MSI is turning heads with their latest claim: superior WiFi performance on their X870 motherboards. Unlike their rivals, MSI’s chipset supports both 160Hz and 320 MHz frequencies, but MSI has taken it a step further by introducing true WiFi 7 support with an impressive 360 MHz frequency.
The tech giant is rolling out a new marketing strategy to emphasize the distinct advantages of their motherboards, which include significant changes to both the soon-to-be-released AMD X870 and the upcoming Intel Z890 series. According to Uniko’s Hardware, MSI is not only embracing the ATX 3.1 165W design with an additional 8-pin power connector but also offering complete WiFi 7 spectrum support. This initiative is part of a broader plan that features user-friendly capabilities like effortless GPU or SSD removal with their “EZ” design and an entirely revamped BIOS.
The WiFi 7 standard, also known as 802.11be, brings a 360 MHz wide bandwidth to the table. While not all client devices can take full advantage of this—smartphones such as the iPhone 16, for example, are capped at 160 MHz—WiFi 7 can still be used for meshing, thus enhancing bandwidth and connectivity when needed. For MSI motherboard users, this means having the option to choose higher frequencies for their home networks, with the assurance that they will be fully supported.
MSI’s bold claim was underscored by a marketing slide pointing out that their competitors, including ASUS and Gigabyte, lag behind in this crucial area. Boards like ASUS TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI, PRIME X870-P WIFI, and ROG STRIX X870-A GAMING WIFI, as well as Gigabyte models like the X870E AORUS ELITE WIFI7, X870 GAMING X WIFI7, and X870 EAGLE WIFI7, feature chipsets limited to the 160MHz frequency. This isn’t hidden information; these companies openly confirm this limitation. However, some models, like the Gigabyte X870E AORUS Master, do support the full 320 MHz standard.
It’s worth noting that WiFi 7 remains a niche market, with routers and access points supporting this standard carrying hefty price tags. Companies are aware that many users might not immediately notice the benefits. However, equipped with this knowledge, consumers can make more informed choices, putting their money where they’ll see the most value.
With such pioneering features, MSI’s latest motherboards could well be a game-changer in the next-gen desktop market.
