Mini-ITX or Micro-ATX: these are the differences

Assemble your own PC, you need a motherboard in the form factor ATX, Mini-ITX or Micro-ATX. We'll show you where the exact differences are.

Mainboard: difference between Mini-ITX and Micro-ATX

The abbreviation ATX stands for Advanced Technology Extended. It is the classic and largest size of motherboards. The dimensions are 305 x 244 mm.

• The motherboard is a bit smaller in the Micro-ATX form factor. The motherboard is 244 x 244 mm as wide as the ATX, but a little shorter. Sometimes it is also called µATX.
• The motherboard size Mini-ITX is even smaller. The abbreviation ITX stands for Information Technology Extended. With 170 x 170 mm it is also square.
• Usually Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX also fit into a large ATX case because the screw holes are in the same places.
• The smaller motherboards save space, but you often have to do without some slots.
• Small motherboards in small housings can also generate more heat.

In the next practical tip, we will show you how to properly connect a mainboard.