What Is The Most Common Form Factor For Motherboards?

With the advancement of technology in every sector, motherboards weren’t left behind. Motherboards for desktops come in different shapes and sizes. This is the cause of modification and specification. This is simply known as motherboard form factors.

The first factor introduction was in 1983. The first company to make a motherboard was IBM, which named its model XT. But following in their footsteps, other companies also evaluated their models. There are now many types of form factors on the market. But the question remains: what is the most common form factor for motherboards?

In this guide, we will go through different form-factor motherboards. Determining which is best for work throws some light on characteristics. Also, intercept the evolving landscape. So, let’s not dwell around and get right into it.

What is form factor?

Motherboard form factor means the physical dimension, shape, and layout of a board. The factors of the motherboard determine the capability and workload of the desktop. The motherboard size plays a great role in the placement of the components.

Different motherboard form factors play a different role in different setups. They come in compact, space-efficient designs. In the present time, they have different sizes, from larger to smaller; you can choose either one.

In the market, the most common forms of factoring are:

ATX motherboard,
Micro ATX motherboard,
Mini ATX motherboard,

But you also have extra factors to choose from. Motherboards like Extended ATX (EATX), FlexATX, and XL-ATX. These are the sub-classes you may consider special. These are specially designed for desktops with different specifications and requirements.

Let’s dive into the world of motherboard factors to understand them more comprehensively. Here is a detailed analysis of motherboard form factors:

ATX (Advanced technology extended)

In the PC market, the Advanced Technology eXtended (ATX) form factor is a strong contender. This was presented by Intel during the 1990s.

The ATX motherboard achieves a revolution in get-together and standard design. At 12 inches by 9.6 inches, ATX motherboards provide ample room for ports and expansion slots. Going with them is an optimal decision for gaming apparatuses and elite execution workstations.

The critical benefit of the ATX structure lies in its adaptability and similarity. By having standard aspects, ATX motherboards fit into a large number of cases. Making the structure interaction simple for clients and guaranteeing greater similarity with different parts.

Likewise, more extension spaces consider different GPUs, extra capacity, and other development cards. This makes the ATX a go-to decision for those looking for a flexible and highlight-rich framework.

Micro-ATX (MATX)

With more modest, more minimized types of element form factor comes the Micro ATX. They can accomplish fundamental work and offer execution while reducing the size.

With aspects normally around 244 mm x 244 mm (9.6 inches x 9.6 inches), MATX motherboards work out some kind of harmony.

For low-cost builds and small PC cases, micro-ATX boards are very popular. While you are forfeiting some extension openings, you are still getting a minimal PC.

They still have enough room for important components like GPUs, storage, and expansion cards, so don’t worry. The mATX is a fantastic choice for clients who want a more convenient framework. However, while doing so, you are not compromising a lot on execution.

Mini-ITX

For those pushing the boundaries of compactness, Mini-ITX takes center stage. Measuring a mere 170 mm x 170 mm (6.7 inches x 6.7 inches), these boards are for Small Form Factor (SFF) builds. Despite their size, Mini-ITX motherboards pack a punch, catering to a diverse range of applications.

Ideal for home theater PCs (HTPCs), compact gaming rigs, and areas where space is short. Mini-ITX sacrifices some expansion slots and ports to achieve its compact form.

However, advancements in technology allow manufacturers to integrate features. This is why Mini-ITX is somewhat closer to an ATX motherboard. Providing a surprising level of performance in these tiny packages is truly amazing.

Extended ATX (EATX)

While ATX serves as the standard for many users, There are enthusiasts and professionals whose ambitions demand more. This is where Extended ATX (EATX) steps in. Measuring 12 inches by 13 inches (305 mm x 330 mm) or more. Which is larger than standard ATX.

Going beyond the typical dimensions of an ATX board. EATX motherboards offer additional space for expansion slots, components, and better cooling.

Enthusiasts who want high-end gaming and content creation turn to EATX for its superior scalability.

These motherboards can use multiple graphics cards. While also adding additional storage arrays and better coolants. However, it’s essential to note that EATX motherboards may require larger cases. Because of the size, they may need extra dimensions to sit properly.

FlexATX

FlexATX is a little structure factor, estimating 9 inches by 7.5 inches (229 mm x 191 mm). It is for minimal frameworks where space is a basic thought.

XL-ATX

XL-ATX is a lengthy edition of the ATX structure factor. Giving extra space to more extension openings and connectors. It measures 10.5 inches by 13.6 inches (267 mm x 345 mm) or more.

What is the most common form factor for motherboards?

For many reasons, ATX form factors are the most common factor for PC builds. Starting from availability to expansion, they can meet most of your requirements. From motherboard size to support for reliability and expandability, you name it.

Another amazing feature of ATX boards is that you can fit them in any case. PC cases have a minimal size for every form of factor. So, you don’t have to worry about setting it up. Also, here are details of why ATX is still the best choice:

Versatility

ATX motherboards give a decent blend of size and expandability. Their dimensions (regularly 305 mm x 244 mm) consider an adequate number of development openings and ports. Which makes them sufficiently flexible to take care of different user needs. This flexibility is especially engaging for gaming frameworks, workstations, and general workloads.

Standardization

ATX is an industry-standard laid out by Intel, and normalization adds up to wider adoption. The reliable format and aspects of ATX motherboards guarantee compatibility. While supporting an extensive variety of PC cases and parts. This normalization improves the structure cycle for the user. As they can unhesitatingly choose parts, realizing they’ll squeeze into an ATX framework.

Environment backing

The notoriety of ATX has prompted a robust ecosystem of parts for this structure factor. This includes cases, power supplies, cooling options, and other accessories that are compatible with ATX. When building a system using an ATX motherboard, users have a lot of options.

Expandability

ATX motherboards regularly offer more development openings compared with more modest structure factors like Miniature ATX or Little ITX. Because of this, users who want to construct high-performance systems with a variety of expansion cards, additional storage, and multiple graphics cards favor them.

Cooling solutions

The bigger size of ATX motherboards allows for more space around parts. Adding to the better wind stream inside the case. This can help with cooling. Especially in systems that use a lot of power or have expensive components.

Community support

The ATX structure factor has been on the market for a long time. So, having support and getting enthusiast’s help is easier. This is helpful for significant people looking for direction during a build.

Industry standard advancement

The ATX form factor has evolved, making room for new technologies and features. This constant improvement guarantees that ATX stays applicable and capable of supporting new advancements.