MSI MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI Motherboard vs MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi-AMZ Gaming Motherboard

Overview of the Motherboards

In this comparison, we will look at the MSI MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI Motherboard and the MSI Z790 Gaming Plus WiFi-AMZ Gaming Motherboard. The MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX is priced at C$419.99, while the Z790 Gaming Plus is more budget-friendly at C$229.99. Both motherboards are designed for gaming and high-performance tasks but cater to different processor families and user needs.

Processor Compatibility

The MSI MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX supports the latest AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 processors with an AM5 socket, making it a suitable choice for users looking to harness the power of AMD's current generation chips. In contrast, the MSI Z790 Gaming Plus is designed for Intel's 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors, using the LGA 1700 socket. This fundamental difference in processor compatibility is crucial for users when selecting a motherboard to match their CPU.

Memory Support

When it comes to memory, the MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX offers support for DDR5 memory with extreme overclocking capabilities of up to 8400+ MT/s, which is advantageous for high-performance applications and gaming setups. On the other hand, the Z790 Gaming Plus also supports DDR5 memory but with a slightly lower maximum overclocking potential of up to 7200+ MT/s. This difference in memory speeds could influence performance in memory-intensive tasks, making the MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX the better choice for enthusiasts who demand the highest speeds.

Power Delivery Systems

The power delivery systems of both motherboards are robust, but they differ in design and capabilities. The MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX features a 14 Duet Rail Power System with 80A SPS VRM, ensuring stable power delivery for high-performance Ryzen processors. Meanwhile, the Z790 Gaming Plus employs a 14+1+1 Duet Rail Power System with DrMOS and dual 8-pin CPU power connectors, which also provides excellent power efficiency for Intel CPUs. While both systems are designed for performance, the MAG B850's higher amperage rating could provide a slight edge in extreme overclocking scenarios.

Cooling Solutions

Effective cooling is essential for maintaining performance during extended use. The MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX is equipped with premium cooling features, including 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads, an Extended Heatsink, and additional thermal pads for chokes. It also includes an EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II to prevent thermal throttling. The Z790 Gaming Plus features a similarly robust thermal solution with an Extended Heatsink and thermal pads rated for 7W/mK, ensuring reliable operation during intense gaming sessions. While both motherboards have strong cooling capabilities, the MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX's additional features could benefit users who push their systems to the limit.

Expansion Slots

Storage and expansion options are crucial for building a versatile system. The MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX offers four M.2 connectors, including two Gen5 x4 slots and one Gen4 x4 slot, providing ample space for high-speed storage. Conversely, the Z790 Gaming Plus features a PCIe 5.0 slot and a Lightning Gen 4 x4 M.2 with M.2 Shield Frozr, catering to users who require fast storage solutions. The MAG B850’s additional M.2 slots give it an advantage in terms of storage expandability, allowing for more drives and better overall system performance.

Connectivity Features

Both motherboards come equipped with modern connectivity options, but they differ in specific features. The MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX includes a full-speed Wi-Fi 7 module alongside Bluetooth 5.4 and a 5Gbps LAN, catering to users who require high-speed wireless connections. The Z790 Gaming Plus, while featuring Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, has a 2.5Gbps LAN, which is still fast but falls short compared to the MAG B850. The superior wireless capabilities of the MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX make it more suitable for users relying on Wi-Fi for gaming and streaming.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant factor in choosing a motherboard. The MSI MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX is priced at C$419.99, reflecting its advanced features and compatibility with the latest AMD processors. In contrast, the MSI Z790 Gaming Plus is much more affordable at C$229.99, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers or those who don’t require the highest-end specifications. While the MAG B850 offers more features, the Z790 provides excellent value, especially for users who are looking for a capable gaming motherboard without breaking the bank.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX and the MSI Z790 Gaming Plus largely depends on your specific needs. If you are an enthusiast looking for the latest technology, including support for Ryzen 9000 processors, high DDR5 speeds, and superior connectivity options, the MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX is the better choice despite its higher price. However, if you are looking for great performance at a more affordable price and plan to use Intel CPUs, the Z790 Gaming Plus offers excellent value and sufficient features for most gaming scenarios. Ultimately, your choice should align with your processor preference, budget, and performance requirements.