MSI X79A-GD65 X79 Motherboard Review

The package is quite simple but to the point with a large Military Class II logo, X79A-GD65 branding and some of the main features being highlighted, including 1 second overclocking through use of OC Genie II, SLI and CrossFireX technology, i7 support from Intel, PCI-Express Gen 3 and MSI Click BIOS II. Certainly an interesting packaging for us, as its something new compared to what we’ve seen before due to this new start with MSI for us.

Turning the box around, we get a lot more information brought to us with a clear push for the Military Class III components from DrMOS II to the solid capacitors used. The main features that were shown on the front are also explained in more detail here, with a comparison between PCI-Express 2.0 and PCI-Express 3.0 as well as showing off their latest Click BIOS II UEFI interface. Normally we would see a view of the board layout here, but instead, MSI have opted to show you the rear I/O instead which looks plentiful and ample for all types of users.

Now in regards to the added accessories, you may want to grab a cuppa as this could take a while due to the amount of stuff we get bundled in. First up we find the paperwork side of things and even this includes a huge bundle with a software application guide, user manual, quick installation guide, driver installation and utility disc and certification of quality & stability with the Military Class II stamp of approval.

Also included is a rear I/O panel shield plate, singular SLI adapter, V-Check cable with quick guide, M-Connector and installation guide, USB 3.0 expansion bracket, eSATA expansion bracket and accompanying eSATA data and power cables.

Lastly we find a total of four SATA data cables which are all right-angled as well as two Molex to SATA power adapter cables. MSI really have though about everything with the accessories on the X79A-GD65 and nothing springs to mind that they may have missed.