OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

MSI X299 Tomahawk AC Review | 107 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price in UK: ~£280
  • Avg. price in US: ~$300
  • CPU socket: LGA 2066
  • Chipset: Intel X299
  • Form factor: ATX

MSI X299 Tomahawk AC review. Compare 107 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among motherboards and if it is worth buying.

6.6

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%

6.6

Technical Score

10.0%

6.5

User score

Good
6.6

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%

6.9

Memory

16.0%

7.3

Platform & Features

16.0%

6.5

Storage

15.0%

6.9

Network

13.0%

5.3

Ports & USB

8.0%

4.3

Expansion

8.0%

7.2

Power & Cooling

5.0%

9.2

Audio

Good
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%

8.4

User reviews

30.0%

2.2

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(12)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Good
  • 4.6
    Gaming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    5.5

    VRM phases

    22.0%

    5.5

    N. of M.2 sockets

    18.0%

    4.6

    LAN speed

    17.0%

    5.1

    Maximum RAM speed

    15.0%

    1.0

    N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots

  • msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
  • msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
  • msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
  • msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
  • msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
  • msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
msi-x299-tomahawk-ac
msi-x299-tomahawk-ac

Best prices in UK

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 X299 Tomahawk AC is an ATX motherboard built on the Intel X299 chipset and LGA 2066 socket, supporting Intel Core X-series processors with 8 DIMM slots for up to 128GB of quad-channel DDR4 memory at speeds exceeding 4133MHz (OC). Key specifications include four PCIe 3.0 x16 slots supporting 3-way SLI/CrossFire, dual Turbo M.2 slots with M.2 Shield FROZR, a dedicated U.2 port, and eight SATA 6Gb/s ports for extensive storage configurations. Its primary advantages are its robust 'Steel Armor' design, integrated Intel Wireless-AC 8265 with Bluetooth 4.2, and premium Audio Boost 4 technology; however, its overclocking potential is somewhat limited by a single 8-pin power connector and a less sophisticated VRM compared to higher-end X299 models.

Technical Specifications of MSI X299 Tomahawk AC

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%

6.9

Memory

16.0%

7.3

Platform & Features

16.0%

6.5

Storage

15.0%

6.9

Network

13.0%

5.3

Ports & USB

8.0%

4.3

Expansion

8.0%

7.2

Power & Cooling

5.0%

9.2

Audio

6.6
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a technical score of 6.62 points, which is higher than that of 55.5% 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%

8.4

User reviews

30.0%

2.2

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(12)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

6.5
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a user score of 6.53 points, which is lower than that of 87.5% 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.
2.2
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a popularity of 2.2 points, which is lower than 67.5% 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%

6.6

Overall score

40.0%

9.0

Price

7.3
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.3 points, which is higher than 46.1% 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

LGA 2066
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC uses the LGA 2066 CPU socket, which is more advanced than that of 51.8% of motherboards and equal to that of 2% of motherboards.
CPU platform

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
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

Intel X299
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC uses the Intel X299 chipset, which is less advanced than that of 65.4% of motherboards and equal to that of 2% of motherboards.
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 X299 Tomahawk AC 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

DDR4
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC uses DDR4 memory, which is newer than that of 13.6% of motherboards and equal to that of 51% 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

8
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 8 Memory slots, which is more than 94% of motherboards and equal to 5.7% 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

128 GB
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 40.4% of motherboards and equal to 32.1% of motherboards.
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

4
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports 4 memory channels, which is more than 92.8% of motherboards and equal to 6.9% of motherboards.
some CPUs use only 2 channels
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

4,500 MT/s
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports memory speeds up to 4500 MT/s, which is lower than that of 51% of motherboards and equal to that of 0.2% of motherboards.
Show more
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

2
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 2 M.2 sockets, which is more than 30.8% of motherboards and equal to 34.6% 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

2x PCIe 3.0 x4/SATA
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC offers 2x PCIe 3.0x4/SATA for M.2 slot interfaces, which is slower than that of 67.2% of motherboards and equal to that of 3.8% of motherboards.
Key E Wi-Fi slot excluded.
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

8
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 8 SATA 3 connectors, which is more than 85.5% of motherboards and equal to 11.2% 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 X299 Tomahawk AC supports RAID levels 0/1/5/10, which is broader than 31.8% of motherboards and equal to 68.2% of motherboards.
NVMe only
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

yes
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports NVMe RAID. 40.3% of motherboards support this feature.
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 X299 Tomahawk AC 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 X299 Tomahawk AC 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

4
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 4 PCIe 3.0x16 slots, which is more than 93.9% of motherboards and equal to 3.5% of motherboards.
runs at x4 mode
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

?
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

yes
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports PCIe bifurcation. 39.1% 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 X299 Tomahawk AC has 8 USB ports (rear I/O), which is more than 40.3% of motherboards and equal to 30.7% of motherboards.
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

21
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 21 USB ports (including headers), which is more than 95% of motherboards and equal to 2.7% 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

1
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 1 USB-C ports (rear I/O), which is more than 35.4% of motherboards and equal to 48.8% 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

2
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 2 USB-C ports (including headers), which is more than 51.8% of motherboards and equal to 32.8% 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 X299 Tomahawk AC 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 X299 Tomahawk AC 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

Intel I219-V
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC uses the Intel I219-V LAN controller, which is more advanced than that of 41% of motherboards and equal to that of 14.2% 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 X299 Tomahawk AC 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

yes
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 50.9% 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)

Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), which is newer than that of 49.7% of motherboards and equal to that of 10.7% of motherboards.
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 ALC1220
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC uses the Realtek ALC1220 audio codec, which is more advanced than that of 65.1% of motherboards and equal to that of 13% 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 X299 Tomahawk AC 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

120 dB
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has an audio SNR of 120 dB, which is higher than that of 55% of motherboards and equal to that of 41.5% 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

yes
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports a headphone amp. 37% of motherboards support this feature.
supports up to 600Ω.
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 X299 Tomahawk AC 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

8+1
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 8+1 VRM phases, which is fewer than 66.1% of motherboards and equal to 1.4% 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

2
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 2 CPU power connectors, which is more than 54.6% of motherboards and equal to 45.3% 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

6
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has 6 fan headers, which is more than 50.3% of motherboards and equal to 22.3% of motherboards.
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

yes
MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a pump header. 23.1% of motherboards include this feature.
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

?
Show more

MSI X299 Tomahawk AC vs the average motherboard

  • 4 more memory slots
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more memory slots than the average motherboard (8 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 memory slot/s.
    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

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more memory slots than the average motherboard (8 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 memory slot/s.8 vs 4
  • 6 more total USB connections
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more total USB connections than the average motherboard (21 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.
    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

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more total USB connections than the average motherboard (21 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.21 vs 15
  • 1 more U.2 sockets
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more U.2 sockets than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 U.2 socket/s.
    What it is: The number of U.2 connectors on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you use enterprise-style U.2 storage devices.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more U.2 sockets than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 U.2 socket/s.1 vs 0
  • Includes POST code display
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC 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 X299 Tomahawk AC has a POST code display, while the average motherboard does not. 27.2% of motherboards include a POST code display.
  • 1 more CPU power connectors
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more CPU power connectors than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 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

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more CPU power connectors than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 CPU power connectors.2 vs 1
  • Includes dual BIOS
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has dual BIOS, while the average motherboard does not. 22.4% of motherboards include dual BIOS.
    What it is: Shows whether the motherboard includes two BIOS chips for redundancy or recovery.
    When it matters: When BIOS safety and recovery matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has dual BIOS, while the average motherboard does not. 22.4% of motherboards include dual BIOS.
  • Newer CPU socket
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has newer CPU socket than the average motherboard (LGA 2,066 vs LGA 1,151). The average motherboard uses LGA 1,151 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

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has newer CPU socket than the average motherboard (LGA 2,066 vs LGA 1,151). The average motherboard uses LGA 1,151 CPU socket.LGA 2066 vs LGA 1151
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C port/s.
    What it is: The number of rear USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C ports on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want faster rear USB-C connectivity.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=1

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C port/s.1 vs 0
  • Includes POST code display
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a POST code display, while the average motherboard does not. 27.2% of motherboards include a POST code display.
  • Newer CPU socket
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has newer CPU socket than the average motherboard (LGA 2,066 vs LGA 1,151). The average motherboard uses LGA 1,151 CPU socket.
  • Includes dual BIOS
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has dual BIOS, while the average motherboard does not. 22.4% of motherboards include dual BIOS.
  • Rear-panel CMOS reset button
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a rear-panel CMOS reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 26.5% of motherboards include a rear-panel CMOS reset button.
  • Includes onboard power button
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC 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 X299 Tomahawk AC has an onboard reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 27.6% of motherboards include an onboard reset button.
  • 4 more memory slots
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more memory slots than the average motherboard (8 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 memory slot/s.
  • More memory channels
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more memory channels than the average motherboard (4 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 memory channel/s.
  • 1 more U.2 sockets
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more U.2 sockets than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 U.2 socket/s.
  • 4 more SATA 3 connectors
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (8 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 SATA 3 connectors.
  • 1 more PCIe x1 slots
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more PCIe x1 slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe x1 slot/s.
  • 3 more PCIe 3.0x16 slots
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more PCIe 3.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (4 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe 3.0x16 slot/s.
  • 6 more total USB connections
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more total USB connections than the average motherboard (21 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C port/s.
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen1 headers
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more USB 3.2 Gen1 headers than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen1 header/s.
  • 1 more USB4 or Thunderbolt headers
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more USB4 or Thunderbolt headers than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB4 or Thunderbolt header/s.
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2 headers
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more USB 3.2 Gen2 headers than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2 header/s.
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 headers
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 headers than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 header/s.
  • 1 more total USB-C connections
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more total USB-C connections than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 total USB-C connections.
  • Supports Wi-Fi
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports Wi-Fi connectivity, while the average motherboard does not. 49.1% of motherboards support Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • Supports Bluetooth
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC supports Bluetooth, while the average motherboard does not. 47% of motherboards support Bluetooth.
  • Better audio codec
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has better audio codec than the average motherboard (Realtek ALC1,220 vs Realtek ALC898). The average motherboard uses Realtek ALC898 audio codec.
  • 5 dB higher audio SNR
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a higher audio SNR than the average motherboard (120 dB vs 115 dB). The average motherboard has audio SNR of 115 dB.
  • 1 more 3.5mm audio jacks
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more 3.5mm audio jacks than the average motherboard (6 vs 5). The average motherboard has 5 3.5mm audio jacks.
  • 1 more CPU power connectors
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more CPU power connectors than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 CPU power connectors.
  • 1 more fan headers
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more fan headers than the average motherboard (6 vs 5). The average motherboard has 5 fan header/s.

Total
Platform & Features
Memory
Storage
Expansion
Ports & USB
Network
Audio
Power & Cooling
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel X299 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.
  • No integrated graphics support
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC does not support integrated graphics, while the average motherboard does. 89.4% of motherboards support integrated graphics.
  • 4 years older release date
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC is older than the average motherboard (2,017 vs 2,021). The average motherboard was released in 2,021.
    June 2017
  • Slower M.2 slot interfaces
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has slower M.2 slot interfaces than the average motherboard (2x PCIe 3.0x4/SATA vs 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4). The average motherboard uses 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4 M.2 slot interfaces.
    Key E Wi-Fi slot excluded.
  • 3 fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 USB 3.2 Gen1 port/s.
  • 1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.
  • 1 fewer HDMI outputs
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer HDMI outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 HDMI outputs.
  • 60% lower LAN speed
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC 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.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has older Bluetooth version than the average motherboard (4.2 vs 5.4). The average motherboard supports Bluetooth 5.4.
  • 2 fewer ARGB headers
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer ARGB headers than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.
  • Fewer VRM phases
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer VRM phases than the average motherboard (8+1 vs 10). The average motherboard has 10 VRM phase/s.
  • 61 mm wider
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC is wider than the average motherboard (305 mm vs 244 mm). The average motherboard width is 244 mm.
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel X299 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 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

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel X299 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.Intel X299 vs Intel B860
  • 60% lower LAN speed
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC 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 X299 Tomahawk AC 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
  • Slower M.2 slot interfaces
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has slower M.2 slot interfaces than the average motherboard (2x PCIe 3.0x4/SATA vs 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4). The average motherboard uses 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4 M.2 slot interfaces.
    Key E Wi-Fi slot excluded.
    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

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has slower M.2 slot interfaces than the average motherboard (2x PCIe 3.0x4/SATA vs 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4). The average motherboard uses 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4 M.2 slot interfaces.2x PCIe 3.0x4/SATA vs 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4
  • No integrated graphics support
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC does not support integrated graphics, while the average motherboard does. 89.4% of motherboards support integrated graphics.
    What it is: Shows whether the motherboard can output video from CPUs that include integrated graphics.
    When it matters: When you want video output without installing a graphics card.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC does not support integrated graphics, while the average motherboard does. 89.4% of motherboards support integrated graphics.
  • 3 fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 USB 3.2 Gen1 port/s.
    What it is: The number of rear USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want more standard USB ports with faster transfer speeds.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=4

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 USB 3.2 Gen1 port/s.1 vs 4
  • 2 fewer ARGB headers
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer ARGB headers than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.
    What it is: The number of 3-pin addressable RGB headers available on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want to connect more ARGB lighting devices.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=2

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer ARGB headers than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.0 vs 2
  • 1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.
    What it is: The number of DisplayPort video outputs on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want to connect compatible displays through the rear I/O.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=1

    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.0 vs 1
  • 22.5% lower user score
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a lower user score than the average motherboard (6.53 vs 8.000).
    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.
    MSI X299 Tomahawk AC has a lower user score than the average motherboard (6.53 vs 8.000).6.53 vs 8
Total
Overall
Platform & Features
Storage
Ports & USB
Network
Power & Cooling

Graphic comparison of MSI X299 Tomahawk AC and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
12 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about MSI X299 Tomahawk AC?

  • Excellent value for an X299 platform motherboard, often described as a 'budget' HEDT option
  • High build quality with 'built like a tank' construction and reinforced PCIe slots
  • Unique and attractive aesthetics, especially the all-white design of the Arctic variant
  • Feature-packed for the price, including M.2 Shield Frozr heatsinks and BIOS Flashback
  • User-friendly convenience features like on-board power/reset buttons and a rear CMOS reset button
  • Comprehensive storage options with support for multiple RAID configurations (RAID 0, 1, 5, 10)
  • Robust bundled software system for system tuning and 'X-Boost' performance presets

What customers dislike about MSI X299 Tomahawk AC?

  • Underwhelming VRM and power delivery compared to higher-end X299 boards, featuring only a single 8-pin connector
  • Not recommended for hardcore or extreme overclocking due to power and thermal constraints
  • Lack of 'star power' or highly innovative standout features compared to competitors like ASUS ROG Strix
  • Limited rear I/O connectivity, specifically a lower number of USB ports compared to other boards in the class
  • VRM cooling can be a concern under heavy, sustained loads
  • No support for 4-way SLI configurations

Video reviews

Compare MSI X299 Tomahawk AC with

VS
VS

Compare