![Mini ITX vs Micro ATX vs ATX](https://pcbrim.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Mini-ITX-vs-Micro-ATX-vs-ATX.jpeg)
Thanks to the Advanced Technology eXtended (ATX) standardization, created by Intel in 1995, motherboards come in different yet standardized sizes today.
This size standardization makes assembling and mounting other peripherals more efficient. In this article, I shall compare Mini ITX, Micro ATX, and standard ATX, i.e., the three most popular motherboard sizes.
You’ll get to learn what they pack and which one you should opt for based on your purpose and usage style. I will also comprehensively compare their specifications, costs, compatibility, and Pros & Cons.
Contents
Key Differences Between Mini ITX, Micro ATX, and ATX
Factors | Mini ITX | Micro ATX | ATX |
---|---|---|---|
Size | 170 x 170 mm or 6.7” x 6.7” | 244 x 244 mm or 9.6” x 9.6” | 305 ×2 44 mm or 12.0” x 9.6” |
Max RAM Slots | 2 | 4 | 8 |
PCIe Slots | 1 | 3 | 5 |
Cost | $100 onwards | $60 onwards | $50 onwards |
Case | $120 (mini ITX) | $70 (full/mid tower) | $65 (mid tower) |
Mounting Holes | 4 | 6 | 8 |
Power Supply | 250W | 150W | 150W |
Performance | Adequate | Good | Best |
Compatibility | Compact Systems | Home and leisure computers | Professional Computers |
Mini ITX vs Micro ATX vs ATX: Detailed Comparison
![Mini ITX vs Micro ATX vs ATX](https://pcbrim.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Mini-ITX-vs-Micro-ATX-vs-ATX-1024x580.png)
A motherboard is the most essential component of a computer. It powers the entire PC and mounts essential components like CPU, GPU, etc. However, it comes in different sizes and shapes, and let me explain each while comparing it with one another.
1. Mini ITX
![Mini ITX](https://pcbrim.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Mini-ITX-e1684908724464.jpg)
Mini ITX is ideal for those who want a compact system that’s good enough for a bit of all – gaming, documenting, designing, etc.
Compact Mini ITX dimensions result in no room for future expansion. Mini ITX comes with 11 VRM phases, standard 4 USB ports, and little to no room for RGB headers. You cannot majorly upgrade your peripherals with the Mini ITX setup.
Among all three of them, Mini ITX has the least number of PCIe lanes and expansion slots for RAM or SSDs. Custom cooling, too, will be almost impossible, given how compact the mounting of the components is.
The plus side of the Mini ITX motherboards is that they can be used for various other purposes in automobiles, household appliances, TV receivers, etc.
Pros
- Super compact in size
- Still power efficient
- No need for customization
Cons
- Limited GPU compatibility
- Poor expandability
2. Micro ATX
![Micro ATX](https://pcbrim.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Micro-ATX-e1684908662666.png)
Micro ATX bridges the gap in terms of its form factor. It does have more expansion slots than the mini ITX but still only up to a certain capacity.
For instance, gamers can upgrade their RAMs and GPUs, but preparing these motherboards for crypto mining will be a stretch. They fit easily into most types of PC cases and also offer RGB lighting support.
Micro ATX best suits to those who like leisure gaming and a little bit of multi-tasking or designing. There are decent numbers of USB ports (up to 6) for additional peripheral support. It also has enough room for multiple blowers.
Despite the expandability, Micro ATX power supply is at par with the lowest among others, and it can offer around 15 VRM phases too.
Pros
- Affordable
- Fit in most PC cases
- Support for RGB lighting
- Memory slots expansion
Cons
- Single GPU
- Non-aesthetic
3. ATX
![ATX](https://pcbrim.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ATX-e1684908593193-1024x862.png)
Standard ATX has the biggest form factor among all. Because of that, it obviously packs in more expansion slots and cable ports to facilitate more components and future upgrades.
It also has RGB headers for aesthetics, and some ATX motherboards provide as many as 10 cooling headers.
ATX is best suited for professionals who use their computers for high-end stuff like programming, mining, and intensive gaming. This kind of usage needs frequent expansions and upgrades and needs top-end peripherals.
Features like overclocking and expandability are available here, thanks to the size of the ATX motherboard.
Pros
- More expansion slots
- More PCIe lanes
- Multiple levels of overclocking
- Temperature, voltage, cooling fan RPM controls
Cons
- Needs a specific ATX mid-tower case
Key Takeaways
- Professionals should opt for ATX, given its expandability.
- A small form factor does not mean cheaper costs, as Mini ITX can be more expensive than both ATX and Micro ATX.
- Utilize the spaces for cooling rather than aesthetics.
- Mini ITX is versatile and can be used for devices other than a computer
- Micro ATX hits the sweet spot regarding its pricing, expandability, and specifications.
Does Performance Depend on Motherboard Sizes?
The performance depends on how well your system is able to use its resources which may be irrelevant to the size of your motherboard. However, you can’t expect a small-sized motherboard to perform complex tasks like mining.
Similarly, you don’t need a number of expansions to indulge in leisure gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is capable of facilitating most modern-day games. You can, however, only pack a single GPU in it, so you will have to replace your GPU and use the RAM expansion slots for future upgrades, in case of any.
Yes, you surely can. But it will look unappealing aesthetically and may cost you more than the one that fits well to your motherboard.
Yes, a micro ATX can fit in a mid-tower case. Better airflow and room for upgrades are some of the benefits of having a Micro ATX case that is mid-tower size.
It is difficult to solder components with sharp precision on a compact surface. It usually involves human intervention. That impacts the cost.
You can change your motherboard if all your existing peripherals and hardware are compatible with the new one.
Conclusion
You can’t casually change your motherboard because of the motherboard form factors & compatibility issues. Always chalk down your usage type and the resources you are going to need before choosing a motherboard.
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