MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ATX DDR5
The MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ProSeries Motherboard is designed to support 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors with an LGA 1700 socket. It features DDR5 memory support, 3 PCIe 5.0 expansion slots, and advanced connectivity options including Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN.
Popularity: Low
Specifications:
Model: MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ATX DDR5
Chipset: INTEL Z790
Form Factor:
CPU Compatibility: Intel® Core™ 14th/ 13th/ 12th Gen Processors, Intel® Pentium® Gold and Celeron® Processors
Memory Support: 7200+(OC)/ 7000(OC)/ 6800(OC)/ 6600(OC)/ 6400(OC)/ 6200(OC)/ 6000(OC)/ 5800(OC)/ 5600(JEDEC)/ 5400(JEDEC)/ 5200(JEDEC)/ 5000(JEDEC)/ 4800(JEDEC) MHz
Maximum Memory Capacity: 256GB
Memory Speed: 7200+ MHz (overclocking)
Memory Features: Supports Intel® XMP 3.0 OC, Supports Dual-Controller Dual-Channel mode, Supports non-ECC, un-buffered memory
RAM Slots: 4.0
Graphics Output: 1x HDMI™ supporting up to 4K 60Hz, 1x DisplayPort supporting up to 8K 60Hz
Expansion Slots: 3x PCI-E x16 slot, 1x PCI-E x1 slot
Storage Options: 4x M.2, 6x SATA 6G
Ethernet: Intel® 2.5Gbps LAN
Wireless Bluetooth: Intel® Wi-Fi 6E, Supports Bluetooth® 5.3
USB Ports (Rear): 2x USB 2.0, 2x USB 5Gbps Type A, 3x USB 10Gbps Type A, 1x USB 10Gbps Type C, 1x USB 20Gbps Type C
USB Ports (Front): 4x USB 2.0, 2x USB 5Gbps Type A, 1x USB 10Gbps Type C
Audio: Realtek® ALC4080 Codec, 7.1-Channel USB High Performance Audio, Supports S/PDIF output
Back Panel I/O Ports: DisplayPort, USB 2.0, 2.5G LAN, Wi-Fi / Bluetooth, Audio Connectors, HDMI™, Flash BIOS Button, USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps (Type-A), USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gbps (Type-A), USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 20Gbps (Type-C), S/PDIF-OUT
Internal I/O Connectors: 1x Power Connector(ATX_PWR), 2x Power Connector(CPU_PWR), 1x CPU Fan, 1x Pump Fan, 6x System Fan, 2x Front Panel (JFP), 1x Chassis Intrusion (JCI), 1x Front Audio (JAUD), 1x Tuning Controller connector(JDASH), 3x Addressable V2 RGB LED connector (JARGB_V2), 1x RGB LED connector(JRGB), 1x TPM pin header(Support TPM 2.0), 4x USB 2.0 ports, 2x USB 5Gbps Type A ports, 1x USB 10Gbps Type C ports
Cooling Headers:
Power Connectors:
BIOS:
Manufacturer Page: Link
Review
The MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ATX DDR5 is a formidable contender in the motherboard market, particularly for those looking to architect a powerful yet versatile system. Supporting the latest 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors via its LGA 1700 socket, it stands out with its robust feature set that aims to meet the needs of both gamers and professional content creators.
Exceptional Memory and Storage Options
One of the standout features of the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ATX DDR5 is its extensive memory support, accommodating DDR5 memory up to 7200+ MHz (OC) and a maximum capacity of 256GB. This opens up a myriad of possibilities for those who require high-performance computing, such as video editors and database managers. The board offers four M.2 slots alongside six SATA 6G ports, which ensures ample storage solutions, making it a must-have for demanding workloads in the audiovisual industry (LDLC).
Connectivity and Expansion
Connectivity is another area where the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ATX DDR5 shines. It includes Intel’s latest Wi-Fi 6E technology and a 2.5Gbps LAN for swift and stable internet connection, whether through wired or wireless means. The motherboard also features a plethora of USB ports, including the fast USB 10Gbps and 20Gbps Type-C ports, which ensure swift data transfer and connectivity with peripheral devices. Such an array of connectivity options establishes this motherboard as a future-ready choice for modern desktops.
Graphics and Audio Capabilities
With integrated graphics output options that support up to 8K resolution at 60Hz via DisplayPort and 4K 60Hz via HDMI™, the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ATX DDR5 is more than equipped to handle vivid and high-resolution displays for gaming and professional use alike. For audio, it incorporates the Realtek® ALC4080 Codec to deliver 7.1-channel USB high-performance audio, adding to the immersive experience expected by modern users.
Considerations for Overclocking Enthusiasts
For those interested in overclocking, the board’s power delivery through the 14+1+1 phase configuration is robust enough for moderate increases in performance. However, if maximum overclocking is the key goal, potential users should note that it does not match boards specifically designed for extreme overclocking (PCPer). Nonetheless, it remains a solid option for most users seeking enhanced performance without venturing into the extreme domain.
Overall Verdict
In conclusion, the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ATX DDR5 motherboard presents itself as a formidable ally for building a cutting-edge PC, offering a balanced mix of performance, modern connectivity, and expansion options. Its well-rounded feature set makes it ideal for a wide array of applications, from intensive gaming sessions to professional video editing tasks, offering reliable performance without compromising on future prospects.