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Firmware, Software and Test System
Firmware
MSI has updated its BIOS for Z890 (and X870), renaming it “Click X” and improving the aesthetic and functionality. The company changed the format from its previous UEFI, with the headings on the left side, details in the middle, and system status information on the right. Like most other board partners, it has an informational EZ Mode, allowing limited functionality, such as Game Boost, PBO, XMP, and more. The black background that fades to gold with light-colored text is easy to read, and most of what you need is at your fingertips. Overall, I like the new layout, and maneuvering around is intuitive, though it does take some getting used to.
Software
MSI Center is a single utility that offers a wide range of functionality. From hardware monitoring to RGB control with Mystic Light, the software features numerous applets and serves as a one-stop shop for downloading additional utilities, including overclocking and fan control. Those looking to use the Gamebar feature, Super Charger, or any other utilities MSI offers will find them all in MSI Center.
Test System / Comparison Products
We’ve updated our test system to Windows 11 (24H2) 64-bit OS, with all updates applied as of late September 2024, including the Branch Prediction Optimizations for AMD. Hardware-wise, we’ve updated the RAM kits (matching our Intel test system), cooling, storage, and video card. Unless otherwise noted, we use the latest non-beta motherboard BIOS that is publicly available. Thanks toAsusfor providing theRTX 4080 TUFgraphics card andCrucialfor the2TB T705SSDs. The hardware we used is as follows:
Windows 11 64-bit (24H2)
Integrated Networking (GbE to 10 GbE)
Synthetic Benchmarks and Settings
Procyon
Version 16-07-2025 64
Office 365, Video Editing (Premiere Pro 24.6.1), Photo Editing (Photoshop 25.1.2, Lightroom Classic 13.5.1)
3DMark
Speed Way and Steel Nomad (Default)
Open GL Rendering Benchmark - Single and Multi-threaded
Full benchmark (all 3 tests)
Application Tests and Settings
Mixed 271MB WAV to mp3: Command: -b 160 –nores (160Kb/s)
HandBrake CLI
Version: 1.8.2
Sintel Open Movie Project: 4.19GB 4K mkv to x264 (light AVX) and x265 (heavy AVX)
Custom benchmark
Integrated benchmark (Command Line)
Game Tests and Settings
Ultra RT: - 1920 x 1080, DLSS - Balanced
F1 2024
Ultra High Preset - 1920 x 1080, 16xAF/TAA, Great Britain (Clear/Dry), FPS Counter ON
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Joe Shields is a Freelance writer for Tom’s Hardware US. He reviews motherboards.
