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MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC Review | 107 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£290
  • Avg. price in US: ~$290
  • CPU socket: LGA 2066
  • Chipset: Intel X299
  • Form factor: microATX

MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC review. Compare 107 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among motherboards and if it is worth buying.

6.5

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%

6.4

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
6.4

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%

5.1

Ports & USB

8.0%

4.0

Expansion

8.0%

6.0

Power & Cooling

5.0%

8.8

Audio

Good
?

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%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 4.6
    Gaming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    5.9

    VRM phases

    22.0%

    5.5

    N. of M.2 sockets

    18.0%

    4.6

    LAN speed

    17.0%

    4.7

    Maximum RAM speed

    15.0%

    1.0

    N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £290

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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC is a high-performance Micro-ATX motherboard designed for Intel Core X-series processors on the LGA 2066 socket, featuring the Intel X299 chipset. Key specifications include support for quad-channel DDR4 memory up to 128GB (at 4200+ MHz OC), dual M.2 slots with M.2 Shield thermal protection, and dual Intel Gigabit LAN paired with built-in 802.11ac Wi-Fi. Its main pros are its robust overclocking capabilities with a 10-phase VRM, high-end Realtek ALC1220 audio, and extensive customization through Mystic Light RGB and swappable 3D-printable covers. However, potential cons include the VRM running hot under extreme 10-core overclocks, cramped conditions for multi-GPU setups common to the m-ATX form factor, and a higher power draw compared to simpler boards.

Technical Specifications of MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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%

?

Memory

16.0%

?

Platform & Features

16.0%

?

Storage

15.0%

?

Network

13.0%

?

Ports & USB

8.0%

?

Expansion

8.0%

?

Power & Cooling

5.0%

?

Audio

6.4
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has a technical score of 6.45 points, which is higher than that of 52.2% 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%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
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.
1.0
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 77.9% 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%

6.5

Overall score

40.0%

9.0

Price

7.2
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.2 points, which is lower than 54% 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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

microATX
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has the microATX form factor, which is less versatile than that of 52.2% of motherboards and equal to that of 32.4% 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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

4
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC 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

128 GB
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 40.4% of motherboards and equal to 32.1% of motherboards.
capacity depends on supported CPU
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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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

4,200 MT/s
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC supports memory speeds up to 4200 MT/s, which is lower than that of 55.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 0.3% of motherboards.
maximum depends on CPU configuration
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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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.
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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC 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

yes
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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

3
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has 3 PCIe 3.0x16 slots, which is more than 82.8% of motherboards and equal to 11.1% 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

?
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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC supports PCIe bifurcation. 39.1% of motherboards support this feature.
x8/x4/x4.
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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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

17
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has 17 USB ports (including headers), which is more than 72.1% of motherboards and equal to 10.8% 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C), which is equal to 81.6% of motherboards.
10Gbps excluded.
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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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.
dual 1GbE ports
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 + Intel I211-AT
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC uses the Intel I219-V + Intel I211-AT LAN controller, which is more advanced than that of 55.2% of motherboards and equal to that of 1.2% 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

2
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has 2 RJ45 ports, which is more than 85.6% of motherboards and equal to 13.5% 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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

115 dB
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has an audio SNR of 115 dB, which is higher than that of 46.5% of motherboards and equal to that of 8.2% 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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

5
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has 5 3.5mm audio jacks, which is more than 49.8% of motherboards and equal to 36.8% 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC 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

5
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has 5 fan headers, which is more than 35.8% of motherboards and equal to 14.5% 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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

2 A
MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC supports up to 2 A on the pump header, which is higher than that of 43.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 33.4% of motherboards.
Show more

MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC vs the average motherboard

  • 1 more RJ45 ports
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more RJ45 ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 RJ45 port/s.
    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

    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more RJ45 ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 RJ45 port/s.2 vs 1
  • 1 more U.2 sockets
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has a POST code display, while the average motherboard does not. 27.2% of motherboards include a POST code display.
  • Includes dual BIOS
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has dual BIOS, while the average motherboard does not. 22.4% of motherboards include dual BIOS.
  • Newer CPU socket
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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
  • Supports Wi-Fi
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC supports Wi-Fi connectivity, while the average motherboard does not. 49.1% of motherboards support 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

    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC supports Wi-Fi connectivity, while the average motherboard does not. 49.1% of motherboards support Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • 4 more SATA 3 connectors
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (8 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (8 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 SATA 3 connectors.8 vs 4
  • Includes POST code display
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has dual BIOS, while the average motherboard does not. 22.4% of motherboards include dual BIOS.
  • Rear-panel CMOS reset button
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has an onboard reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 27.6% of motherboards include an onboard reset button.
  • More memory channels
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (8 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 SATA 3 connectors.
  • 2 more PCIe 3.0x16 slots
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more PCIe 3.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (3 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe 3.0x16 slot/s.
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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.
  • 2 more total USB connections
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more total USB connections than the average motherboard (17 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2 headers
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 total USB-C connections
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more total USB-C connections than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 total USB-C connections.
  • 1 more RJ45 ports
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more RJ45 ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 RJ45 port/s.
  • Supports Wi-Fi
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC supports Wi-Fi connectivity, while the average motherboard does not. 49.1% of motherboards support Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • Supports Bluetooth
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC supports Bluetooth, while the average motherboard does not. 47% of motherboards support Bluetooth.
  • Better audio codec
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has better audio codec than the average motherboard (Realtek ALC1,220 vs Realtek ALC898). The average motherboard uses Realtek ALC898 audio codec.
  • 61 mm shorter
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC is shorter than the average motherboard (244 mm vs 305 mm). The average motherboard height is 305 mm.

Total
Platform & Features
Memory
Storage
Expansion
Ports & USB
Network
Audio
Power & Cooling
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC does not support integrated graphics, while the average motherboard does. 89.4% of motherboards support integrated graphics.
  • Less versatile form factor
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has less versatile form factor than the average motherboard (microATX vs ATX). The average motherboard comes in ATX form factor.
  • 4 years older release date
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC is older than the average motherboard (2,017 vs 2,021). The average motherboard was released in 2,021.
    August 2017
  • Slower M.2 slot interfaces
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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.
  • 1 fewer PCIe x1 slots
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has fewer PCIe x1 slots than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe x1 slot/s.
  • 1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.
  • 1 fewer HDMI outputs
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has fewer HDMI outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 HDMI outputs.
  • 60% lower LAN speed
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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.
    dual 1GbE ports
  • Older Bluetooth version
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has fewer ARGB headers than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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.
    dual 1GbE ports
    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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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.
    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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC does not support integrated graphics, while the average motherboard does. 89.4% of motherboards support integrated graphics.
  • 2 fewer ARGB headers
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon 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 X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.0 vs 1
  • 4.17x less popular
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC is less popular than the average motherboard (1.00 vs 4.165).
    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.
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC is less popular than the average motherboard (1.00 vs 4.165).1 vs 4.17
  • Older Bluetooth version
    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has older Bluetooth version than the average motherboard (4.2 vs 5.4). The average motherboard supports Bluetooth 5.4.
    What it is: The supported Bluetooth version provided by the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you care about compatibility with newer Bluetooth devices.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=5.2

    MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC has older Bluetooth version than the average motherboard (4.2 vs 5.4). The average motherboard supports Bluetooth 5.4.4.2 vs 5.4
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Third-party reviews

What customers like about MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC?

  • Excellent overclocking potential with stable multiplier-based performance
  • High-end connectivity including AC Wi-Fi, dual Gigabit Ethernet, and USB 3.1 Gen2
  • Stylish and customizable design with interchangeable heatsink covers (silver, gold, and carbon)
  • Robust feature set for a Micro-ATX form factor, including dual M.2 slots with thermal shields
  • Strong audio performance utilizing the Realtek ALC1220 codec
  • User-friendly BIOS (MSI Click BIOS 5) with easy navigation and clear diagnostic displays
  • High-quality build with reinforced PCIe and DIMM slots to prevent sagging and EMI

What customers dislike about MSI X299M Gaming Pro Carbon AC?

  • Small VRM heatsink which can lead to high temperatures under heavy overclocking loads
  • Plastic VRM covers can potentially insulate heat rather than dissipate it
  • Cramped layout common to Micro-ATX, making multi-GPU setups difficult
  • Software bugs reported with the MSI Mystic Light and Game Boost utilities
  • High power consumption, especially when paired with high-core-count i9 CPUs
  • Lack of pre-calculated fan profiles in the BIOS, requiring manual tuning for quiet operation
  • Expensive price point compared to some competing X299 options

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