Highlights
- The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme share a common foundation, supporting Intel’s latest 13th-generation Core processors with the LGA 1700 socket.
- The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike employs a 20+2+1 phase VRM, while the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme utilizes a 16+2+1 phase VRM.
- The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme are veritable treasure troves of features, catering to the needs of even the most demanding users.
In the realm of high-end motherboard supremacy, two contenders stand tall, ready to unleash their prowess: the MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme. These motherboards are meticulously engineered to cater to the demands of the most discerning enthusiasts, offering an arsenal of cutting-edge features and unparalleled performance. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two titans, analyzing their specifications, design, and capabilities to determine which one emerges as the ultimate champion.
Specifications: A Tale of Two Powerhouses
The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme share a common foundation, supporting Intel’s latest 13th-generation Core processors with the LGA 1700 socket. Both motherboards boast an E-ATX form factor, providing ample space for even the most extravagant builds.
In terms of memory support, the MSI MEG Z790 Godlike boasts eight DDR5 DIMM slots, accommodating up to 128GB of memory with speeds of up to DDR5-7600 (OC). The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme, on the other hand, features four DDR5 DIMM slots, supporting up to 64GB of memory with speeds of up to DDR5-6800 (OC).
Storage options abound on both motherboards. The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike offers six SATA III ports and five M.2 slots, including three PCIe 5.0 slots and two PCIe 4.0 slots. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme matches this with six SATA III ports and five M.2 slots, comprising four PCIe 5.0 slots and one PCIe 4.0 slot.
Design: Aesthetics and Functionality Intertwined
The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme exude an aura of elegance and sophistication. The MSI motherboard features a striking black and gold color scheme, accentuated by intricate patterns and a large illuminated MEG logo. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme, meanwhile, sports a sleek black and silver design, adorned with customizable RGB lighting and a prominent ROG logo.
Both motherboards boast robust VRM designs, ensuring stable power delivery to the CPU. The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike employs a 20+2+1 phase VRM, while the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme utilizes a 16+2+1 phase VRM. These robust power delivery systems ensure that even the most demanding tasks can be handled with ease.
Features: A Symphony of Connectivity and Innovation
The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme are veritable treasure troves of features, catering to the needs of even the most demanding users.
The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike boasts an impressive array of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and a 10GbE LAN port. It also features a plethora of USB ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, four USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, and six USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports.
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is equally well-equipped, offering Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and a 10GbE LAN port. It also provides a generous selection of USB ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, four USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, and six USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports.
Both motherboards come equipped with a variety of software utilities, enabling users to fine-tune their systems and monitor performance.
Performance: Unrivaled Power and Efficiency
The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme deliver exceptional performance, handling even the most demanding tasks with ease.
In terms of CPU performance, both motherboards offer excellent support for Intel’s 13th-generation Core processors, enabling users to extract maximum performance from their systems.
The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme also excel in memory performance, supporting high-speed DDR5 memory modules and providing ample overclocking headroom.
Overclocking: Pushing the Limits of Performance
Overclocking enthusiasts will find both the MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme to be formidable platforms.
The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike features a dedicated overclocking button, making it easy for users to push their systems to the limits. It also provides a wide range of BIOS settings and overclocking tools, allowing experienced users to fine-tune their systems for maximum performance.
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme also offers comprehensive overclocking capabilities, with a user-friendly UEFI BIOS and a suite of overclocking tools. It also features a dedicated overclocking header, enabling users to easily connect external overclocking devices.
The Bottom Line: The Ultimate Choice for Enthusiasts
The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme are both exceptional motherboards, offering a wealth of features, unparalleled performance, and extensive overclocking capabilities. The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike stands out with its slightly more robust VRM design, additional M.2 slots, and Thunderbolt 4 ports. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme, on the other hand, boasts a more compact design and a slightly more affordable price point.
Ultimately, the choice between these two motherboards comes down to personal preferences and specific requirements. Both the MSI MEG Z790 Godlike and ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme are worthy contenders for the title of “best motherboard,” and they will undoubtedly satisfy even the most demanding enthusiasts.
What You Need to Learn
1. Which motherboard has better VRM cooling?
- Both motherboards have robust VRM designs with dedicated heatsinks, but the MSI MEG Z790 Godlike features a slightly more elaborate VRM cooling solution.
2. Does either motherboard support PCIe 5.0 storage devices?
- Yes, both motherboards support PCIe 5.0 storage devices, with multiple M.2 slots capable of accommodating PCIe 5.0 SSDs.
3. Which motherboard has more USB ports?
- The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike offers a more extensive selection of USB ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, four USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, and six USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports.
4. Does either motherboard come with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2?
- Yes, both motherboards feature Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, providing fast and reliable wireless connections.
5. Which motherboard has a more user-friendly UEFI BIOS?
- Both motherboards have user-friendly UEFI BIOS interfaces, but the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme’s BIOS is generally considered to be slightly more intuitive and easier to navigate.