Introduction

MSI has for quite a few years now had an extreme focus on meeting the needs of PC gamers, one of the largest segments of PC enthusiasts that exist today. While many people may bemoan the addition of "GAMING" onto so many products, I for one can only applaud the industry's obvious focus on meeting the direct needs of the end consumer specifically, rather than just generally. Sure, there are all sorts of products with "GAMING" in their name, but how many are truly designed for that specific purpose? I can tell you, MSI's GAMING products very much are.

Naturally, since I've been looking at the high-end Z270 boards out right now, it is about time that I turn to one of MSI's high-end GAMING options, the MSI Z270 GAMING M7. This really is a board designed for gaming, using input from users and pro gamers alike. MSI has long been one of the major sponsoring companies when it comes to pro gaming teams and competitions, and through that sponsorship, they've gained not only a marketing presence within the pro gaming arena, but have got their hands on direct feedback from those who take gaming to what is really the "next level". If it's good enough for the pros, it is definitely good enough for your gaming needs too.

MSI's Z270 GAMING M7 isn't a value-oriented product. It's for those of you who have a slightly deeper pocket. Contained inside, you will find all the connectivity features you could ask for, including not one or two but three M.2 ports, USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C, RGB lighting, automatic overclocking, high compatibility with high-end DDR4 (500+ approved modules), and a custom-tailored software suite just for gamers. Let us not forget the dual independent audio controllers, either. This is a board purposefully designed so you can spend less time tweaking the hardware and more time gaming, and I have to say I like that a lot.

Specifications