I cannot count the number of times I have reviewed a product with a KillerNIC only to find people complaining about that NIC and asking for Intel-based parts instead. MSI has answered those requests. Nearly all other aspects that make MSI's GAMING line-up great are still here, so it is not like you have to give up on something else in order to get that Intel LAN controller. You just pick the right board, and MSI has your needs covered.

My appreciation for gaming-oriented products is rather selfish for sure, having enjoyed video games for as long as I can remember. Those games provide me much escape and stress relief, in a way nothing else does for me. But those thoughts are based on my own needs, and my own needs say that using a KillerNIC isn't all that bad. I can't help but think those who complain about KillerNICs are simply fanboys, but fanboys need boards too. So with that said, it is very good to see MSI taking the time to not only to meet my needs, but those of others as well. There are few companies so solely focused on meeting the consumer's exact needs.

The MSI Z170A GAMING PRO is a rather interesting product to me. It is completely stable, and its features and options are a bit more than I expect for less than US$200. All the high-speed drive connectivity is here, including the fancy USB 3.1, ensuring that you can get the most out of what the platform offers without it taking too large of a dent out of your wallet. Yet it does have a few short-comings; areas that need improving include the fan-control software. Be that as it may, for the price this board commands, those are minor issues at most. Got one yourself? Let me know what you think in the forums!