MSI is the first manufacturer of motherboards to support 32GB DDR4 DIMMs on its Z390 motherboards. MSI Z390 motherboard owners can now utilize up to 128GB of memory with the help of a small BIOS update.
Previously, it was only possible to use 128GB of memory on HEDT (High-End Desktop) platforms, such as Intel X299 or AMD X399, making the ability to do so on a mainstream motherboard with only four memory slots an exciting development. While HEDT motherboards typically have eight memory slots as opposed to four, the cost of building a HEDT platform is significantly higher, so it may not be suitable for everyone.
There have been efforts to support greater memory capacity on motherboards with limited memory slots, such as the latest DC (Double Capacity) DIMM standard. Nevertheless, the proprietary DC DIMM format is a non-JEDEC solution that is limited to a small number of Asus Z390 motherboards. MSI’s support, on the other hand, complies with JEDEC standards and is available for its entire lineup of Z390 motherboards, ranging from the $130 Z390-A Pro to the ridiculously expensive $570 MEG Z390 Godlike.
With current memory prices, it is prohibitively expensive to install up to 128GB of memory on a Z390 motherboard. Samsung’s DDR4-2133 32GB stick is currently the most affordable option, costing $270. When multiplied by four, you will spend $1,080 on memory alone. Nevertheless, it is reassuring to know that the option exists, especially if memory prices continue to decline.
