| Form Factor | ATX |
| CPU Socket | Intel LGA 1700 |
| Chipset | Intel B760 |
| Maximum Supported Memory | 192 GB |
| No. of DIMM Slots | 4 |
| Memory Type | DDR5 |
| Maximum Memory Speed | 7000 MHz |
| SATA Connectors | 4 |
| M.2 Slots | 3 |
| PCI Express x16 Slots | 2 |
| PCI Express x1 Slots | 1 |
| Onboard Video Out for IGP (Rear Panel) | DisplayPort, HDMI |
| USB 3.0, 3.1, or 3.2 Ports Onboard (Rear Panel) | 5 |
| USB 3.0, 3.1, or 3.2 Ports Supported Via Header | 2 |
| USB 2.0 Ports Onboard (Rear Panel) | 4 |
| USB 2.0 Ports Supported Via Header | 2 |
| USB Type-C Header | |
| Ethernet Jacks | 1 |
| Onboard Wireless | 802.11ax |
| aRGB Headers | 2 |
| S/PDIF Port | |
| Onboard Audio Chipset | Realtek ALC897 |
| No. of Audio Channels | 7.1 |
The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi, priced MSRP (frequently available for or less during sales), is a well-equipped ATX motherboard positioned within the budget category. If overclocking the CPU is not a necessity (noting that the B760 chipset allows for memory overclocking but not CPU overclocking), this cost-effective motherboard offers an extensive array of features. It includes three M.2 slots and four SATA ports for storage, robust power delivery suitable for Intel’s top-tier processors, ample rear I/O options featuring a 20Gbps USB Type-C port, and a basic yet satisfactory audio solution. While it may lack extravagant aesthetics, it serves as a reliable platform with commendable performance.
MSI’s full-size Tomahawk features a 6-layer matte black printed circuit board (PCB) with 2-ounce thickened copper, which MSI claims enhances signaling and communication capabilities. Similar to other motherboards within its price category, it is equipped with substantial heatsinks that cover the voltage regulator modules (VRMs), as well as additional heatsinks for the chipset and M.2 sockets. These heatsinks exhibit a brushed aluminum finish adorned with white stenciled branding, reflecting MSI’s military or cruise missile aesthetic. The primary PCI Express slot is reinforced with metal to prevent damage from the weight of heavy graphics cards. While the B760 Tomahawk lacks integrated RGB lighting, it offers numerous headers for users to connect their own lighting solutions. Although it may not attract attention like motherboards featuring elaborate LED designs, its understated all-black appearance complements a wide range of build themes.
The B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi is compatible with Intel’s 12th and 13th Generation Core processors. Its voltage regulator modules (VRMs), designed to supply power to the CPU, feature a 12-phase configuration equipped with 75-amp DrMOS MOSFETs. The total power capacity of 900A is sufficient for high-end processors such as the Core i9-13900K utilized in our testing. However, as the B760 platform does not support CPU overclocking, increasing the power supply may lead to higher costs without providing significant advantages to the user.
MSI specifies that the Tomahawk motherboard supports memory speeds of up to DDR5-7000+ (overclocked) and can accommodate a total capacity of 192GB, with 48GB allocated to each of its four slots. While this supported speed is generally considered average to slightly below average for the Intel platform, it is important to note that the optimal range for DDR5 memory on Intel systems currently lies between 6,000MHz and 6,400MHz. Therefore, users will have ample flexibility should they choose to invest in faster or higher-capacity memory kits.
For those interested in overclocking their RAM to maximize the performance of their PC, the MSI BIOS offers a wide array of memory adjustment options, encompassing all primary, secondary, and tertiary timings and voltages. Our standard DDR5-5600 and DDR5-6000 kits functioned effectively when the XMP and EXPO profiles were configured as anticipated.
In the upper left corner of our motherboard, aptly named after a cruise missile, there are two 8-pin EPS connectors, of which one is necessary for powering the processor. Encircling these connectors are two substantial heatsinks designed to dissipate heat from the VRMs situated beneath. The considerable weight of these heatsinks, along with their multiple cutouts, ensures that the MOSFETs operate well within their specified limits.
Proceeding beyond the socket area, one will find four unreinforced DRAM slots equipped with locking mechanisms on either side. Positioned above these slots is the initial set of headers, which consists of two 4-pin fan headers. The motherboard features a total of seven headers, each capable of powering and managing 3-pin DC or 4-pin PWM fans and pumps. The CPU and system fan headers can deliver up to 2A/24W, while the pump fan header is capable of supporting an impressive 3A/36W. There is an ample supply of power available through these headers, ensuring that users have sufficient options (though caution against overloading is advised). Connected devices can be managed via the BIOS, as control through the MSI Center application is not yet available.
In this section, there are two initial RGB headers, comprising one 3-pin ARGB and one 4-pin RGB. Given that the Tomahawk does not feature any built-in RGB lighting, it is necessary to incorporate your own lighting effects using these four headers (the additional two are positioned at the bottom of the motherboard). Management of these headers is facilitated through the Mystic Light feature within the MSI Center application.
As we proceed along the right edge, we encounter two additional fan headers, the EZ Debug LED, and the 24-pin ATX connector designated for powering the motherboard. Positioned below are a front-panel USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps) Type-A header and a USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) Type-C header.
On the left side of the motherboard, we observe the audio section featuring the budget-friendly Realtek ALC897 chip prominently displayed. There is a recognizable audio separation line designed to isolate the more sensitive audio components from the remainder of the motherboard, along with a few dedicated audio capacitors. Although the ALC897 may not represent the most advanced option available, it remains satisfactory for many users; however, those with more discerning audio preferences might consider utilizing a dedicated sound card.
In the center of the motherboard, there are several expansion slots along with three M.2 sockets, which are concealed beneath heatsinks. The uppermost PCIe slot serves as the main slot for graphics cards, interfacing directly with the CPU and operating at PCIe 5.0 x16 speeds. The second full-length slot and the bottom x1 slot are connected through the chipset, with the full-length slot functioning at PCIe 3.0 x4 and the x1 slot at PCIe 4.0 x1.
The primary M.2 socket interfaces with the CPU, operating at PCIe 4.0 x4 (64Gbps) speeds for storage purposes, whereas the additional sockets derive their lanes from the chipset. The primary socket accommodates modules measuring up to 110mm, while the two lower sockets, which also function at PCIe 4.0 x4 (64Gbps), are designed for drives with a maximum length of 80mm. Additionally, if a SATA-based M.2 module is utilized, it can be installed in the lower M.2_3 socket.
The motherboard is equipped with four SATA3 6Gbps ports, catering to conventional storage solutions. For users interested in RAID configurations, MSI provides support exclusively for RAID modes 0, 1, 5, and 10 on devices connected via SATA. It is important to note that when an M.2 SATA drive is installed in the M2_4 slot, there will be lane sharing, resulting in the disabling of SATA7. However, if a PCIe module is utilized, all storage devices can operate simultaneously.
The rear I/O configuration is characteristic of MSI’s design. The panel features a black background complemented by light gray labels for the ports and the MSI MAG logo. It includes a total of nine USB ports: one Type-C port with a speed of 20Gbps, four Type-A ports operating at 10Gbps, and four USB 2.0 ports with a speed of 480Mbps. Additionally, there are HDMI and DisplayPort outputs available for connecting to the CPU’s integrated graphics. Positioned above the USB ports is the Realtek 2.5Gbps Ethernet jack, along with antenna connections for the provided Wi-Fi 6E adapter. Finally, the right edge houses the audio stack, which consists of five analog ports and one SPDIF output.
MSI’s desktop BIOS, similar to most others, initiates in Easy Mode. This mode is designed to be both informative and functional, displaying system details at the top while allowing users to modify several settings, such as boot priority, XMP profiles for RAM, and Game Boost. In summary, it offers a wealth of useful information.
The enhanced iteration of the BIOS distinguishes itself from those of other motherboard manufacturers by its layout: rather than positioning the primary headings along the top, it places them on the sides. The central area displays all the information provided by the BIOS, while the system summary is prominently visible at the top, accompanied by additional sections located on the sides.
In the Settings section, you will discover information regarding the system, boot, and security features, along with options to modify various elements such as peripherals, USB connections, graphics, and additional settings.
The OC settings provide all the necessary options for adjusting the RAM and processor. Users have the ability to modify the CPU speed, although this is limited to turbo settings. For those interested in overclocking the memory, there are numerous timings available, which can be quite overwhelming, as is typical with B760 motherboards.
The Hardware Monitor section provides essential system information, including temperatures for the CPU and motherboard, as well as fan speeds and voltage levels. In this section, users have the capability to modify the fan speeds for all onboard 4-pin fan headers and create customized profiles for each device connected to these headers.
MSI’s BIOS offers a comprehensive array of features and is as user-friendly as those of its competitors. During our short testing phase, the system demonstrated stability, and we did not experience any glitches or issues.
MSI has enhanced its software offerings by updating the MSI Center, a comprehensive application that allows users to download and access various other applications. This suite includes tools such as MSI Companion, Gaming Mode, Super Charger, and Mystic Light for RGB management, among others. Additionally, it offers hardware monitoring capabilities; however, it does not include overclocking features, which are not applicable for B760 platforms.
The hardware monitoring section provides comprehensive information, showcasing CPU utilization, frequency, and temperature, as well as system temperatures for components such as DRAM, CPU, MOSFETs, chipset, and essential voltages. While it is informative, it does not offer options for modification or adjustment.
The final feature within the MSI Center software is the Mystic Light application. This tool allows users to create profiles, modify brightness levels, synchronize RGB lighting, and customize individual components connected to the RGB headers.
MSI’s B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi stands out as a commendable choice within the budget B760 category. Its military-inspired black design, coupled with a 20Gbps USB-C port located at the rear, makes it a compelling option for those seeking an economical motherboard. Although the B760 chipset lacks some of the advanced features found in the Z790, the majority of users may find these additional features unnecessary and not worth the extra cost. While the Tomahawk may not be the most affordable B760 motherboard available, it offers solid performance, including for gaming, reliable power delivery, satisfactory audio quality, three M.2 slots, four SATA ports, and integrated Wi-Fi 6E.
MSI faces competition from several manufacturers offering motherboards that rival the Tomahawk model. The Asus TUF Gaming B760-Plus Wi-Fi D4 is priced similarly, while the Gigabyte Aorus Elite AX and ASRock B760 Pro RS DDR4 are available at a lower price. Each of these motherboards features three M.2 sockets, a budget audio codec from Realtek, support for 2.5GbE LAN, and four SATA ports. Notably, all except the ASRock model come with Wi-Fi capabilities, although the Asus variant is equipped with Wi-Fi 6 rather than the more advanced 6E. For most builders, the decision ultimately hinges on the preference for the fastest Wi-Fi or the availability of 20Gbps USB-C, which are offered by MSI and Asus.
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