MSI PRO Z690-A WiFi Motherboard Review LGA 1700 DDR5 PCIe 5 Features

Description

Sleek Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the MSI PRO Z690-A WiFi ProSeries Motherboard struck me with its solid construction and professional-looking design. Its ATX form factor fits snugly into most standard cases, and the layout is well thought out. I particularly appreciated the extended heatsink design, which not only looks modern but also promises better heat dissipation. The MOSFET thermal pads, rated for 7W/mk, and the M.2 Shield Frozr, designed to keep SSDs cool, are standout features for anyone who values system longevity and performance stability. While assembling my rig, the clear labeling on the board made installation straightforward, even for someone like me who’s not exactly a tech wizard.

Performance That Packs a Punch

As someone who loves gaming and multitasking, I tested the motherboard with a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and DDR5 RAM. The results? Smooth, lag-free performance that honestly exceeded my expectations. The support for DDR5 memory—with speeds up to 4800 MHz—really makes a difference here. Whether I was running resource-heavy games or juggling multiple browser tabs and apps, the system handled it all without breaking a sweat. The inclusion of PCIe 5.0 slots ensures you’re future-proofed for the next-gen GPUs, which is a big deal for gamers and content creators alike. However, I did notice that enabling the full potential of DDR5 requires some manual tweaking in the BIOS, which might intimidate first-time builders.

Key Benefits

• Support for 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors, ensuring compatibility with the latest CPUs.
• Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for fast, stable wireless connections.
• 2.5G LAN with LAN Manager for a reliable wired network experience.
• Intel Turbo USB 3.2 Gen 2 for lightning-fast data transfer speeds.

Networking and Connectivity

The network features on this motherboard are a dream come true for anyone who’s tired of laggy connections. The Intel Wi-Fi 6E solution provided me with a seamless wireless internet experience, even in a crowded network environment. For those who prefer a wired connection, the 2.5G LAN delivers speedy and stable networking, which is perfect for competitive online gaming or large file transfers. On the connectivity front, the Turbo USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports are a real treat, especially when you’re transferring huge files or backing up data. I found the USB ports to be not only fast but also reliable, with no random disconnections.

Areas for Improvement

• The BIOS interface, while functional, feels a bit outdated compared to other brands.
• No onboard RGB lighting, which might be a dealbreaker for those building a flashy gaming rig.
• Setting up DDR5 memory profiles can be tricky for beginners.

Audio and Expansion Options

The onboard audio is surprisingly decent for a motherboard in this range. While it won’t replace a dedicated sound card for audiophiles, the Realtek ALC codec delivers clear and immersive sound for gaming and media consumption. As someone who enjoys tinkering, I appreciated the multiple M.2 slots and SATA connectors, which make it easy to add storage or upgrade down the line. The PCIe 5.0 slots are another highlight, ensuring compatibility with the latest expansion cards.

Competitive Options

When comparing this motherboard to some of its market rivals, like the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E or the Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Pro, a few key differences stand out. The MSI PRO Z690-A WiFi offers a more professional, no-frills design, unlike the RGB-heavy aesthetics of its competitors. However, the ASUS ROG Strix does come with a more user-friendly BIOS and additional USB ports. On the flip side, the MSI board’s thermal solutions and networking capabilities are superior to the Gigabyte option, making it a better choice for those prioritizing performance and stability. It’s a trade-off between aesthetics and raw functionality, depending on what you value more.

True Value

In terms of price-to-quality ratio, this motherboard delivers excellent bang for the buck. The inclusion of DDR5 compatibility, PCIe 5.0 slots, and advanced thermal solutions makes it a solid investment for both casual users and professionals. While it might lack some of the flashy features found in higher-end models, it compensates with robust performance and reliability. For anyone looking to build a future-proof system without breaking the bank, this is a worthy contender.

Additional information