MSI MEG Z890 GODLIKE motherboard review unmatched performance with DDR5, Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 7

Description

Dynamic Aesthetic and Build Quality

I’ve got to say, the MSI MEG Z890 GODLIKE motherboard is a jaw-dropper in the aesthetics department. From the moment I unboxed it, the dark black heatsink design with its crystal-cut tempered glass and stereoscopic dragon engraving felt like a centerpiece for any high-end build. The Dynamic Dashboard III, a 3.99-inch LCD screen, adds a futuristic touch, displaying hardware monitoring stats or even custom animations. The build itself feels robust, and the 10-layer server-grade PCB with 2oz thickened copper screams durability. It’s clear MSI didn’t cut corners on premium materials here.

One small gripe, however, is its E-ATX form factor, which may not fit every case. I had to double-check my setup to ensure compatibility. If you’re planning on using this motherboard, ensure your case has adequate room, as it’s larger than standard ATX boards.

Unparalleled Performance

This beast is designed for nothing short of extreme performance. Supporting the latest Intel Core Ultra Processors (Series 2) with its LGA 1851 socket, it’s ready to handle the most demanding tasks. I tested it with a high-end CPU, and the performance was buttery smooth, even with intense multitasking and gaming. The DDR5 memory support, overclockable to 9200+ MT/s, is just insane. Whether you’re running AAA games, editing 4K video, or crunching data, this motherboard can take it all without breaking a sweat.

What really caught my attention is the 26 DRPS (110A, SPS) VRM design with dual 8-pin power connectors, ensuring stable power delivery even during overclocking sessions. I pushed my CPU beyond its stock limits, and the board handled it with ease, thanks to the premium cooling features, which I’ll dive into next.

Advanced Thermal Solutions

Heat is the enemy of performance, and MSI clearly knows this. The Frozr Guard system is packed with features like a wavy fin design, direct-touch cross heat-pipe, and 9W/mK MOSFET thermal pads. The double-sided EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II kept my SSDs running cool, even under heavy loads. I also appreciated the inclusion of a combo-fan header, which supports both pump and system fans.

During my tests, the motherboard’s cooling system performed exceptionally well. I ran benchmarks that typically stress the CPU and GPU, and the board’s passive and active cooling features kept all components at safe temperatures. The only downside? The cooling setup can be a bit overwhelming for beginners, as it requires some planning during installation.

Key Benefits

• Stunning design with a crystal-cut tempered glass heatsink and customizable LCD dashboard.
• Exceptional power delivery with 26 DRPS VRM and stable overclocking capabilities.
• State-of-the-art cooling, ensuring performance even under heavy workloads.
• High-speed connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and 10G LAN, plus Thunderbolt 5 support.
• Flexible storage options with eight M.2 connectors, including Gen5 compatibility.

Areas of Concern

• E-ATX size may not fit into all cases.
• The complex cooling setup might not be beginner-friendly.
• Premium price tag, though expected for a flagship model.

Cutting-Edge Connectivity

The connectivity on this motherboard is nothing short of impressive. With full-speed Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and Marvell 10G Super LAN, networking is fast and reliable. I streamed 4K content, transferred large files, and played online games without a hiccup. The Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports, along with the Thunderbolt 5 accessory card, make it future-proof for high-speed data transfer and external devices.

Another highlight is the 7.1 USB high-performance audio with Audio Boost 5 HD. I’m not an audiophile, but the sound quality when paired with my high-end headphones was outstanding. Movies, music, and games all sounded immersive, and the S/PDIF support is a nice bonus for those with advanced audio setups.

Peer Products

Comparing this motherboard to other high-end models like the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme or the Gigabyte Aorus Xtreme, the MSI MEG Z890 GODLIKE stands out in several areas. The Dynamic Dashboard III is a unique feature that competitors lack, providing a level of customization and monitoring that’s hard to beat. Additionally, its Wi-Fi 7 support and Thunderbolt 5 compatibility make it more future-ready than many alternatives.

That said, rivals like the ASUS ROG Maximus offer slightly more streamlined cooling setups, which might appeal to less experienced builders. Gigabyte’s Aorus Xtreme, on the other hand, is more compact, making it a better choice for tighter cases. However, neither competitor matches the sheer number of M.2 slots and overclocking potential of this motherboard.

Financial Value

As someone who’s tested numerous motherboards, I can confidently say the MSI MEG Z890 GODLIKE offers serious value for money, despite its premium price tag. You’re not just paying for a motherboard; you’re investing in a feature-packed platform that’s built to handle the future of gaming and content creation. The cutting-edge connectivity, durable build, and overclocking capabilities make it worth every penny for enthusiasts and professionals alike. However, if you’re a casual user or don’t plan to utilize all its features, you might find more affordable options that suit your needs.

This motherboard is ideal for those who demand top-tier performance, whether that’s gamers chasing every frame, content creators working on massive projects, or tech enthusiasts building a PC that’s as much about form as it is function.

Additional information