Motherboard · MODEL NOTES
MSI MAG B860 TOMAHAWK WIFI
An LGA1851 tower with an unusual long-SSD clearance condition
The MAG B860 TOMAHAWK WIFI provides three M.2 positions and Thunderbolt 4 for an ATX Core Ultra desktop build. Its appeal is a usable connection plan without automatically moving to the more elaborate Z890 model. If you have an existing LGA1700 CPU, treat this as a CPU-and-board replacement decision, not a motherboard-only upgrade.
Consider it when
- A full-size LGA1851 build using external Thunderbolt devices and multiple drives.
Look again when
- The planned CPU is LGA1700 or the case only accepts micro-ATX.
The checks that can change your choice
A long SSD changes the neighboring drive choice
The recorded M2_2 position accepts 22110 SSDs, but installing that length restricts M2_3 to 2242 or 2260 drives. A common 2280 SSD would then be unsuitable for M2_3. Check actual dimensions and placement before ordering two drives independently.
Prove the complete platform
Find the exact processor in this board’s CPU support list and compare its required BIOS with the installed version. Then check the exact memory kit, occupied slots and front-panel connectors. A matching socket or a published maximum memory capacity is only part of that check.
Published specifications
LGA1851; ATX; B860; four DDR5 slots; three M.2 storage slots; Thunderbolt 4; Wi-Fi 7; 304.8 × 243.84 mm.
| Brand | MSI |
|---|---|
| Exact model | MAG B860 TOMAHAWK WIFI |
| Socket | LGA1851 |
| Memory generation | DDR5 |
| Form factor | ATX |
| Motherboard memory slots | 4 |
| Motherboard memory limit | 256 GB; CPU, firmware and DIMM support must also be checked |
| Motherboard SATA ports | 4 |
| Storage slot M2_1 | M.2 2280, M.2 2260; PCIe NVMe; PCIe 5 x4 |
| Storage slot M2_2 | M.2 22110, M.2 2280, M.2 2260; PCIe NVMe; PCIe 4 x4; A 22110 SSD here restricts M2_3 to 2242/2260 SSDs. |
| Storage slot M2_3 | M.2 2280, M.2 2260, M.2 2242; PCIe NVMe; PCIe 4 x4 |
Check the manufacturer CPU support list and installed BIOS version before buying. Matching socket and DDR generation do not prove CPU support, memory-profile stability, power-delivery suitability, or PCIe/M.2 lane availability.
A different choice worth checking
These alternatives address related choices. Recheck their platform, connections and fit before treating one as a replacement.
Follow the check that matters to your build
Sources and review notes
RigAtlas connects manufacturer specifications to component choices. This page is document-based analysis; it does not claim a hands-on test or a current store offer.
- MSI — exact model specificationsEvidence checked
- MSI — CPU support list; check your exact processorAdditional manufacturer reference; not rechecked in this review.
See how it fits your list.
Review this component with your existing selections before making the change.