MSI Launches First Wave of Socket AM5 Motherboards with AMD X870E and X870 Chipsets

MSI today unveiled its first wave of Socket AM5 motherboards, powered by the latest AMD X870E and X870 chipsets. These new boards are fully compatible with AMD’s recently introduced Ryzen 9000 “Granite Ridge” processors, offering an array of advanced features and enhanced platform I/O. MSI’s lineup spans across its key consumer motherboard brands—MEG, MPG, MAG, and PRO—tailored for enthusiasts, gamers, and mainstream users alike.

MEG X870E GODLIKE: The Flagship Masterpiece

At the forefront of MSI’s new range is the flagship MEG X870E GODLIKE, a high-end motherboard that redefines premium with its extravagant design and unmatched features. Almost every inch of the board is enveloped in heatsinks, which are not only functional but also lend it an aesthetic appeal that borders on jewelry. All critical onboard I/O faces are positioned on the front end, featuring a 24-pin ATX and two optional 8-pin PCIe power inputs. The two 8-pin EPS power inputs for CPU power remain exposed near the socket, ensuring direct energy delivery.

The CPU is driven by a robust 27-phase VRM, featuring an active cooling solution with aluminum fin-stack heatsinks and heat pipes for optimal heat dissipation. Designed for extreme overclockers, the four DDR5 DIMM slots support memory speeds exceeding DDR5-8000, with future-proofing for even higher OC capabilities. For expansion, the board is equipped with one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, a secondary PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, and an additional PCIe 4.0 x4 slot. Storage is generously supported by four M.2 NVMe slots, three of which are PCIe Gen 5, while the fourth supports PCIe Gen 4.

The rear I/O on the MEG X870E GODLIKE is a tech enthusiast’s dream, featuring two 40 Gbps USB4 ports with DisplayPort passthrough, five 10 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 type-C, and eight USB 3.2 Gen 2 type-A ports. High-speed networking is provided via a 10 GbE LAN port, accompanied by a secondary 5 GbE port, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4. The onboard audio solution boasts a premium Realtek ALC4082 CODEC paired with a discrete AMP, ensuring crystal-clear sound quality.

For added convenience, the motherboard includes MSI’s Dynamic Dashboard III, a 4-inch full-color touchscreen that provides real-time system monitoring, troubleshooting options, and UEFI firmware flashing capabilities. Additionally, the EZ Control Hub is a clever breakaway module that declutters the front of the build by managing case-fan, ARGB, and water-flow sensor headers from behind the motherboard tray.

MPG X870E Carbon WIFI: High-End Performance

The MPG X870E Carbon WIFI follows closely behind the GODLIKE as a more accessible yet powerful motherboard. It retains many of the premium features of its flagship sibling, including PCIe 5.0 connectivity and comprehensive I/O options. Power is supplied through a 21-phase VRM, drawn from two 8-pin EPS connectors, with an optional 8-pin PCIe power input for additional stability when the board is loaded with high-performance components like Gen 5 SSDs.

Expansion slots include two additional PCIe x16 slots with Gen 4 electrical interfaces. While the I/O is slightly pared down compared to the GODLIKE, it still packs two 40 Gbps USB4 ports, along with a selection of 10 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 type-C and type-A ports. Networking features include a 5 GbE LAN port and a 2.5 GbE secondary port, alongside Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. The onboard audio solution is powered by the Realtek ALC4080 CODEC, delivering excellent audio quality.

MAG X870 Tomahawk WIFI: Mid-Range Powerhouse

For those seeking solid performance without breaking the bank, the MAG X870 Tomahawk WIFI offers a robust feature set based on the standard AMD X870 chipset. This board loses some PCIe Gen 4 GPP lanes but retains essential features for gamers and power users. A simpler 17-phase VRM handles CPU power, drawn from 24-pin ATX, two 8-pin EPS, and an optional 8-pin PCIe power input.

The board includes four M.2 NVMe slots—two Gen 5 and two Gen 4—providing ample storage options for enthusiasts. The rear I/O offers two 40 Gbps USB4 ports with DisplayPort passthrough, and a single 5 GbE LAN port, complemented by Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless connectivity. On the audio front, the board is equipped with either a Realtek ALC4080 or ALC1200 CODEC, ensuring respectable audio performance for its price range.

PRO X870-P WIFI: Mainstream Functionality

Rounding out the lineup is the PRO X870-P WIFI, a more straightforward motherboard designed for mainstream users who prioritize functionality over aesthetics. While the layout is simplified, the board shares a power delivery system similar to that of the MAG Tomahawk, ensuring reliable performance. Some features, such as high-end gamer aesthetics, are scaled back, but the core I/O remains strong, with two USB4 ports, Wi-Fi 7, and entry-level audio via the Realtek ALC892 CODEC.

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With this new wave of motherboards, MSI solidifies its position in the AMD ecosystem, providing options that cater to different segments of users—from extreme overclockers to mainstream builders—all powered by the latest Ryzen 9000 “Granite Ridge” processors and advanced platform I/O.

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