If red and black is your thing then this is a motherboard which will suit your requirements. The PCB is a matt black and has contrasting red trim throughout which is neither overdone nor over stated - 'just right' as Goldilocks would say.


The rear of the motherboard is clutter free save for the CPU and VRM back plates with very few other exposed components.


The MSI Gaming Shield takes pride of place, covering and cooling the X99 chipset. Strangely our example has a small dent which we hope is just a one-off as we cannot see this occurring during transit due to the excellent protection afforded by the packaging.


The red and black theme spreads to both the VRM cooling and the streaming engine cover plate. Even the I/O area receives a metal cover although this did not receive the same red/black louvre detailing and appeared to be more of an afterthought than serving any useful or even aesthetic purpose.


Overall, the MSI X99S Gaming 9 AC is a very attractive motherboard which is both aesthetically pleasing while remaining well laid out. Our only criticism would be the I/O cover which is attached through the same screw holes required to mount the motherboard to a case. While it is a simple affair to remove the plate and replace using case screws it is something we shouldn't really have to do.