MSI MAX Motherboards: AMD AM5, BIOS & Overclocking at CES 2026

by Sophie Williams
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LAS VEGAS – MSI used CES 2026 to fully unveil its new lineup of MAX series motherboards, designed for AMD AM5 processors and boasting a important upgrade with 64MB BIOS chips[[1]]. While previously teased at Gamescom, the company detailed a range of boards leveraging AMD X870 and B850 chipsets with features like WiFi 7 and increased PCIe 5.0 lane availability[[1]]. The new MAX series also emphasizes user-friendliness alongside enhanced performance capabilities[[2]].

MSI unveiled its latest range of MAX series motherboards for AMD AM5 socket processors at CES 2026, showcasing new 64MB BIOS and cutting-edge technologies. While some details were previously shared at GAMESCOM, the company fully detailed its new lineup in Las Vegas this week.

MSI’s new MAX motherboards are designed for AMD processors, leveraging the AMD X870 and B850 chipsets to maximize performance. These boards integrate features previously reserved for higher-end models, including WiFi 7, USB4, 10 GbE connectivity, and PCI Express 5.0 ports with a maximized number of lanes. A key upgrade is the adoption of a new 64MB BIOS, ensuring support for current and future processors on the AM5 platform. This larger BIOS capacity is becoming increasingly important as processors and associated technologies grow in complexity.

For enthusiasts, models equipped with the X870 and X870E chipsets incorporate OC Engine technology. Utilizing a dedicated chip, the BCLK clock can be desynchronized independently from other components like RAM or PCIe. This allows for memory speeds exceeding 10,000 MT/s and potential performance improvements of up to 15% when combined with CPU and memory overclocking.

The MAX series emphasizes ease of use with MSI’s EZ DIY design philosophy. Features include EZ PCIe Release for single-finger graphics card removal, EZ M.2 Clip II for tool-less SSD installation, and the EZ Link connector for unified fan and RGB control. Internally, top-end boards boast up to 27 VRM phases (24+2+1), 10-layer PCBs with 2oz copper, and additional 8-pin connectors to power the PCIe bus.

Models based on the AMD X870/X870E chipsets

MEG X870E GODLIKE X EDITION

MSI’s flagship model features 27 VRM phases and includes the M.2 XPANDER-Z SLIDER GEN5, 7 M.2 ports, and a USB-C port with 60W charging.

Geeknetic MSI trae al CES sus nuevas placas MAX con soporte para los actuales y futuros procesadores AMD AM5 2

MSI MEG X870E ACE MAX

Positioned as one of MSI’s most advanced boards for the AM5 socket, this model ensures compatibility with future high-performance AMD processors. Its power delivery system utilizes a dual-rail design with 21 phases (18 + 2 + 1) and 110A SPS, powered by two 8-pin connectors. The entire assembly is built on an 8-layer PCB of server-grade quality with 2oz copper for enhanced durability.

Geeknetic MSI trae al CES sus nuevas placas MAX con soporte para los actuales y futuros procesadores AMD AM5 3

MEG X870E UNIFY-X MAX:

Designed for extreme overclocking with an 18+2+1 phase configuration, this board includes the Tuning Controller – a remote control for managing overclocking parameters, power on/off, and Clear CMOS without entering the BIOS.

Geeknetic MSI trae al CES sus nuevas placas MAX con soporte para los actuales y futuros procesadores AMD AM5 4

MPG X870I EDGE TI EVO WIFI:

The most powerful solution in Mini-ITX format. Despite its size, it offers 11 phases of 110A, USB4, WiFi 7, and the XPANDER CARD to expand internal connectivity.

Geeknetic MSI trae al CES sus nuevas placas MAX con soporte para los actuales y futuros procesadores AMD AM5 5

MAG X870E TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI (and PZ version)

Available in black and white, these models feature a 14+2+1 phase power design and larger heatsinks.

Geeknetic MSI trae al CES sus nuevas placas MAX con soporte para los actuales y futuros procesadores AMD AM5 6

Geeknetic MSI trae al CES sus nuevas placas MAX con soporte para los actuales y futuros procesadores AMD AM5 7

MAG X870E GAMING PLUS MAX WIFI

This model, with 17 phases of 60A, 3 M.2 connectors, and 5 GbE connectivity, will be positioned as the most affordable option within the high-end range.

Geeknetic MSI trae al CES sus nuevas placas MAX con soporte para los actuales y futuros procesadores AMD AM5 8

More Affordable B850M Series Models

The lineup is completed with the MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI II, MAG B850 GAMING PLUS MAX WIFI, and MAG B850M MORTAR MAX WIFI II models. While more affordable, these options retain the 64MB BIOS, OC Engine technology for BCLK control, an extra 8-pin connector for power stability, and the core features of the EZ DIY design.

Geeknetic MSI trae al CES sus nuevas placas MAX con soporte para los actuales y futuros procesadores AMD AM5 9

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