MSI’s 5-in-1 Xpander card is a blessing for mini ITX motherboards

Using the motherboard's vertical is a genius way of adding more connectivity when space isn't a luxury.

MSI has taken the wraps off its latest motherboards at Computex 2025, revealing a full range of X870E, B850, and B860 models across MEG, MPG, and MAG families. Whether you’re building an all-out watercooled showcase or a shoebox-sized sleeper, there’s something here to suit pretty much everyone.

MPG Mini-ITX boards

MSI’s MPG EDGE TI series is growing fast, and now covers all three 800 Series chipsets in a compact Mini-ITX form factor. Cue MPG X870I EDGE TI WIFI, MPG B850I, and MPG B860I EDGE TI WIFI.

Launching in July for $309, MPG X870I EDGE TI WIFI is the standout of the trio. It’s equipped with triple M.2 slots, Lightning Gen 5, USB 40G, and full-speed WiFi 7 with 5G LAN. That’s serious high-end connectivity for such a small footprint.

MSI 5-in-1 Xpander card.

Not one to let its stature get the best of it, MSI has also brought over its 5-in-1 Xpander card, previously exclusive to its MPG X890I flagship. This grants an extra PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, two SATA ports, and a front USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port with 27W power delivery.

Xpander support doesn’t cascade down to more mainstream alternatives, but MPG B850I and MPG B860I EDGE TI WIFI pack plenty of connectivity options for their tiny $269 price tag. Dual M.2 support, Gen 5 readiness, and full-speed WiFi 7 make both forces to be reckoned with. B860I model also adds Thunderbolt 4, perfect for those relying on external storage or docked peripherals.

MSI mini ITX motherboards at Computex 2025.

MEG X870E Ace

Bridging the gap between Carbon and Godlike, MEG X870E Ace returns with a high-end makeover designed for the most ambitious builds. While pricing remains TBD, a Q3 launch has been confirmed, meaning we’ll only have a couple of months before it’s on shelves.

It features a bold new Illusion Lighting design that layers lighting effects beneath a multi-textured surface, alongside USB4, 10G Super LAN, and WiFi 7 under MSI’s Ultra Connect banner. Storage support is predictably strong, with five onboard M.2 slots, two of which support Lightning Gen 5 speeds.

Keeping it all cool is a premium thermal design comprising a Direct Touch Cross Heatpipe, Wavy Fin Array, and full-length M.2 Shield Frozr heatsinks. Builders also benefit from MSI’s ever-growing list of DIY niceties, including EZ PCIe Release, EZ M.2 Clip II, and Smart Buttons for streamlined installation.

MAG X870E Tomahawk WiFi PZ

MSI’s MAG X870E Tomahawk gets a significant update in the form of Project Zero, moving power and data connectors to the rear of the board for a cleaner aesthetic. Launching in July at $369, the PZ edition continues the series legacy of value and functionality.

Aside from its new look, all connectivity remains the same, from USB 40G, WiFi 7, and 5G LAN, to quad M.2 support. However, this model does come bolstered by an extended PWM heatsink array and improved circuit layout targeting heat reduction. MSI’s usual suite of DIY-friendly tools, such as EZ Magnetic M.2 Shield Frozr II, EZ Conn-Design, and Smart Button, are included out of the box.

Damien Mason
Damien Mason
Senior hardware editor at Club386, he first began his journey with consoles before graduating to PCs. What began as a quest to edit video for his Film and Television Production degree soon spiralled into an obsession with upgrading and optimising his rig.

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