MSI Z790 Project Zero Gaming
MSI Z790 Project Zero Gaming Specifications
MSI Z790 Project Zero Gaming by MSI is a Standard-ATX form factor motherboard based on the high-end Z790 chipset and LGA 1700 socket, offering the most advanced features and connectivity options. It is designed to support DDR5 memory up to 256 GB and memory overclocking up to 7200 MHz. The motherboard features 4 memory slots and offers support for PCIe 5.0 x16, ensuring compatibility with modern GPUs and high-bandwidth expansion cards.
MSI Z790 Project Zero Gaming Performance Review
The MSI Z790 Project Zero Gaming includes a mid-range VRM setup, delivering 55 A through 14 phases. It supports most compatible CPUs on its socket but is not ideal for sustained overclocking or powering very high-wattage CPUs due to potential thermal limitations. Best suited for casual users and mainstream gamers seeking stable performance for everyday use.
This motherboard includes an entry-level audio chipset — Realtek® ALC897 — which provides basic sound quality suitable for casual use. While it’s acceptable for everyday tasks such as web browsing, video playback, and light gaming, it may not meet the expectations of users with mid to high-end audio setups. Audiophiles and those seeking high-fidelity sound should consider using a dedicated sound card or external DAC.
With a performance-per-price score of just 43.1%, this motherboard provides limited value compared to other options. It may be best suited for specific niche builds or if found at a discount.
Motherboard Information
Manufacturer: MSI
Motherboard Name: MSI Z790 Project Zero Gaming
Current Price Amazon: $280
Amazon Price Updated: 19 hours, 39 minutes ago.
Motherboard Available: True
Chipset / Socket: Z790 / LGA 1700
Form Factor / Memory Slots: Standard-ATX / 4 slots.
Memory Type / Max Cap / Max OC: DDR5 / 256 GB / 7200 MHz
PCIe Suport: PCIe 5.0 x16
Audio Chipset: Realtek® ALC897
Network: Intel® 2.5Gbps LAN
Motherboard Dimensions: 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm
Quality & Features (max 110pts)
VRM Quality: 8 pts.
Chipset Q & F: 20 pts.
Build Quality: 14 pts.
Connectivity Q & F: 13 pts.
Audio Quality: 6 pts.
Total Points: 61 pts.
VRM Configuration
CPU Power Phases (Amps): 14 (55 A)
Power Design: 14+1+1
Calculated Performance
Quality and Features per Price: 43.1%
Additional Motherboard Information
Memory:
Memory Support 7200+(OC)/ 7000(OC)/ 6800(OC)/ 6600(OC)/ 6400(OC)/ 6200(OC)/ 6000(OC)/ 5800(OC)/ 5600(JEDEC)/ 5400(JEDEC)/ 5200(JEDEC)/ 5000(JEDEC)/ 4800(JEDEC) MHz
Max. overclocking frequency:
• 1DPC 1R Max speed up to 7200+ MHz
• 1DPC 2R Max speed up to 6600+ MHz
• 2DPC 1R Max speed up to 6400+ MHz
• 2DPC 2R Max speed up to 5600+ MHz
Supports Dual-Channel mode
Supports non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile
Graphics:
Support HDMITM 2.1 with HDR, maximum resolution of 4K 60Hz*
1x DisplayPort
Support DP 1.4, maximum resolution of 4K 60Hz*
*Available only on processors featuring integrated graphics. Graphics specifications may vary depending on the CPU installed.
Storage:
M.2_1 Source (From CPU) supports up to PCIe 4.0 x4 , supports 22110/2280/2260/2242 devices
M.2_2 Source (From Chipset) supports up to PCIe 4.0 x4 , supports 2280/2260/2242 devices
M.2_3 Source (From Chipset) supports up to PCIe 4.0 x4 / SATA mode, supports 2280/2260/2242 devices
M.2_4 Source (From Chipset) supports up to PCIe 4.0 x4 / SATA mode, supports 2280/2260/2242 devices
6x SATA 6G
USB:
4x USB 2.0 (Front)
2x USB 5Gbps Type A (Rear)
4x USB 5Gbps Type A (Front)
1x USB 10Gbps Type A (Rear)
1x USB 10Gbps Type C (Front)
1x USB 20Gbps Type C (Rear)
Internal I/O:
2x Power Connector(CPU_PWR)
1x CPU Fan
1x Pump Fan
6x System Fan
2x Front Panel (JFP)
1x Chassis Intrusion (JCI)
1x Front Audio (JAUD)
2x Addressable V2 RGB LED connector (JARGB_V2)
2x RGB LED connector(JRGB)
1x TPM pin header(Support TPM 2.0)
1x USB4 card connector (JTBT_U4_1, supports RTD3)
4x USB 2.0 ports
4x USB 5Gbps Type A ports
1x USB 10Gbps Type C ports
Back Panel I/O:
DisplayPort 1.4
USB 2.0
2.5G LAN Port
Wi-Fi / Bluetooth Antenna
HD Audio Connectors
Flash Bios Button
USB 2.0
HDMI™ 2.1 Port
USB 5Gbps Type-A
USB 20Gbps Type-C
USB 10Gbps Type-A
WiFi:
The Wireless module is pre-installed in the M.2 (Key-E) slot
Supports MU-MIMO TX/RX, 2.4GHz / 5GHz / 6GHz* (320MHz) up to 5.8Gbps
Supports 802.11 a/ b/ g/ n/ ac/ ax/ be
Supports Bluetooth® 5.4**, MLO, 4KQAM
* 6GHz band support may depend on every country’s regulations and Wi-Fi 7 will be ready in Windows 11 SV3.
** The Bluetooth version may be updated, please refer to the Wi-Fi chipset vendor's website for details. Bluetooth 5.4 support schedule depends on MSFT Windows 11 plan.
Audio:
7.1-Channel High Performance Audio Supports S/PDIF output
Special Features: