MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard - Supports AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 P vs Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard - Supports Intel Core 14th CPUs

Price Comparison

The MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi ATX Motherboard is priced at £199.99, while the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard costs £226.99. This makes the MSI option £27 cheaper than its competitor. Price can often be a decisive factor for consumers, especially when both products offer high-end specifications. With the MSI offering a competitive price point, it may attract buyers looking for performance without breaking the bank.

Performance and Compatibility

The MSI X870E Gaming Plus is designed to support the latest AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 processors, showcasing its cutting-edge performance capabilities. In contrast, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX supports Intel's 12th and 13th Gen CPUs. This distinction in processor compatibility means that the choice between these motherboards may largely depend on the user's preference for AMD or Intel ecosystems. The MSI motherboard also boasts a 14 Duet Rail Power System (60A, SPS) VRM, enhancing its performance delivery under load.

Memory and Storage Options

When it comes to memory, the MSI X870E supports DDR5 memory with four DIMM slots, allowing for extreme overclocking speeds of 8200+ MT/s. On the other hand, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also features dual-channel DDR5 with four SMD DIMMs, which supports XMP 3.0 memory modules. Both motherboards offer impressive memory specifications, but the MSI's higher overclocking potential could appeal to performance enthusiasts. Storage-wise, the MSI provides three M.2 connectors, including one Gen5 x4 slot, while the Gigabyte has four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 connectors, indicating a slight edge in connectivity options.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling features are critical for maintaining performance during intense gaming sessions. The MSI X870E includes various cooling enhancements, such as 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an Extended Heatsink. This setup is designed to manage heat effectively, particularly during overclocking. Conversely, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX employs an advanced thermal design with M.2 Thermal Guard III. This feature helps ensure VRM power stability and M.2 SSD performance. Both motherboards prioritise cooling, but the MSI's combination of features may provide a more robust solution for high-performance setups.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another vital aspect to consider. The MSI X870E features a full-speed Wi-Fi 7 module with Bluetooth 5.4 and 5Gbps LAN, alongside a USB4 Type-C port capable of 40Gbps. In comparison, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX includes 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E 802.11ax, with a rear USB-C port offering 20Gbps speeds. While both motherboards provide advanced connectivity, the MSI's Wi-Fi 7 and faster USB4 capability position it as the more future-proof option in terms of networking and peripheral connectivity.

Additional Features

Both motherboards come equipped with additional features designed to enhance user experience. The MSI X870E includes an EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II to prevent thermal throttling for SSDs, making it ideal for high-performance storage solutions. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX includes Smart Fan 6, which features multiple temperature sensors and hybrid fan headers, allowing for more precise cooling management. The Gigabyte also offers Q-Flash Plus, permitting BIOS updates without needing to install the CPU, memory, or graphics card. These unique features cater to different user needs, making it essential to consider what aspects are most important to your build.

User Experience and Installation

The MSI X870E is designed for gamers and enthusiasts wanting a straightforward installation process. Its layout supports easy access to components, which is beneficial for those looking to upgrade or modify their systems. The inclusion of user-friendly features, such as the EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II, further enhances the overall user experience. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also prioritises user experience with its EZ-Latch Plus M.2 connectors, allowing for quick release without screws. Both motherboards facilitate a smooth installation process, but the specifics of each feature may sway users based on personal preference.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI X870E Gaming Plus WiFi and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ultimately comes down to individual needs and preferences. If you prefer AMD processors and are looking for a motherboard that offers superior overclocking capabilities and a lower price, the MSI X870E may be the better choice at £199.99. However, if you are inclined towards Intel's latest offerings, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX presents excellent features, albeit at a higher price of £226.99. Both motherboards offer robust performance, advanced connectivity, and user-friendly features, ensuring that either choice will serve well in a high-performance build.