6 Types of Motherboards Explained – Make the Right Choice!

Published: 20 Mar 2025

Building or upgrading a PC? Before purchasing any laptop parts, the motherboard should be your main priority. It functions as the backbone of your computer, deciding which processor, RAM, and storage you can use. What do ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX all mean? Relax if you can’t decide which motherboard is best for you. This article on 6 types of motherboards will help you select the best choice for your system. Let’s break it down so that everyone understands.

Table of Content

What is a Motherboard?
Major Types of Motherboards
How to Choose the Right Motherboard
Conclusion

What is a Motherboard?

A motherboard is the primary circuit board that links all of a computer’s hardware parts. It serves as the hub for the processor, RAM, storage, and other devices. Without a motherboard, a computer is useless. Several types of motherboards are built for a specific device, such as desktops, laptops, gaming rigs, and servers.

Major Types of Motherboards

Several types of motherboards are available, categorized by size, compatibility, and functionality. Below are the main types of motherboards, along with their pros and cons.

ATX Motherboard
Micro-ATX Motherboard
Mini-ITX Motherboard
E-ATX (Extended ATX) Motherboard
Server Motherboards
Laptop Motherboards

A list of different types of motherboards alongside an ASUS motherboard image. — Learn about various motherboard types!

1. ATX Motherboard (Advanced Technology eXtended)

ATX motherboards are full-size and commonly used in desktop PCs. They have several expansion slots, making them suitable for gaming and professional workstations. With numerous upgrade possibilities and enhanced connections. ATX motherboards serve consumers who require high performance and future-proofing in their systems.

Pros:
✅ Supports multiple RAM slots (up to 8) and multiple PCIe expansion slots. ✅ Best suited for gaming, video editing, and high-performance computing. ✅ More USB ports, SATA ports, and additional cooling support.

Cons:
❌ Requires a large PC case, limiting portability. ❌ Generally more expensive than compact motherboards. ❌ Higher power consumption due to its extensive features.

2. Micro-ATX Motherboard

Micro-ATX is a smaller version of ATX, offering fewer expansion slots but still maintaining great performance. It’s commonly used in budget gaming and office PCs, providing a balance between functionality and affordability.

Pros:
✅ More affordable than ATX motherboards. ✅ Fits in smaller cases, making it great for compact PC builds. ✅ Supports essential features, including dedicated graphics cards and M.2 storage.

Cons:
❌ Limited PCIe slots, restricting expansion options. ❌ Smaller size may lead to less efficient cooling. ❌ Fewer connectivity options compared to ATX.

3. Mini-ITX Motherboard

Mini-ITX motherboards are intended for compact, energy-efficient PC designs. They are suited for small form factor (SFF) computers, such as HTPCs and portable gaming systems. These boards are designed to reduce space while still providing basic functionality, however they have limited upgrade options.

Pros:
✅ Energy-efficient, consuming less power. ✅ Fits in small cases, making it perfect for space-saving builds. ✅ Silent operation due to minimal heat generation.

Cons:
❌ Only one PCIe slot, limiting graphics card options. ❌ Supports only 2 RAM slots, restricting upgrades. ❌ Less powerful than ATX or Micro-ATX boards.

4. E-ATX Motherboard (Extended ATX)

E-ATX motherboards are designed for high performance and versatility, making them ideal for gamers, professionals, and content creators. These boards offer several GPUs, fast storage, and smart cooling solutions, which make them perfect for demanding computing tasks such as 3D rendering, AI processing, and high-end gaming.

Pros:
✅ Supports multiple GPUs and high RAM capacity. ✅ More USB, SATA, and NVMe slots for added storage and accessories. ✅ Designed for advanced cooling solutions, enhancing system stability.

Cons:
❌ Expensive, making it unnecessary for regular users. ❌ Requires a large PC case, adding to the overall cost. ❌ Consumes more power, requiring a strong PSU.

5. Server Motherboards

Server motherboards are made to support high-performance computing, cloud storage, and business uses. They prioritize dependability and security, making them important for servers and enterprises that require consistent performance.

Pros:
✅ Supports multiple CPUs and large RAM capacity. ✅ Designed for 24/7 operation with advanced cooling systems. ✅ Includes remote management and enhanced security features.

Cons:
❌ Expensive, meant for businesses rather than personal use. ❌ Requires high-end cooling and a stable power supply. ❌ Difficult to set up and maintain for beginners.

6. Laptop Motherboards

Laptop motherboards are designed to suit every single laptop model, including the processor, RAM, and storage components. They are designed to be power-efficient and compact, resulting in lightweight and portable designs while limiting upgradeability.

Pros:
✅ Compact design, optimized for portability. ✅ Integrated with essential components like CPU, RAM, and GPU. ✅ Consumes less power, extending battery life.

Cons:
❌ Difficult to upgrade, as many components are soldered on. ❌ Expensive repairs, sometimes requiring a full motherboard replacement. ❌ Limited compatibility with third-party components.

How to Choose the Right Motherboard

When selecting a motherboard, consider these key factors:

Purpose – Are you building a gaming PC, workstation, or office computer?

Form Factor – Ensure the motherboard fits your PC case (ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX, etc.).

Processor Compatibility – Check whether it supports Intel or AMD CPUs.

Expansion Slots – Need multiple GPUs, extra RAM, or additional storage?

Connectivity – Look for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and SATA ports based on your needs.

Choosing the right motherboard ensures smooth performance, future upgradeability, and system stability.

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What is the most common type of motherboard?

The ATX motherboard is the most commonly used in desktop PCs, offering expandability and versatility.

Can I upgrade my motherboard?

Yes, but you must ensure compatibility with your CPU, RAM, and power supply before upgrading.

What motherboard size is best for gaming?

ATX and E-ATX motherboards are best for gaming as they support multiple GPUs, RAM slots, and high-speed components.

How do I know which motherboard is compatible with my PC?

Check the CPU socket type, RAM compatibility, case size, and power supply support to ensure compatibility.

Are laptop motherboards different from desktop motherboards?

Yes, laptop motherboards are custom-built for specific models and are not easily replaceable like desktop motherboards.

Conclusion

Selecting the best motherboard is important when building or upgrading a computer. ATX and E-ATX are ideal for gaming and high-end performance, whereas Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX are suitable for cheap and compact PC builds. Server motherboards are excellent for business use, while laptop motherboards are designed specifically for each model. To ensure a smooth and effective computing experience, consider compatibility, expansion options, and affordability before purchasing.