MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard vs ASUS TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI AMD ATX motherboard

CPU and Chipset Compatibility

The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI supports Intel 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen Core processors on the LGA 1700 socket, whereas the ASUS TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI is designed for AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 Series processors using the AM5 socket. This fundamental difference means the MSI motherboard is tailored towards Intel users seeking high performance with the latest Intel chipsets, while the ASUS board caters to AMD enthusiasts, particularly those looking forward to advanced AI computing capabilities. Choosing between these two depends primarily on your preferred CPU brand and platform, as each motherboard supports the most current generation of its respective processor family.

Power Delivery and Overclocking Features

Both motherboards offer robust power delivery systems suitable for high-performance builds. The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI features a 16 Duet Rail Power System rated at 90A with Core Boost architecture, designed to handle demanding Intel CPUs with multiple cores efficiently. On the other hand, the ASUS TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI offers a 16+2+1 power phase design with 80A power stages, enhanced by ProCool connectors, alloy chokes, and durable capacitors for stable power delivery tailored to AMD processors. ASUS also incorporates several AI-assisted overclocking technologies, including AI Overclocking, Dynamic OC Switcher, and PBO Enhancement, which simplify optimisation and maximise performance. MSI’s focus is on raw power handling with thermal cooling, while ASUS emphasises smart overclocking and AI-assisted tuning.

Memory Support and Expansion Slots

The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI supports DDR5 memory with four DIMM slots capable of reaching speeds beyond 7200 MHz thanks to Memory Boost isolated circuitry. This motherboard also features a PCIe 5.0 x16 Steel Armor slot for the primary graphics card and a secondary PCIe 4.0 x16 slot. Comparatively, the ASUS TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI supports AMD’s AM5 platform memory but the exact memory type and speeds are not detailed in the provided data. However, ASUS offers PCIe 5.0 full support for the primary x16 slot, ensuring compatibility with next-generation GPUs. The ASUS motherboard also boasts dual USB4 40Gbps ports and front USB 20Gbps Type-C with PD fast charging, highlighting its modern connectivity alongside expansion capabilities. Overall, MSI leads on DDR5 memory speed specification, while ASUS emphasises comprehensive expansion and connectivity.

Storage Options and Thermal Solutions

When it comes to storage, MSI’s MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI boasts four M.2 Gen4 x4 64Gb/s slots, each equipped with Shield Frozr technology to prevent thermal throttling during high-speed SSD operation. This setup caters very well to users who prioritise fast and reliable storage with built-in cooling features. The ASUS TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI offers two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots, also with large M.2 heatsinks to manage heat effectively. Both motherboards provide advanced thermal solutions for storage devices, but ASUS’s inclusion of PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots could be more future-proof for ultra-fast SSDs. In summary, MSI offers a greater number of M.2 slots with Gen4 speeds and cooling, while ASUS provides fewer M.2 slots but with cutting-edge PCIe 5.0 support.

Connectivity and Network Features

Connectivity is a strong point for both motherboards, but with notable differences. The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and a 2.5Gbps LAN port, plus rear USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C (20Gbps) and HDMI 2.1 outputs. ASUS pushes the envelope with Wi-Fi 7, Realtek 2.5G Ethernet, and notably dual USB4 40Gbps ports along with front USB 20Gbps Type-C that supports PD fast charging. This makes the ASUS board more future-oriented in terms of wireless standards and offers higher maximum transfer speeds through its USB4 ports. Both provide strong wired and wireless networking, but ASUS’s Wi-Fi 7 and dual USB4 ports give it an edge for users demanding the latest connectivity tech.

Cooling and Build Quality

Both motherboards incorporate advanced cooling solutions tailored to high-end performance. MSI’s MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI uses 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads, an extended heatsink, a chipset heatsink, M.2 Shield Frozr, and a dedicated pump-fan header, supported by a six-layer server-grade PCB with thickened copper for heat dissipation and durability. ASUS’s TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI features enlarged VRM and M.2 heatsinks, a PCH heatsink, hybrid fan headers, and Fan Xpert 4 with AI Cooling II, focusing on intelligent fan control and comprehensive thermal management. Both offer premium build quality and cooling, with ASUS adding AI-powered cooling optimisation while MSI emphasises solid thermal hardware and materials.

Software and User Experience

The ASUS TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI benefits from a suite of exclusive technologies and software, including AI Overclocking, AI Cooling II, AI Networking II, and AEMP to simplify setup and improve performance. It also features a DIY-friendly design with Q-Release PCIe slots, M.2 Q-Latch, Q-Antenna, BIOS FlashBack button, Q-LED indicators, and a pre-mounted I/O shield, enhancing ease of use and reliability. MSI’s MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI, while not detailed extensively in software features, supports high-performance hardware configurations and includes Audio Boost 5 for enhanced audio quality. ASUS clearly places a strong emphasis on intelligent automation and user-friendly design, which could benefit those less familiar with manual motherboard tuning.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI and the ASUS TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI hinges primarily on your CPU preference and budget. MSI offers excellent value at £184.99, supporting Intel’s latest 14th Gen CPUs with strong DDR5 memory support, four M.2 slots, and solid thermal design. ASUS commands a higher price at £239.99 but delivers cutting-edge features such as Wi-Fi 7, dual USB4 40Gbps ports, advanced AI-powered overclocking and cooling, and PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, making it ideal for AMD Ryzen users seeking future-proofing and intelligent optimisation. If you favour Intel and want strong raw specs at a lower cost, MSI is the sensible choice. For AMD users who prioritise the latest connectivity, AI enhancements, and a premium feature set, ASUS justifies its higher price.