6 Best Alternatives to the NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard (2026)
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The NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard is a strong choice for Intel 12th and 13th Gen gaming builds. It features a clean black design, ATX form factor, and built-in Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. However, you might need nzxt n7 z790 motherboard alternatives if your build requires AMD support, different memory types, or distinct aesthetic colors. Some users also prefer specific chipset features or additional storage slots that this model does not provide.
We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original product in key areas. All listed boards support ATX cases and include modern Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6E. They also cater to current gaming needs with DDR5 memory support and relevant PCIe versions. This list covers Intel LGA 1700 options for similar chipsets, as well as AM5 boards for Ryzen users. You can choose based on your specific socket requirements, color preferences, or need for extra M.2 slots. Each option provides a practical path to a functional gaming system without compromising on essential connectivity or form factor.
How alternatives compare to NZXT N7 Z790
MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi shifts your platform to AMD AM5. While the NZXT N7 Z790 supports Intel 12th and 13th Gen CPUs, this board uses the AM5 socket for Ryzen processors. It retains the ATX form factor and Wi-Fi 6E standard found on the NZXT model. You gain DDR5 memory support and PCIe 4.0 lanes instead of Intel-specific features. The 2.5GbE Ethernet port matches modern networking expectations. This option suits builders who prefer AMD CPUs over Intel. You trade the NZXT aesthetic for solid thermal efficiency and broad AM5 compatibility. It is a practical choice for gamers prioritizing platform longevity and connectivity.
GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard
The GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX stays on the Intel LGA 1700 socket like the NZXT N7 Z790. It supports 12th and 13th Gen processors but upgrades to PCIe 5.0 for both GPU and storage. The board includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet, matching the NZXT connectivity specs. You get DDR5 memory support and a robust power delivery system. The ATX form factor ensures it fits standard cases. This alternative is ideal if you want modern I/O standards and stable power for gaming. You sacrifice the specific NZXT visual design for enhanced future-proofing with PCIe 5.0 support. It is a solid choice for Intel gamers seeking connectivity and stability.
GIGABYTE Gaming X AX AM5 ATX Motherboard
The GIGABYTE X670 Gaming X AX AM5 moves you to the AMD platform. It features an AM5 socket and DDR5 memory, differing from the Intel-based NZXT N7 Z790. This board offers four M.2 slots, providing more storage expansion than typical Z790 boards. It includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet for reliable networking. The ATX form factor fits standard cases. You gain a 14+2+2 power design for strong VRM performance. This option suits builders who prioritize storage capacity and reliable power delivery over the latest Wi-Fi standard. You trade the NZXT Intel ecosystem for AMD Ryzen compatibility and extensive M.2 connectivity. It is a premium choice for AM5 enthusiasts.
MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
The MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi remains on the Intel LGA 1700 socket, supporting the same CPUs as the NZXT N7 Z790. It features ATX form factor and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. You get DDR5 memory support and PCIe 5.0 lanes for GPU and storage. The 2.5GbE Ethernet port matches the NZXT networking specs. This board offers strong power delivery without the premium aesthetic features of the NZXT model. It is a practical choice for users who want reliable performance and modern connectivity. You sacrifice the clean black design for a more functional approach. This option suits Intel gamers who prioritize power delivery and wireless connectivity over visual customization. It is a solid alternative for standard ATX builds.
ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W
The ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W shifts to the AMD AM5 socket. It supports Ryzen processors and DDR5 memory, differing from the Intel NZXT N7 Z790. The board features a white aesthetic, offering a visual alternative to the black NZXT design. It includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet for modern connectivity. You gain PCIe 5.0 support for GPU and storage. The ATX form factor fits standard cases. This option suits builders who prioritize a white theme and modern PCIe standards. You trade the Intel ecosystem for AMD compatibility and a distinct visual style. It is a solid choice for AM5 gamers seeking aesthetic appeal and reliable performance without premium enthusiast features.
ASUS TUF B850-E WiFi ATX
The ASUS TUF GAMING B850-E WIFI uses the AMD AM5 socket, moving away from the Intel platform of the NZXT N7 Z790. It supports Ryzen CPUs and DDR5 memory. The board includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet for networking. You get PCIe 5.0 support for future-proofing. The ATX form factor ensures compatibility with standard cases. This option features multiple M.2 slots for ample storage expansion. It is ideal for gamers who value reliable performance and storage options over premium enthusiast features. You trade the Intel ecosystem for AMD Ryzen compatibility and robust power delivery. It is a practical choice for AM5 builds prioritizing connectivity and storage capacity.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard
Best for: Intel 12th/13th Gen gaming builds
- Chipset
- Intel Z790
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Wi-Fi Standard
- WiFi 6E
- Use Case
- Gaming
- Dimensions
- 15.1 × 12.1 × 3.9 inches
View on Amazon: NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard Affiliate link
The NZXT N7 Z790 is an ATX gaming motherboard built for Intel 12th and 13th Gen processors. It features the Intel Z790 chipset and includes built-in Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. The board measures 15.1 inches by 12.1 inches and comes in a black finish. This motherboard suits gamers who want a clean aesthetic and reliable wireless networking for their desktop builds.
Pros
- Supports Intel 12th and 13th Gen CPUs
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6E for fast wireless connections
- Standard ATX form factor for wide case compatibility
- Intel Z790 chipset for robust feature sets
Cons
- Limited to black color options only
- No mention of USB-C front panel headers in specifications
- No integrated display output on the rear I/O
Good fit if
- You are building a desktop with an Intel 12th or 13th Gen processor
- You need reliable Wi-Fi 6E without adding a separate card
- You prefer a standard ATX size for your case
Skip if
- You are using AMD Ryzen processors
- You need a smaller micro-ATX or mini-ITX board
- You require DDR5 memory support as this board uses DDR4
Verdict: NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard fits users building with Intel 12th or 13th Gen CPUs who want clean aesthetics and Wi-Fi 6E. It does not suit AMD users or those needing DDR5 memory.
MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM5 gaming builds with DDR5
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- B650
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 4.0
- Wi-Fi Standard
- Wi-Fi 6E
View on Amazon: MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi uses the AM5 socket for Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors. It supports DDR5 memory up to 6400+ MHz and features PCIe 4.0 lanes. You get integrated Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5G LAN port for stable connectivity. The board includes extended heatsinks and M.2 Shield Frozr for thermal management. It is an ATX board suited for gamers seeking reliable performance.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series CPUs
- DDR5 memory support up to 6400+ MHz
- Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G LAN
- Extended heatsink design with M.2 Shield Frozr
Cons
- PCIe 4.0 limits maximum bandwidth compared to newer standards
- ATX form factor requires a larger case
- Weight is 3.95 pounds
Good fit if
- You want AM5 compatibility with DDR5 memory
- You need built-in Wi-Fi 6E and fast Ethernet
- You prefer a standard ATX motherboard size
Skip if
- You require PCIe 5.0 for maximum future-proofing
- You need a smaller mATX form factor
- You are building with AMD AM4 processors
Verdict: MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi offers solid AM5 support and modern networking for gamers who prioritize thermal efficiency and connectivity.
GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel Z790 builds needing Wi-Fi 6E
- 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: GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
The GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX uses the Intel Z790 chipset for LGA 1700 processors. It supports DDR5 memory across four DIMMs and offers PCIe 5.0 for future storage and graphics upgrades. The board includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN for fast networking. Its 16+2+1 phase VRM design aims to handle demanding workloads. This ATX motherboard suits gamers who want robust connectivity and modern standards.
Pros
- Intel Z790 chipset supports 12th and 13th Gen Core processors
- Dual-channel DDR5 support with four DIMM slots
- PCIe 5.0 connectivity for next-generation components
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN
- 16+2+1 phase digital VRM solution
Cons
- Heavier build at 4.19 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- ATX form factor requires a larger case
- Lacks USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C in key_specs list despite feature mention
Good fit if
- You need Wi-Fi 6E for wireless networking
- You want PCIe 5.0 support for future upgrades
- You are building with an Intel 12th or 13th Gen CPU
Skip if
- You prefer AMD Ryzen processors
- You need a smaller micro-ATX or ITX board
- You require Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
Verdict: GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX ATX is a solid choice for Intel gamers who value modern I/O standards like Wi-Fi 6E and PCIe 5.0. It fits users who prioritize connectivity and stable power delivery for their build.
GIGABYTE Gaming X AX AM5 ATX Motherboard
Best for: AM5 Ryzen builds needing four M.2 slots
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- X670
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
View on Amazon: GIGABYTE Gaming X AX AM5 ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This GIGABYTE motherboard uses the AMD X670 chipset for Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors. It features a 14+2+2 phase power design and supports DDR5 memory. You get PCIe 5.0 connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, and four M.2 slots. It is built for AM5 sockets and ATX cases. This board suits gamers who want strong power delivery and modern expansion options.
Pros
- Supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series CPUs
- 14+2+2 phase digital VRM power design
- Includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE Ethernet
- Offers four M.2 slots for storage
Cons
- Uses Wi-Fi 6E instead of newer Wi-Fi 7
- Has only 2.5GbE Ethernet instead of 10GbE
- Lacks the 10+2+2 or higher phase counts found on premium alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a board for AM5 Ryzen 7000 or newer processors
- You want four M.2 slots for storage expansion
- You prefer ATX form factor with strong power phases
Skip if
- You require Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- You are building an Intel-based system
- You need 10GbE Ethernet speeds
Verdict: GIGABYTE X670 Gaming X AX AM5 ATX provides a solid 14+2+2 power design and four M.2 slots for AM5 builds. It fits users who prioritize storage capacity and reliable VRM phases over the latest Wi-Fi standard.
MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard
Best for: Intel LGA 1700 gaming builds with ATX cases
- 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 Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This MSI Z790 ATX motherboard supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors on the LGA 1700 socket. It uses DDR5 memory with speeds over 7200 MHz when overclocked. The board features a 14+1+1 power phase design and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. It includes PCIe 5.0 support and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet. This setup suits gamers who want a standard ATX size with modern connectivity options.
Pros
- Supports DDR5 memory up to 7200+ MHz overclocked
- 14+1+1 Duet Rail Power System with DrMOS
- Includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet
- Features PCIe 5.0 slot and Lightning Gen 4 M.2
Cons
- Lacks RGB lighting customization details in the provided data
- Uses a standard black color scheme without white accents
- Does not list USB 4 or Thunderbolt 4 support
Good fit if
- You are building a desktop with an Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen processor
- You prefer a standard ATX form factor for your case
- You need reliable Wi-Fi 6E and fast Ethernet for gaming
Skip if
- You require a motherboard with a white PCB or aesthetic
- You are building with AMD Ryzen processors on AM5
- You need a mini-ITX board for a small form factor case
Verdict: MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX is a solid option for Intel LGA 1700 builds. It fits users who want strong power delivery and modern wireless connectivity without needing premium aesthetic features.
ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W
Best for: White AM5 gaming builds needing PCIe 5.0 GPU support
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- AMD B650E
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
View on Amazon: ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W Affiliate link
This white ATX motherboard uses the AMD B650 chipset with an AM5 socket for Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series CPUs. It features DDR5 memory support and PCIe 5.0 for both the graphics slot and one M.2 drive. The board includes three M.2 slots, Wi-Fi 6E, and 2.5Gb Ethernet. Its 8+2+1 phase power design targets stable performance for gaming builds.
Pros
- PCIe 5.0 support for GPU and primary M.2 drive
- Three M.2 slots for storage expansion
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet connectivity
- White PCB design for aesthetic builds
Cons
- B650 chipset lacks PCIe 5.0 for secondary M.2 slots
- Heavier build at 3.64 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- No mention of dedicated audio capacitors in specifications
Good fit if
- You want a white motherboard for a matching case
- You need PCIe 5.0 for a modern graphics card
- You plan to use DDR5 memory for Ryzen 7000 or newer CPUs
Skip if
- You require PCIe 5.0 for all M.2 storage slots
- You prefer a black motherboard to match other components
- You are building with older AM4 socket processors
Verdict: ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W White suits builders who prioritize a white aesthetic and modern PCIe 5.0 graphics support. It delivers solid connectivity for AM5 Ryzen systems without the premium features of higher-end chipsets.
ASUS TUF B850-E WiFi ATX
Best for: AM5 gaming builds with multiple M.2 drives
- CPU Socket
- AM5
- Chipset
- B850
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 3
View on Amazon: ASUS TUF B850-E WiFi ATX Affiliate link
This ATX motherboard uses the AMD B850 chipset and AM5 socket for Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors. It features an 8+2+1 power phase design with 80A DrMOS stages. You get three M.2 slots, including one PCIe 5.0 option. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet. It supports DDR5 memory and offers front USB 20Gbps Type-C ports for fast data transfer.
Pros
- AM5 socket supports Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series CPUs
- Three M.2 slots with one PCIe 5.0 and two PCIe 4.0
- 8+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages for stable power delivery
- Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet connectivity
- Front panel USB 20Gbps Type-C connector
Cons
- B850 chipset lacks the full feature set of the Z890 series
- Single PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot limits next-gen storage expansion
- 2.5Gb Ethernet speed is lower than the 10Gb options on some competitors
Good fit if
- You need a reliable AM5 board for Ryzen 7000 or 9000 series processors
- You want multiple M.2 drives with future-proof PCIe 5.0 support
- You prefer a black ATX build with robust power delivery
Skip if
- You require the highest-end Z890 chipset features for extreme overclocking
- You need 10Gb Ethernet or Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- You are building with an Intel LGA 1700 processor
Verdict: ASUS TUF GAMING B850-E WIFI provides a solid foundation for AM5 builds with strong power delivery and modern connectivity. It suits gamers who value reliable performance and ample storage options over premium enthusiast features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | NZXT N7 Z790 ATX Gaming Motherboard | MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi ATX Motherboard | GIGABYTE Gaming X ATX Motherboard | GIGABYTE Gaming X AX AM5 ATX Motherboard | MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard | ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W | ASUS TUF B850-E WiFi ATX |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | not stated | AM5 | LGA 1700 | AM5 | LGA 1700 | AM5 | AM5 |
| Chipset | Intel Z790 | B650 | Z790 | X670 | Z790 | AMD B650E | B850 |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| Memory Type | not stated | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 | DDR5 |
| PCIe Version | not stated | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | not stated | not stated | not stated | 4 | not stated | 3 | 3 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | WiFi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | not stated | 2.5Gbps | 2.5GbE LAN | 2.5GbE | 2.5Gbps | 2.5 GbE | 2.5Gb Ethernet |
| Power Phases | not stated | not stated | 16+2+1 | 14+2+2 | 14+1+1 | 8+2+1 | 8+2+1 |
| 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 | 15.1 × 12.1 × 3.9 inches | 12 × 9.6 × 2.5 inches | 13.2 × 10.6 × 3.14 inches | 13.5 × 3.15 × 10.7 inches | 14.1 × 0.94 × 10.2 inches | 14 × 4 × 12 inches | 14 × 10.7 × 2.4 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 3.95 pounds | 4.19 pounds | not stated | 3 pounds | 3.64 pounds | 2.7 pounds |
| Color | Black | Information Not Available | not stated | GAMING | Black | WHITE | BLACK |
| Model | N7-Z79XT-B1 | MS-B650TOMAHAWKWIFI | Z790 GAMING X AX | X670 GAMING X AX V2 | Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI-AMZ | B650E MAX GAMING WIFI W | TUF GAMING B850-E WIFI |
| Size | not stated | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX | White|M.2x3|PCIe 5.0|WiFi6E | 3X M.2|WiFi6E|2.5Gb LAN |
Readers of this guide also look at nzxt h510 alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an AM5 motherboard with my Intel CPU?
No. The NZXT N7 Z790 uses the LGA 1700 socket for Intel processors. AM5 motherboards, such as the MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi or GIGABYTE X670 Gaming X AX, are designed exclusively for AMD Ryzen CPUs. You must match the motherboard socket to your processor brand and generation to ensure compatibility.
Which alternative supports the latest PCIe 5.0 standard?
Several alternatives offer PCIe 5.0 support. The GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX and MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi provide this for Intel builds. For AMD AM5 systems, the GIGABYTE X670 Gaming X AX, ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W, and ASUS TUF B850-E WiFi also include PCIe 5.0 lanes for future-proofing your GPU or storage.
Do these alternatives include Wi-Fi 6E connectivity?
Yes. All listed alternatives feature Wi-Fi 6E. The MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi, GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX, GIGABYTE X670 Gaming X AX, MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi, ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W, and ASUS TUF B850-E WiFi all include this modern wireless standard for faster and more reliable connections.
Which board is best for building with white components?
The ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W is the top choice for white aesthetics. It features a white color scheme and supports AM5 Ryzen processors. It offers PCIe 5.0 GPU support and Wi-Fi 6E, making it suitable for builders prioritizing a clean, white-themed look without sacrificing modern connectivity standards.
How many M.2 slots do these motherboards have?
Storage options vary by model. The GIGABYTE X670 Gaming X AX provides four M.2 slots for maximum capacity. The ASUS TUF B850-E WiFi supports three M.2 drives. Other models like the MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi and ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W include three M.2 slots for versatile storage configurations.
Which alternative offers 2.5GbE Ethernet speed?
Most alternatives include 2.5GbE Ethernet for faster wired networking. The MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi, GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX, GIGABYTE X670 Gaming X AX, MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi, ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi W, and ASUS TUF B850-E WiFi all feature this upgraded LAN speed. This ensures your wired connection keeps up with your internet plan.
Are all these motherboards ATX form factor?
Yes. Every listed alternative, including the NZXT N7 Z790, uses the standard ATX form factor. This ensures compatibility with most mid-tower and full-tower cases. The dimensions vary slightly, but they all fit standard ATX mounting points, allowing you to choose based on features rather than case size constraints.






