MSI announced the release of motherboards based on Intel 400 series logic chipsets. These boards are designed for the 10th generation Intel Core processors installed in the LGA 1200 socket. There are 12 boards in total, which the manufacturer has divided into MEG, MPG, and MAG lines, covering different groups of users – from demanding enthusiasts to frugal gamers.
Models MEG Z490 Godlike and MEG Z490 Ace topped the line of MSI motherboards based on Intel 400 series chipsets
The general features of the 400 series boards include an increase in the number of layers of the printed circuit board from the usual six to ten. Allegedly, due to this improved cooling and increased stability of high-speed interfaces. Another common feature is the availability of modern network interfaces 2.5GbE and Wi-Fi 6. In addition, all MSI 400-series boards are decorated with full-color backlight.
The flagship MEG series includes the MEG Z490 Godlike and MEG Z490 Ace models. They are distinguished by a chipset cooling system with fans on double ball bearings, which are switched on only after exceeding the temperature threshold (Zero Frozr technology). The MEG Z490 Godlike board cooling system design also includes a heat pipe. There are three M.2 slots on this board, and they are all equipped with two-sided M.2 Shield Frozr radiators. Exclusive features include OLED display, 10 GbE, and Thunderbolt 3 interfaces, and an adapter for M.2 Xpander-Z Gen 4 SSDs.
The power subsystem of the MEG series boards is built according to the 16-phase scheme. On the back of the MEG Z490 Godlike and MEG Z490 Ace boards, Chest Plate metal reinforcement plates are mounted to prevent damage to the boards when installed in the chassis. The sound subsystem of both boards is based on the ALC1220 codec.
