Unboxing the Asus TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi and MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi: Which is Right for You?

Choosing the right motherboard for your Ryzen-powered PC can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range segment are the ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi and the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi. Both motherboards offer a compelling feature set, but subtle differences can make one a better fit for your specific needs. This in-depth comparison will dissect their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision.

A Battle of Features: The Key Differences

Both the ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi and the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi share a common foundation – the AMD X570 chipset, enabling them to support the latest Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series processors. However, their feature sets diverge in crucial areas:
Networking: The ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi boasts an Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 chip, providing faster and more stable wireless connectivity compared to the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi’s Intel Wi-Fi 5 AC3168 chip. This is a significant advantage for gamers and content creators who rely on a consistent internet connection.
Audio: The ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi uses the Realtek S1220A codec, while the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi utilizes the Realtek ALC1220 codec. Both offer high-quality audio, but the S1220A codec is generally known for its superior clarity and dynamic range.
Expansion: The ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi offers a wider array of expansion options, including two M.2 slots with support for PCIe 4.0, while the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi supports only one PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot. The ASUS board also has more USB ports, including two front-panel USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports.
Cooling: Both motherboards have robust cooling solutions, with heatsinks covering the VRM and chipset. However, the ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi features a larger heatsink for the chipset, potentially offering better cooling performance under heavy workloads.

Performance: A Close Race

In terms of performance, both motherboards deliver excellent results. They both support PCIe 4.0 for faster storage speeds and boast strong VRM designs capable of handling high-end Ryzen processors without throttling. While the ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi might have a slight edge in terms of cooling, both boards deliver comparable performance in demanding scenarios like gaming and content creation.

Design and Aesthetics: A Matter of Preference

The ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi and the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi both adopt a subtle and understated design aesthetic. The ASUS board features a black and grey color scheme with military-inspired accents, while the MSI board leans towards a more minimalist approach, with a black and silver color scheme. Both boards have a clean layout, making cable management a breeze.

Durability and Reliability: Built to Last

Both motherboards are built with durability and reliability in mind. The ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi boasts the TUF Gaming certification, signifying its adherence to rigorous testing standards. The MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi also features a durable design with high-quality components.

Software and Features: A Comprehensive Suite

Both motherboards come with comprehensive software suites for system monitoring, customization, and optimization. The ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi features the Armoury Crate software, which allows you to control lighting, fan profiles, and other settings. The MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi, on the other hand, offers the Dragon Center software, providing similar functionality. Both software suites are user-friendly and offer a wide range of options.

Price and Value: The Verdict?

The ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi is generally priced slightly higher than the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi. However, its superior networking, audio, and expansion options justify the premium. If you prioritize these features, the ASUS board offers better overall value. However, if your budget is tight and you don’t need the latest Wi-Fi standard or extra USB ports, the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi provides a solid value proposition.

A Final Verdict: The Best Motherboard for You

Ultimately, the best motherboard for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi shines in its feature set, offering excellent networking, audio, and expansion options. The MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi, while offering a slightly less feature-rich experience, provides a more budget-friendly option without compromising on performance.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I upgrade the Wi-Fi on the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi to Wi-Fi 6?
A: No, the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi uses a soldered Wi-Fi module, making it impossible to upgrade to Wi-Fi 6.
Q: Is the ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi compatible with Ryzen 7000 series processors?
A: No, the ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi is not compatible with Ryzen 7000 series processors. You would need a motherboard based on the X670 or X670E chipset to support these CPUs.
Q: Are there any significant differences in overclocking capabilities between the two motherboards?
A: Both motherboards offer excellent overclocking capabilities, with robust VRM designs and comprehensive BIOS settings. The differences in overclocking potential are minimal and may vary depending on the specific CPU and cooling solution.
Q: Can I use both M.2 slots for storage on the ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi?
A: Yes, both M.2 slots on the ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi can be used simultaneously for storage, providing ample space for your games, applications, and operating system.
Q: Which motherboard is better for gaming?
A: Both motherboards are excellent for gaming. The ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus WiFi might have a slight edge due to its faster Wi-Fi, but both deliver smooth and consistent gaming performance. Ultimately, the best option for you depends on your specific gaming needs and budget.