MSI PRO Z690-A DDR4 Motherboard review for 12th Gen Intel Core users

Description

Design and Build Quality

The MSI PRO Z690-A DDR4 ProSeries Motherboard is a sleek and robust piece of technology. Right out of the box, the black color scheme caught my eye—it looks professional and clean, a perfect fit for any PC build, whether for work or gaming. The ATX form factor ensures compatibility with most standard cases, and I found installation to be straightforward. With dimensions of 12 x 9.6 x 2.5 inches, it fits snugly into my mid-tower case without any issues.

I appreciated the attention to detail in the extended heatsink design, which not only enhances the aesthetics but also contributes to improved thermal performance. The M.2 Shield Frozr is another notable inclusion, designed to protect and cool NVMe SSDs, ensuring consistent performance even during demanding tasks. The build quality feels premium, and the board doesn’t flex or feel flimsy during handling.

Performance and Compatibility

This motherboard is built to support 12th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron processors. I paired it with an Intel Core i7 processor, and the performance has been nothing short of stellar. The DDR4 memory support with speeds up to 5600 MHz (OC) ensures that multitasking and resource-intensive applications run smoothly. I tested it with 32GB of DDR4 RAM, and I was impressed by how effortlessly it handled everything from video editing to gaming.

The PCIe 4.0 support is a game-changer, especially for those looking to future-proof their systems. My NVMe SSD ran at blazing speeds, thanks to the Lightning M.2 slots, which maximize performance with PCIe Gen4 x4. This feature is an absolute must for anyone who values fast boot times and quick file transfers. Additionally, the 2.5G LAN Solution provided a secure and stable network connection, which was evident during my online gaming sessions and video conferences.

Key Benefits

• Supports 12th Gen Intel processors, offering excellent performance for both work and gaming.
• DDR4 memory compatibility with speeds up to 5600 MHz ensures smooth multitasking.
• Premium thermal solutions like the extended heatsink and M.2 Shield Frozr enhance durability and cooling.
• PCIe 4.0 support for future-proofing and faster storage performance.
• 2.5G LAN connectivity for stable and fast internet.

Limitations

Though the motherboard performs exceptionally well in most areas, there are a few less favorable aspects worth noting:

• No built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, which might be a deal-breaker for some users preferring wireless setups.
• The Realtek ALC897/ALC892 Codec for audio is decent but not exceptional, especially if you’re an audiophile.
• Limited USB 3.2 ports compared to some competitors, which could be a concern for users with many peripherals.

Ease of Installation and Features

Setting up this motherboard was straightforward, and even as someone who’s built a few PCs, I appreciated the well-laid-out design. The LGA 1700 socket is easy to work with, and the manual provides clear instructions for first-time builders. The 12 USB 2.0 ports are a nice touch, making it easier to connect older peripherals, though I do wish there were a couple more USB 3.2 options.

The inclusion of CFX support (CrossFire) is a bonus for gamers who want to use multiple GPUs. I didn’t personally test this feature, but it’s good to know the option is there. The Realtek ALC897 audio is passable for casual users, but I found myself using external DACs for a richer sound experience.

Product Competitors

When comparing this motherboard to similar options like the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi or the Gigabyte Z690 UD DDR4, a few differences stand out. The ASUS board includes built-in Wi-Fi and a slightly more advanced audio codec, but it comes at a noticeably higher price point. The Gigabyte alternative offers comparable performance but lacks the M.2 Shield Frozr, which is a feature I really appreciated for SSD cooling.

In terms of thermal design and overall build quality, I think the MSI product holds its own. However, if Wi-Fi is a must for you, the ASUS ROG Strix might be worth the extra investment. For users on a budget, the Gigabyte board could be a viable option, but you’ll miss out on some of the premium features MSI offers.

Value for Money

Evaluating the price-to-quality ratio, I’d say this motherboard offers a lot of bang for your buck. The high-quality assembly and stable functionality make it a reliable choice for both professionals and gamers. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the combination of premium features like PCIe 4.0 support, advanced thermal solutions, and 2.5G LAN connectivity make it worth the investment.

That said, if you’re looking for extras like built-in Wi-Fi or superior audio performance, you might need to look at higher-end models, which will come at a premium. For most users, though, this motherboard strikes a great balance between affordability and performance, making it a solid choice for mid-tier to high-end builds.

Additional information