Overview

MSI's MAG series has introduced the MSI MAG Z890 TOMAHAWK WIFI, an ATX motherboard built around the Intel Z890 chipset. The model number is MB6585, and it is available through retailers like online retailers.
This board features a 16+1+1+1 phase power design with 90A SPS, ensuring stable power delivery for the latest CPUs. The black-themed design omits onboard LED decoration, prioritizing durability and a clean aesthetic. A large heatsink extending to the rear I/O panel efficiently cools the VRM, maintaining system stability even under sustained heavy loads.
Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports provide up to 40Gbps data transfer and support for two 4K displays, adding a layer of versatility for creative professionals and power users. With a balanced feature set and the MAG series' reputation for value, this motherboard occupies a solid mid-to-high-end position in the Z890 lineup.

Compatibility Guide

The MSI MAG Z890 TOMAHAWK WIFI uses the LGA1851 socket, which is exclusively compatible with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). It is not compatible with older Intel 12th through 14th generation CPUs. When selecting a CPU cooler, ensure it has a mounting kit for LGA1851, as LGA1700 mounts may not be directly compatible.
Memory support includes four DDR5 UDIMM slots with a maximum capacity of 256GB. It supports speeds ranging from DDR5-4800MT/s up to DDR5-9200(OC) and is compatible with XMP 3.0 profiles. Choosing high-speed DDR5 memory will help you get the most out of the platform.
Expansion options include one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and two PCIe 4.0 x4 slots (with x16 physical connectors). Storage is well-covered with four M.2 slots (one PCIe 5.0 x4 and three PCIe 4.0 x4) and four SATA 3 6Gb/s ports. This provides ample room for the latest PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSDs.
The board follows the standard ATX form factor (243.84 x 304.8mm), so it will fit in most ATX cases. Power supply requirements depend on your CPU and GPU combination; for a high-end build, a robust PSU is recommended. Refer to the spec table for the estimated wattage.

Product Info

The MSI MAG Z890 TOMAHAWK WIFI was introduced in 2024 alongside the Intel Z890 chipset. It is positioned as a mid-to-high-end option within MSI's MAG lineup, offering a balanced set of features without the premium price tag of the flagship MEG series.
Key specifications include a 16+1+1+1 phase 90A SPS power stage, four DDR5 memory slots (up to 256GB), one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, two PCIe 4.0 x4 slots, four M.2 slots, and four SATA ports. Networking is handled by an Intel 5G LAN controller and Wi-Fi 7 with Bluetooth 5.4. Audio is powered by a Realtek ALC1220P codec supporting 7.1-channel output.
For display output, the board offers one HDMI 2.1 port and two Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C ports with DisplayPort 1.4 support. The rear I/O includes four USB 3.2 Gen2 ports (three Type-A, one Type-C) and four USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports. Front panel headers include a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C connector.
The warranty period is three years, backed by MSI's official support. The package includes a quick start guide, accessory kit, and Wi-Fi antenna.

Best Use Cases

This motherboard is an excellent choice for several types of builders:

  • Users building a new PC with an Intel Core Ultra processor (Series 2). It offers a compelling mix of features and price within the Z890 ecosystem, making it a great starting point for a modern build.
  • Gamers assembling a high-performance gaming rig. The PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and multiple M.2 slots support the latest graphics cards and NVMe SSDs. Wi-Fi 7 and 5G LAN ensure a fast and reliable network connection.
  • Creative professionals who need high-speed I/O. The dual Thunderbolt 4 ports allow for fast external storage and multiple 4K display connections, which is ideal for video editing, photo processing, and other demanding tasks.
  • However, enthusiasts seeking extreme overclocking features or those needing multiple full-bandwidth PCIe x16 slots for multi-GPU setups may want to consider higher-tier options.

Things to Consider

The MSI MAG Z890 TOMAHAWK WIFI is exclusively for LGA1851 CPUs. If you are upgrading from an older Intel platform, you will need a new CPU, motherboard, and potentially DDR5 memory, as this board does not support DDR4.
While the board supports a wide range of DDR5 speeds, running memory at its default 4800MT/s may not fully utilize its potential. To maximize performance, consider investing in a high-speed DDR5 kit with an XMP 3.0 profile.
Also, note that the second PCIe x16 slot operates at PCIe 4.0 x4 bandwidth. If you plan to use multiple GPUs or high-bandwidth PCIe cards, this limitation could be a factor in your decision.

FAQ

Q: Can I use an older Intel CPU like the Core i5-13400F with this motherboard?
A: No. This moth

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: MSI
  • ASIN: B0DK4VHWWQ
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.