MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard vs Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI

Price Comparison

The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI is priced at £184.99, whereas the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI is significantly more affordable at £77.99. This price difference of £107 is substantial, indicating that the MSI motherboard targets a more premium market segment, likely due to its advanced features and capabilities. The disparity in pricing reflects the target audience for each product; while the MSI motherboard is designed for high-performance gaming and demanding applications, the Asus board serves budget-conscious gamers seeking solid performance without breaking the bank.

Chipset and Compatibility

The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI supports Intel’s latest 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen Core processors, making it a robust choice for those aiming for the latest technological advancements. In contrast, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI is compatible with AMD’s AM4 socket, supporting Ryzen 5000 Series, 4000 G-Series, and 3000 Series processors. This makes the MSI board more future-proof regarding Intel's upcoming architectures, while the Asus option is well-suited for users invested in AMD’s ecosystem. Each motherboard caters effectively to its respective brand's processors, which is essential for optimal performance.

Memory Support

Memory capabilities differ significantly between the two motherboards. The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI features four DDR5 DIMM slots, supporting memory speeds of up to 7200+ MHz. This not only allows for enhanced performance but also provides more room for expansion as gaming requirements grow. On the other hand, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI does not specify the memory type or maximum supported speeds in the provided features, which may limit its performance relative to the MSI board. This clear advantage in memory support positions the MSI motherboard as a superior choice for high-performance gaming and multitasking.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling is a critical factor for maintaining system stability, especially during intense gaming sessions. The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI includes extensive cooling features such as VRM cooling with 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads, an extended heatsink, and a dedicated pump-fan cooling header. This comprehensive cooling system ensures optimal performance under load. In comparison, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI offers a large VRM heatsink and PCH heatsink, complemented by Fan Xpert 2+ technology for efficient cooling management. While both motherboards provide adequate cooling solutions, the MSI’s advanced features may better serve high-performance users who push their systems to the limit.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another area where the MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI excels. It is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, alongside a 2.5Gbps LAN port, ensuring high-speed networking capabilities. The rear ports also feature USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C, HDMI 2.1, and 7.1 USB High-Performance Audio with Audio Boost 5. Conversely, the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI provides 802.11ac Wi-Fi, which, while capable, is not as advanced as the Wi-Fi 6E offered by its competitor. The TUF board includes TUF LANGuard and TurboLAN technology to enhance online gaming performance, yet the MSI motherboard's superior connectivity options make it the better choice for users prioritising cutting-edge networking capabilities.

Gaming Features

When it comes to gaming features, the MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI is engineered for high-performance gaming with multiple advanced technologies. The inclusion of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots supports future graphics cards, while the four M.2 Gen4 x4 slots with Shield Frozr prevent thermal throttling, ensuring optimal SSD performance. The Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI, while featuring Aura Sync RGB for custom lighting, lacks the same level of advanced gaming-specific features. The MSI board's advantages in PCIe and M.2 technology make it more suitable for gamers who demand the best performance from their hardware.

Build Quality and Design

Build quality is paramount in motherboard design, and both brands are known for their durability. The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI utilises a 6-layer server-grade PCB with 2 oz. thickened copper, enhancing its durability and stability under heavy loads. The Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI is also built with robustness in mind, featuring components designed to withstand the rigours of gaming. However, the higher-grade materials and construction methods employed in the MSI board give it an edge in terms of longevity and reliability, especially for users who plan to overclock their systems.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI and the Asus TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS WIFI ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a motherboard that supports the latest Intel processors, offers advanced connectivity options, and excels in gaming performance, the MSI board is the clear choice, albeit at a higher price point of £184.99. However, if you are a budget-conscious gamer using AMD processors and are satisfied with solid performance, the Asus board at £77.99 provides excellent value for money. Each motherboard has its strengths, but the MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI stands out for high-performance users who demand the best from their gaming rig.