Are you in the market for a new motherboard? If that’s the case, be sure to double-check all of the details ahead of time. Aside from slots, ports, chipsets, and RAM, there is one more factor to consider. We’re discussing the form factor.
The motherboard’s size is determined by the form factor. The size also determines whether the motherboard will fit inside your CPU cabinet. The expansion possibilities and pricing are also revealed by the form factor. A larger size equals greater growth possibilities and a higher price.
Today, we’ll discuss three different form factors: ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini ITX.
About ATX
ATX is the most prevalent form factor you’ll find in the mortarboards. It’s the biggest and the most costly version. Typically, an ATX form factor is great if you want to create a high-end gaming system. Usually, the motherboards with ATX form factor come with four memory slots.
You may install up to 32GB of RAM in each memory slot. And this is what makes the various GPUs and other comparable PCI-e cards.
Purpose of ATX
Workstations and high-end gamers will benefit from ATX motherboards. They are more expensive than other solutions, but they provide the most expansion opportunities.
Pros and Cons of ATX
Pros
- It’s ideal for updating hardware.
- More RAM is available.
- Additional PCI-e slots
- Excellent for overclocking.
- Multiple GPUs are supported.
Cons
- Take up more room.
- Costly.
About Micro ATX
Micro ATX is the way to go if you want to build a cheap gaming CPU. In comparison to ATX motherboards, Micro ATX motherboards are smaller and less costly. There are four memory slots available, which is plenty to handle the gaming needs.
However, there is only one GPU supported. This form factor may not be suitable if you want more than one GPU. Micro ATX form factors fit in practically any CPU cabinet, although onboard functions are limited due to their small size.
Purpose of Micro ATX
Micro ATX motherboards are ideal for gamers on a budget. It’s also ideal for individuals with a tiny CPU cabinet and who don’t have strong gaming needs.
Pros and Cons Micro ATX
Pros
- A cost-effective choice.
- Good for typical players that just need a single GPU.
- It has the optimum size and fits in the majority of cases.
- Mini-ITX has less RAM capacity.
Cons
- Aesthetics are lacking.
- Overlocking is not recommended.
About Mini ITX
Mini ATX motherboards are ideal for those who seek a small, portable computer. This range’s lowest form factor is the Mini ITX. It is, nevertheless, more expensive than Micro ATX motherboards. There are just two RAM slots and one PCI-e slot.
It implies you can use up to 32GB of RAM and a single GPU. It is sufficient for the ordinary user. However, a high-end gaming CPU cannot be built in this compact size. The size, on the other hand, is a benefit. It will fit in any CPU cabinet you choose.
Purpose of Mini ITX
Mini ITX is a popular form factor for gamers who desire a small and powerful processor. It may also be used to construct standard desktop computers.
Pros and Cons Mini ITX
Pros
- Suitable for constructing a small PC.
- It’s more appealing than Micro ATX.
Cons
- Micro ATX is more costly.
- There is insufficient RAM memory.
- Hardcore players should avoid it.
Choosing the Right Motherboard for the Job
The motherboard form factor you should choose is determined by your needs. It depends on the sort of PC you’re creating. For more details, please see the information below.
Gaming PC
ATX is the finest form factor for those of you tough gamers out there. However, this is only beneficial if you wish to take advantage of the additional PCI-e slots. Micro ATX, on the other hand, delivers almost the same functions at a reduced cost. As a result, the Micro ATX and ATX form factors are in a tight race.
Gaming PC/Workstation
For an ordinary-level gaming PC or a workstation, Micro ATX is still the best option. Apart from the several PCI-e ports, there’s not much that Micro ATX cannot accomplish, and ATX can. As a result, you may select the more cost-effective Micro ATX alternative.
Desktop PC
Any of the aforementioned alternatives will do if you’re creating a desktop PC. However, it depends on how much you’re intending to spend. For example, if you want a little PC, you may go with the Mini ITX. It includes two RAM slots, which should plenty for most PC users. Micro ATX, on the other hand, is a good option if you need a bit more complex configuration.
Conclusion
That was most likely all there was to form factors. Different form factors of motherboards have their own set of benefits and drawbacks. You must ensure that you have everything you need.
