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MSI 990FXA GD80 Review | 107 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£150
  • Avg. price in US: ~$200
  • CPU socket: AM3+
  • Chipset: AMD 990FX
  • Form factor: ATX

MSI 990FXA GD80 review. Compare 107 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among motherboards and if it is worth buying.

4.5

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the motherboard's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best motherboards on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.3

Technical Score

10.0%

6.5

User score

Poor
4.3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the motherboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as power delivery, CPU and memory support, expansion, storage, connectivity, cooling, BIOS features, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare motherboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

19.0%

3.8

Memory

16.0%

5.4

Platform & Features

16.0%

2.9

Storage

15.0%

5.0

Network

13.0%

2.9

Ports & USB

8.0%

3.7

Expansion

8.0%

5.8

Power & Cooling

5.0%

7.0

Audio

Poor
6.5

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the motherboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a motherboard performs in real-world builds and how reliable it is in terms of stability, BIOS usability, connectivity, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

7.7

User reviews

30.0%

3.8

Popularity

User score:
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(39)
Amazon_logo.png
3.2
(8)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Good
  • 3.1
    Gaming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    5.9

    VRM phases

    22.0%

    1.0

    N. of M.2 sockets

    18.0%

    4.6

    LAN speed

    17.0%

    1.4

    Maximum RAM speed

    15.0%

    1.0

    N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots

  • No image
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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £150

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The MSI 990FXA-GD80 is a high-end ATX motherboard featuring the AMD 990FX and SB950 chipset, designed for Socket AM3+ processors including the AMD FX, Phenom II, and Athlon II series. Key specifications include four DDR3 DIMM slots supporting up to 32GB of memory at speeds of 2133MHz (OC), six SATA 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0/1/5/10 support, and four PCIe 2.0 x16 slots enabling up to 3-way SLI or 4-way CrossFireX configurations. Main characteristics include Military Class II components (Hi-c CAPs, Super Ferrite Chokes, and solid capacitors) for enhanced durability, OC Genie II for one-touch overclocking, and THX TruStudio Pro audio. Pros include high-quality power delivery via a 10-phase VRM, extensive connectivity with USB 3.0 and eSATA, and an easy-to-use Click BIOS. Cons include the lack of Load Line Calibration on certain revisions and the awkward placement of the 8-pin EPS power connector, which is situated away from the edge of the PCB.

Technical Specifications of MSI 990FXA GD80

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the motherboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as power delivery, CPU and memory support, expansion, storage, connectivity, cooling, BIOS features, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare motherboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

19.0%

3.8

Memory

16.0%

5.4

Platform & Features

16.0%

2.9

Storage

15.0%

5.0

Network

13.0%

2.9

Ports & USB

8.0%

3.7

Expansion

8.0%

5.8

Power & Cooling

5.0%

7.0

Audio

4.3
MSI 990FXA GD80 has a technical score of 4.3 points, which is lower than that of 92.2% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the motherboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a motherboard performs in real-world builds and how reliable it is in terms of stability, BIOS usability, connectivity, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

7.7

User reviews

30.0%

3.8

Popularity

User score:
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(39)
Amazon_logo.png
3.2
(8)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

6.5
MSI 990FXA GD80 has a user score of 6.54 points, which is lower than that of 87.2% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the motherboard.
When it matters: When you prefer a motherboard that has already been bought and reviewed by many other users.
3.8
MSI 990FXA GD80 has a popularity of 3.8 points, which is lower than 52.6% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the motherboard's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a motherboard that offers a strong balance of features, performance, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.5

Overall score

40.0%

9.7

Price

6.1
MSI 990FXA GD80 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.1 points, which is lower than 91.7% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The brand that makes the motherboard.
When it matters: When you have a brand preference for support, BIOS, or build quality.

Importance: MEDIUM

MSI
CPU socket
What it is: The socket type the motherboard is built to support.
When it matters: When you need the motherboard to match a specific CPU.

Importance: HIGH

AM3+
MSI 990FXA GD80 uses the AM3+ CPU socket, which is less advanced than that of 96.9% of motherboards and equal to that of 0.7% of motherboards.
Backward compatible with AM3 processors.
CPU platform

Importance: MEDIUM

AMD
Chipset
What it is: The chipset that defines the motherboard platform and many of its features.
When it matters: When you compare platform features, connectivity, and CPU support.

Importance: HIGH

AMD 990FX
MSI 990FXA GD80 uses the AMD 990FX chipset, which is less advanced than that of 90.5% of motherboards and equal to that of 0.5% of motherboards.
Paired with SB950 southbridge.
Form factor
What it is: The physical size standard of the motherboard, such as ATX or Micro-ATX.
When it matters: When you need the board to fit a specific case size.

Importance: HIGH

ATX
MSI 990FXA GD80 has the ATX form factor, which is more versatile than that of 47.8% of motherboards and equal to that of 52.2% of motherboards.
Show more
DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the motherboard supports, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the board to match a certain memory platform.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: DDR5

DDR3
MSI 990FXA GD80 uses DDR3 memory, which is older than that of 86.6% of motherboards and equal to that of 13.4% of motherboards.
Memory slots
What it is: The number of RAM slots on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want more room for future memory upgrades.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4

4
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 4 Memory slots, which is more than 21.5% of motherboards and equal to 72.5% of motherboards.
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of RAM the motherboard supports.
When it matters: When you plan a build with very high memory capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

32 GB
MSI 990FXA GD80 supports up to 32 GB of memory, which is less than 87% of motherboards and equal to 11.2% of motherboards.
higher limit with high-density DIMMs
Memory channels
What it is: The memory channel configuration supported by the motherboard platform.
When it matters: When memory bandwidth matters for your build.

Importance: MEDIUM

2
MSI 990FXA GD80 supports 2 memory channels, which is more than 0.2% of motherboards and equal to 92.5% of motherboards.
Maximum RAM speed
What it is: The highest officially supported memory speed for the motherboard.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=6400 MT/s

1,866 MT/s
MSI 990FXA GD80 supports memory speeds up to 1866 MT/s, which is lower than that of 91.5% of motherboards and equal to that of 1.5% of motherboards.
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N. of M.2 sockets
What it is: The number of M.2 slots available on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want room for more NVMe or M.2 drives.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=3

0
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 0 M.2 sockets, which is fewer than 88.4% of motherboards and equal to 11.7% of motherboards.
M.2 slot interface per slot
What it is: The storage or PCIe interface available for each M.2 slot on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want to check which drives each M.2 slot can use.

Importance: HIGH

N/A
N. of SATA 3 connectors
What it is: The number of SATA 6Gb/s connectors on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you plan to connect multiple SATA drives.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6

6
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 6 SATA 3 connectors, which is more than 52.6% of motherboards and equal to 32.1% of motherboards.
Supported RAID levels
What it is: The RAID modes officially supported by the motherboard storage platform.
When it matters: When you plan to use multiple drives in a RAID setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

0/1/5/10
MSI 990FXA GD80 supports RAID levels 0/1/5/10, which is broader than 31.8% of motherboards and equal to 68.2% of motherboards.
NVMe RAID support
What it is: Shows whether the board supports RAID configurations that use NVMe SSDs.
When it matters: When you plan to use multiple NVMe drives in RAID.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Show more
N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots
What it is: The number of PCIe 5.0 x16 physical slots on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want the newest high-bandwidth expansion slots.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=1

0
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 0 PCIe 5.0x16 slots, which is equal to 68.5% of motherboards.
N. of PCIe 4.0 x16 slots
What it is: The number of PCIe 4.0 x16 physical slots on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want more room for modern expansion cards.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=1

0
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 0 PCIe 4.0x16 slots, which is equal to 55.6% of motherboards.
N. of PCIe 3.0 x16 slots
What it is: The number of PCIe 3.0 x16 physical slots on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need more full-length expansion slots.

Importance: MEDIUM

0
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 0 PCIe 3.0x16 slots, which is fewer than 59.5% of motherboards and equal to 40.5% of motherboards.
PCIe slot electrical configuration
What it is: The actual lane wiring used by the motherboard PCIe slots.
When it matters: When you need to know how much bandwidth each slot really gets.

Importance: HIGH

x16/x16/x0/x4, x16/x8/x8/x4
MSI 990FXA GD80 uses x16/x16/x0/x4, x16/x8/x8/x4 for PCIe slot electrical configuration, which is more flexible than that of 93% of motherboards.
PCIe bifurcation support
What it is: Shows whether the board can split PCIe lanes across multiple devices from one slot or link.
When it matters: When you plan multi-SSD adapters or more advanced expansion setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support PCIe bifurcation. 61% of motherboards support this feature.
Show more
Total USB ports (rear I/O)
What it is: The total number of rear USB ports available on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you use many USB devices directly from the back of the PC.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=8

8
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 8 USB ports (rear I/O), which is more than 40.3% of motherboards and equal to 30.7% of motherboards.
combo USB/eSATA ports counted.
Total USB ports (including headers)
What it is: The total number of USB ports supported when rear ports and internal headers are counted together.
When it matters: When you want to know the board's full USB expansion potential.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=14

14
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 14 USB ports (including headers), which is fewer than 51.8% of motherboards and equal to 12.9% of motherboards.
Total USB-C ports (rear I/O)
What it is: The total number of rear USB-C ports on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want more USB-C devices connected without adapters.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=1

0
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 0 USB-C ports (rear I/O), which is fewer than 64.6% of motherboards and equal to 35.4% of motherboards.
Total USB-C ports (including headers)
What it is: The total number of USB-C ports supported when rear ports and internal headers are counted together.
When it matters: When you want more USB-C connectivity across the whole build.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=2

0
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 0 USB-C ports (including headers), which is fewer than 69.6% of motherboards and equal to 30.4% of motherboards.
N. of USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C)
What it is: The number of rear USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C ports on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want very fast USB-C connectivity on the rear I/O.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=1

0
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C), which is equal to 81.6% of motherboards.
Show more
LAN speed
What it is: The maximum wired Ethernet speed supported by the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want faster wired networking.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 2.5GbE

1 Gbps
MSI 990FXA GD80 supports LAN speeds up to 1 Gbps, which is lower than that of 50.8% of motherboards and equal to that of 49.1% of motherboards.
LAN controller
What it is: The model of onboard Ethernet controller used by the motherboard.
When it matters: When you compare networking hardware quality and features.

Importance: MEDIUM

Realtek RTL8111E
MSI 990FXA GD80 uses the Realtek RTL8111E LAN controller, which is less advanced than that of 89.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 1.7% of motherboards.
N. of RJ45 ports
What it is: The number of wired Ethernet ports on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need one or more wired network connections.

Importance: LOW

1
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 1 RJ45 ports, which is equal to 85.6% of motherboards.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Shows whether the motherboard includes onboard Wi-Fi hardware instead of requiring a separate adapter.
When it matters: When you want wireless networking without adding an extra card.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support Wi-Fi connectivity. 49.1% of motherboards support this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The supported Wi-Fi generation, such as Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7.
When it matters: When you care about wireless speed and router compatibility.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax)

N/A
Show more
Audio codec
What it is: The onboard audio codec used by the motherboard.
When it matters: When sound quality from the built-in audio matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Realtek ALC892
MSI 990FXA GD80 uses the Realtek ALC892 audio codec, which is less advanced than that of 80.1% of motherboards and equal to that of 8.5% of motherboards.
Audio channels
What it is: The audio channel configuration supported by the onboard sound solution.
When it matters: When you want surround sound from the motherboard audio outputs.

Importance: LOW

Good value: 7.1

7.1
MSI 990FXA GD80 offers 7.1 audio channels, which is more than 4.9% of motherboards and equal to 95.1% of motherboards.
Audio SNR
What it is: The signal-to-noise ratio of the onboard audio solution.
When it matters: When you care about cleaner onboard audio output.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=120 dB

109 dB
MSI 990FXA GD80 has an audio SNR of 109 dB, which is lower than that of 61.7% of motherboards and equal to that of 0.1% of motherboards.
Headphone amp support
What it is: Shows whether the onboard audio path includes dedicated headphone amplification for harder-to-drive headsets.
When it matters: When you use harder-to-drive headphones from the onboard audio.

Importance: LOW

no
MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support a headphone amp. 63% of motherboards support this feature.
N. of 3.5mm audio jacks
What it is: The number of rear 3.5mm audio jacks on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want more analog audio connection options.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=5

6
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 6 3.5mm audio jacks, which is more than 86.6% of motherboards and equal to 13.4% of motherboards.
Show more
VRM phases
What it is: The number of power-delivery phases used by the motherboard VRM.
When it matters: When you care about CPU power delivery and overclocking headroom.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=12

10
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 10 VRM phases, which is fewer than 54.4% of motherboards and equal to 3.3% of motherboards.
N. of CPU power connectors
What it is: The number of CPU power connectors on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you care about power delivery for higher-end CPUs.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=2

1
MSI 990FXA GD80 has 1 CPU power connectors, which is equal to 54.5% of motherboards.
N. of fan headers
What it is: The number of headers available for case or CPU fans.
When it matters: When your build uses several fans.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6

?
Pump header
What it is: Shows whether the motherboard includes a dedicated header designed for a liquid-cooling pump.
When it matters: When you build with an AIO or custom liquid cooling loop.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Pump header max current
What it is: The maximum current the dedicated pump header can supply.
When it matters: When you want to make sure the pump header can power your cooling setup.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2 A

0 A
MSI 990FXA GD80 supports up to 0 A on the pump header, which is lower than that of 74.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 25.7% of motherboards.
Show more

MSI 990FXA GD80 vs the average motherboard

  • More flexible PCIe lane configuration
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more flexible PCIe lane configuration than the average motherboard (x16/x16/x0/x4, x16/x8/x8/x4 vs x16/x1). The average motherboard uses x16/x1 PCIe slot lane configuration.
    What it is: The actual lane wiring used by the motherboard PCIe slots.
    When it matters: When you need to know how much bandwidth each slot really gets.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more flexible PCIe lane configuration than the average motherboard (x16/x16/x0/x4, x16/x8/x8/x4 vs x16/x1). The average motherboard uses x16/x1 PCIe slot lane configuration.x16/x16/x0/x4, x16/x8/x8/x4 vs x16/x1
  • Includes POST code display
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a POST code display, while the average motherboard does not. 27.2% of motherboards include a POST code display.
    What it is: Shows whether the board includes a diagnostic POST code readout for boot troubleshooting.
    When it matters: When you troubleshoot boot issues and want clearer error information.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a POST code display, while the average motherboard does not. 27.2% of motherboards include a POST code display.
  • 1 more PCI slots
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more PCI slots than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCI slot/s.
    What it is: The number of legacy PCI slots on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you need compatibility with older expansion cards.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more PCI slots than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCI slot/s.1 vs 0
  • 4 more PCIe 2.0x16 slots
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more PCIe 2.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (4 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCIe 2.0x16 slot/s.
    What it is: The number of PCIe 2.0 x16 physical slots on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you compare older full-length expansion options.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more PCIe 2.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (4 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCIe 2.0x16 slot/s.4 vs 0
  • Rear-panel CMOS reset button
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a rear-panel CMOS reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 26.5% of motherboards include a rear-panel CMOS reset button.
    What it is: A rear I/O button used to clear BIOS or CMOS settings quickly.
    When it matters: When you overclock or troubleshoot and want an easier reset method.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a rear-panel CMOS reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 26.5% of motherboards include a rear-panel CMOS reset button.
  • Broader Windows support
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has broader Windows support than the average motherboard (Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP vs Windows 11, Windows 10). The average motherboard supports Windows 11, Windows 10.
    What it is: The Windows versions officially supported by the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want to know whether your planned Windows version is supported.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has broader Windows support than the average motherboard (Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP vs Windows 11, Windows 10). The average motherboard supports Windows 11, Windows 10.Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP vs Windows 11, Windows 10
  • 2 more eSATA ports
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more eSATA ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 eSATA port/s.
    What it is: The number of eSATA ports available on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you still use compatible external SATA storage.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more eSATA ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 eSATA port/s.2 vs 0
  • 2 more SATA 3 connectors
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (6 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 SATA 3 connectors.
    What it is: The number of SATA 6Gb/s connectors on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you plan to connect multiple SATA drives.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=6

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (6 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 SATA 3 connectors.6 vs 4
  • Includes POST code display
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a POST code display, while the average motherboard does not. 27.2% of motherboards include a POST code display.
  • Rear-panel CMOS reset button
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a rear-panel CMOS reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 26.5% of motherboards include a rear-panel CMOS reset button.
  • Broader Windows support
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has broader Windows support than the average motherboard (Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP vs Windows 11, Windows 10). The average motherboard supports Windows 11, Windows 10.
  • Includes onboard power button
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has an onboard power button, while the average motherboard does not. 27.7% of motherboards include an onboard power button.
  • Includes onboard reset button
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has an onboard reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 27.6% of motherboards include an onboard reset button.
  • 2 more SATA 3 connectors
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (6 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 SATA 3 connectors.
  • More flexible PCIe lane configuration
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more flexible PCIe lane configuration than the average motherboard (x16/x16/x0/x4, x16/x8/x8/x4 vs x16/x1). The average motherboard uses x16/x1 PCIe slot lane configuration.
  • 1 more PCI slots
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more PCI slots than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCI slot/s.
  • 4 more PCIe 2.0x16 slots
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more PCIe 2.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (4 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCIe 2.0x16 slot/s.
  • 1 more PCIe x1 slots
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more PCIe x1 slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe x1 slot/s.
  • 2 more eSATA ports
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more eSATA ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 eSATA port/s.
  • 4 more USB 2.0 ports
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more USB 2.0 ports than the average motherboard (6 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 USB 2.0 port/s.
  • Includes coaxial S/PDIF out
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has coaxial S/PDIF out, while the average motherboard does not. 2.6% of motherboards include coaxial S/PDIF out.
  • 1 more 3.5mm audio jacks
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more 3.5mm audio jacks than the average motherboard (6 vs 5). The average motherboard has 5 3.5mm audio jacks.

Total
Platform & Features
Storage
Expansion
Ports & USB
Audio
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (AMD 990FX vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.
    Paired with SB950 southbridge.
  • No BIOS flashback support
    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support BIOS flashback, while the average motherboard does. 50.8% of motherboards support BIOS flashback.
  • No integrated graphics support
    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support integrated graphics, while the average motherboard does. 89.4% of motherboards support integrated graphics.
  • Older CPU socket
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has older CPU socket than the average motherboard (AM3+ vs LGA 1,151). The average motherboard uses LGA 1,151 CPU socket.
    Backward compatible with AM3 processors.
  • Not ready for Windows 11
    MSI 990FXA GD80 is not ready for Windows 11, while the average motherboard is. 77.1% of motherboards are ready for Windows 11.
  • Fewer BIOS update options
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer BIOS update options than the average motherboard (UEFI utility, Windows app, DOS vs UEFI utility, flashback, Windows app). The average motherboard offers UEFI utility, flashback, Windows app BIOS update methods.
  • 10 years older release date
    MSI 990FXA GD80 is older than the average motherboard (2,011 vs 2,021). The average motherboard was released in 2,021.
  • 75% less maximum memory capacity
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average motherboard (32 GB vs 128 GB). The average motherboard supports 128 GB of memory.
    higher limit with high-density DIMMs
  • Older DDR memory generation
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has older DDR memory generation than the average motherboard (DDR3 vs DDR4). The average motherboard supports DDR4 memory.
  • 59.4% lower maximum RAM speed
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a lower maximum RAM speed than the average motherboard (1,866 MT/s vs 4,600 MT/s). The average motherboard supports RAM speed of 4,600 MT/s.
  • 56.8% lower overclocked RAM speed
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a lower overclocked RAM speed than the average motherboard (2,133 MT/s vs 4,933 MT/s). The average motherboard supports overclocked RAM speed of 4,933 MT/s.
  • 2 fewer M.2 sockets
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer M.2 sockets than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 M.2 socket/s.
  • No PCIe bifurcation support
    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support PCIe bifurcation, while the average motherboard does. 61% of motherboards support PCIe bifurcation.
  • 1 fewer PCIe 3.0x16 slots
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer PCIe 3.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe 3.0x16 slot/s.
  • 1 fewer rear USB-C ports
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer rear USB-C ports than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 rear USB-C port/s.
  • 1 fewer USB 3.2 Gen2 ports
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer USB 3.2 Gen2 ports than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen2 port/s.
  • 2 fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 USB 3.2 Gen1 port/s.
  • 1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.
  • 1 fewer total USB connections
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer total USB connections than the average motherboard (14 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.
  • 1 fewer total USB-C connections
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer total USB-C connections than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 total USB-C connections.
  • 1 fewer HDMI outputs
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer HDMI outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 HDMI outputs.
    other video outputs only
  • More basic LAN controller
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more basic LAN controller than the average motherboard (Realtek RTL8,111E vs Marvell AQtion AQC113C). The average motherboard uses Marvell AQtion AQC113C LAN controller.
  • 60% lower LAN speed
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a lower LAN speed than the average motherboard (1 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps). The average motherboard offers LAN speed of 2.5 Gbps.
  • No Wi-Fi antenna included
    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not include a Wi-Fi antenna, while the average motherboard does. 51.1% of motherboards include a Wi-Fi antenna.
  • More basic audio codec
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more basic audio codec than the average motherboard (Realtek ALC892 vs Realtek ALC898). The average motherboard uses Realtek ALC898 audio codec.
  • No headphone amp support
    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support a headphone amp, while the average motherboard does. 63% of motherboards support a headphone amp.
  • 6 dB lower audio SNR
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a lower audio SNR than the average motherboard (109 dB vs 115 dB). The average motherboard has audio SNR of 115 dB.
  • 2 fewer ARGB headers
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer ARGB headers than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.
  • No onboard RGB lighting
    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not have onboard RGB lighting, while the average motherboard does. 50.3% of motherboards include onboard RGB lighting.
  • 1 fewer RGB headers
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer RGB headers than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 RGB header/s.
  • 2 A lower pump header current limit
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a lower pump header current than the average motherboard (0 A vs 2 A). The average motherboard provides pump header current of 2 A.
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (AMD 990FX vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.
    Paired with SB950 southbridge.
    What it is: The chipset that defines the motherboard platform and many of its features.
    When it matters: When you compare platform features, connectivity, and CPU support.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (AMD 990FX vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.AMD 990FX vs Intel B860
  • More basic LAN controller
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more basic LAN controller than the average motherboard (Realtek RTL8,111E vs Marvell AQtion AQC113C). The average motherboard uses Marvell AQtion AQC113C LAN controller.
    What it is: The model of onboard Ethernet controller used by the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you compare networking hardware quality and features.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has more basic LAN controller than the average motherboard (Realtek RTL8,111E vs Marvell AQtion AQC113C). The average motherboard uses Marvell AQtion AQC113C LAN controller.Realtek RTL8111E vs Marvell AQtion AQC113C
  • 60% lower LAN speed
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a lower LAN speed than the average motherboard (1 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps). The average motherboard offers LAN speed of 2.5 Gbps.
    What it is: The maximum wired Ethernet speed supported by the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want faster wired networking.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 2.5GbE

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has a lower LAN speed than the average motherboard (1 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps). The average motherboard offers LAN speed of 2.5 Gbps.1 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps
  • 75% less maximum memory capacity
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average motherboard (32 GB vs 128 GB). The average motherboard supports 128 GB of memory.
    higher limit with high-density DIMMs
    What it is: The largest total amount of RAM the motherboard supports.
    When it matters: When you plan a build with very high memory capacity.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=128 GB

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average motherboard (32 GB vs 128 GB). The average motherboard supports 128 GB of memory.32 GB vs 128 GB
  • 2 fewer M.2 sockets
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer M.2 sockets than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 M.2 socket/s.
    What it is: The number of M.2 slots available on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want room for more NVMe or M.2 drives.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=3

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has fewer M.2 sockets than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 M.2 socket/s.0 vs 2
  • Older DDR memory generation
    MSI 990FXA GD80 has older DDR memory generation than the average motherboard (DDR3 vs DDR4). The average motherboard supports DDR4 memory.
    What it is: The RAM generation the motherboard supports, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
    When it matters: When you need the board to match a certain memory platform.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: DDR5

    MSI 990FXA GD80 has older DDR memory generation than the average motherboard (DDR3 vs DDR4). The average motherboard supports DDR4 memory.DDR3 vs DDR4
  • No BIOS flashback support
    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support BIOS flashback, while the average motherboard does. 50.8% of motherboards support BIOS flashback.
    What it is: Shows whether the motherboard can update BIOS without needing a fully installed or supported CPU to boot first.
    When it matters: When you may need to update BIOS before the system can boot.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support BIOS flashback, while the average motherboard does. 50.8% of motherboards support BIOS flashback.
  • No PCIe bifurcation support
    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support PCIe bifurcation, while the average motherboard does. 61% of motherboards support PCIe bifurcation.
    What it is: Shows whether the board can split PCIe lanes across multiple devices from one slot or link.
    When it matters: When you plan multi-SSD adapters or more advanced expansion setups.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI 990FXA GD80 does not support PCIe bifurcation, while the average motherboard does. 61% of motherboards support PCIe bifurcation.
Total
Overall
Platform & Features
Memory
Storage
Expansion
Ports & USB
Network
Audio
Power & Cooling

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Third-party reviews

United States
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4.0
39 Reviews
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3.2
8 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about MSI 990FXA GD80?

  • High-quality 'Military Class' components ensuring longevity and durability
  • Excellent multi-GPU support with four PCIe x16 slots (supports SLI and CrossfireX)
  • Robust overclocking features including physical OC Genie, Power, and Reset buttons on the board
  • Good overall performance for its price point compared to competitors
  • Comprehensive feature set including USB 3.0, SATA 6Gb/s, and a POST error LED display
  • Effective thermal management with integrated heatsinks that keep temps stable

What customers dislike about MSI 990FXA GD80?

  • Laggy and unintuitive UEFI BIOS implementation (Click BIOS) that is difficult to navigate
  • Bundled software, specifically 'MSI Live Update,' is often reported as buggy or non-functional
  • Only a single PWM fan header provided despite multiple fan connectors
  • Mixed feedback on memory handling, with some users reporting difficulties recognizing full RAM capacity
  • The I/O shield is noted for having sharp edges and being difficult to install
  • Lower performance on SATA III controllers compared to some high-end ASRock or ASUS rivals

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