MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi Motherboard Review Best Choice for High-Performance Builds

Description

Design and Build Quality

The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries Motherboard immediately feels premium when you take it out of the box. Its ATX form factor fits snugly into most standard cases, and the 6-layer PCB with 2oz thickened copper screams durability. I couldn’t help but appreciate the extended heatsinks and the MOSFET thermal pads, which are rated for 7W/mK. These additions aren’t just for show—they’re there to ensure optimal cooling for high-performance setups. The overall layout is intuitive, making cable management straightforward, even for someone like me who dislikes fiddling with wires for hours.

One feature that stood out while assembling was the inclusion of dual 8-pin CPU power connectors, which ensures stable power delivery. It’s clear this motherboard isn’t cutting corners in terms of design or materials. That said, the lack of RGB lighting might be a downside for those who want a more visually striking build. Personally, I prefer the clean, professional look it offers.

Performance and Compatibility

I tested this motherboard with a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and DDR5 memory clocked at 6400 MHz, and let me tell you—it didn’t disappoint! The 14+1+1 DRPS power phases with 55A DrMOS provide consistent power delivery, even under heavy loads. Whether you’re rendering videos or playing resource-intensive games, this motherboard handles it all with grace.

The compatibility with 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors is a game-changer for those wanting future-proofing. Additionally, it supports DDR5 RAM up to 7000 MHz (OC), which is fantastic for enthusiasts looking to push their systems to the limit. However, while testing, I noticed that achieving stable overclocking on DDR5 does require some BIOS tweaks, so it might not be plug-and-play for everyone.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is where this motherboard truly shines. With Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, wireless connections are not only fast but also stable. I streamed a 4K movie while downloading a game, and there wasn’t a single hiccup. The 2.5Gbps LAN port is another big win for those prioritizing low-latency gaming or high-speed file transfers.

On the rear I/O panel, you’ll find USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, HDMI, and DisplayPort outputs, which cater to a variety of setups. While the number of USB ports is decent, I would’ve loved to see an additional USB-C port for more flexibility. Still, the combination of options here is more than adequate for most users.

Thermal Solutions

This motherboard takes cooling seriously. The M.2 Shield Frozr is a standout feature, keeping the NVMe drives cool even during extensive read/write operations. I installed a 2TB NVMe drive, and even after hours of usage, the drive’s temperature remained impressively low. The choke thermal pads also contribute to a stable thermal profile, ensuring that the system doesn’t overheat during intense tasks.

That said, the passive cooling design might not be enough for extreme overclockers. If you’re planning to push your hardware to the absolute edge, investing in additional cooling solutions might be necessary.

Positive Features

• Supports DDR5 RAM for future-proofing and exceptional performance.
• Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN ensure fast and reliable connectivity.
• Robust power delivery system with 14+1+1 DRPS and dual 8-pin connectors.
• Premium thermal solutions, including M.2 Shield Frozr and extended heatsinks.

Negatives

• Limited USB-C ports on the rear I/O panel.
• Overclocking DDR5 memory can require manual BIOS adjustments.
• Lack of RGB lighting might not appeal to gamers who prefer flashy builds.

Product Competitors

Comparing this motherboard to ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite, there are clear distinctions. The ASUS option is more gamer-centric, offering tons of RGB lighting and a slightly more user-friendly BIOS for overclocking. However, the MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi excels in value for professionals, focusing on productivity and stability rather than aesthetics.

On the other hand, the Gigabyte board offers a similar price point but falls short in terms of thermal solutions. The MSI board’s M.2 Shield Frozr and enhanced power design give it a noticeable edge for users who demand reliability under load.

Cost-Effectiveness

The price of this motherboard aligns with its feature set, making it a solid choice for both enthusiasts and professionals. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the quality of materials, future-proof compatibility, and robust thermal features make it well worth the investment. If you’re looking for a motherboard that balances performance, durability, and connectivity without breaking the bank, this is a smart pick.

All in all, this product checks a lot of boxes for me, and I’ll definitely keep it in mind for future builds.

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