The MSI MAG B850 TOMAHAWK WIFI wins in 8 out of 14 comparable specs. Its biggest advantage is Max Memory (100% better).
ROG STRIX Z490-E GAMING wins in 3 specs (PCIe x1 Slots: 200% better).
Recommendation
Choose MAG B850 TOMAHAWK WIFI if you want the best overall performance — especially max memory.
Choose ROG STRIX Z490-E GAMING if pcie x1 slots matters more to you.
| Spec | ASUSROG STRIX Z490-E GAMING | MSIMAG B850 TOMAHAWK WIFI |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | ||
| Socket | LGA1200 | AM5 |
| Chipset | Z490 | B850 |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX |
| PCIe Gen | 4 | 5+25% |
| Memory | ||
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR5 |
| Memory Slots | 4 | 4 |
| Max Memory | 128 GB | 256 GB |
| Max Memory Speed | 4,600 MHz | 8,200 MHz+78% |
| Expansion | ||
| M.2 Slots | 2 | 4+100% |
| SATA Ports | 6+50% | 4 |
| PCIe x16 Slots | 3+50% | 2 |
| PCIe x1 Slots | 3+200% | 1 |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB Type-C | 1 | 2+100% |
| USB Type-A | 8 | 8 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7+17% |
| LAN | 2.5 GbE | 2.5 GbE |
| Audio | Realtek ALC1220 | Realtek ALC4080 |
| Design | ||
| VRM Phases | 14+2 | 14+2+1+6% |
| Price | ||
| MSRP | $300 | $230−23% |
| Release Date | May 2020 | Jan 2025 |
