Unleash Your Gaming Potential with the MSI Z790 Gaming Pro!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. MSI z790 Gaming Pro: An Affordable Option
3. Power Delivery and Performance
4. PC Expansion: More Than You Bargained For
5. Storage Options: Standard Yet Sufficient
6. Rear IO: A Unique Assortment of Ports
7. Networking Surprises: Dual Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E
8. Audio Features: Good Enough for Most Users
9. Style and Aesthetics: A Gamery Flair
10. Conclusion

MSI z790 Gaming Pro: An Affordable Option

MSI is known for producing high-quality motherboards that cater to various budgets and needs. While the z790 Gaming Pro may not be as popular as some of its counterparts, such as the Tomahawk or the Pro A, it offers exceptional value at a lower price point. In this article, we will delve into the features and specifications of the MSI z790 Gaming Pro and explore whether it is a worthy choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Introduction

The MSI z790 Gaming Pro is an affordable motherboard option that surprises with its impressive offerings. Despite its lower price tag, it manages to deliver on several key aspects, making it a compelling choice for those on a tight budget. Let's explore what sets this motherboard apart from its competitors.

Power Delivery and Performance

One might assume that a cheaper motherboard would compromise on power delivery, but that's not the case with the MSI z790 Gaming Pro. It boasts a 14+1+1 phase power delivery system, rated at a maximum of 55 amps. While it may not match the power capabilities of higher-end MSI models, it is more than sufficient for most high-end CPUs. Unless you are an avid overclocker, you won't Notice a significant difference in performance.

PC Expansion: More Than You Bargained For

Surprisingly, the MSI z790 Gaming Pro offers a notable advantage in terms of PC expansion slots. In addition to the primary PCIe Gen 5 slot, it provides two additional 16x slots and four PCIe 4.0 slots. This is particularly intriguing considering its lower price compared to the Tomahawk and Pro A variants. While some may argue that such a plethora of expansion slots isn't necessary in a budget motherboard, it's a unique feature that sets the z790 Gaming Pro apart.

Storage Options: Standard Yet Sufficient

The z790 Gaming Pro offers standard storage options in its price range. It provides three M.2 slots, supporting PCIe Gen 4.0, which is commendable. However, it should be noted that it only offers four SATA connectors. While this limitation may seem like a drawback, it's worth considering that most users won't require more than four storage drives. In the grand scheme of things, this compromise is unlikely to hinder the functionality of the motherboard.

Rear IO: A Unique Assortment of Ports

The rear IO of the MSI z790 Gaming Pro is one of its most intriguing aspects. It features seven USB Type-A connectors, similar to the Pro A variant, which is adequate for most users. Additionally, it offers a single USB Type-C port, boasting a 20 gigabit per Second transfer rate. However, it is worth noting that the motherboard lacks an integrated display port while retaining the integrated HDMI. This decision might seem odd, but it shouldn't pose a significant inconvenience for most users.

Networking Surprises: Dual Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E

One of the most surprising features of the z790 Gaming Pro is its networking capabilities. Despite its budget-friendly nature, it includes both a 2.5 gigabit and a one gigabit Ethernet port. This dual Ethernet setup is rather unusual for a motherboard in this price range. Additionally, the z790 Gaming Pro comes equipped with Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring users have access to the latest wireless networking standards.

Audio Features: Good Enough for Most Users

While audio enthusiasts may find fault with the MSI z790 Gaming Pro's usage of the step-down AOC 897 audio codec, it is important to note that this choice does not significantly impact the audio quality for the average user. The audio capabilities of this motherboard are well within acceptable parameters and should satisfy the needs of most users. However, for those seeking a higher-end audio experience, opting for a motherboard with a better codec might be advisable.

Style and Aesthetics: A Gamery Flair

One area where the z790 Gaming Pro stands out is its aesthetics. Unlike the minimalistic design of some of its counterparts, this motherboard embraces a gamery flair. With interesting heat sinks and the inclusion of RGB lighting, it adds a touch of style to your PC build. This visual appeal, combined with its affordable price, makes the z790 Gaming Pro an appealing choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the MSI z790 Gaming Pro is a commendable option for budget-conscious consumers who Seek a reliable and feature-rich motherboard. It strikes a balance between affordability and performance, offering power delivery and expansion options that exceed expectations. While it may not boast the highest-end audio codec or a multitude of storage connectors, these compromises are unlikely to hinder the overall experience for the majority of users. With its unique aesthetics and competitive pricing, the z790 Gaming Pro is a worthwhile consideration for those looking to build a budget-friendly gaming rig.

Pros

• Affordable price
• Impressive power delivery for its class
• Extensive PC expansion options
• Adequate storage options
• Unique rear IO with dual Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E
• Gamery aesthetic with RGB lighting

Cons

• Step-down audio codec may not satisfy audiophiles
• Limited SATA connectors for storage drives
• Lack of integrated display port on the rear IO

Highlights

• The MSI z790 Gaming Pro offers exceptional value and performance at a budget-friendly price.
• Its power delivery system, although a downgrade from higher-end models, is more than sufficient for most high-end CPUs.
• Surprisingly, the z790 Gaming Pro provides additional PC expansion slots compared to its more expensive counterparts.
• Standard storage options and a unique rear IO with multiple USB ports make it a practical choice for most users.
• Dual Ethernet ports and Wi-Fi 6E networking capabilities are unexpected features in a budget motherboard.
• The audio quality, while acceptable for the average user, may disappoint audiophiles.
• With its gamery aesthetics and competitive pricing, the z790 Gaming Pro stands out in the budget motherboard market.

FAQ

Q: Is the MSI z790 Gaming Pro a reliable option for budget-conscious consumers? A: Yes, the z790 Gaming Pro offers exceptional value and performance at an affordable price, making it a reliable choice for those on a tight budget.

Q: Can the z790 Gaming Pro support high-end CPUs? A: Yes, the power delivery system of the z790 Gaming Pro, although not as robust as higher-end models, is modern enough to handle most high-end CPUs.

Q: How many PC expansion slots does the z790 Gaming Pro offer? A: The z790 Gaming Pro provides two additional 16x slots and four PCIe 4.0 slots, surpassing the offerings of its more expensive counterparts.

Q: How many storage drives can the z790 Gaming Pro accommodate? A: The z790 Gaming Pro offers three M.2 slots supporting PCIe Gen 4.0 and four SATA connectors, which should be sufficient for most users.

Q: What networking capabilities does the z790 Gaming Pro have? A: The z790 Gaming Pro surprises with dual Ethernet ports (2.5 gigabit and one gigabit) and Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring users have access to high-speed wired and wireless connections.