Looking Beyond the Msi Gaming Plus WiFi 7 ATX Motherboard? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The MSI Z890 Gaming Plus WiFi 7 ATX Motherboard supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors via the LGA 1851 socket. If you are considering msi z890 gaming plus wifi gaming motherboard alternatives, you may want to look at other options based on different specifications. This board features Wi-Fi 7 and 5G LAN speeds, which appeal to users needing fast connectivity. However, you might prefer a different CPU socket, such as LGA 1700 or AM5, for existing hardware compatibility. Some buyers also seek smaller form factors or lower costs.
We selected 6 alternatives that share key specs like ATX size, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 speeds. These boards include models from ASUS and MSI, covering various Intel and AMD platforms. You will find choices with Wi-Fi 7, Thunderbolt 4, or different Ethernet speeds. This guide helps you compare the practical differences between these motherboards. You can choose a board that fits your specific processor and networking needs without compromising on essential performance standards.
Our top pick: MSI Gaming Plus WiFi 7 ATX Motherboard.
How each alternative compares
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero uses the LGA 1700 socket, supporting 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors rather than the newer Core Ultra Series 2. It shares the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and Wi-Fi 7 standard found in the MSI option. Both boards offer PCIe 5.0 speeds. However, the ASUS model adds Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, which the MSI board does not list. This makes the ASUS choice better for users who need high-speed external device transfers. You should pick this if you are building with older Intel CPUs but still want premium connectivity features and robust power delivery for high-end gaming.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi also targets the LGA 1700 socket, meaning it supports 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors instead of the Core Ultra Series 2 used by the original. It retains the ATX size, DDR5 memory, and Wi-Fi 7 wireless standard. The main difference lies in the wired network speed. The original board provides 5Gbps Ethernet, while this alternative offers 2.5GbE. If you do not require the fastest possible wired speeds, this board is a practical alternative. It is ideal for builders who want Wi-Fi 7 and solid power design but are using previous-generation Intel CPUs.
ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0
This ASUS Z790 motherboard targets the LGA 1700 socket for 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors, unlike the LGA 1851 socket in the original MSI board. It matches the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and Wi-Fi 7 standard. The key difference is the Ethernet speed. The original provides 5Gbps, while this model offers 1GbE. You should consider this alternative if you are building with older Intel CPUs and prioritize budget-friendly pricing over high-speed wired networking. It is suitable for users who value Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 support but do not need the fastest LAN speeds.
ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard
The ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi 7 supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors, matching the original board’s CPU compatibility. It shares the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and Wi-Fi 7 standard. The primary difference is the Ethernet speed. The original board features 5Gbps Ethernet, while this ASUS model provides 2.5GbE. This alternative is designed for users who want modern processor support and wireless standards but are okay with slightly slower wired speeds. It is a solid choice for builders who prioritize storage speeds and modern connectivity over the fastest possible network throughput.
MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi uses the AM5 socket, supporting AMD Ryzen processors instead of Intel Core Ultra Series 2 chips. It matches the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and Wi-Fi 7 standard. This board is for AMD builders rather than Intel users. It offers similar modern connectivity features but targets a different processor ecosystem. You should pick this alternative if you are building an AMD-based gaming PC and want PCIe 5.0 support and Wi-Fi 7. It is not suitable for Intel CPU builds, as the socket compatibility is completely different.
MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX Motherboard
The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi also uses the AM5 socket for AMD Ryzen processors, differing from the Intel-focused original board. It shares the ATX form factor, DDR5 memory support, and Wi-Fi 7 standard. This model is designed for AMD enthusiasts who need robust power delivery and advanced thermal solutions. It is not compatible with Intel CPUs. You should choose this alternative if you are building an AMD gaming PC and want high-speed networking and durable construction. It offers similar modern features but targets a completely different processor platform than the MSI Z890 Gaming Plus.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI Gaming Plus WiFi 7 ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel Core Ultra Series 2 gaming 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 Gaming Plus WiFi 7 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI Z890 Gaming Plus WiFi supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors via the LGA 1851 socket. It features dual-channel DDR5 memory support up to 256GB and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. Wi-Fi 7 and a 5G LAN port provide high-speed networking. This ATX motherboard is designed for gaming builds that need modern connectivity and future-proofed memory options.
Pros
- Supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs on LGA 1851 socket
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 with 320MHz channels for up to 5.8Gbps speeds
- Features 5G LAN for premium wired network performance
- Supports dual-channel DDR5 memory up to 256GB capacity
Cons
- Wi-Fi 6E option is available in a separate variant
- Standard ATX size may not fit smaller cases
- No mention of USB4 or Thunderbolt support in specifications
Good fit if
- You are building a new system with Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors
- You want the latest Wi-Fi 7 and 5G LAN connectivity
- You need a standard ATX board with high memory capacity support
Skip if
- You are using older Intel 12th or 13th generation processors
- You require Wi-Fi 6E instead of Wi-Fi 7
- You are building a compact ITX or micro-ATX system
Verdict: The MSI Z890 Gaming Plus WiFi is a solid choice for gamers upgrading to Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors who prioritize modern Wi-Fi 7 and 5G LAN speeds. It fits users who need a standard ATX form factor with robust DDR5 support.
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero
Best for: high-end Intel gaming and connectivity needs
- 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
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero is an ATX motherboard for Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors. It features a robust 20+1+2 power stage design and Wi-Fi 7. You get two PCIe 5.0 slots, including an M.2 slot, plus dual Thunderbolt 4 ports. This board suits users who need top-tier connectivity and strong power delivery for high-end builds.
Pros
- 20+1+2 power stages with dual ProCool II connectors
- Onboard PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot and four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots
- Dual Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C ports
- Wi-Fi 7 support
Cons
- LGA 1700 socket limits compatibility to Intel 12th through 14th Gen
- No mention of integrated LCD screen or display features
- Heavier build at 1.5 pounds compared to standard ATX boards
Good fit if
- You need PCIe 5.0 support for future-proof storage and graphics
- You require dual Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
- You are building with Intel 13th or 14th Gen processors
Skip if
- You plan to use AMD Ryzen processors
- You prefer a smaller form factor than ATX
- You need native support for Intel Core Ultra (LGA 1851) CPUs
Verdict: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero delivers premium power and connectivity for Intel enthusiasts. It fits users who prioritize PCIe 5.0 speed and Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-performance gaming and content creation.
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th-14th Gen gaming builds with Wi-Fi 7 needs
- 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
This MSI motherboard supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features DDR5 memory support up to 7800+ MHz and includes Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. The 16+1+1 power phase design and PCIe 5.0 slots provide robust performance for gaming. It is an ATX board suited for users building with current Intel CPUs who need fast data transfer and stable power delivery.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 7800+ MHz
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 for fast wireless connections
- 16+1+1 power phase arrangement for stable CPU power
- Features PCIe 5.0 slots and Lightning Gen 5 M.2
Cons
- Uses the older LGA 1700 socket instead of LGA 1851
- ATX form factor is larger than micro-ATX options
- Requires DDR5 memory which may increase build cost
Good fit if
- You are building with a 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel CPU
- You want Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gbps Ethernet speeds
- You need a reliable ATX board for gaming
Skip if
- You are using AMD Ryzen processors
- You prefer the latest LGA 1851 socket for future upgrades
- You need a smaller form factor than ATX
Verdict: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi ATX delivers solid power and connectivity for Intel 12th through 14th Gen builds. It fits users who prioritize Wi-Fi 7 and DDR5 speeds over newer socket platforms.
ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0
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
- M.2 Slots
- 3
View on Amazon: ASUS Z790 ATX Motherboard with PCIe 5.0 Affiliate link
The ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi7 supports Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors via the LGA 1700 socket. It features a 14+1 DrMOS power design and PCIe 5.0 support. You get three M.2 slots and built-in Wi-Fi 7. The board includes a 1Gb Ethernet port and Thunderbolt header support. This ATX motherboard offers solid connectivity and power delivery for gaming builds.
Pros
- 14+1 DrMOS power phases for stable delivery
- Wi-Fi 7 and 1Gb Ethernet connectivity
- Three M.2 slots for storage expansion
- PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen components
Cons
- 1Gb Ethernet speed is slower than 2.5Gb options
- LGA 1700 socket limits CPU upgrades to 14th Gen
- Heavier build at 2.15 pounds
Good fit if
- You are building with Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen CPUs
- You need Wi-Fi 7 for fast wireless networking
- You want PCIe 5.0 readiness for future GPUs
Skip if
- You require 2.5Gb Ethernet for faster wired speeds
- You plan to use Intel Core Ultra (LGA 1851) processors
- You need more than three M.2 storage slots
Verdict: The ASUS Z790 Gaming WiFi7 ATX is a practical choice for users building with Intel 12th through 14th Gen processors who value Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 support.
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 via the LGA 1851 socket. It features a robust 12+2+1 power stage design and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. You get three M.2 slots, including one PCIe 5.0 option, all equipped with heatsinks. This board suits gamers seeking modern AI-ready infrastructure with reliable thermal management and stable power delivery for demanding applications.
Pros
- Supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 on LGA 1851 socket
- Includes Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 GbE Ethernet
- Features three M.2 slots with one PCIe 5.0 connection
- 12+2+1 power stages ensure stable power delivery
Cons
- B860 chipset lacks CPU overclocking support
- Only provides 2.5 GbE Ethernet speed
- ATX form factor requires a larger case
Good fit if
- You are building with Intel Core Ultra Series 2
- You need PCIe 5.0 M.2 storage
- You want Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
Skip if
- You plan to overclock your CPU
- You require 10 GbE networking
- You prefer a compact mATX board
Verdict: The ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi 7 ATX is a solid foundation for Intel Core Ultra Series 2 builds. It fits users who prioritize modern storage speeds and wireless standards over CPU overclocking capabilities.
MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: AMD Ryzen 7000 series 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
This ATX motherboard supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors via the AM5 socket. It features DDR5 memory support and PCIe 5.0 connectivity. The board includes Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps Ethernet for fast networking. A built-in USB 4 port offers 40Gbps transmission speeds. Extended heatsinks help maintain performance under load. It suits gamers seeking modern AMD platforms with robust I/O options.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 series processors
- Includes built-in USB 4 port with 40Gbps speed
- Features Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps Ethernet
- Uses DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 standard
Cons
- Heavier build at 4 pounds
- Larger dimensions at 13.5 inches long
- Limited to AM5 socket compatibility
Good fit if
- You are building an AMD Ryzen 7000 or newer system
- You need high-speed USB 4 connectivity for peripherals
- You want Wi-Fi 7 and 5G LAN networking
Skip if
- You require Intel CPU support
- You need DDR4 memory compatibility
- You prefer a smaller ITX form factor
Verdict: MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi AM5 is a solid choice for AMD enthusiasts who need PCIe 5.0 and USB 4 speeds. It fits users prioritizing modern networking and processor support over compact size.
MSI MPG Carbon WiFi AM5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM5 gaming builds needing PCIe 5.0 and 5G LAN
- 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 built for AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors. It features the X870E chipset, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe 5.0 lanes for high-speed data transfer. You get Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and a 5 Gbps Ethernet port for robust networking. The board includes a heavy plated MOSFET heatsink with heat-pipes for thermal management. It also offers EZ PCIe Release for easy component installation.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 Series Desktop Processors
- PCIe 5.0 solution with up to 128GB/s bandwidth
- Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gbps Ethernet dual LAN
- Heavy plated MOSFET heatsink with heat-pipe thermal design
- EZ PCIe Release button for slot locking
Cons
- Heavier build at 5.49 pounds compared to lighter ATX boards
- Larger physical footprint at 13.5 inches in length
- Premium thermal design adds bulk to the board
Good fit if
- You need PCIe 5.0 support for future-proofing
- You want high-speed 5 Gbps wired networking
- You prefer robust thermal management for AM5 CPUs
Skip if
- You require a smaller form factor than ATX
- You are building with Intel processors
- You prefer lighter weight components for easy handling
Verdict: The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi suits builders seeking a robust AM5 platform with PCIe 5.0 and advanced thermal solutions. It is ideal for those prioritizing high-speed networking and durable construction over compact size.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI Gaming Plus WiFi 7 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 | 5Gbps LAN | not stated | 2.5Gbps | 1Gb | 2.5 GbE | 5Gbps LAN | 5Gbps LAN |
| Power Phases | not stated | 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 | 13.4 × 10.6 × 2.78 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 | not stated | 1.5 pounds | 3.66 pounds | 2.15 pounds | 1.94 pounds | 4 pounds | 5.49 pounds |
| Size | 13.4"L x 10.7"W x 2.9"H | 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 |
| Model | Z890 GAMING PLUS WIFI | 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 |
| 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 Z890 Gaming Plus WiFi 7 ATX Motherboard supports Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors via the LGA 1851 socket. The ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 ATX Motherboard also supports this platform using the B860 chipset. Both boards feature DDR5 memory support and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity for modern gaming builds.
Does the MSI Z890 Gaming Plus WiFi use PCIe 5.0?
Yes, the MSI Z890 Gaming Plus WiFi 7 ATX Motherboard includes PCIe 5.0 support. This specification allows for faster data transfer rates with compatible graphics cards and storage devices. It ensures your system is ready for high-performance components that utilize the latest interface standards for improved bandwidth.
What is the difference between the LGA 1700 and LGA 1851 sockets?
The LGA 1700 socket, found in boards like the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero, supports 12th through 14th Gen Intel processors. The LGA 1851 socket, used in the MSI Z890 Gaming Plus WiFi, is designed for the newer Intel Core Ultra Series 2. This means they are not interchangeable.
Which alternative motherboard is best for AMD Ryzen 7000 series?
The MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard is a solid choice for AMD Ryzen 7000 series gaming builds. It uses the AM5 socket and provides DDR5 memory support. It also features Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0, offering modern connectivity options for AMD enthusiasts looking for a reliable platform.
Do these motherboards include Wi-Fi 7?
All listed alternatives include Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. This standard provides faster wireless speeds and better performance in congested areas compared to previous generations. You get improved stability for online gaming and large file transfers without needing to rely on wired Ethernet connections for every device.
Which board offers the best Ethernet speed for wired connections?
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero and the MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard are designed for high-end connectivity. While specific Ethernet speeds vary, these premium boards often include advanced networking features. The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi includes 2.5GbE Ethernet for faster wired data transfer.
Is the ASUS TUF Gaming Wi-Fi 7 suitable for overclocking?
The ASUS TUF B860-PLUS WiFi 7 ATX Motherboard is described as a solid foundation for Intel Core Ultra Series 2 builds. It prioritizes modern storage speeds and wireless standards over CPU overclocking capabilities. If you need extensive overclocking features, you might consider other options in the lineup.
What form factor do these motherboards use?
All listed motherboards use the standard ATX form factor. This size fits most mid-tower and full-tower computer cases. It provides ample space for multiple expansion slots, RAM sticks, and M.2 storage drives, making it a versatile choice for building a desktop computer with room for future upgrades.