MSI Z87 MPower Motherboard Review
Overview
Hardware: CPU & MotherboardsWHAT WE LIKED:
Massive 8+12 Power Phase, Military Class 4 Hardware and Solid Caps for long life Performance, Great overclocking abilities, mSATA SupportWHAT WE DISLIKED:
NoneDiscuss in the Forum
Introduction
The introduction of Intel’s new “Haswell” line of processors also brought its new 8 series chipset. The introduction of Haswell and its socket and chipset change came as no surprise. We have seen this from Intel with its “Tick Tock” development strategy, including their change to its power delivery management. It makes sense and was crucial for Intel to make these changes.
Today, we have a chance to look at one of MSI’s flagship motherboards for the new Z87 architecture: the MSI Z87 MPower. MSI’s previous products in the Z87 chipset MPower line were typically top performers, and include excellent overclocking and features. Today, as we move forward, we are going to see just how the MSI Z87 MPower measures up to that previous reputation while using the new Haswell 4770k.
Before we move forward, let’s talk a little about MSI.
“Founded in August 1986, MSI has continued to uphold a business philosophy that stresses “Award-winning product quality and outstanding customer service.” MSI specializes in the design and manufacture of motherboards, graphics card, add-on cards, servers/workstations, iPC, barebones, communication devices, CE products, Notebooks, car infotainment products, and All-in-One PC. “Quality Products Create Faithful Customers” is a motto that guides all that we do at MSI. For this reason, MSI goes all out to be the best of the best in research and development.”
Let’s talk about its newly developed Z87 Chipset.
Wow, I am thoroughly impressed with this board. Nice review again kenny.
I’ve never owned a MSI motherboard but that might have to change. Every single review of their new Gaming and Power line have been positive. Thanks for the review.
Thanks! MSI has really stepped up the game with the new motherboards. Of the 5 motherboards I have now reviewed from MSI, they have all performed flawless to date.
I just sold my MSI z77 MPower board, because I wanted that new MSI z87 XPower board..a step up from the z87 MPower.
Thanks for reading, The MPower is a great board, and I’ve read and seen that the Xpower is another awesome board from MSI, although we haven’t reviewed the Xpower board, if it performs anything like the recent MSI’s motherboards we have reviewed, I am sure its a great performer.
Really nice mobo. I bought it from microcenter with a promotional deal for $150. It feels solid and installation is quite simple. It even tells you on the mobo which two DIMM slots to fill in first. My first ever build was 13 yrs ago with an MSI board. Since then I’ve been using Asus and Gigabyte boards and decided to relook at MSI for my most current build. I would have to say that I am quite satisfied with it and it didnt cost as much as Giga/Asus.
What wattage is recommended in the PSU for this particular motherboard?
Much appreciated!
There isn’t such a thing for a particular board. It entirely depends on what you’ll be connecting into the board, and primarily graphics cards. Size a PSU by the graphics cards you’ll need (and if you’re overclocking anything), not by the motherboard. Good luck!