MSI MEG Z390 ACE Review
Intel tends to introduce new chipsets whenever it launches processors, and the recent launch of the 9th Generation Core line is no exception. Compared to the 8th Gen-contemporary Z370 chipset, the Z390 chipset represents just a slight tweak to the formula. It integrates a USB 3.1 Gen 2 controller for up to 10Gbps ports and Intel Wireless-AC with support for up to gigabit Wi-Fi speeds. Not all motherboards will ship with full access to everything listed in the chipset's spec sheet, but the $290 MSI MEG Z390 ACE has all of the important boxes checked, with a few extras ticked for good measure. That's not to mention MSI's inclusion of a unique "Mystic Light Infinity" panel that should intrigue PC builders looking for quirky new angles on in-case bling. If you want to go the deluxe route in your next PC build/upgrade with a 9th Gen Core i9 processor, and tweak it, too, this is the board to get.
A Monochromatic Monster Mobo
The MEG Z390 ACE is an MSI Enthusiast Gaming model. (That's...
If you have any intention of getting an Intel Core i9-9900K, now or in the near future, MSI's MEG Z390 ACE is one of the few motherboards capable of letting it really shine.
Highly builder-friendly; Robust power delivery for pushing Core i9-9900K to its limits; Unique "infinite regression" RGB panel; Built-in I/O shield; Deep overclocking features; Impressive integrated audio
Three M.2 slots, but only one with heatsink; Light on built-in RGB LEDs (besides Infinity panel); Pricey, even for a Z390 board; No video outs for integrated graphics