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- Best overall: MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi
- Best budget: MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi
- Best premium: ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero
- GIGABYTE X870E AORUS MASTER: ASUS ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WiFi
- The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero is a premium AM5 board with dual USB4 and WiFi 7.
- The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi is a strong rival with five M.2 slots and 5G LAN.
- Both featured boards support AMD Ryzen 9000 Series processors and PCIe 5.0 graphics.
- The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi is a feature-rich alternative for shoppers prioritizing value.
- Check case clearance, memory compatibility, and the exact storage layout before choosing.
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero and MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi are two premium AM5 motherboards built around PCIe 5.0, WiFi 7, and dual USB4 connectivity. For Black Friday 2026, the right pick comes down to your preferred BIOS, expansion layout, network needs, and the rest of your build.
I researched and compared specs, reviews, and owner feedback across seven X870E boards. Here's the bottom line: choose the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero for its flagship ROG feature set, or the MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi for a similarly ambitious gaming foundation with 5G Ethernet. The alternatives below cover different upgrade plans and feature priorities.
How We Picked
- Compared AM5 processor support, including compatibility with AMD Ryzen 9000 Series desktop processors.
- Prioritized useful expansion: PCIe 5.0 graphics support, M.2 storage capacity, and rear I/O.
- Reviewed networking options, including WiFi 7 and wired Ethernet specifications.
- Considered BIOS tools, build-friendly features, and reported owner experience from reviews and feedback.
- Selected boards across premium, enthusiast, and value-focused positions within the X870E category.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | M.2 slots | USB4 ports | Wired LAN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero | Premium gaming builds | 5 | 2 | 10Gb Ethernet |
| MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi | Enthusiast networking | 5 | 2 | 5Gb Ethernet |
| ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi | ROG storage builds | 5 | 2 | 2.5Gb Ethernet |
| ASUS ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WiFi | White-themed builds | 4 | 2 | 2.5Gb Ethernet |
| MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi | Value-focused builds | 4 | 2 | 5Gb Ethernet |
| GIGABYTE X870E AORUS MASTER | 10Gb networking | 5 | 2 | 10Gb Ethernet |
| ASRock X870E Taichi | Storage expansion | 5 | 2 | 5Gb Ethernet |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero is the best premium motherboard for enthusiasts who want a feature-packed AM5 build with dual USB4 ports. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero's five M.2 slots give demanding gaming and creator systems room to expand.
Best for: Premium gaming builds and extensive storage
- Socket
- AM5
- Memory
- 4 DDR5 DIMM slots
- Storage
- 5 M.2 slots
- USB4
- 2 ports, up to 40Gbps
- WiFi 7 and 10Gb Ethernet
- Two USB4 ports
- Five M.2 slots
- Premium feature set is more than a basic gaming build needs
- Large ATX board needs a compatible case
Is the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero is worth considering for a premium AM5 build that needs five M.2 slots, WiFi 7, and dual USB4. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero's extensive connectivity suits gamers planning storage and peripheral upgrades.
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#2 · Top pick
MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi
The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi is the best high-end alternative for gamers who want five M.2 slots and 5G LAN. Dual USB4 and WiFi 7 make it a well-connected base for an AM5 system.
Best for: Enthusiast builds with wired networking
- Socket
- AM5
- Memory
- 4 DDR5 DIMM slots
- Storage
- 5 M.2 slots
- Wired LAN
- 5Gb Ethernet
- WiFi 7 and 5G LAN
- Five M.2 slots
- Dual USB4 connectivity
- Feature-rich design exceeds the needs of entry-level systems
- Review the board layout against your planned expansion cards
Is the MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi is a strong buy for an enthusiast AM5 system that benefits from five M.2 slots, WiFi 7, and 5G Ethernet. Dual USB4 adds flexible high-speed connectivity for peripherals.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi
The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi is the best ROG alternative for gamers seeking a broad feature set and five M.2 slots. The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi's dual USB4 ports add fast connectivity without stepping up to the Crosshair range.
Best for: ROG features with extensive storage
- Socket
- AM5
- Memory
- 4 DDR5 DIMM slots
- Storage
- 5 M.2 slots
- USB4
- 2 ports, up to 40Gbps
- Five M.2 slots
- WiFi 7 and dual USB4
- ROG software and BIOS features
- ATX form factor needs a roomy case
- Many premium features go unused in simple builds
Is the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi is a good fit for gamers who want ROG features, five M.2 slots, and dual USB4. The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi delivers a well-equipped AM5 platform for multi-drive builds.
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#4
ASUS ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WiFi
The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WiFi is the best white-themed pick for gamers building an AM5 system around a light-colored setup. Four DDR5 DIMM slots and WiFi 7 cover the core enthusiast needs.
Best for: White-themed gaming PCs
- Socket
- AM5
- Memory
- 4 DDR5 DIMM slots
- Networking
- WiFi 7
- USB4
- 2 ports, up to 40Gbps
- Distinctive white-and-silver styling
- WiFi 7 and dual USB4
- AM5 platform for Ryzen processors
- Color scheme suits a narrower range of builds
- Confirm the exact M.2 layout before buying
Is the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WiFi worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WiFi is worth a look for a white-themed AM5 gaming PC. WiFi 7, dual USB4, and four DDR5 slots provide a strong foundation for a clean, modern build.
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#5
MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi
The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi is the best value-focused pick for gamers who want modern X870E features without a flagship design. Four M.2 slots and WiFi 7 cover key upgrades for a practical AM5 build.
Best for: Value-focused AM5 gaming builds
- Socket
- AM5
- Memory
- 4 DDR5 DIMM slots
- Storage
- 4 M.2 slots
- Wired LAN
- 5Gb Ethernet
- WiFi 7 and 5G LAN
- Four M.2 slots
- Dual USB4 connectivity
- Fewer M.2 slots than some premium rivals
- Lacks the flagship styling of the MPG and ROG models
Is the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi is a strong choice for an AM5 gaming build that needs WiFi 7, 5G LAN, and four M.2 slots. The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi's feature mix keeps the focus on useful essentials.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
GIGABYTE X870E AORUS MASTER
The GIGABYTE X870E AORUS MASTER is the best choice for enthusiasts who want a premium expansion layout and 10Gb Ethernet. Five M.2 slots and WiFi 7 suit storage-heavy gaming and creator systems.
Best for: High-speed wired networking and expansion
- Socket
- AM5
- Memory
- 4 DDR5 DIMM slots
- Storage
- 5 M.2 slots
- Wired LAN
- 10Gb Ethernet
- 10Gb Ethernet and WiFi 7
- Five M.2 slots
- Premium enthusiast feature set
- Advanced networking needs compatible network equipment
- Check graphics card and case clearance
Is the GIGABYTE X870E AORUS MASTER worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The GIGABYTE X870E AORUS MASTER is a strong premium option for builders who need five M.2 slots and 10Gb Ethernet. WiFi 7 adds flexibility for gaming rooms without a wired connection.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
ASRock X870E Taichi
The ASRock X870E Taichi is the best distinctive enthusiast pick for builders seeking 5Gb Ethernet and five M.2 slots. The ASRock X870E Taichi's dual USB4 ports and WiFi 7 give a high-end AM5 system a versatile connection lineup.
Best for: Distinctive design and storage expansion
- Socket
- AM5
- Memory
- 4 DDR5 DIMM slots
- Storage
- 5 M.2 slots
- Wired LAN
- 5Gb Ethernet
- Five M.2 slots
- WiFi 7 and 5G LAN
- Dual USB4 ports
- Distinctive styling will not suit every build
- Check the manual for lane-sharing details
Is the ASRock X870E Taichi worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASRock X870E Taichi is worth considering for an enthusiast build that needs five M.2 slots, WiFi 7, and 5Gb Ethernet. Dual USB4 rounds out its flexible connection options.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Which wins: ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero or MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi?
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero and MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi both offer five M.2 slots and dual USB4 ports, so the better board depends on your build priorities. The ASUS model adds 10Gb Ethernet, while the MSI model provides 5Gb Ethernet.
For a gaming system with fast wired networking, compare your router or switch with the ASUS board's 10Gb connection. For a system that balances high-speed networking, five storage slots, and MSI's interface, the MPG X870E Carbon WiFi is a compelling rival. Both boards support WiFi 7 and sit in the premium tier.
Worth it for most players. The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi makes a strong overall pick for a high-end gaming PC, while the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero suits buyers who want the extra wired bandwidth and a flagship ROG feature set.
Are X870E motherboards compatible with Ryzen 9000 processors?
All 7 motherboards in this guide use the AM5 socket and support AMD Ryzen 9000 Series desktop processors. Check the maker's CPU support list and install instructions for the exact processor and BIOS version before assembling your PC.
X870E is an enthusiast chipset for AMD's AM5 platform. The boards pair DDR5 memory support with modern PCIe connectivity, but memory speed depends on the processor, memory kit, and configuration. Follow the board's memory compatibility list and use the recommended DIMM slots for a two-stick kit.
A new build also needs a compatible AM5 cooler, graphics card, power supply, and case. Confirm the cooler's mounting hardware, case motherboard clearance, and graphics card dimensions. A compatibility check before checkout prevents avoidable build delays.
Which X870E motherboard is best for gaming and upgrades?
The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi and ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero are strong gaming picks, with PCIe 5.0 graphics support and five M.2 slots apiece. Both give builders room for multiple NVMe drives and future component upgrades.
Motherboard choice does not replace the graphics card or processor as the main gaming performance factors. Focus on a board that supports the CPU you want, provides enough storage connections, and fits your case. WiFi 7, wired networking, and USB4 matter most when they match your setup.
For an all-round enthusiast configuration, the MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi offers a balanced feature mix. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero makes sense when its 10Gb Ethernet and ROG-oriented extras align with the rest of your gear. Both are built for demanding AM5 systems.
How many M.2 slots and USB4 ports do these motherboards offer?
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero and MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi each have 5 M.2 slots and 2 USB4 ports, while other picks offer between 4 and 5 M.2 slots. That makes storage capacity an easy way to narrow the list.
Five M.2 slots suit builders planning a game library, a dedicated operating-system drive, and extra project storage. Four slots are still ample for many gaming PCs. Read the board manual to see how installed drives share lanes with other ports or expansion slots.
USB4 supports high-speed connections for compatible external storage and accessories. A port's practical speed depends on the connected device and cable. Count the USB connections you actually use, then compare front-panel headers and rear I/O to avoid relying on a hub.
What should I check before buying a motherboard on Black Friday 2026?
Before buying an X870E motherboard on Black Friday 2026, confirm the exact model, socket, memory type, case size, and required connections. A product name that differs by one suffix or color can describe a different board.
Check the retailer listing against the manufacturer's specifications, especially M.2 count, Ethernet speed, USB4 ports, WiFi features, and included accessories. Review the return policy and warranty terms as well. Keep the board's required BIOS and processor support information handy for your build.
Finally, compare the board with your complete parts list rather than choosing on chipset alone. Consider the CPU, DDR5 kit, graphics card dimensions, storage drives, cooler, and power supply. A board is a good pick when its features match your planned setup, not just because it has a long spec sheet.
Buying Guide
Choose the right motherboard tier
The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi suits value-focused AM5 builds with four M.2 slots, WiFi 7, and 5Gb Ethernet. The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi and ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero target feature-heavy enthusiast systems. Match the board tier to the upgrades you expect to use.
Count storage and expansion needs
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero, MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi, and several other premium picks provide five M.2 slots. Count your NVMe drives and check the manual for lane-sharing notes. Confirm the board's PCIe layout also suits your graphics card and any add-in cards.
Compare wired and wireless networking
The GIGABYTE X870E AORUS MASTER and ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero feature 10Gb Ethernet. The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi offers 5Gb Ethernet, and WiFi 7 appears across these picks. Your router, switch, and internet plan determine which networking feature matters most.
Check fit, memory, and CPU support
Every board here uses the AM5 socket and DDR5 memory. Confirm ATX clearance in your case, check your processor against the maker's support list, and verify your memory kit's compatibility. Follow the installation manual for BIOS setup, recommended memory slots, and cooler mounting.
Compare the full Black Friday 2026 package
Compare exact model numbers, included accessories, warranty coverage, and return terms when shopping Black Friday 2026. The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi keeps its appeal through useful core features, while premium picks justify themselves through specific extras such as 10Gb Ethernet or more storage slots.
FAQ
ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero vs MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi: which is better?
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero is the stronger match for buyers who want 10Gb Ethernet, while the MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi delivers 5Gb Ethernet. Both include five M.2 slots, WiFi 7, and dual USB4 ports for premium AM5 systems.
Does the MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi support Ryzen 9000?
The MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi supports AMD Ryzen 9000 Series desktop processors through its AM5 socket. Check MSI's processor support information and BIOS guidance for your exact CPU before installation, and confirm the rest of your parts are compatible.
How many M.2 slots does the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero have?
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero has 5 M.2 slots, making it a fit for storage-heavy AM5 builds. Consult the board manual for lane-sharing details and drive installation guidance before filling every slot.
Is the MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi good for gaming?
The MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi is a capable gaming motherboard for an AM5 build, with four M.2 slots, WiFi 7, and 5Gb Ethernet. Pair it with a compatible Ryzen processor, DDR5 memory, and graphics card.
Which X870E motherboard has 10Gb Ethernet?
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero and GIGABYTE X870E AORUS MASTER both offer 10Gb Ethernet. Pick either board if your wired network supports that speed; both also include WiFi 7 for wireless connections.
Are X870E motherboards worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
X870E motherboards are worth considering for new AM5 gaming builds that need modern processor support, DDR5, and advanced connectivity. Compare the MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi, ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero, and less-premium options by the features your build will use.