PGC NEWS

The launch of Intel’s 12th generation processors and the Z690 chipset, packed with cutting-edge technology, has spurred a wave of new motherboards. MSI, a leading name in gaming hardware, has answered the call with its MPG series, including the highly anticipated MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi. This board promises a potent blend of performance and features designed to satisfy even the most demanding gamers. Let’s explore what MSI brings to the table with this Z690 offering.

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi: A Focus on Power

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi Motherboard

MSI’s product lines cater to different user segments. The MAG series targets mainstream users, while the MEG series focuses on high-end performance and aesthetics. The MPG series, however, is designed for gamers who prioritize raw power above all else. The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi embodies this philosophy, emphasizing performance over flashy design. Even the packaging reflects this focus, with a shift from the traditional black Carbon series aesthetic to a more striking blue-purple theme.

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi Box

The rear of the box highlights key features, including DDR5 memory support, PCIe 5.0, WiFi 6E, and USB 3.2 Gen 2, offering gamers a comprehensive suite of next-generation technologies.

Enhanced Power Delivery and Cooling

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi Heatsinks

The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi boasts a robust VRM design with significantly larger heatsinks compared to its Z590 predecessor. A notable addition is the chrome-plated copper heat pipe connecting the two heatsinks, enhancing heat dissipation. This feature, typically found on high-end boards, caters to overclockers pushing CPU performance to the limit.

These large VRM heatsinks benefit from airflow generated by the CPU cooler, especially MSI’s Core Liquid S Series AIO coolers. These coolers incorporate a 60mm fan to actively cool the VRM area, further enhancing stability during overclocking.

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi Power Connectors

The enhanced cooling is crucial because Intel’s 12th generation CPUs demand more power. The Core i9 12900K, for example, can reach a power consumption of 270W, comparable to an overclocked AMD Ryzen 9 5900X. To accommodate this increased power draw, the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi features dual 8-pin CPU power connectors and an 18+1+1 power phase design, two more phases than the Z590 version.

PCIe 5.0 and Reinforced Slots

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi PCIe Slots

The PCIe slots are reinforced with steel armor to support heavy graphics cards, such as MSI’s Gaming X Trio series, known for their substantial coolers and triple-fan designs. The larger PCIe release latches make removing graphics cards easier.

DDR5 Support and Overclocking

The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi exclusively supports DDR5 memory, offering significant performance gains over DDR4.

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi DDR5 Slots

With features like Memory Boost and Memory Try It!, this motherboard supports future DDR5 speeds up to 6666MHz, surpassing the current 5200MHz limit of many DDR5 motherboards.

Feature-Rich and User-Friendly Design

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi Features

The full ATX form factor allows MSI to incorporate numerous features. A debug LED display, RGB headers, and fan/pump headers are conveniently located. A standout feature is the EZ M.2 Clip mechanism for tool-less M.2 SSD installation.

Audio and Connectivity

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi Audio

The audio section features an isolated circuit design with high-quality Japanese capacitors. While utilizing the Realtek ALC4080 codec, it supports DSD audio and Dolby Atmos, catering to both music and movie enthusiasts. An optical audio output further expands connectivity options.

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi Connectivity

The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi offers cutting-edge connectivity, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 (20Gbps), 2.5G LAN, and WiFi 6E. A Flash BIOS Button allows for BIOS updates without a CPU installed.

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wifi Rear Panel

Conclusion

The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi is a compelling mid-range to high-end gaming motherboard packed with features. Its robust power delivery, support for DDR5 and PCIe 5.0, and comprehensive connectivity make it an excellent platform for Intel’s 12th generation processors, catering to both professional users and demanding gamers.