MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard Review – Next-Gen Power, Speed, and Simplicity for Gamers and Builders
If you're building a high-performance gaming rig or upgrading your current setup for Intel's latest processors, the MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard stands out as a powerful, future-ready platform that balances connectivity, overclocking features, and user-friendly tools. Based on the Intel Z790 chipset, this full-sized ATX motherboard supports Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Core processors, unlocks DDR5 RAM at 7200+ MHz, and brings in modern conveniences like Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and PCIe 5.0 support.
Let’s dive into why this motherboard is an ideal centerpiece for a next-gen gaming or productivity system.
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1. Intel Z790 Platform with LGA 1700 Support
At the core of this motherboard is its support for Intel's LGA 1700 socket, meaning it’s compatible with 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core CPUs—from i5 to i9. This allows builders flexibility when choosing their processor, whether they want a mid-tier gaming chip or a high-end multitasking powerhouse.
The MSI Core Boost technology embedded in the motherboard enhances power delivery to the CPU via a 14-phase Duet Rail Power System with 55A DrMOS, ensuring your processor operates with consistent power even during heavy loads or overclocking scenarios.
2. Blazing DDR5 Memory with Memory Boost
The MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI features four DDR5 DIMM slots supporting up to 128GB of dual-channel memory, with overclocking speeds beyond 7200MHz. Thanks to Memory Boost—MSI’s isolated memory circuit design—signal integrity is optimized, delivering stability and speed when you push your system.
This is an excellent platform for gamers and creators looking to future-proof their RAM, as DDR5 becomes the new standard in high-performance computing.
3. Lightning-Fast PCIe 5.0 and M.2 Gen4 Storage
For GPU support, the board includes a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, giving you double the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0—up to 128GB/s. This futureproofs your system for the next generation of RTX 5000 or Radeon GPUs, and MSI’s Steel Armor reinforcement protects the slot against GPU sag and EMI interference.
In addition, storage is handled by 4x M.2 Gen4 x4 slots, each capable of delivering 64Gbps speeds, perfect for NVMe SSDs. The primary M.2 slot is equipped with M.2 Shield Frozr, a dedicated heatsink that reduces thermal throttling for optimal performance even during extended gaming or rendering sessions.
4. AI-Powered Cooling and Smart Thermal Management
Thermals can make or break a build, especially under overclocked or multitasking conditions. MSI addresses this with:
- 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads
- A large chipset heatsink
- Multiple PWM/DC fan headers
- Frozr AI Cooling, which adjusts fan curves based on CPU and GPU temps using smart algorithms
These cooling features make it easier to maintain low temperatures and reduce fan noise, even during intensive gameplay or productivity tasks.
5. Robust Connectivity – Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5G LAN & Bluetooth 5.3
Modern builds demand modern connectivity, and this board delivers:
- Intel Wi-Fi 6E: Supports the 6GHz band for faster, interference-free wireless connections—great for streaming and low-latency gaming.
- Bluetooth 5.3: Ensures wide compatibility with wireless peripherals.
- Intel 2.5G LAN: Offers faster wired networking speeds with reduced latency and better stability.
With both high-end wired and wireless networking options, the MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI keeps you connected without compromise.
6. Rear I/O and Expansion Options
The rear panel includes:
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C (20Gbps)
- Multiple USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 Type-A
- HDMI 2.1 for up to 4K @ 60Hz display
- RJ-45 LAN port
- Wi-Fi 6E antenna connectors
- 7.1-channel HD Audio with Audio Boost technology
These options cover everything from high-speed external drives to multi-display setups and crystal-clear audio output.
7. Audio Boost and Immersive Sound
MSI has equipped the Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI with 7.1-channel HD Audio, enhanced by Audio Boost—a built-in amplifier and premium audio capacitors that isolate audio signals for cleaner, richer sound. This is perfect for immersive gameplay or creators working with music and video production.
Whether you’re wearing headphones or using speakers, the board ensures low-distortion audio that enhances your gaming and media sessions.
8. User-Friendly BIOS and Flash Features
MSI’s Click BIOS 5 offers an intuitive and well-organized UEFI interface for tuning settings like overclocking, fan curves, and boot order. The M-Flash utility allows for easy BIOS updates, and builders will appreciate the Flash BIOS Button, which lets you update the BIOS with only a USB stick—no CPU or memory required.
According to UK user Tom C., this feature alone saved him tons of time during the build process, especially when pairing the board with a newer 14th Gen CPU.
9. Aesthetics and Design
While the MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI doesn’t go overboard on RGB, it features a clean matte black PCB with subtle accents and support for Mystic Light RGB headers. You can sync with other MSI components or add your own RGB strips using Mystic Light software for a coordinated build.
Its neutral design makes it a strong candidate for both dark and bright builds, appealing to enthusiasts who value performance over excessive flair.
10. What Users Are Saying
🔹 Greg Dawson (UK): “A powerhouse designed for gamers and enthusiasts. Fast, stable, and packed with features. The VRM design, Wi-Fi, audio, and cooling are top notch.”
🔹 Tom C. (UK): “Easy for builders. The Flash BIOS Button made setup simple. Dual M.2 heatsinks, solid audio, and future-ready specs make this motherboard a stellar upgrade.”
These testimonials highlight how MSI’s Z790 platform not only caters to power users but also makes the experience enjoyable—even for those building their first system.
Final Verdict: Elite Performance Meets Practical Innovation
The MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI isn’t just a motherboard—it’s a platform that provides elite-level performance, ease of use, and seamless integration for gamers and creators alike. From DDR5 support and PCIe 5.0 to Wi-Fi 6E, Audio Boost, and a smart layout, it’s a comprehensive foundation for Intel’s powerful CPUs.
Final Rating: 4.9/5 – Future-ready, builder-friendly, and packed with features for the modern gamer.
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