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MOTHERBOARDS · YOUR NEXT FACE-OFF

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE vs MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Real specs. Clear sources.Exact models · UK & US buying links

Compared products

YOUR FIRST CHOICE

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

UK manufacturer specification · Pro WS W890-SAGE

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE official product image
Exact model & source notes

Pro WS W890-SAGE motherboard, identified in the ASUS UK catalogue. Specifications below retain the manufacturer’s configuration and interface conditions.

Specifications checked 17 Oct 2026.

Amazon links open search results. Check the exact variant, current price and availability with the retailer.

Manufacturer specifications
WHICH SUITS YOU?

Different platforms: LGA4710 vs LGA1700 sockets. Each board fits only processors made for its socket.

Choose the ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE for

  • An LGA4710 processor you already have

Choose the MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI for

  • An LGA1700 processor you already have
Built from verified specifications that differ. Not a rating or a recommendation.
See the 7 verified differences
THE CONTENDER

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

LGA1700 · ATX · DDR5 · board-only configuration · MSI global specification

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI motherboard, top view of the exact global model; CPU and memory are not installed
Exact model & source notes

An ATX LGA 1700 motherboard with Intel Z790: four DDR5 slots rated up to DDR5-7800+ (OC), a PCIe 5.0 x16 graphics slot, four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet with Wi-Fi 7.

Specifications checked 21 Sept 2026.

Amazon links open search results. Check the exact variant, current price and availability with the retailer.

Manufacturer specifications

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE UK & US retailers

UK & US price history: no verified listing yet

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI UK & US retailers

UK & US price history: no verified listing yet

Search links open retailer results, not a matched listing; eBay listings are checked daily. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.

THE DIFFERENCES, MADE VISIBLE

Visual facts

Differences first. Select a topic for its graphic, sources and conditions.

How to read this comparison
  • Manufacturer facts for the exact models shown. Not a quality rating or a test result.
  • “Different” means the known values differ, not that one is better.
  • Missing or conflicting evidence is marked and never counts as a difference. Source chips hold each fact’s sources and conditions.
SPECIFICATIONS SIDE BY SIDE7 topics
SELECTED TOPIC
01 / 07

CPU socket

Check the exact configuration and source conditions for your use.

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGELGA4710

Manufacturer specification

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFILGA1700

Manufacturer specification · Match the exact CPU and required BIOS as well as the physical socket.

Explore the full specifications

Plan the complete platform. Check the exact CPU-support list, required BIOS and memory validation before buying. PCIe generations and lane allocations can change with the processor. A socket match or slot count is not a guarantee that every component works together at its highest advertised setting.

WHAT CHANGES BETWEEN THEM?

Key differences

Full specifications ↓

7 verified differences, most decision-relevant first. All are also drawn in Visual facts above. Missing information stays separate.

Form factor and dimensions

In Visual facts
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGECEB Form Factor 12 inch x 11 inch (30.5 cm x 28 cm)
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFIATX: 304.8 × 243.84 mm
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Board dimensions, not retail packaging. Check case mounting positions, clearance and cable routing.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Check the exact configuration and source conditions for your use.

Memory type, slots and limit

In Visual facts
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE8 x DIMM slots, DDR5, ECC Registered DIMM (RDIMM), 3DS-RDIMM, and Multiplexed Combined Rank DIMM (MRDIMM)* 4-channel memory architecture Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) memory module * Supported memory types, data rate (speed), and number of DRAM modules vary depending on the CPU and memory configuration, for more information please refer to CPU/Memory Support list under the Support tab of product information site or visit https://www.asus.com/support/download-center/. Adjustments will be made based on the specifications of mass-produced memory products available on the market.
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI4 DDR5 DIMM slots; dual channel; up to 256 GB; up to DDR5-7800+ (OC); Intel XMP; non-ECC unbuffered
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

MSI specifies Intel XMP 3.0. The overclocked speed is MSI's 1DPC 1R maximum; MSI lists 1DPC 2R up to 6600+, 2DPC 1R up to 6400+ and 2DPC 2R up to 5600+ MHz. · Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer capacity ceiling for this exact board, not included memory or a performance measurement. CPU, BIOS, DIMM population and the validated-module list determine support. DDR5 slots require DDR5 modules; DDR4 and DDR5 are not interchangeable.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specificationsMSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — exact model datasheet

Check the exact configuration and source conditions for your use.

Storage interfaces and restrictions

In Visual facts
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGETotal supports 4 x M.2 slots, 2 x SlimSAS ports and 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports Intel® Xeon® 690/670/650/630 Series Processors* M.2_1 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 5.0 x4 mode) M.2_2 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 5.0 x4 mode) M.2_3 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 5.0 x4 mode) M.2_4 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 5.0 x4 mode) Intel® W890 Chipset SlimSAS_1 connector supports PCIe 4.0 x4 mode SlimSAS_2 connector supports PCIe 4.0 x4 mode or up to 4 SATA devices via an SFF-8654 adapter cable. The cable is purchased separately. 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports * Supports Intel® Virtual RAID on CPU (Intel® VROC) and Intel Volume Management Device (Intel®VMD) ** Intel® VROC Technology supports PCIe RAID 0/1/5/10, SATA RAID 0/1/5/10. VROC_HW_Key is purchased separately.
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI4 × M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4; M2_3/M2_4 also support SATA; 6 × SATA 6 Gb/s
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

M.2_1 connects to the CPU; M.2_2 to M.2_4 connect to the chipset. · Manufacturer specification · M2_1 accepts drives up to 22110; the other three accept drives up to 2280. Verify individual slot and drive compatibility in the manual.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Check the exact configuration and source conditions for your use.

Network interfaces and requirements

In Visual facts
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE1 x Realtek 10Gb Ethernet 1 x Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet ASUS LANGuard; M.2 slot only (Key E, CNVi & PCIe)* * Wi-Fi module is sold separately.
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFIIntel 2.5 Gb Ethernet; Wi-Fi 7; Bluetooth 5.4
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Wi-Fi 7 requires supported Windows 11, drivers and access point. 6 GHz depends on country rules; Bluetooth version depends on module vendor and drivers.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Check the exact configuration and source conditions for your use.

Show 1 more verified difference

Audio interfaces

In Visual facts
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGERealtek ALC1220P 7.1 Surround Sound High Definition Audio CODEC* - Impedance sense for front and rear headphone outputs - Internal audio Amplifier to enhance the highest quality sound for headphone and speakers - Supports: Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking - High quality 120 dB SNR stereo playback output and 113 dB SNR recording input (Line-in) - Supports up to 32-Bit/192 kHz playback* Audio Features - Audio Shielding - Premium audio capacitors - Dedicated audio PCB layers - Unique de-pop circuit * Due to limitations in HDA bandwidth, 32-Bit/192 kHz is not supported for 7.1 Surround Sound audio.
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFIRealtek ALC4080 codec; 7.1-channel
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

MSI's datasheet describes the audio as 8-channel (7.1) HD audio with Audio Boost 5. · Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer-listed onboard audio hardware, not a measured sound-quality result. Where alternatives are listed, no particular unseen controller revision is promised.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specificationsMSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — exact model datasheet

Check the exact configuration and source conditions for your use.

Configuration & compatibility details (1)

CPU support and BIOS requirements

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGEIntel® Socket LGA4710-2 for Xeon® 600 Processors for Workstation Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 and Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0** * Refer to https://www.asus.com/support/download-center/ for CPU support list. ** Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 support depends on the CPU types. BIOS: 512 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS(text-based)
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFIIntel Core 14th / 13th / 12th Gen, Pentium Gold and Celeron
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification · Exact CPU support and BIOS revision depend on the processor and the current ASUS CPU support list; the family statement is not a guarantee for every processor.

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Check MSI's exact CPU support list and its required BIOS. Family support does not confirm the firmware installed on a retail board.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

These descriptions or measurements differ. Wording alone does not establish a different capability; check the exact configuration.

Missing or non-comparable evidence (20)

DIMM slots

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI4
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Physical DDR5 module positions, not included modules. Consult the board manual for population order and compatible capacities.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Maximum listed memory

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI256 GB
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer capacity ceiling for this exact board, not included memory or a performance measurement. CPU, BIOS, DIMM population and the validated-module list determine support. DDR5 slots require DDR5 modules; DDR4 and DDR5 are not interchangeable.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Onboard M.2 storage slots

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI4
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Onboard M.2 storage positions only. M2_1 accepts drives up to 22110; the other three accept drives up to 2280. Verify individual slot and drive compatibility in the manual.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Expansion slots and electrical links

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI1 × PCIe 5.0 x16; 1 × PCIe 4.0 x4; 2 × PCIe 3.0 x1
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

PCI_E1 connects to the CPU; PCI_E2 to PCI_E4 connect to the chipset. MSI lists three x16-length slots and one x1 slot. · Manufacturer specification · Electrical link widths, not a guarantee of installed-system performance. CPU and slot population restrictions apply.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Rear Flash BIOS button

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFIYes
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · The rear-panel inventory explicitly lists a Flash BIOS Button. CPU-free recovery procedure and USB preparation require the board manual.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Diagnostic indicators

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI4 EZ Debug LEDs
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Diagnostic indicators are not a numeric POST display or proof that a fault will be automatically repaired.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Expansion slots and restrictions

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGEIntel® Xeon® 690/670/650/630 Series Processors* 4 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (supports x16 mode) Intel® W890 Chipset 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot (supports x4 mode) * Please check the PCIe bifurcation table on the support site (https://www.asus.com/support/FAQ/1037507/). ** CXL (Compute Express Link) is supported in PCIEX16(G5)_1, PCIEX16(G5)_2, PCIEX16(G5)_3, and PCIEX16(G5)_4 - To ensure compatibility of the device installed, please refer to https://www.asus.com/support/download-center/ for the list of supported peripherals.
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFINot verified
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded for this side.

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Cooling headers

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI1 CPU fan; 1 pump fan; 6 system fan headers
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Board headers, not included fans or a statement of their current limits.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Processor-dependent display outputs

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFIHDMI 2.1: up to 4K 60 Hz; DisplayPort 1.4: up to 8K 60 Hz
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · These outputs require a processor with integrated graphics. The manufacturer says graphics specifications vary with the installed CPU; this is not an independent display or GPU performance test.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Internal headers and connectors

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGEFan and Cooling Related 1 x 4-pin CPU Fan header 1 x 4-pin CPU OPT Fan header 5 x 4-pin Chassis Fan headers 1 x W_PUMP+ header 1 x 4-pin VRM Fan header (with VRM fan onboard) Power Related 1 x 24-pin Main Power connector 1 x 4-pin to 24-pin Main Power connectors 2 x 8-pin +12V CPU Power connector 2 x 8-pin PCIe to CPU power connectors 1 x 8-pin PCIe Power connector Storage Related 4 x M.2 slots (Key M) 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports 2 x SlimSAS connector USB 1 x USB 20Gbps connector (supports USB Type-C®)* 1 x USB 5Gbps header supports 2 additional USB 5Gbps ports 2 x USB 2.0 headers support 4 additional USB 2.0 ports Miscellaneous 2 x Addressable RGB Gen 2 header(s) 1 x Chassis Intrusion header 1 x COM Port header 1 x CPU Over voltage jumper 1 x FlexKey button 1 x Front Panel Audio header (F_AUDIO) 1 x M.2 slot (Key E) 1 x ReTry button 2 x RSVD header(s)/switch(es) 1 x Safe Boot button 1 x Slow Mode switch 1 x Start button 1 x 10-1 pin Front Panel System header 1 x VROC header 1 x Thermal Sensor header
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFINot verified
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded for this side.

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

NVMe RAID modes

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFIRAID 0/1/5/10
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Listed NVMe controller modes require compatible drives and array setup.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Listed operating systems

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGEWindows 11
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFINot verified
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded for this side.

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Primary expansion-slot link

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFIPCI_E1: CPU PCIe 5.0 up to x16
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · The stated PCI_E1 electrical link is separate from M.2 storage links. It does not establish the lane allocation of every expansion slot or measured GPU performance.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Rear-panel ports

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE2 x USB4® (40Gbps) ports (2 x USB Type-C®) 6 x USB 10Gbps ports (6 x Type-A) 2 x USB 2.0 ports (2 x Type-A) 1 x Realtek 10Gb Ethernet 1 x Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet 2 x Audio jacks 1 x BIOS FlashBack™ button 1 x Clear CMOS button 2 x DP IN ports
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFINot verified
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded for this side.

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

SATA storage ports

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI6
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · SATA 6 Gb/s connectors, not supplied drives or power cables. M2_1 accepts drives up to 22110; the other three accept drives up to 2280. Verify individual slot and drive compatibility in the manual.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

SATA RAID modes

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFIRAID 0/1/5/10
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Listed SATA controller modes require compatible drives and array setup. They do not establish NVMe RAID or a data protection guarantee.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

USB ports and headers

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGERear USB (Total 10 ports) 2 x USB4® (40Gbps) ports (2 x USB Type-C®) 6 x USB 10Gbps ports (6 x Type-A) 2 x USB 2.0 ports (2 x Type-A) Front USB (Total 7 ports) 1 x USB 20Gbps connector (supports USB Type-C®)* 1 x USB 5Gbps header supports 2 additional USB 5Gbps ports 2 x USB 2.0 headers support 4 additional USB 2.0 ports * USB Type-C® power delivery output: max. 5V/3A
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFINot verified
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded for this side.

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

USB port and header capacity

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI1 × USB 20 Gb/s (1 Type-C); 4 × USB 10 Gb/s (3 Type-A + 1 Type-C); 4 × USB 5 Gb/s (4 Type-A); 6 × USB 2.0
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer combined port/header totals; these are not all rear-panel sockets. Use the connection diagram and manual to locate them.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — exact model datasheet

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Front USB header capacity

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI4 USB 2.0; 2 USB 5 Gb/s Type-A; 1 USB 10 Gb/s Type-C
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer-listed front connectivity requires compatible case ports and cabling. These are not additional rear-panel sockets.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

Rear USB ports

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGENot verified
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI2 USB 2.0; 2 USB 5 Gb/s Type-A; 3 USB 10 Gb/s Type-A; 1 USB 20 Gb/s Type-C
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded for this side.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Rear port inventory only. Rated interface rates are not simultaneous measured throughput; USB-C connector shape does not establish USB4 or charging power.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications

Evidence is missing or conflicting on at least one side. This is not a verified difference.

0 shared fields have the same recorded value.

WHAT EACH CHOICE ASKS OF YOU

What it brings and what to check

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

What it brings

  • Published motherboard interfaces and configuration are available from the exact-model ASUS specification source.

What to check

  • Compatibility and maximum operating modes depend on the source’s stated hardware, firmware and connection requirements; manufacturer figures are not independent measurements.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

What it brings

  • Wi-Fi 7 with Bluetooth 5.4 and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet.
  • Four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, six SATA ports and a PCIe 5.0 x16 graphics slot, with memory rated up to DDR5-7800+ (OC).

What to check

  • All four M.2 slots are PCIe 4.0, so there is no PCIe 5.0 SSD slot, and the two x1 slots are PCIe 3.0.
COMPARE THE DETAILS

Full specifications

How we verify
28 of 28 specifications Sources in each row
Source-backed specifications for ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE and MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI
SpecificationASUS Pro WS W890-SAGEMSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI
CPU socketDifferent
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Match the exact CPU and required BIOS as well as the physical socket.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
LGA4710LGA1700
ChipsetDifferent
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Intel® W890 ChipsetIntel Z790
Form factor and dimensionsDifferent
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Board dimensions, not retail packaging. Check case mounting positions, clearance and cable routing.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
CEB Form Factor 12 inch x 11 inch (30.5 cm x 28 cm)ATX: 304.8 × 243.84 mm
CPU support and BIOS requirementsDifferent
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification · Exact CPU support and BIOS revision depend on the processor and the current ASUS CPU support list; the family statement is not a guarantee for every processor.

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Check MSI's exact CPU support list and its required BIOS. Family support does not confirm the firmware installed on a retail board.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Intel® Socket LGA4710-2 for Xeon® 600 Processors for Workstation Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 and Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0** * Refer to https://www.asus.com/support/download-center/ for CPU support list. ** Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 support depends on the CPU types. BIOS: 512 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS(text-based)Intel Core 14th / 13th / 12th Gen, Pentium Gold and Celeron
Listed operating systems
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded.

Windows 11Not provided
Rear Flash BIOS button
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · The rear-panel inventory explicitly lists a Flash BIOS Button. CPU-free recovery procedure and USB preparation require the board manual.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not providedYes
Memory type, slots and limitDifferent
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

MSI specifies Intel XMP 3.0. The overclocked speed is MSI's 1DPC 1R maximum; MSI lists 1DPC 2R up to 6600+, 2DPC 1R up to 6400+ and 2DPC 2R up to 5600+ MHz. · Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer capacity ceiling for this exact board, not included memory or a performance measurement. CPU, BIOS, DIMM population and the validated-module list determine support. DDR5 slots require DDR5 modules; DDR4 and DDR5 are not interchangeable.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specificationsMSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — exact model datasheet
8 x DIMM slots, DDR5, ECC Registered DIMM (RDIMM), 3DS-RDIMM, and Multiplexed Combined Rank DIMM (MRDIMM)* 4-channel memory architecture Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) memory module * Supported memory types, data rate (speed), and number of DRAM modules vary depending on the CPU and memory configuration, for more information please refer to CPU/Memory Support list under the Support tab of product information site or visit https://www.asus.com/support/download-center/. Adjustments will be made based on the specifications of mass-produced memory products available on the market.4 DDR5 DIMM slots; dual channel; up to 256 GB; up to DDR5-7800+ (OC); Intel XMP; non-ECC unbuffered
Maximum listed memory
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer capacity ceiling for this exact board, not included memory or a performance measurement. CPU, BIOS, DIMM population and the validated-module list determine support. DDR5 slots require DDR5 modules; DDR4 and DDR5 are not interchangeable.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not provided256 GB
DIMM slots
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Physical DDR5 module positions, not included modules. Consult the board manual for population order and compatible capacities.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not provided4
Storage interfaces and restrictionsDifferent
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

M.2_1 connects to the CPU; M.2_2 to M.2_4 connect to the chipset. · Manufacturer specification · M2_1 accepts drives up to 22110; the other three accept drives up to 2280. Verify individual slot and drive compatibility in the manual.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Total supports 4 x M.2 slots, 2 x SlimSAS ports and 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports Intel® Xeon® 690/670/650/630 Series Processors* M.2_1 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 5.0 x4 mode) M.2_2 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 5.0 x4 mode) M.2_3 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 5.0 x4 mode) M.2_4 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 5.0 x4 mode) Intel® W890 Chipset SlimSAS_1 connector supports PCIe 4.0 x4 mode SlimSAS_2 connector supports PCIe 4.0 x4 mode or up to 4 SATA devices via an SFF-8654 adapter cable. The cable is purchased separately. 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports * Supports Intel® Virtual RAID on CPU (Intel® VROC) and Intel Volume Management Device (Intel®VMD) ** Intel® VROC Technology supports PCIe RAID 0/1/5/10, SATA RAID 0/1/5/10. VROC_HW_Key is purchased separately.4 × M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4; M2_3/M2_4 also support SATA; 6 × SATA 6 Gb/s
Onboard M.2 storage slots
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Onboard M.2 storage positions only. M2_1 accepts drives up to 22110; the other three accept drives up to 2280. Verify individual slot and drive compatibility in the manual.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not provided4
SATA storage ports
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · SATA 6 Gb/s connectors, not supplied drives or power cables. M2_1 accepts drives up to 22110; the other three accept drives up to 2280. Verify individual slot and drive compatibility in the manual.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not provided6
SATA RAID modes
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Listed SATA controller modes require compatible drives and array setup. They do not establish NVMe RAID or a data protection guarantee.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not providedRAID 0/1/5/10
NVMe RAID modes
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Listed NVMe controller modes require compatible drives and array setup.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not providedRAID 0/1/5/10
Expansion slots and restrictions
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded.

Intel® Xeon® 690/670/650/630 Series Processors* 4 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (supports x16 mode) Intel® W890 Chipset 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot (supports x4 mode) * Please check the PCIe bifurcation table on the support site (https://www.asus.com/support/FAQ/1037507/). ** CXL (Compute Express Link) is supported in PCIEX16(G5)_1, PCIEX16(G5)_2, PCIEX16(G5)_3, and PCIEX16(G5)_4 - To ensure compatibility of the device installed, please refer to https://www.asus.com/support/download-center/ for the list of supported peripherals.Not provided
Primary expansion-slot link
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · The stated PCI_E1 electrical link is separate from M.2 storage links. It does not establish the lane allocation of every expansion slot or measured GPU performance.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not providedPCI_E1: CPU PCIe 5.0 up to x16
Expansion slots and electrical links
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

PCI_E1 connects to the CPU; PCI_E2 to PCI_E4 connect to the chipset. MSI lists three x16-length slots and one x1 slot. · Manufacturer specification · Electrical link widths, not a guarantee of installed-system performance. CPU and slot population restrictions apply.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not provided1 × PCIe 5.0 x16; 1 × PCIe 4.0 x4; 2 × PCIe 3.0 x1
USB ports and headers
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded.

Rear USB (Total 10 ports) 2 x USB4® (40Gbps) ports (2 x USB Type-C®) 6 x USB 10Gbps ports (6 x Type-A) 2 x USB 2.0 ports (2 x Type-A) Front USB (Total 7 ports) 1 x USB 20Gbps connector (supports USB Type-C®)* 1 x USB 5Gbps header supports 2 additional USB 5Gbps ports 2 x USB 2.0 headers support 4 additional USB 2.0 ports * USB Type-C® power delivery output: max. 5V/3ANot provided
Rear-panel ports
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded.

2 x USB4® (40Gbps) ports (2 x USB Type-C®) 6 x USB 10Gbps ports (6 x Type-A) 2 x USB 2.0 ports (2 x Type-A) 1 x Realtek 10Gb Ethernet 1 x Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet 2 x Audio jacks 1 x BIOS FlashBack™ button 1 x Clear CMOS button 2 x DP IN portsNot provided
Audio interfacesDifferent
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

MSI's datasheet describes the audio as 8-channel (7.1) HD audio with Audio Boost 5. · Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer-listed onboard audio hardware, not a measured sound-quality result. Where alternatives are listed, no particular unseen controller revision is promised.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specificationsMSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — exact model datasheet
Realtek ALC1220P 7.1 Surround Sound High Definition Audio CODEC* - Impedance sense for front and rear headphone outputs - Internal audio Amplifier to enhance the highest quality sound for headphone and speakers - Supports: Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking - High quality 120 dB SNR stereo playback output and 113 dB SNR recording input (Line-in) - Supports up to 32-Bit/192 kHz playback* Audio Features - Audio Shielding - Premium audio capacitors - Dedicated audio PCB layers - Unique de-pop circuit * Due to limitations in HDA bandwidth, 32-Bit/192 kHz is not supported for 7.1 Surround Sound audio.Realtek ALC4080 codec; 7.1-channel
Processor-dependent display outputs
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · These outputs require a processor with integrated graphics. The manufacturer says graphics specifications vary with the installed CPU; this is not an independent display or GPU performance test.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not providedHDMI 2.1: up to 4K 60 Hz; DisplayPort 1.4: up to 8K 60 Hz
Rear USB ports
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Rear port inventory only. Rated interface rates are not simultaneous measured throughput; USB-C connector shape does not establish USB4 or charging power.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not provided2 USB 2.0; 2 USB 5 Gb/s Type-A; 3 USB 10 Gb/s Type-A; 1 USB 20 Gb/s Type-C
Front USB header capacity
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer-listed front connectivity requires compatible case ports and cabling. These are not additional rear-panel sockets.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not provided4 USB 2.0; 2 USB 5 Gb/s Type-A; 1 USB 10 Gb/s Type-C
USB port and header capacity
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Manufacturer combined port/header totals; these are not all rear-panel sockets. Use the connection diagram and manual to locate them.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — exact model datasheet
Not provided1 × USB 20 Gb/s (1 Type-C); 4 × USB 10 Gb/s (3 Type-A + 1 Type-C); 4 × USB 5 Gb/s (4 Type-A); 6 × USB 2.0
Network interfaces and requirementsDifferent
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Wi-Fi 7 requires supported Windows 11, drivers and access point. 6 GHz depends on country rules; Bluetooth version depends on module vendor and drivers.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
1 x Realtek 10Gb Ethernet 1 x Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet ASUS LANGuard; M.2 slot only (Key E, CNVi & PCIe)* * Wi-Fi module is sold separately.Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet; Wi-Fi 7; Bluetooth 5.4
Cooling headers
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Board headers, not included fans or a statement of their current limits.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not provided1 CPU fan; 1 pump fan; 6 system fan headers
Diagnostic indicators
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

No source recorded.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

Manufacturer specification · Diagnostic indicators are not a numeric POST display or proof that a fault will be automatically repaired.

MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI — manufacturer specifications
Not provided4 EZ Debug LEDs
Internal headers and connectors
Sources
ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE

Manufacturer specification

ASUS Pro WS W890-SAGE — official UK technical specifications
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WIFI

No source recorded.

Fan and Cooling Related 1 x 4-pin CPU Fan header 1 x 4-pin CPU OPT Fan header 5 x 4-pin Chassis Fan headers 1 x W_PUMP+ header 1 x 4-pin VRM Fan header (with VRM fan onboard) Power Related 1 x 24-pin Main Power connector 1 x 4-pin to 24-pin Main Power connectors 2 x 8-pin +12V CPU Power connector 2 x 8-pin PCIe to CPU power connectors 1 x 8-pin PCIe Power connector Storage Related 4 x M.2 slots (Key M) 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports 2 x SlimSAS connector USB 1 x USB 20Gbps connector (supports USB Type-C®)* 1 x USB 5Gbps header supports 2 additional USB 5Gbps ports 2 x USB 2.0 headers support 4 additional USB 2.0 ports Miscellaneous 2 x Addressable RGB Gen 2 header(s) 1 x Chassis Intrusion header 1 x COM Port header 1 x CPU Over voltage jumper 1 x FlexKey button 1 x Front Panel Audio header (F_AUDIO) 1 x M.2 slot (Key E) 1 x ReTry button 2 x RSVD header(s)/switch(es) 1 x Safe Boot button 1 x Slow Mode switch 1 x Start button 1 x 10-1 pin Front Panel System header 1 x VROC header 1 x Thermal Sensor headerNot provided
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Each record represents an explicitly checked model and configuration. Original import: 5 Sept 2026; this is not its verification date. This is not a list of current offers or a popularity ranking.