ATX vs. ITX: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 13, 2024
ATX and ITX refer to different sizes and specifications for computer motherboards; ATX is larger and more expandable, while ITX is smaller and more compact.
Key Differences
Developed by Intel in 1995, ATX motherboards are a standard size and layout for PC motherboards, offering ample space for components and expansion slots. These boards typically measure 12 x 9.6 inches, providing room for multiple PCIe slots, RAM slots, and other features. They are well-suited for powerful gaming and professional computers where upgradeability and customization are key.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
In contrast, ITX refers to a family of smaller motherboard formats designed for compact and efficient computing. The most common variant, Mini-ITX, measures just 6.7 x 6.7 inches. These boards prioritize space-saving and energy efficiency, often with fewer expansion options. They are ideal for small form factor PCs, home theater systems, and low-power servers.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
The larger size of ATX motherboards allows for more PCIe slots, making them suitable for high-end gaming setups with multiple graphics cards, sound cards, or other PCIe peripherals. They also typically feature more RAM slots, supporting larger amounts of memory, which is beneficial for resource-intensive tasks like video editing or 3D rendering.
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Feb 13, 2024
ITX motherboards, with their compact size, are perfect for small form factor builds and cases where space is a premium. They are often used in home theater PCs, small office/home office systems, and portable gaming rigs. Despite their smaller size, many ITX motherboards still offer impressive performance and features, just in a more compact package.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
In summary, ATX and ITX cater to different needs in the PC building community. ATX is favored for its expandability and feature-rich design, suitable for high-performance and versatile computing needs. ITX, on the other hand, excels in compact and efficient builds where space-saving and energy efficiency are prioritized.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Size
Larger, typically 12 x 9.6 inches
Smaller, often 6.7 x 6.7 inches (Mini-ITX)
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Feb 13, 2024
Expansion Slots
More PCIe slots for added components
Fewer PCIe slots due to size constraints
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Feb 13, 2024
Suitability
Ideal for high-performance, upgradeable PCs
Best for compact, space-efficient builds
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Feb 13, 2024
RAM Slots
Generally more RAM slots for increased memory
Fewer RAM slots, limited by size
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Typical Usage
Gaming, professional workstations, servers
Home theater PCs, small office systems
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Feb 13, 2024
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ATX and ITX Definitions
ATX
ATX is known for its expandability and support for multiple peripherals.
The ATX design allowed me to add extra graphics and sound cards.
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Jan 15, 2024
ITX
ITX offers fewer expansion options due to its smaller size.
Despite having only one PCIe slot, my ITX build meets my needs.
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Jan 15, 2024
ATX
ATX refers to a standard motherboard size and layout for PCs.
I chose an ATX motherboard for my gaming PC to utilize multiple PCIe slots.
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Jan 15, 2024
ITX
ITX is popular in home theater and small office PCs.
For my office's compact workstation, an ITX motherboard was perfect.
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Jan 15, 2024
ATX
ATX is a widely adopted standard in the PC industry.
Most mid-tower PC cases are compatible with ATX motherboards.
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Jan 15, 2024
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ITX
ITX is designed for efficiency and space-saving in computers.
My home theater PC runs on an ITX motherboard to save space.
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Jan 15, 2024
ATX
ATX motherboards typically offer more RAM and storage options.
My ATX board supports 64GB of RAM, ideal for my video editing work.
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Jan 15, 2024
ITX
ITX denotes a smaller, compact motherboard standard.
I used a Mini-ITX board for my small form factor gaming build.
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Jan 15, 2024
ATX
ATX boards are preferred for high-end gaming and professional systems.
For my 3D rendering rig, an ATX motherboard was the best choice.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 15, 2024
ITX
ITX motherboards are ideal for portable and low-power systems.
I chose an ITX board for my portable VR gaming setup.
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Jan 15, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is ATX suitable for compact PC builds?
No, ITX is more suitable for compact builds due to its smaller size.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
Can ATX motherboards fit in any computer case?
No, they require cases specifically designed for ATX size and layout.
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Feb 13, 2024
What does ATX stand for in computing?
ATX stands for Advanced Technology eXtended, a motherboard specification.
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Feb 13, 2024
What is the primary use of ATX motherboards?
ATX motherboards are mainly used for high-performance, expandable PCs.
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Feb 13, 2024
Do ITX motherboards have fewer USB ports?
Often, yes, due to the limited space on the board.
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Feb 13, 2024
Are ATX motherboards more expensive than ITX?
Typically, yes, due to their larger size and more features.
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Feb 13, 2024
Are ITX motherboards less powerful than ATX?
Not necessarily; they can offer similar performance but with fewer expansion options.
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Feb 13, 2024
Can ITX motherboards fit in ATX cases?
Yes, but it might not be space-efficient due to the size difference.
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Feb 13, 2024
Is ITX more expensive than ATX?
It depends on the specific model and features, but ITX can be more expensive due to its compact design.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 13, 2024
What does ITX stand for in computing?
ITX stands for Information Technology eXtended, referring to smaller motherboards.
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Feb 13, 2024
Can ITX motherboards be used for gaming?
Yes, many ITX motherboards are capable of handling gaming workloads.
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Feb 13, 2024
Are ATX motherboards better for multitasking?
Generally, yes, as they often have more RAM slots and expansion capabilities.
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Feb 13, 2024
Are ATX motherboards compatible with all types of CPUs?
They are compatible with CPUs that match their socket type, which varies by model.
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Feb 13, 2024
Can I upgrade an ITX motherboard as easily as an ATX?
Upgradability is more limited on ITX due to fewer slots and connectors.
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Feb 13, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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