MSI MAG Z890 Tomahawk WiFi vs Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX
The MSI MAG Z890 Tomahawk WiFi is the superior choice for users building a new high-end system with the latest Intel processors, offering better future-proofing and connectivity. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX is a solid option for those looking to save money on a Z790 platform or upgrading an existing LGA1700 system.
AI Verdict
MSI MAG Z890 Tomahawk WiFi wins overall.
By the numbers
Performance
Pick A wins
The MSI Z890 supports higher memory speeds (9200 MHz vs 7600 MHz) and is designed for the upcoming Intel LGA1851 processors, which are expected to offer generational performance improvements over LGA1700.
Value for money
Pick B wins
The Gigabyte Z790 is $20 cheaper and offers a robust feature set for its price, making it a better value for current-generation builds, especially if you already own an LGA1700 CPU.
Power efficiency
Tie
Power efficiency is primarily determined by the CPU and chipset, and both motherboards are designed to handle high-power CPUs effectively, with no significant difference expected between them in this regard.
Future-proofing
Pick A wins
The MSI Z890 features the newer LGA1851 socket for upcoming Intel CPUs and supports WiFi 7, offering superior future compatibility compared to the LGA1700 socket and WiFi 6E on the Gigabyte Z790.
Pick A if…
- • You are building a brand new system and want to use the latest generation of Intel processors (LGA1851).
- • You require the absolute fastest memory speeds (up to 9200 MHz) for your applications.
- • You want the most advanced wireless connectivity with WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
Pick B if…
- • You are looking to save money on a high-performance Z790 motherboard.
- • You already own an Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th gen LGA1700 CPU and want to upgrade your motherboard.
- • You don't need the absolute bleeding edge in terms of CPU socket or wireless technology.
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | A: MAG Z890 Tomahawk WiFi | B: Z790 Aorus Elite AX |
|---|---|---|
| Socket | LGA1851 | LGA1700 |
| Chipset | Z890 | Z790 |
| Form factor | ATX | ATX |
| M.2 slots | 4 | 4 |
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Common questions
MSI MAG Z890 Tomahawk WiFi vs Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX — which should I buy?+
The MSI MAG Z890 Tomahawk WiFi is the superior choice for users building a new high-end system with the latest Intel processors, offering better future-proofing and connectivity. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX is a solid option for those looking to save money on a Z790 platform or upgrading an existing LGA1700 system.
When does MSI MAG Z890 Tomahawk WiFi win?+
You are building a brand new system and want to use the latest generation of Intel processors (LGA1851). You require the absolute fastest memory speeds (up to 9200 MHz) for your applications. You want the most advanced wireless connectivity with WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
When does Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX win?+
You are looking to save money on a high-performance Z790 motherboard. You already own an Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th gen LGA1700 CPU and want to upgrade your motherboard. You don't need the absolute bleeding edge in terms of CPU socket or wireless technology.
Are the prices live or MSRP?+
MSRP is shown as a reference baseline. Click either product card to see live retailer pricing — we pull current prices from Amazon, Newegg, Best Buy and other retailers on demand, cached for 30 days. Prices localize automatically for US, Canada, and India.