MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard - Supports AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 P vs ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero

Price Comparison

The MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi is significantly more affordable than the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero, priced at £199.99 compared to £499.99. This price difference of £300 can be a decisive factor for budget-conscious consumers. While both motherboards support the latest AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors, the MSI model offers a competitive feature set for a much lower entry price. Users seeking high performance without a hefty investment may find the MSI option appealing, but those willing to invest more can enjoy the advanced features that the ASUS motherboard provides.

Power Delivery and VRM Design

When it comes to power delivery, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero boasts a more robust solution with 18 power stages rated at 110A each, compared to the MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi's 14 Duet Rail Power System. The advanced power design of the ASUS motherboard is geared towards overclocking and stability, particularly for high-performance applications. The MSI motherboard is designed to support the latest Ryzen processors effectively, but the ASUS model’s superior power distribution could provide additional headroom for enthusiasts looking to push their systems further.

Cooling Solutions

The cooling solutions integrated into the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero are more sophisticated than those found in the MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi. ASUS employs extensive heatsinks connected by an L-shaped heatpipe for improved thermal management, while MSI includes effective cooling features such as 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an Extended Heatsink. However, the ASUS model's integrated cooling design may offer better performance under heavy loads, which is crucial for users planning to overclock or run demanding applications.

Memory and Expansion Slots

In terms of memory and expansion capabilities, both motherboards offer impressive options, but they cater to different types of users. The MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi supports 4 x DDR5 DIMM slots with extreme overclocking speeds of 8200+ MT/s, alongside a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot. Meanwhile, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero provides three PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for storage, emphasising its readiness for next-gen graphics and storage solutions. Users who plan to expand their systems with multiple high-speed storage devices may find the ASUS motherboard more appealing.

Networking Capabilities

Networking features also differ between the two models. The MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi includes a full-speed Wi-Fi 7 module with Bluetooth 5.4, as well as 5Gbps LAN connectivity. In contrast, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero offers an advanced networking solution with onboard Wi-Fi 7 and dual Ethernet options—Intel 2.5Gb and Realtek 5Gb. The ASUS motherboard’s superior connectivity options could benefit gamers and content creators who require fast and reliable internet connections for online activities or large file transfers.

AI and Smart Features

The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero includes a range of AI-driven features designed to simplify overclocking and improve performance. This includes AI Overclocking, AI Cooling II, and AI Networking II, which are not present in the MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi. While the MSI motherboard performs admirably, it lacks these intelligent management features that could enhance user experience and system performance, especially for those looking to optimise their setups with minimal manual configuration.

Aesthetics and Build Quality

In terms of aesthetics and overall build quality, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero takes the lead with a more premium design. It features massive heatsinks and a striking I/O cover that enhances its visual appeal. The MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi, while still well-designed, does not match the premium look and feel of the ASUS model. This could be a consideration for users who prioritise the visual aspects of their build, especially if they plan to showcase their setup.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi and the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. The MSI motherboard is an excellent choice for users seeking a cost-effective solution with robust features for mainstream gaming and productivity. On the other hand, the ASUS model is a premium option for enthusiasts who require advanced cooling, superior power delivery, and cutting-edge AI features. If budget is a primary concern, the MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi offers excellent value, while the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero stands out for its high-end capabilities, making it suitable for those willing to invest more for enhanced performance and features.