MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ Motherboard, ATX vs SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard for
Updated July 2026 — MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ Motherboard, ATX leads on price and performance.
The MSI MAG X870E offers superior performance and features compared to the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO, making it the better choice for high-end users.
Why MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ Motherboard, ATX is better
Performance
Supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0
Expansion
More M.2 slots and PCIe options
Connectivity
Includes Wi-Fi 7 and USB4 Type-C
Why SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard for is better
Price
Significantly cheaper at $79.99
Basic Use
Adequate for older Intel systems
Simplicity
Easier setup for basic tasks
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ Motherboard, ATX | SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard for |
|---|---|---|
| Socket Type | AM5 | LGA 1150 |
| Memory Type | DDR5 | DDR3 |
| Max Memory | 128GB | 32GB |
| PCIe Version | 5.0 | 3.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | No |
Dimension comparison
Overview
In this comparison, we will evaluate the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ Motherboard and the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard. The MSI motherboard is priced at $319.99, while the SHANGZHAOYUAN model comes in at $79.99, making it about 75% cheaper than its competitor. This significant price difference sets the stage for a closer look at their features and suitability for different users.
Compatibility
The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ is designed for AMD Ryzen processors, specifically the 9000, 8000, and 7000 series, using the AM5 socket. In contrast, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO supports Intel's 4th generation Core processors, including i7, i5, i3, Pentium, and Celeron, through its LGA 1150 socket. This fundamental difference means that users need to choose based on their preferred processor brand, as each motherboard caters to different CPU families.
Memory Support
When it comes to memory, the MSI MAG X870E supports DDR5 memory with speeds of up to 8400+ MT/s when overclocked. It offers four DDR5 DIMM slots, allowing for extensive memory upgrades. In comparison, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO supports dual-channel DDR3 memory, with a maximum capacity of 32GB across four slots. Users looking for high-performance gaming or intensive tasks may find the MSI motherboard's DDR5 support more appealing, while those with older Intel processors may opt for the SHANGZHAOYUAN model.
Expansion Options
The MSI motherboard excels in expansion capabilities, featuring one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and four M.2 connectors, including two Gen5 and two Gen4 slots for fast storage solutions. This setup allows for significant bandwidth and future-proofing for high-speed storage devices. The SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO, while providing a PCIe x16 3.0 slot and an M.2 slot for NVME SSDs, doesn’t match the extensive options of the MSI. Users focused on high-performance graphics and storage will appreciate the MSI's superior expansion capabilities.
Cooling Features
Cooling is critical for maintaining performance, especially in high-demand environments. The MSI MAG X870E includes advanced cooling features such as 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an Extended Heatsink, promoting efficient heat management. The board is designed to handle the power demands of modern CPUs, ensuring stable performance under load. The SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO offers a 4-phase power supply and solid-state capacitors for stability, but lacks the extensive thermal management features of the MSI. Enthusiasts and gamers may prefer the better cooling solutions available on the MSI motherboard.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity is another strong point for the MSI MAG X870E, which includes full-speed Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, along with a robust selection of USB ports, including a USB4 Type-C at 40Gbps. This provides ample options for peripherals and high-speed data transfer. Conversely, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO includes gigabit LAN and standard video output options (VGA, DVI, HDMI), but does not offer the same level of modern wireless connectivity. Users needing the latest in connectivity will be better served by the MSI model.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
At $319.99, the MSI MAG X870E is a premium motherboard aimed at high-performance setups, particularly for gaming and content creation. In contrast, the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO is priced at $79.99, making it an excellent budget option for basic tasks and older systems. The price difference of approximately $240 highlights that users need to consider their specific requirements. Those seeking cutting-edge technology and performance may find the investment in the MSI worthwhile, while casual users may prefer the affordability of the SHANGZHAOYUAN.
User Experience and Build Quality
The MSI MAG X870E is built with high-quality components, featuring a durable PCB with 2oz of thickened copper to support its power delivery system. Additionally, it boasts a stylish design tailored for gamers. On the other hand, while the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO is functional and provides solid performance for its price, the build quality may not match the premium feel of the MSI. Users who prioritize aesthetics and premium construction may find the MSI more appealing.
Which should you buy?
In conclusion, the choice between the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk MAX WiFi PZ and the SHANGZHAOYUAN B85M PRO largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a high-performance motherboard that supports the latest AMD technologies and offers extensive features, the MSI at $319.99 is a strong contender. However, if you are working with an older Intel setup and require a cost-effective solution for basic computing tasks, the SHANGZHAOYUAN at $79.99 provides excellent value. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize cutting-edge technology or budget-friendly options.