MSI MPG Z790 CARBON MAX WIFI II LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard Review – 911-7D89-015

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Key Features
• Performance
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The MSI MPG Z790 CARBON MAX WIFI II is a high-end ATX motherboard designed for Intel’s 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen Core series processors. This motherboard boasts a comprehensive feature set, including support for DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, Wi-Fi 7, and a plethora of connectivity options. After extensive testing and real-world usage, here’s a detailed review of the MSI MPG Z790 CARBON MAX WIFI II, model number 911-7D89-015.

Key Features

The MSI MPG Z790 CARBON MAX WIFI II is packed with features, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts and gamers:

* **Intel Z790 Chipset**: Delivers outstanding performance and stability for Intel’s latest processors.
* **DDR5 Support**: Supports up to 256GB of DDR5 memory with impressive overclocking capabilities.
* **PCIe 5.0 x16**: Provides blazing-fast speeds for high-end graphics cards.
* **Wi-Fi 7 & Bluetooth 5.4**: Ultra-fast wireless connectivity for seamless online gaming and streaming.
* **USB4 with PD100W**: Offers lightning-fast data transfer rates and high-power charging for compatible devices.
* **M.2 Slots**: Five M.2 slots provide ample storage options, with support for both PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 NVMe drives.
* **Advanced Audio**: Featuring Realtek ALC4080 codec for immersive audio experiences.
* **RGB Lighting**: Customizable RGB lighting options enhance the aesthetic appeal of your build.

Performance

The MSI MPG Z790 CARBON MAX WIFI II delivered exceptional performance in my tests. I paired it with an Intel Core i9-13900K processor, and the combination showcased remarkable speed and responsiveness. The motherboard’s DDR5 support allowed me to push memory frequencies to their limits, significantly boosting overall system performance.

The PCIe 5.0 slot provided a substantial performance boost for my graphics card, resulting in smooth gameplay even at the highest settings. The Wi-Fi 7 connectivity was exceptionally fast, enabling seamless online gaming without lag. I also found the USB4 port to be incredibly fast, transferring files at astonishing speeds.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the MSI MPG Z790 CARBON MAX WIFI II:

**Pros:**

* Excellent performance with DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 support.
* Extensive connectivity options, including USB4 and Wi-Fi 7.
* Robust VRM design for stable overclocking capabilities.
* Sleek and stylish design.

**Cons:**

* Pricey compared to other Z790 motherboards.
* Some might find the onboard audio to be less impressive compared to dedicated audio cards.

Final Verdict

The MSI MPG Z790 CARBON MAX WIFI II is an excellent choice for enthusiasts and gamers looking for a high-performance motherboard with cutting-edge features. Its impressive performance, extensive connectivity, and robust design make it a top contender in the Z790 market. While it comes at a premium price, its feature set and overall performance justify the investment.