MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi motherboard review DDR5 performance and Intel compatibility tested

Description

Design and Build Quality

The MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ProSeries Motherboard immediately caught my eye with its sleek, professional design. It feels incredibly sturdy right out of the box, thanks to the 6-layer PCB constructed with 2oz thickened copper. This isn’t just for show—it plays a significant role in ensuring durability and stable performance. The all-black aesthetic with subtle accents gives it a modern yet understated appearance, making it a great choice for builds where the motherboard might be visible through a glass panel.

The layout is well-thought-out, making installation straightforward even if you’re new to building PCs. I appreciated the extended heatsink design and MOSFET thermal pads, which are rated for 7W/mK. These features make it clear that MSI didn’t skimp on ensuring premium thermal performance. It’s built like a tank, but what stood out most for me was how accessible everything felt, from the dual 8-pin CPU power connectors to the cleverly positioned M.2 slots with Shield Frozr.

Performance and Compatibility

This motherboard is no slouch in terms of performance. I tested it with a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, and let me tell you, it handled everything I threw at it with ease. The 16+1+1 power design featuring 80A Smart Power Stage (SPS) ensures smooth power delivery even during intensive tasks. Whether I was gaming, editing videos, or multitasking with a dozen tabs, the system stayed responsive and snappy.

The ability to support DDR5 memory up to 7200+ MHz (overclocked) is a game changer. I paired it with a high-speed DDR5 kit, and the performance boost was noticeable, especially in tasks that rely heavily on memory bandwidth. For those who are into future-proofing, the PCIe 5.0 support ensures compatibility with next-gen GPUs and storage solutions. It’s not just about raw power—it’s also about being ready for what’s next.

Connectivity Features

Connectivity is one of this motherboard’s strong suits. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E makes it perfect for anyone who needs a stable, high-speed wireless connection. Whether streaming 4K content or downloading large files, the Wi-Fi performance was flawless. For wired connections, the 2.5Gbps LAN port ensures ultra-fast and reliable speeds, which I found particularly useful during online gaming sessions.

The USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports are a welcome addition, offering faster data transfer speeds for external drives and peripherals. I tested it with a couple of USB-C devices, and the results were impressive. The motherboard also features six USB 2.0 ports, catering to older peripherals, which is a thoughtful touch for those transitioning to newer tech.

Thermal Solutions and Overclocking

One of the highlights for me was the thermal performance. The heatsinks and M.2 Shield Frozr do an excellent job of keeping temperatures in check. Even under load, the system remained cool and quiet. I pushed the CPU and GPU pretty hard, and the motherboard didn’t flinch. Overclocking was a breeze, thanks to the intuitive BIOS interface. It’s clear that this board is designed for enthusiasts who like to tweak and push their systems to the limit.

I also appreciated the additional choke thermal pads, which help dissipate heat more efficiently. For anyone worried about their components overheating, this motherboard provides peace of mind. That said, the thermal features aren’t just functional—they also add to the overall durability and longevity of the motherboard.

Positives

This motherboard has a lot going for it, and here are some of the assets that stood out to me:

• Supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel Processors, ensuring high compatibility for current and next-gen CPUs.
• DDR5 memory support up to 7200+ MHz, allowing for exceptional performance in demanding tasks.
• Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gbps LAN for unparalleled connectivity options.
• PCIe 5.0 capability, making it future-proof for GPUs and storage devices.
• Enhanced power design ensures stability and efficiency, even during overclocking.

Caveats

While I was impressed, there are a few shortcomings that potential buyers should consider:

• The BIOS interface, while functional, could feel overwhelming for newcomers to PC building.
• Six USB 2.0 ports might seem excessive for users who have entirely moved to modern peripherals.
• Some users might find the price a bit steep, especially if they don’t plan on utilizing features like PCIe 5.0 or DDR5 memory.

Product Rivals

Comparing this motherboard to alternatives like the ASUS ROG STRIX Z790-E and Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite, it’s clear where the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi excels. The thermal solution on this board is more robust than what the Gigabyte offers, and the layout feels more user-friendly. ASUS’s option might appeal to gamers with its RGB features, but the MSI board strikes a perfect balance between performance and professionalism.

That said, the Gigabyte board offers slightly more USB 3.2 ports, which could matter for users with a plethora of high-speed peripherals. The ASUS board, on the other hand, has an edge in terms of BIOS functionality, which feels a bit more polished and beginner-friendly. However, neither competitor matches the Wi-Fi 6E and DDR5 memory support of the MSI product at this price point.

Bang for the Buck

When you consider everything this motherboard brings to the table, it definitely offers value for money. The combination of cutting-edge features like PCIe 5.0, DDR5 support, and premium thermal solutions makes it an excellent investment for professionals and enthusiasts alike. While the initial cost might feel higher than some entry-level alternatives, the long-term benefits in terms of performance and future-proofing make it worth every penny.

This motherboard isn’t just about raw specs—it’s about delivering a seamless, efficient, and enjoyable user experience. If you’re building a PC that you want to last through several generations of components, this is a solid choice.

Additional information