Head-to-Head · Motherboards

ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi (AM5) vs MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard (AM5)

ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi (AM5)
$399.99 97 reviews analyzed
MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard (AM5)
$175.99 100 reviews analyzed
Scored Dimensions
8.0 Value for Money 8.8
8.5 Build & Ergonomics 8.0
6.5 Connectivity & Ports 7.0
6.0 Compatibility Experience 7.5
7.0 Stability 7.2
7.5 Upgrade Potential 8.5
ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi (AM5)

The Good

  • Exceptional build quality and premium design with robust heatsinks
  • Rock-solid power delivery and stable performance, ideal for overclocking high-end CPUs
  • Extensive and future-proof connectivity, including PCIe 5.0, multiple M.2 slots, and Wi-Fi 7
  • User-friendly BIOS, AI-assisted tuning, and convenient DIY features like Q-Release slots

The Bad

  • Persistent and widespread issues with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functionality for Linux users
  • PCIe lane sharing limitations, where using certain M.2 slots downgrades GPU bandwidth
  • Occasional, lengthy DDR5 memory training times and intermittent boot issues reported by some users
MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard (AM5)

The Good

  • Excellent value and feature set for its price
  • Robust build quality and appealing all-black design
  • User-friendly BIOS with extensive customization options
  • Ample connectivity and upgrade potential with multiple M.2 slots

The Bad

  • Consistently long boot times, often requiring BIOS tweaks
  • Inconsistent Wi-Fi and Bluetooth performance, sometimes needing aftermarket antennas
  • Reports of quality control issues like bent pins or missing accessories on new boards
  • Suboptimal placement of some internal connectors and a fragile GPU release clip
The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi (AM5) Verdict

For Windows users building a high-performance AM5 system, the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi offers a feature-rich and stable foundation. However, potential buyers should be aware of its significant Linux compatibility shortcomings and PCIe lane sharing nuances that can impact performance.

Read the full ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi (AM5) consensus →
The MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard (AM5) Verdict

This motherboard is a strong contender for AM5 system builders seeking a balanced feature set and reliable performance for gaming and demanding tasks. Buyers should be prepared for potential initial setup complexities and be mindful of reported Wi-Fi performance variations.

Read the full MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard (AM5) consensus →
The Bottom Line

Our pick: MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard (AM5) · 7.5/10

It's close. The MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard (AM5) edges it, 7.5/10 to 7.4/10, on the strength of Compatibility Experience and Upgrade Potential.

ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi (AM5)
$399.99 Best price the consensus found
Check Price →
MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard (AM5)
$175.99 Best price the consensus found
Check Price →

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How ORA built this: We read recent reviews, remove suspected bot or incentivized entries, off-topic complaints, and reviews describing the buyer's own setup problems rather than the product, then synthesize the remainder into a single unbiased verdict. Read our full methodology →