Quick Overview
- In the realm of high-performance motherboards, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero stand as formidable contenders.
- The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi boasts a 20-phase VRM design with 90A power stages, while the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero employs a 19-phase VRM with 105A power stages.
- For immersive audio experiences, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi utilizes a Realtek ALC4082 audio codec, while the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero employs a SupremeFX ALC4080 codec.
In the realm of high-performance motherboards, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero stand as formidable contenders. Both cater to the needs of demanding enthusiasts and overclockers, offering an array of features and capabilities. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two top-tier motherboards to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Features
At the core of both motherboards lies the Intel Z790 chipset, unleashing the full potential of 13th Generation Intel Core processors. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi boasts a 20-phase VRM design with 90A power stages, while the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero employs a 19-phase VRM with 105A power stages. Both solutions provide ample headroom for overclocking and sustained performance.
In terms of memory support, both motherboards feature four DDR5 DIMM slots, capable of supporting up to 128GB of RAM at speeds of up to 7600MHz. Additionally, they offer extensive connectivity options, including multiple USB 3.2 Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 2×2 ports, as well as Thunderbolt 4 support on the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero.
Design and Aesthetics
The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi exudes a sleek and modern appearance with its carbon fiber-style heatsinks and black and silver accents. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero, on the other hand, embraces a more aggressive aesthetic with its angular lines, RGB lighting, and customizable OLED display. Both motherboards feature a user-friendly layout and intuitive BIOS interfaces.
Expansion Capabilities
When it comes to expansion capabilities, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi offers five PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, providing ample room for graphics cards and other high-speed devices. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero features four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, along with two PCIe 4.0 x1 slots. Both motherboards also include multiple M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs, ensuring fast storage performance.
Audio and Networking
For immersive audio experiences, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi utilizes a Realtek ALC4082 audio codec, while the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero employs a SupremeFX ALC4080 codec. Both solutions deliver high-quality sound output and support virtual surround sound technologies.
Regarding networking, both motherboards feature integrated 2.5GbE LAN ports and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero goes a step further by offering a 10GbE LAN port for ultra-fast wired connections.
Overclocking Potential
Both the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero are renowned for their overclocking capabilities. They provide extensive BIOS options and tuning parameters for fine-tuning performance. However, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has a slight edge in this area, with its dedicated overclocking headers and a more comprehensive range of voltage control settings.
Recommendations: The Final Verdict
Choosing between the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi excels in terms of value, offering a robust feature set at a competitive price. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero, on the other hand, caters to enthusiasts who demand the absolute best in overclocking and aesthetics.
Ultimately, the best motherboard for you is the one that meets your individual requirements and budget. Both the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero are exceptional choices that will elevate your computing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which motherboard has better VRM performance?
A: The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has a slight edge in VRM performance due to its higher power stage rating and more comprehensive voltage control settings.
Q: Does either motherboard support DDR5 memory?
A: Yes, both motherboards support DDR5 memory, with speeds of up to 7600MHz.
Q: Which motherboard has more PCIe slots?
A: The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi has more PCIe slots, with five PCIe 5.0 x16 slots compared to four on the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero.
Q: Does either motherboard have onboard Wi-Fi?
A: Yes, both motherboards feature integrated Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.
Q: Which motherboard has better audio quality?
A: The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has a slight edge in audio quality due to its SupremeFX ALC4080 codec.