MEG Z790 ACE MAX DDR5 E-ATX Motherboard, LGA 1700 Socket, Intel Z790 Chipset, 4x DIMM Slots up to 7800MHz, 3x PCIe (5.0/4.0) x16 Slots, 5x M.2 - 6x SATA, Dual 2.5G LAN, Wi-Fi 7, Type-C DisplayPort, 5x USB Type-C (2x 40G + 2x 20G + 1x 10G), Max 256GB RAM.

Introduction

The MSI MEG Z790 ACE MAX is a flagship-tier E-ATX motherboard built on the robust Intel Z790 chipset and LGA 1700 socket, adopting cutting-edge support for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors. Engineered with high-frequency DDR5 support, PCIe 5.0, Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 7, and dual 2.5 GbE network connectivity, it delivers powerhouse performance in a premium, builder-focused package.

Chipset & Socket

This board utilizes the Intel Z790 chipset paired with the LGA 1700 socket, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of Intel desktop CPUs—including the latest 14th generation models.

Power Design

The power delivery system is elite-grade, featuring a 24+1+2 Duet Rail architecture powered by 105 A Smart Power Stages (SPS), dual 8-pin CPU power connectors, and a rugged 8-layer, 2 oz thickened copper PCB. This design ensures maximum stability for overclocking and extreme load scenarios.

Memory

With four DDR5 DIMM slots, the board supports dual-channel DDR5 overclocking up to 7800+ MT/s, depending on module configuration, with a maximum installed capacity of 192 GB.

Expansion & I/O

Graphics and add-on support include two steel-reinforced PCIe 5.0 ×16 slots (operating in x16/x0 or x8/x8 modes) plus a PCIe 4.0 ×4 slot. It also features dual Thunderbolt 4 ports via USB-C (40 Gb/s) with daisy-chain and 8K display support. Connectivity includes multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports and a 20 Gb/s front-panel USB-C header.

Storage

Storage options include one PCIe 5.0 ×4 M.2 slot (128 Gb/s) and four PCIe 4.0 slots (x4), all supported by efficient double-sided M.2 Shield Frozr cooling. Additionally, there are six SATA 6 Gb/s ports with RAID 0/1/5/10 support.

Networking & Wireless

Networking is comprehensive with dual Intel 2.5 GbE LAN ports and the latest Wi-Fi 7 (320 MHz channels, up to ~5.8 Gb/s) coupled with Bluetooth 5.4—offering low-latency, high-speed connectivity for demanding setups.

Cooling

Thermal management is sophisticated, featuring MSI's Stacked Fin Array VRM heatsinks, Direct-Touch Cross Heat-pipe, aluminum backplate, 7 W/mK thermal pads, and AI-enhanced Frozr cooling. M.2 slots are also actively cooled via dual-sided Shield Frozr.

Audio & Software

Audio performance is premium thanks to Realtek ALC4082 combined with ESS ES9280AQ DAC/HPA hardware. MSI’s software suite includes ClickBIOS 5, MSI Center with AI Cooling, Memory Boost, Mystic Light RGB, and dual BIOS functionality.

DIY Features & Build Quality

Key builder-friendly features include a pre-installed I/O shield, Steel Armor reinforced slots, Debug LED and Smart Button controls, EZ M.2 clips, and a robust E-ATX form factor. The board’s sleek black and silver design adds an understated, high-end aesthetic.

Benefits

Combining next-gen connectivity, ultra-stable power delivery, flagship cooling strategies, and top-tier memory performance, the MEG Z790 ACE MAX stands out as a performance and premium enthusiast motherboard—ideally suited for gamers, content creators, and overclockers.