ASRock B860 Pro RS Intel Core Ultra DDR5 8666 MHz vs MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ Motherboard, ATX
Updated August 2026 — ASRock B860 Pro RS Intel Core Ultra DDR5 8666 MHz wins on price, MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ Motherboard, ATX wins on cooling and expansion.
The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX offers superior performance and features compared to the ASRock B860 Pro RS, making it the better choice for high-end users.
Why ASRock B860 Pro RS Intel Core Ultra DDR5 8666 MHz is better
Price
ASRock is significantly cheaper at $129.99.
Basic Features
ASRock provides essential features for budget builds.
Aesthetics
ASRock has appealing Steel Legend aesthetics.
Why MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ Motherboard, ATX is better
Performance
MSI supports AMD Ryzen 9000 series processors.
Expansion
MSI offers four M.2 connectors for better storage options.
Cooling
MSI has advanced cooling features to prevent thermal throttling.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ASRock B860 Pro RS Intel Core Ultra DDR5 8666 MHz | MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ Motherboard, ATX |
|---|---|---|
| Processor Support | Intel Core Ultra | AMD Ryzen 9000 |
| Memory Speed | 8666+ MHz (OC) | 8400+ MT/s (OC) |
| PCIe Slots | 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 | 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 |
| M.2 Slots | 3 slots | 4 slots |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 7 |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
The ASRock B860 Pro RS is priced at $129.99, while the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX is significantly higher at $319.99, making it about 146% more expensive than the ASRock model. This considerable price difference reflects the target audience and intended use for each motherboard. The ASRock is aimed at budget-conscious users or those looking to build a mid-range system, while the MSI caters to high-performance gamers and content creators who need advanced features and capabilities.
Performance Features
In terms of performance features, the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX stands out with its support for the latest AMD Ryzen 9000 series processors and impressive DDR5 memory speeds of 8400+ MT/s (OC). The ASRock B860 Pro RS, while capable, supports Intel Core Ultra processors and DDR5 memory speeds up to 8666+ MHz (OC). Both motherboards offer PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, but the MSI's 14 Duet Rail Power Phase design with 80A SPS for the AMD chipset may provide a slight edge in power delivery and stability under heavy loads.
Expansion Capabilities
When it comes to expansion capabilities, the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX offers a more comprehensive solution with four M.2 connectors, including two that support M.2 Gen5 x4, allowing for faster storage options. The ASRock B860 Pro RS includes three M.2 slots, but they are limited to one PCIe Gen5 and two PCIe Gen4 slots. This means that for users looking to maximize storage performance, the MSI provides a more future-proof setup with its advanced M.2 support.
Cooling Systems
The cooling solutions differ significantly between the two motherboards. The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX boasts advanced cooling features such as 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads, additional choke thermal pads, and an extended heatsink design. This is complemented by the EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II, which helps prevent thermal throttling. In contrast, the ASRock B860 Pro RS focuses on effective power delivery with its military-grade components but does not emphasize cooling solutions to the same extent as the MSI, potentially affecting performance during intense gaming sessions or heavy workloads.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity is another area where the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX excels. It includes Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, providing cutting-edge wireless capabilities, while the ASRock B860 Pro RS features Wi-Fi 6E. The MSI also offers a USB4 Type-C port with 40Gbps transfer speeds, which is superior to the USB 3.2 Gen2 ports found on the ASRock. For users who prioritize high-speed connectivity and the latest wireless technology, the MSI motherboard presents a clear advantage.
Audio Quality
Audio quality can greatly enhance the overall computing experience, especially for gamers and media creators. The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX features 7.1 USB High Performance Audio with Audio Boost 5, ensuring a high-quality sound experience. In comparison, the ASRock B860 Pro RS is equipped with Realtek ALC1220 7.1 CH HD Audio Codec and Nahimic Audio, which also delivers immersive sound but may not reach the audio enhancement levels offered by the MSI. For audiophiles, this difference could sway the decision toward the MSI board.
Aesthetic Design
Aesthetic considerations are often subjective; however, both motherboards showcase distinct visual styles. The ASRock B860 Pro RS sports the signature Steel Legend aesthetics, which appeal to users looking for a robust and stylish build. The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX, on the other hand, features a more aggressive design that is typical of high-performance gaming hardware. While both motherboards are visually appealing, personal preference will play a significant role in choosing between them.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the choice between the ASRock B860 Pro RS and the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution for a mid-range build, the ASRock B860 Pro RS at $129.99 offers solid performance and essential features. However, if you're aiming for a high-performance platform with advanced features for gaming or content creation, the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX at $319.99 provides superior capabilities, enhanced connectivity, and impressive cooling solutions. Your decision should align with your performance requirements and budget constraints.