Introduction

In late 2022, Intel launched the 13th generation core processors codenamed Raptor Lake, compatible with the existing Z690 / B660 and LGA 1700 socket. Often accompanying most mid-cycle CPU refreshes comes new motherboards and chipsets. This gives motherboard manufacturers an opportunity to add any new technologies and features that were not available previously. While nothing new was introduced that wasn’t already present in the Intel Z690 lineup, the Z790 chipset offers additional high-speed USB ports, PCIe lanes and better overall memory support compared to its predecessor.

MSI has come prepared with multiple new product refreshes, from the entry-level MAG PRO B760 to the flagship MEG Z790 Godlike. The MEG naming convention serves as MSI’s upper-mid to high-end line of AMD and Intel motherboards. Generally offering expanded performance compared to the MPG series as well as some additional premium features, the MEG lineup typically comprises three models: the Unify, Ace, and Godlike. The MSI MEG Z790 ACE lands in the middle of the MEG family, catering to consumers wanting the best the platform has to offer, only to be outdone by the MSI flagship MEG Godlike motherboard.

In today review, we have the MSI MEG Z790 ACE to look at. Using the new Intel Z790 chipset, this motherboard features a 24+1+2 VRM (105 A) setup that gives the word overkill a new level of meaning. Featuring PCIe 5.0 for future graphics cards and DDR5, the ACE has more hidden below the black heatsinks, with five M.2 sockets allowing for massive storage and those large creative projects or extensive game libraries. It also offers dual 2.5G LAN, WiFi 6E and Thunderbolt 4 for those who need to transfer data quickly. There is a lot to cover in this review, so let’s take a closer look at the MSI MEG Z790 ACE.

Specifications