MSI Z97 GAMING 7 Review

👤by David Mitchelson Comments 📅11-05-14
Closer Look


Intel's LGA1150 socket and surrounding components


As we move in for a closer look at MSI's GAMING 7 we note there is an 12-phase VRM power design, whilst two moderately-sized black and red heatsinks cool the power delivery system. A heatpipe connects the two heatsinks, aiding in overall dissipation and in so doing helping to ensure that overclocks remain stable.

The 8-pin EPS12V (CPU) power connector is in its ideal location as regards to cable management, and should pose no problems for your PSU beyond a simple extension cable. The closest fan connectors (both of which support 4-pin PWM operation) are top-right and bottom left of the CPU socket, the latter of which might be a little close to the top-most 1x PCIe slot for comfort.

Unsurprisingly if you've got this far the GAMING 7 supports LGA1150 4th Generation and 5th Generation CPUs including the current 'Haswell Refresh' SKUs.


Dual-Channel DDR3 slots


Four DDR3 DIMM slots support up to 32GB RAM in a 4x8GB configuration, although typical operation will be a two-DIMM, dual-channel configuration. Unlike other brands MSI are avoiding a blanket statement of memory support on the board itself, but list the design as being capable of up to DDR3-3200MHz; in other words well in excess of stock RAM speeds.

Next to the DIMM slots are the debug LEDs, 24-pin ATX Power connector, voltage check-points and a further 4-pin system fan header. The voltage check-points are mainly a feature for high-end overclockers or advanced system diagnostics but are a welcome addition.



SATA III and USB 3.0 Header


Further down the board edge are the eight SATA III 6Gbps connectors and the 'boards solitary USB 3.0 header next to the oversized PCH heatsink. We also note the lack of SATA Express connectors – Intel are integrating high-speed storage into Z97 for the first time and most manufacturers have been given the option of an M.2 or SATA Express slot (or in rare instance both). MSI have chosen to the M.2 solution, but also optionally bundle an M.2 to SATA Express adapter for the widest compatibility possible; this isn't ideal in terms of cable management, but is acceptable given the current lack of SATA Express devices in the marketplace.


Intel Z97 heatsink


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