MSI
MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi
Gaming Motherboard
The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi is a gaming motherboard in ATX form factor designed for the LGA1700 socket, launched in 2021. Equipped with the Z690 chipset, it provides a solid foundation for high-performance builds with Intel Core 12th, 13th and 14th gen.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | MSI |
|---|---|
| Socket | LGA1700 |
| Chipset | Z690 |
| Form factor | ATX |
| Release year | 2021 |
Platform & socket
Intel LGA1700 is the Intel platform for 12th, 13th and 14th gen Core (Alder Lake, Raptor Lake and Raptor Lake Refresh). Boards can support DDR5 or DDR4 depending on design (never both simultaneously). Compatible with a wide range of processors from Core i3 to Core i9.
Z690 chipset: what it offers
The Z690 was Intel's flagship chipset at the LGA1700 (Core 12th gen) launch. The first Intel chipset to support DDR5 alongside DDR4, PCIe 5.0 for GPU and M.2, and full overclocking. A solid platform for Core i7 and i9 of 12th and 13th generation.
Form factor: ATX
The ATX form factor (305 × 244 mm) is the industry standard for desktop gaming builds. It provides the highest number of PCIe slots, M.2 slots, SATA ports and customisation options. Compatible with the vast majority of gaming cases on the market.
Compatible RAM
On the memory side, the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi works with DDR5/DDR4. For gaming it is recommended to install modules in dual-channel configuration to make the most of the available bandwidth. The Z690 chipset supports memory overclocking through XMP/EXPO profiles, so installing a kit with a high-frequency profile and enabling it in the BIOS is a straightforward way to improve performance without risk.
Compatible CPUs for socket LGA1700
Frequently asked questions
Which processors are compatible with the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi?
The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi has socket LGA1700 and is compatible with Intel Core 12th, 13th and 14th gen processors. Intel LGA1700 is the Intel platform for 12th, 13th and 14th gen Core (Alder Lake, Raptor Lake and Raptor Lake Refresh). Boards can support DDR5 or DDR4 depending on design (never both simultaneously). Compatible with a wide range of processors from Core i3 to Core i9.
What type of RAM does the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi support?
The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi with Z690 chipset supports DDR5/DDR4 memory. Z690 motherboards typically include 4 DIMM slots with XMP 2.0/3.0 profile support. For maximum performance it is recommended to install modules in dual-channel configuration.
Is the Z690 chipset good enough for gaming?
Yes. The Z690 chipset is fully capable for high-performance gaming. The Z690 was Intel's flagship chipset at the LGA1700 (Core 12th gen) launch. The first Intel chipset to support DDR5 alongside DDR4, PCIe 5.0 for GPU and M.2, and full overclocking. A solid platform for Core i7 and i9 of 12th and 13th generation. The difference between chipsets mainly affects overclocking options, the number of additional PCIe slots and USB/SATA ports — not the base performance of the processor, which is identical regardless of chipset on the same socket.
Which form factor is better, ATX or Micro-ATX?
The answer depends on your needs. ATX provides more PCIe slots (ideal if you need multiple expansion cards, capture cards or additional SSDs), better cable management space and generally more rear connectivity options. Micro-ATX reduces the overall build size while keeping in most cases the same basic gaming features: one PCIe x16 slot for the GPU, 2-4 M.2 slots and enough USB ports. For pure gaming both form factors are equally capable.
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