MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK with WiFi and DDR5 memory
MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK with WiFi and DDR5 memory
Is the MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI DDR5 a reliable build? It seems to include all the features you need and looks appealing at a reasonable cost. My main worry is the numerous negative reviews on sites like Newegg and Amazon, ranging from non-functional boards to driver issues with Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and other components. I’ve only used ASUS motherboards before. Are there any real experiences from others about this model? Should I worry and consider alternatives?
It's acceptable. This wouldn't be my top pick for a board in that price range (the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX or the MSI Z690 Carbon/Force depending on your budget). It's still a reliable choice, and I wouldn't hesitate to consider it if the cost fits. These issues typically relate to the Intel NIC built into the board, causing similar problems across different models—especially when operating in 2.5GbE mode. If you stick to 1Gb connections, which most users do at home, you should be okay. Keep in mind that most complaints come from reviewers who write after extended use, not from actual users. Every board will have some reviews if you check for more than a few minutes, but this model doesn't appear to be a major concern based on current knowledge.
Thanks, though there are quite a few dead boards as well. However, your position is accurate—there are more negative reviews than positive ones, especially among those without problems. Most people who didn’t have issues didn’t feel the need to leave feedback. I’d still look at the Gigabyte, but I need a full range of audio jacks which it doesn’t offer. Many boards seem to be missing certain features.
I hadn’t really thought about the Z690 boards, but the MSI Z690 Carbon seems like a great option for the same price. It looks better than the Z790 Tomahawk. Are there any drawbacks to choosing it? Of course, it’ll require a BIOS update if you’re using a 13th generation CPU.
It seems to have a tougher time reaching maximum memory speed compared to Z790 boards. Unless you intended to use DDR5 7200+, it should still work, though even the Tomahawk might find it challenging at that rate. At around $250, it offers good value right now.
I own a DDR4 system with a 13600k, no overheating issues during 250w operation in R23. The performance seems stable at that power level, though I’m unsure about the impact of upgrading to 13900k. For the DDR5 side, I can’t confirm what it would handle, but it worked well on my board after a BIOS update. My motherboard occasionally has Ethernet problems during boot—sometimes only restarting BIOS fixes it. The M.2 slots have proper heat protection and thermal pads, which is good for a typical gaming rig and mild overclocking. I believe it functions well but haven’t tested other boards at once. The stock voltage the board uses is higher than usual; I set it to 1.38v originally, but needed 1.15 for normal use and 1.18 for my overclock.
I recently purchased the MSI Z690 Force from Newegg for $189 (including tax). I considered the Z790 but struggled to find a reliable board at that price point. Your feedback on the Z690 Carbon/Force really boosted my confidence in my choice!