phase design handles demanding tasks. This ATX motherboard suits gamers who need robust networking and fast storage options.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 AX201 module for reliable wireless connections
- 14+2 DrMOS power stages for stable performance
- Four M.2 slots for extensive NVMe SSD storage
- PCIe 5.0 support for next-generation graphics cards
- 2.5Gb LAN for faster wired networking speeds
Cons
- Supports only Wi-Fi 6, while competitors offer Wi-Fi 6E
- Limited to 12th Gen Intel processors, excluding newer generations
- Heavier at 2 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
Good fit if
- You are building a PC with 12th Gen Intel CPUs
- You need multiple M.2 drives for large storage arrays
- You want reliable Wi-Fi 6 without needing 6E bands
Skip if
- You plan to use 13th or 14th Gen Intel processors
- You require Wi-Fi 6E for lower latency on 6GHz bands
- You prefer a lighter motherboard for small form factor builds
Verdict: ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WiFi is a solid choice for builders using 12th Gen Intel chips who value four M.2 slots and strong power delivery. It fits users who do not need Wi-Fi 6E or newer CPU support.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI Gaming Plus ATX DDR5 Motherboard | MSI MPG LGA 1700 DDR5 ATX Motherboard | MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard | MSI Tomahawk ATX DDR5 Motherboard | ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F ATX Motherboard | ASUS ROG Strix Z690 ATX Motherboard | ASUS TUF Gaming ATX DDR5 Motherboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | Z790 | not stated | B760 | not stated | Z690 | not stated | 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 | not stated | 4 | 5 | 4 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | WiFi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | WiFi 6 |
| Ethernet Speed | 2.5Gbps | 2.5Gbps LAN | 2.5Gbps | not stated | 2.5Gb | 2.5 GbE | 2.5Gb LAN |
| Power Phases | not stated | not stated | 12+1+1 | not stated | 16+1 | 18+1 | 14+2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Use Case | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Dimensions | not stated | 2.76 × 1.97 × 0.39 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 13.3 × 10.7 × 2.7 inches | 14.4 × 12.2 × 4.5 inches | 8.66 × 3.15 × 1.18 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 3.92 pounds | 1 pounds | not stated | 2.99 pounds | 6 pounds | 2 pounds |
| Size | ATX | not stated | ATX | ATX | 12"x9.6" | not stated | not stated |
| Color | Black | Black | Multicolor | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Model | MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ | Z790 | B760TAMAWIFI | MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi | ROG STRIX Z690-F GAMING WIFI | ROG STRIX Z690-E GAMING WIFI | TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI |
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Frequently asked questions
Which alternatives support the same LGA 1700 CPU socket as the MSI Gaming Plus?
All 6 alternatives on this list feature the Intel LGA 1700 CPU socket. This means options like the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi, ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero, and ASUS ROG Strix Z690 boards support identical processor generations. You can swap between these models without changing your compatible Intel processor, maintaining the same socket fit while adjusting specific chipset features or storage capabilities.
Can you use DDR4 memory on these motherboard alternatives?
No, you cannot install DDR4 memory on any of these alternative motherboards. Every board in this guide, including the MSI Tomahawk, MSI MPG, and ASUS ROG Strix models, requires dedicated DDR5 memory modules. DDR5 RAM uses a physical notch design and electrical configuration that differs from DDR4, so you must pair these motherboards with DDR5 memory kits for your desktop build.
Which alternative offers the most M.2 slots for high-speed storage?
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero and ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E provide the highest storage capacity with five M.2 slots each. In contrast, the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F provides four M.2 slots. If your gaming or workstation configuration requires multiple high-speed drives without expansion cards, choosing a board with five M.2 slots gives you maximum internal drive connectivity.
What networking specifications do these motherboard alternatives offer?
Most of these alternative motherboards provide 2.5GbE wired Ethernet alongside Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity. Boards such as the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi, MSI MPG, and ASUS ROG models include both standards. The MSI Tomahawk also provides Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. These specs give you high-bandwidth local area network transfers and access to less congested 6 GHz wireless bands in compatible home setups.
Is the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi a viable alternative for gaming setups?
Yes, the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi serves as a practical alternative for standard Intel desktop gaming. It retains the essential LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 memory support, and a PCIe 5.0 slot for modern graphics cards. While the B760 chipset targets non-overclocked systems, it retains core high-speed features like Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet found on full Z790 alternatives.
Do Z690 motherboard alternatives still support PCIe 5.0 graphics cards?
Yes, both listed Intel Z690 alternatives include PCIe 5.0 support. The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F and ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E deliver PCIe 5.0 expansion bandwidth alongside standard DDR5 memory slots and LGA 1700 processor compatibility. Choosing a Z690 board keeps full PCIe 5.0 readiness for modern graphics cards while offering power delivery setups ranging from 16+1 to 18+1 power stages.
Which alternatives offer higher power phase counts for heavy-duty setups?
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero leads with 20+1 power stages, followed by the ASUS ROG Strix Z690 models with 18+1 and 16+1 designs. These robust power configurations deliver stable voltage delivery under heavy processing loads. If you are building a demanding LGA 1700 system that requires extensive power regulation and thermal gear, these boards offer advanced hardware foundations.