The MSI MEG Z890 Ace motherboard stands as a flagship choice for enthusiasts aiming to build a powerhouse PC. Packed with cutting-edge features, this ATX motherboard is tailored for Intel’s Core Ultra series processors and delivers unparalleled performance and user convenience. Let’s dive deep into what makes the MSI MEG Z890 Ace a top contender for the best motherboard on the market.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Socket | LGA 1851 |
| Chipset | Z890 |
| Form Factor | ATX (243.84 × 304.8mm) |
| PCIe Version | Gen 5 PCIe and Gen 5 NVMe |
| Memory Capacity | 256GB DDR5 |
| Memory Speed | 9200 – 6400 MT/s (OC) |
| VRM Configuration | 24+2+1+1 phases, 110A DRPS |
| Storage | 5x M.2 slots (PCIe 5.0 & 4.0) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7, 10G LAN, USB 40Gbps |
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Why Choose the MSI MEG Z890 Ace?
1. Unmatched Build Quality
The MEG Z890 Ace boasts a robust design that exudes premium quality. The board is adorned with ample heatsinks, ensuring optimal thermal performance even under heavy workloads. Gold accents and subtle lighting elevate its aesthetic appeal, making it a perfect fit for builds with transparent PC cases.
2. Next-Generation PCIe and NVMe Support
With support for PCIe 5.0, the MEG Z890 Ace offers incredible bandwidth for graphics cards and NVMe drives. Two PCIe 5.0 slots and one M.2 PCIe 5.0 slot ensure future-proofing your build. Additionally, three PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots provide versatility for expansion.
3. Exceptional Memory Performance
Supporting DDR5 RAM with speeds up to 9200 MT/s, this motherboard ensures seamless multitasking and faster data processing. With a maximum capacity of 256GB, it’s ready to handle demanding applications and workflows.
4. Advanced VRM Design for Overclocking
The 24+2+1+1 phase VRM design delivers stable power to your processor, unlocking unparalleled overclocking potential. Paired with superior cooling solutions, the Z890 Ace is engineered to push the boundaries of performance.
5. Superior Connectivity
The back panel is loaded with connectivity options, including:
6 USB 10Gbps (Type-A)
2 USB 10Gbps (Type-C)
2 Thunderbolt 4 (40Gbps)
10G LAN
Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4
Internal headers include multiple fan and pump connectors, allowing for optimal cooling configurations. The inclusion of HDMI 2.1 and optical S/PDIF ensures a seamless multimedia experience.
Innovative Features for DIY Builders
EZ PCIe Release
Swapping out your GPU has never been easier. The EZ PCIe release system allows you to remove your graphics card without wrestling with tight spaces, making upgrades hassle-free.
Tool-Free NVMe Installation
The push-button mechanism for NVMe drive installation eliminates the need for screws. This intuitive design speeds up assembly and reduces the risk of mishandling components.
Debugging Made Simple
The motherboard’s rear features onboard power/reset buttons and a segment display, streamlining the testing and troubleshooting process for new builds.
Performance Benchmarks
When paired with the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor and a high-performance GPU like the RTX 3090, the MEG Z890 Ace delivers stellar performance across multiple workloads. Below are benchmark results from synthetic and real-world tests:
| Benchmark | MEG Z890 Ace Score | Competitor’s Score |
| Cinebench R23 (Multi) | 35,768 | 34,512 |
| Blender (Render Time) | 4m 12s | 4m 25s |
| Cyberpunk 2077 (4K) | 97 FPS | 93 FPS |
With its efficient thermal design, the motherboard also exhibited lower temperatures under load compared to competing models, ensuring long-term reliability.
Ideal CPU Pairings
The MEG Z890 Ace is optimized for Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors. We recommend the following pairings for maximum performance:
Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
Cores/Threads: 24/24
Base/Boost Clock: 3.7GHz / 5.7GHz
Cache: 36MB L3
TDP: 125W base / 250W max
Intel Core Ultra 7 265K
Cores/Threads: 20/20
Base/Boost Clock: 3.5GHz / 5.5GHz
Cache: 30MB L3
TDP: 105W base / 220W max
Pricing and Value
At $659.99, the MSI MEG Z890 Ace is undeniably a premium investment. However, its blend of advanced features, future-proofing, and outstanding performance makes it worth every penny for enthusiasts and professionals.
Recommended Setup
To leverage the full potential of the MEG Z890 Ace, consider the following complementary components:
| Component | Recommendation |
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 9 285K |
| GPU | NVIDIA RTX 4090 |
| Memory | 128GB DDR5 @ 7200MT/s |
| Storage | 2TB PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD |
| Cooling | 360mm AIO Liquid Cooler |
| Power Supply | 1000W Platinum Rated |
Conclusion
The MSI MEG Z890 Ace sets a new benchmark for high-end motherboards, offering unparalleled performance, innovative features, and future-proofing. Whether you’re an overclocking enthusiast, a content creator, or a gamer, this motherboard delivers on all fronts. While it comes at a premium price, its value proposition makes it an essential choice for uncompromising builds.