MSI Z790 Carbon vs ASUS ROG Strix Z790: A Comprehensive Guide for Builders
What To Know
- Both motherboards feature a robust VRM design with 16 power phases for the MSI Z790 Carbon and 18 power phases for the ASUS ROG Strix Z790.
- The MSI Z790 Carbon and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 are both exceptional Z790 motherboards that offer a wide range of features and performance.
- The MSI Z790 Carbon is a great choice for those who prioritize aesthetics, while the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 is better suited for those who demand the best possible overclocking capabilities.
When it comes to building a high-end gaming PC, the motherboard is one of the most crucial components. It serves as the backbone of your system, connecting all the other components and determining the overall performance and features. In the realm of Z790 motherboards, two titans stand out: the MSI Z790 Carbon and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790. Both offer a formidable array of features, but which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into every aspect of these two motherboards to help you make an informed decision.
Form Factor and Aesthetics
Both the MSI Z790 Carbon and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 come in the standard ATX form factor, providing ample space for all your components. However, their aesthetics are vastly different. The MSI Z790 Carbon exudes a sleek and minimalist design with a black and carbon fiber theme. It features a clean and uncluttered layout, making it easy to build and maintain. In contrast, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 embraces a more aggressive gaming aesthetic with sharp angles, RGB lighting, and a futuristic-inspired design. The choice between these two aesthetics is purely subjective, depending on your personal preferences.
Chipset and Features
At the heart of both motherboards lies the Intel Z790 chipset, the latest and most advanced chipset for Intel’s 13th generation processors. This chipset supports all the latest features, including PCIe 5.0, DDR5 memory, and the Intel Optane Memory H20 with Intel Rapid Storage Technology.
In terms of features, the MSI Z790 Carbon and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 are neck and neck. Both offer a comprehensive suite of features, including:
- VRM Design: Both motherboards feature a robust VRM design with 16 power phases for the MSI Z790 Carbon and 18 power phases for the ASUS ROG Strix Z790. This ensures stable and efficient power delivery for even the most demanding processors.
- Connectivity: Both motherboards offer extensive connectivity options, including multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and USB 2.0 ports. They also feature built-in Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet for fast and reliable networking.
- Audio: Both motherboards come equipped with high-quality audio codecs for immersive audio experiences. The MSI Z790 Carbon features the Realtek ALC4080 codec, while the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 features the SupremeFX ALC4082 codec.
Expansion Options
When it comes to expansion options, both motherboards offer ample space for multiple graphics cards, storage devices, and other components. The MSI Z790 Carbon features four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, four M.2 slots, and eight SATA ports. The ASUS ROG Strix Z790 offers three PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, four M.2 slots, and eight SATA ports. Both motherboards also include additional PCIe slots and headers for further expansion.
BIOS and Overclocking
The BIOS is an important aspect of any motherboard, as it allows you to configure and overclock your system. Both the MSI Z790 Carbon and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 feature user-friendly BIOS interfaces with a wide range of overclocking options. The MSI Z790 Carbon’s BIOS is known for its intuitive layout and detailed settings, while the ASUS ROG Strix Z790’s BIOS offers a more comprehensive set of overclocking features.
Pricing and Availability
The MSI Z790 Carbon and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 are priced similarly, with the MSI Z790 Carbon typically being slightly more affordable. Both motherboards are widely available from major retailers.
Wrap-Up: The Verdict
The MSI Z790 Carbon and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 are both exceptional Z790 motherboards that offer a wide range of features and performance. The MSI Z790 Carbon is a great choice for those who prioritize aesthetics, while the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 is better suited for those who demand the best possible overclocking capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which motherboard has better VRM cooling?
Both the MSI Z790 Carbon and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 feature excellent VRM cooling solutions. However, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790 has a slight edge due to its larger heatsinks and additional airflow channels.
2. Which motherboard supports more M.2 drives?
Both motherboards support four M.2 drives.
3. Which motherboard has more USB ports?
Both motherboards offer a similar number of USB ports, with the MSI Z790 Carbon having a slight advantage in the number of USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports.
