Intel i7-12700KF CPU & MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi Motherboard

Category: Gaming Powerhouses

Key Features

12th Gen Alder Lake Processor: Offers up to 5.0 GHz max turbo frequency for exceptional performance.
Dual Channel DDR5 Memory Support: Allows up to 384GB of RAM at speeds up to 7000 MHz (OC).
Triple M.2 PCIe 4.0 Slots: Provides flexibility for storage and expansion with high-speed connectivity.
6x SATA 6Gb/s Slots: Ensures efficient data transfer rates for various peripherals and hard drives.
PCIe Gen 5.0 x4 Slot: Offers lightning-fast data transfer speeds, ideal for high-performance applications.
125W Plus Power Supply: Provides ample power for demanding workloads with an efficient design.

Overview and First Impressions

The INLAND by Micro Center CPU Motherboard is a robust and versatile solution designed to cater to both gaming and professional users. The motherboard boasts an impressive array of features, including dual-channel DDR5 memory support and triple M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, making it a standout choice in the market.

Design and Build Quality

The design of this motherboard is clean and professional, with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. The use of high-quality components and materials ensures a sturdy build that can handle demanding workloads. The PCB is made from 6-layer, 2oz thickened copper, which provides excellent signal integrity and heat dissipation.

Setup and Ease of Use

Setting up this motherboard was relatively straightforward. The LGA1700 socket aligns perfectly with the Intel i7-12700KF processor, ensuring a smooth installation process. The included tools and instructions were comprehensive, making it easy for even novice users to get started.

Compatibility

This motherboard is highly compatible with Intel 600 series and 700 series chipsets, including the latest Alder Lake processors. It supports DDR5 memory, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of RAM modules. The dual-channel memory configuration provides ample bandwidth for demanding applications.

Performance

The performance delivered by this motherboard was exceptional. With up to 5.0 GHz max turbo frequency and 384GB of DDR5 memory, the system handled even the most demanding tasks with ease. The lightning-fast PCIe 5.0 slot and triple M.2 slots allowed for efficient data transfer rates, ensuring smooth performance.

Features and Connectivity

The motherboard comes equipped with a variety of features designed to enhance overall performance and user experience. The dual-channel DDR5 memory support ensures fast data transfer rates, while the triple M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots provide flexibility for storage options. The USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports offer high-speed data transfer rates, making it ideal for multimedia use.

Cooling and Noise

The cooling solution on this motherboard is impressive, with an extended heatsink and MOSFET thermal pads rated for 7W/mK. These features ensure efficient heat dissipation, preventing overheating during intense workloads. The noise level was minimal, making it suitable for use in both home and office environments.

Expansion and Upgradability

The expansion options on this motherboard are extensive, with six SATA 6Gb/s slots and one PCIe Gen 5.0 x4 slot. These ports provide ample room for additional storage devices and peripherals, ensuring that the system can be easily expanded as needed.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros: - Exceptional performance - High-speed connectivity - Robust build quality - Efficient cooling Cons: - Higher price point compared to some alternatives - Limited Wi-Fi 6E support (requires discrete graphics)

Final Verdict and Recommendation

Overall, the INLAND by Micro Center CPU Motherboard is an excellent choice for users looking for a high-performance solution. Its robust design, comprehensive features, and exceptional cooling make it well-suited for both gaming and professional use. While it comes with a higher price tag compared to some alternatives, the superior performance and expanded connectivity options justify the investment.

Overall Rating

4.5

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