MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E Motherboard vs MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard

Pricing Comparison

The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E Motherboard is priced at £119.99, whereas the MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard comes in at a significantly higher price of £184.99. This difference of £65 highlights a key consideration for potential buyers: budget. While the B850 offers a more accessible entry point for those looking to build a gaming rig, the Z790 TOMAHAWK justifies its higher cost with enhanced features aimed at high-performance tasks.

Performance Capabilities

In terms of performance, the MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI is built for the latest Intel processors, supporting the 14th, 13th and 12th Gen Core CPUs with its 16 Duet Rail Power System. This system is designed to handle high CPU core count demands, making it a strong contender for power users. Comparatively, the B850 GAMING PLUS is tailored for AMD's Ryzen 9000 series, featuring a 12 Duet Rail Power System. While both motherboards support DDR5 memory for improved speed, the Z790 TOMAHAWK is designed for those requiring robust processing power, particularly in demanding applications like gaming and content creation.

Cooling Features

Cooling is crucial for maintaining performance, and both motherboards excel in this area. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS incorporates excellent cooling features including an extended heatsink and MOSFET thermal pads. Meanwhile, the Z790 TOMAHAWK's advanced cooling system includes a dedicated pump-fan header and a 6-layer server-grade PCB with 2 oz. thickened copper. The added cooling capabilities of the Z790 TOMAHAWK may benefit users who push their systems to the limits, particularly during intensive tasks such as overclocking or high-performance gaming.

Memory Support

When it comes to memory support, both motherboards feature four DDR5 DIMM slots, but there are differences in their capabilities. The B850 GAMING PLUS can achieve impressive speeds of over 8200 MT/s with overclocking, while the Z790 TOMAHAWK supports up to 7200 MHz. Although both provide great potential for speed and efficiency, the B850 has a slight edge in overclocking capabilities. This makes it appealing for gamers and enthusiasts looking to maximise performance without stepping up to higher price points.

Expansion Slots

Expansion options differ significantly between the two motherboards. The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK features a PCIe 5.0 x16 Steel Armor slot, which is designed to support the latest cutting-edge graphics cards. It also includes a secondary PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, providing flexibility for additional components. In contrast, the B850 GAMING PLUS offers a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot with Steel Armor, which is still capable but lacks the forward-looking technology of PCIe 5.0. For users planning to future-proof their builds, the Z790 TOMAHAWK provides a clear advantage in expansion and compatibility with the latest hardware.

Storage Options

Storage capabilities are another area where these motherboards diverge. The Z790 TOMAHAWK comes with four M.2 Gen4 x4 slots for high-speed SSDs, designed to prevent thermal throttling with M.2 Shield Frozr technology. Conversely, the B850 GAMING PLUS has two M.2 connectors, including one Gen5 x4 slot and one Gen4 x4 slot. While the B850 offers a faster Gen5 option, the Z790’s additional slots may appeal to users needing multiple high-speed storage solutions, particularly for gaming or heavy data applications.

Connectivity Features

Connectivity is a vital consideration for modern motherboards, and both models are well-equipped. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS features a premium Wi-Fi 6E module with Bluetooth 5.3 and 2.5Gbps LAN, ensuring fast and reliable internet connectivity. The Z790 TOMAHAWK matches this with similar Wi-Fi 6E capabilities but enhances the experience with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C, offering 20Gbps speeds, HDMI 2.1, and 7.1 USB High-Performance Audio. This superior connectivity makes the Z790 TOMAHAWK a better choice for users who require the latest ports and higher data transfer rates.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E and the MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI depends largely on your specific needs and budget. The B850 is an excellent choice for those looking for a more affordable motherboard that still delivers high performance, particularly for AMD Ryzen builds. It excels in memory speed and offers solid cooling features. However, if you're seeking a motherboard that supports the latest Intel processors with superior cooling, extensive connectivity options, and additional expansion capabilities, the Z790 TOMAHAWK justifies its higher price. Ultimately, your decision should centre around your planned usage and whether you prioritise budget or cutting-edge performance.