ATX Vs Micro ATX Vs Mini ITX: Choose the One Perfect Fit for You
Like other PC components, motherboards come in standard configurations: ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX. Almost any motherboard for home computers at your local PC store or online will fall in these flavors.
Standardization means you can easily find the processor, RAM, power supply, and storage that work with your motherboard. It also opens options for PC cases. Many cases support all three mainstream motherboard sizes.
To decide which motherboard is right for you, you need to consider ATX Vs Micro ATX Vs Mini-ITX. Let’s compare:
ATX Vs Micro ATX Vs Mini ITX:-
The largest of the three motherboard sizes we’re looking at, ATX, measures 12 inches by 9.6 inches. The specs require all ATX motherboards of this size. It also indicates the location of all other I/O panel connection points, power connectors, and connection interfaces.
However, not everyone wants an ATX sized motherboard, especially if the goal is to make something more compact. Enter the Micro ATX board, which measures just 9.6 inches by 9.6 inches, just like ATX motherboards are sized. Bigger than the standard will determine how critical points must be.
Micro ATX can have up to four PCIe slots while Mini-ITX only has one for graphics cards. Also, RAM is limited on Mini-ITX, with only two slots and four on ATX or Micro ATX boards. This doesn’t mean Mini-ITX boards won’t have enough RAM. For example, if you want 32GB of RAM, you just put a module. Two 16 GB modules while the other two motherboards let you top up the 8 GB module.
ATX Vs Micro ATX & Mini ITX Game Play:-
If it’s your first time building a gaming PC, an ATX board is probably your best choice, with Micro ATX coming in second. The bigger space you get with the ATX makes it further forbearing and you can effortlessly plug all the components into place.
While ATX is great, there’s no reason to stay away from Micro ATX if you’re a beginner and want something more compact. Putting it all together is a little tighter. But still can if you decide to go with a Micro ATX, pay attention to the size of the case. You don’t need a case that accepts ATX either if you want to build something smaller. Plus, some Micro ATX cases are slightly wider than the ATX-friendly center pole, so keep an eye on case dimensions.
Mini-ITX:-
The Mini-ITX is the “hardest” of the three for gaming, as the interior of the case offers very little space. You can build a solid gaming PC with a Mini-ITX board, but you needs to consider headroom for your graphics card, airflow and discreet cooling. Dedicated Mini-ITX cases don’t take up much space, especially compared to full ATX cases.
Often, space is important when you add another device to an existing living room entertainment center. This is where Mini-ITX really shines when you get a full living room PC in a small case. Of course, you can buy an ATX case that works with Mini-ITX boards, but only if you want it to fit in an under shelf. Your TV needs something more compact.