Best Mini ITX Motherboards 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Mini ITX motherboards have become the go to for PC enthusiasts who want to build small but powerful systems. In 2024, they will be more powerful than ever, with a balance of size and performance that makes them perfect for gaming PCs, home theater setups, and portable workstations. Check out the best Mini ITX motherboards 2024, covering both AMD and Intel platforms and the top choices for all budgets and use cases. We’ll also look at AMD processors, how they handle memory frequencies and overclocking and recommend specific motherboard models for high end AMD setups.

Why Choose a Mini-ITX Motherboard?

Performance vs Size: How Mini ITX packs power in a small package

Mini ITX boards allow you to build high performance small form factor PCs. Despite their small size, they support the latest Intel processors, 13th and 14th gen, and AMD’s Ryzen 7000 and 8000 series. They’re perfect for users who want a powerful portable PC, with performance similar to a full sized motherboard without the bulk.

Mini ITX vs. Micro ATX vs ATX

Choosing between Mini ITX, Micro ATX, and ATX motherboards depends on size and expandability. ATX has the most expansion with multiple PCIe and RAM slots, perfect for multi GPU setups and lots of storage. Micro ATX is the middle ground with more expansion than Mini ITX but smaller than ATX. Mini ITX motherboards prioritize size and portability with one PCIe x16 slot, two DIMM slots, and only two SATA ports. Despite their small size, the best Mini ITX motherboards 2024 have features like PCIe 5.0, USB4, and high speed networking, so they’re suitable for performance heavy use cases.

Use Cases: Gaming, HTPC, Compact Workstations

Mini ITX motherboards are versatile and suit many use cases:

• Gaming: For compact gaming rigs that can deliver performance similar to larger systems.
• HTPC: For home theater setups with low power consumption and integrated graphics.
• Compact Workstations: These are for professionals who need a powerful portable system for tasks like video editing or 3D rendering.

Portability and Aesthetics

Mini ITX systems are portable and perfect for students, traveling professionals, or gamers at LAN events. They’re also great for aesthetically pleasing builds in mini ITX pc cases like the NZXT H1 or Cooler Master NR200 to create a beautiful yet powerful build.

Cooling Issues and Solutions

Cooling can be challenging in Mini ITX systems due to the limited space and high performance components. Most Mini ITX cases have strategic venting and support for active cooling solutions like AIO liquid coolers. Builders can improve airflow by using low profile CPU coolers, active cooling, and graphics card adjustments to keep temperatures in check and prevent thermal throttling.

What to Consider When Choosing a Mini ITX Motherboard

Choosing the right Mini ITX motherboard requires you to think differently. Unlike larger motherboards, where space and expandability aren’t a concern, Mini ITX boards require you to prioritize certain features.

Compatibility: CPU, RAM, GPU and Storage

• CPU Compatibility: Make sure the motherboard supports your CPU. For AMD, look for AM5 or AM4 sockets; for Intel, look for LGA1700 for 12th to 14th Gen processors.
• RAM: With only two DIMM slots, choose a RAM kit that meets your capacity and speed requirements; DDR5 is the standard for high performance builds.
• GPU: Mini ITX boards support full sized GPUs but ensure compatibility with your mini ITX pc case, as size is a constraint.
• Storage: Most Mini ITX boards have one or two M.2 NVMe SSD slots and a few SATA ports, so storage options are limited compared to those of an ATX board.

Expansion and Connectivity: PCIe Slots, USB Ports and Networking

Mini ITX motherboards are limited in expansion, usually having one PCIe x16 slot for one expansion card. USB ports are smaller than larger boards, but top models have fast USB ports, such as USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB4 for high-speed data transfer. Networking features include Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet for robust connectivity, which is important for gaming or content creation setups.

Power Delivery and VRM Quality: For Overclocking and Stability

Overkill power delivery and VRM quality are important for CPU overclocking and stability. High quality VRMs ensure stable power output, especially for demanding CPUs like Intel Core i9-13900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X. However, VRMVRM cooling can be less efficient due to space constraints, so consider additional cooling solutions like AIO coolers if overclocking is needed.

Memory Support: DDR5 vs. DDR4, Capacity, and Speed Considerations

In 2024, DDR5 is the default memory type; it has higher speeds and capacity than DDR4. For most tasks, 16GB is enough, but 32GB+ is better for content creation and multitasking. The high-end Mini ITX board supports RAM speeds of over 6000MHz for better memory-intensive tasks.

Future Proofing: PCIe 5.0, USB4, and Long Term Compatibility

Future proof of your build is choosing a motherboard with PCIe 5.0, which has double the PCIe 4.0 and USB4 bandwidth for fast data transfer and type C port support. Long-term compatibility is also important; AM5 Mini ITX boards have several years of CPU upgrades and are a good investment.

Budget vs Features: What to Choose

Choosing a Mini ITX motherboard balances your budget with the features you need. High end boards have advanced features, robust build quality, and premium audio, which is good for gaming or workstation builds. Budget options like Gigabyte A620I AX or ASRock board are good for lighter tasks but need high-end features. Determine your needs and prioritize spending on the features you need for your use case,, and you can save money where possible.

Detailed Reviews of the Best Mini-ITX Motherboards in 2024

1. Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi – Best Overall (AMD)

For high-end Mini ITX motherboards for AMD systems, the Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi is the top choice. For CPU socket AM5, this motherboard supports Ryzen 7000 and 8000 series processors and has many good features for gaming, content creation, and multitasking.

Features Breakdown

The Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi has many features for gamers and professionals. It supports up to 96GB of RAM modules with speeds of over 8000MHz, making it one of the fastest Mini ITX motherboards available. PCIe 5.0 ensures that your system is future proof and can handle the latest GPUs and SSDs as they come out.

One of the highlights of this motherboard is its power delivery system. With high-quality VRMs and advanced cooling solutions, the X670E-I can handle even the most demanding Ryzen CPUs without hitting power limits. This is good for users who plan to overclock their CPU or need a stable system for heavy tasks like video editing or 3D rendering.

The motherboard has dual M.2 slots, with PCIe 5.0 for fast storage. It also has extensive connectivity options with dual USB4 ports, multiple USB 3.2 ports, and Wi-Fi 6E, so you have all the ports and connections you need for your USB and network devices. However, it only has 2 SATA ports, which might be a limitation for users with many storage needs.

AMD Ryzen 7000 and 8000 series Benchmarks

We performed top-notch in testing the Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi, especially with AMD’s latest Ryzen 7000 and 8000 series CPUs. This motherboard can handle everything, whether gaming, rendering 4K video, or multitasking multiple applications.

The overclocking performance was also great. With high quality VRMs and efficient cooling, the X670E-I can handle big overclocks on the Ryzen 9 7950X without hitting stability issues. This is good for enthusiasts who want to push their hardware to the limit.

Comparison with Other High End AM5 Mini ITX Boards

Compared to high-end AM5 Mini ITX motherboards, the Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi stands out in its performance, features, and build quality. While other boards may have similar specs, the X670E-I’s attention to detail (dual USB4 ports, audio jacks, advanced VRM design) makes it different.

For those who want the best from their Mini ITX build, whether for gaming, content creation, or professional work, the Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi is a good investment. Its future-proof design will make it a top performer for years, so it’s a good choice for any high-end AMD system.

Ideal Build and Use Cases

The Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi is for high end gaming PCs, content creation workstations, and compact systems that need top performance. It’s perfect for users needing a powerful portable system that doesn’t compromise performance. Whether you’re building a rig for 4K gaming, VR, or professional applications like video editing and 3D rendering, this motherboard has the features and performance for your needs with the added convenience of BIOS flashback for easy updates.

2. Gigabyte A620I AX – Best Budget (AMD)

The Gigabyte A620I AX is the best for budget builders on the AMD platform. This Mini ITX motherboard balances price and performance, so it’s perfect for compact gaming PCs or HTPCs without breaking the bank.

Cost vs Performance

The A620I AX is the most affordable Mini ITX motherboard for AM5 sockets that supports the latest Ryzen 7000 and 8000 series CPUs. Despite the low price, it can deliver good performance for gaming and daily use. It lacks advanced features like PCIe 5.0 and high-end VRMs, but it has the essentials for a budget build: up to 96GB DDR5 RAM, PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for GPU, and Wi-Fi 6E with 2.5G Ethernet for reliable networking.

Recommended Components for Gigabyte A620I AX

To get the best out of the A620I AX, pair it with components that match its capabilities. A mid range Ryzen 7000 series CPU like Ryzen 5 7600X will give you good gaming and multitasking performance without stressing the power delivery system. For RAM, 16GB to 32GB of DDR5 at around 6000MHz is a good balance of speed and cost. A PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD is perfect for fast load times and gaming and media experience.

Limitations and Workaround

A620I AX’s limitations are limited expansion and storage options, only one M.2 slot, and two SATA ports. To work around this, get higher capacity SSDs or use external storage via USB ports. The basic power delivery system is not designed for heavy overclocking. But by pairing it with a mid-range CPU and focusing on efficient cooling, you can still get stable performance for most gaming and general use.

3. Asus ROG Strix Z790-I Gaming WiFi – Best Overall (Intel)

The Asus ROG Strix Z790-I Gaming WiFi is Intel’s best Mini ITX motherboard in 2024. It supports LGA1700 sockets, so it’s compatible with Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th gen processors, making it a great choice for high end builds.

Intel Specific Features

Packed with features, the Z790-I Gaming WiFi supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM with speeds up to 7600MHz, so it’s perfect for gaming, content creation, and multitasking. It has PCIe 5.0, so you have double the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0, so it’s future proof for your system. Dual Thunderbolt, four ports for high-speed, high-speed data transfer, external display support, and wide peripheral compatibility, is great for content creators who need multiple monitors and fast external storage.

Overclocking and VRM

With robust power delivery and high-quality VRMs, the Z790-I Gaming WiFi can handle heavy overclocking. It can push Intel CPUs like Core i9-13900K to their limits without any stability issues. Advanced cooling solutions like VRM heatsinks and liquid cooling support keep temperatures under control during overclocking.

Compared to Previous Generations

Compared to previous models, the Z790-I Gaming WiFi has significant upgrades like PCIe 5.0, Thunderbolt 4, and higher speed DDR5 support, so it’s more performant and future-proof. Refined design, improved cooling, and more connectivity make it a better successor with better performance and versatility.

Best for Gamers and Content Creators

For high end gaming PCs, content creation workstations, and demanding tasks, the Z790-I Gaming WiFi has powerful features, a robust build, and advanced connectivity. Perfect for 4K gaming, VR, and professional tasks like video editing and 3D rendering, it’s great for users who want a compact yet powerful system ready for future technologies like PCIe 5.0 and Thunderbolt 4.

4. ASRock B760I Lightning WiFi – Best Budget (Intel)

ASRock B760I Lightning WiFi is a great choice for budget builders who want a compact, high-performance Intel system. Despite the lower price point, it has many features and performance, so it’s an excellent value for money.

Performance to Cost Ratio

ASRock B760I Lightning WiFi is designed to be a solid base for an Intel system without burning a hole in your pocket. It supports Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th-generation processors, so it’s a great choice for many builds.

It doesn’t have some of the advanced features of more expensive and best motherboards like PCIe 5.0 and advanced VRMs, but it has everything you need for a budget build. It supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM, has a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for a GPU, and has Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet for fast and reliable networking.

Use Cases: Budget Gaming and HTPC

ASRock B760I Lightning WiFi is great for budget gaming PCs and HTPCs. It can handle most modern games at 1080p or 1440p resolutions, especially with a mid-range GPU like NVIDIA RTX 3060 or AMD Radeon RX 6600.

For HTPCs, the B760I Lightning WiFi’s compact size, low power consumption, and great connectivity options make it a great choice. Whether you’re streaming 4K video, playing casual games, or using your HTPC as a media server, this motherboard has what you need at an affordable price.

Features and User Reviews

User reviews of ASRock B760I Lightning WiFi praise its great value for money, solid build, and reliable performance. Many users love the Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet for fast and stable gaming and media streaming networking.

The layout is also praised for being user-friendly, with easy-to-access ports and connectors, so it’s easy to build a clean and organized system. It doesn’t have some of the advanced features of more expensive boards like Thunderbolt 4 or PCIe 5.0, but most users find it has more than enough performance and features to meet their needs.

5. MSI MPG B650I Edge WiFi – Best Mid-Range AM5

MSI MPG B650I Edge WiFi is a great balance of performance and cost, so it’s one of the top mid-range Mini-ITX motherboards for AMD AM5 in 2024. It’s great for gaming, content creation, and general-purpose builds.

Comparison with High-End and Budget AM5 Boards

Between high-end boards like Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi and budget boards like Gigabyte A620I AX, the B650I Edge WiFi has many advanced features like DDR5 memory support, PCIe 4.0, and lots of connectivity at a more affordable price. It also has better VRMs, more robust power delivery, and more storage options than budget boards, so it’s great for users who want solid performance without paying for top-tier features like PCIe 5.0.

Best Use Cases for Gaming and Multi-tasking

B650I Edge WiFi is versatile and supports high-end GPUs for smooth gaming and up to 128GB of DDR5 RAM, which is great for multi-tasking and memory-heavy tasks like video editing or 3D rendering. It’s great for building a gaming PC, content creation station, or multi-tasking setup.

Future Proofing and Upgrade Paths

It doesn’t have PCIe 5.0 but B650I Edge WiFi still has a solid foundation for future upgrades. AM5 socket’s longevity ensures compatibility with future Ryzen CPUs so it’s an excellent mid-range investment that will keep your system competitive for years.

6. ASRock A520M ITX/ac – Best Budget AM4

As AM4 boards are phasing out for AM5, ASRock A520M ITX/ac is still a great choice for budget builders, especially those repurposing older Ryzen hardware or looking for an affordable Mini-ITX option.

Repurpose Older Hardware for Modern Use

A520M ITX/ac is great for users with older Ryzen CPUs and supports Ryzen 3000, 4000G, and 5000 series processors. It’s an excellent choice for building a compact system without the latest hardware so it’s perfect for budget builds.

Ryzen 3000, 4000G, and 5000 series support

This motherboard’s wide CPU support allows you to build many systems. It has a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot for GPU and supports up to 64GB of DDR4 memory, so it’s enough for everyday tasks, light gaming, and media use. It has 4 SATA ports and 1 M.2 slot for a budget setup.

Ideal Build Scenarios and Performance Tips

A520M ITX/ac is great for budget gaming PCs, HTPCs, and general-purpose systems, with enough power for 1080p gaming and daily computing. For HTPC builds, its small size, low power consumption, and affordability make it a great option. Pair it with the Ryzen 4000G series APU, and you have a system for streaming, media playback, and light gaming.

Detailed Comparisons

Mini-ITX vs. Micro-ATX vs. ATX: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between Mini-ITX, Micro-ATX, and ATX depends on your needs and preferences. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide:

Size and Expandability

• Mini-ITX: Mini-ITX boards are the smallest, 17×17 cm. Great for compact builds where space is limited, HTPCs, or portable gaming rigs. However, it has the least expandability, with only one PCIe x16 slot and two RAM slots.
• Micro-ATX: Micro-ATX boards are larger than Mini-ITX but smaller than ATX. 24×24 cm. More expandability than Mini-ITX, up to four PCIe slots and four RAM slots. Micro-ATX is a good middle ground for users who need more expandability but still want a smaller system.
• ATX: ATX boards are the largest, 30×24 cm. Most expandability, multiple PCIe slots, up to eight RAM slots, and many storage options. ATX boards are for users who need the most features and expandability, multiple GPUs, extensive storage, or additional add-on cards.

Performance and Features

• Mini-ITX: Despite being small, Mini-ITX boards can perform the same as bigger boards. However, they have fewer features due to space constraints. For example, they have fewer USB ports, storage options, and expansion slots than Micro-ATX and ATX boards.
• Micro-ATX: Micro-ATX boards have a good balance of performance and features. They have more expansion slots and storage options than Mini-ITX boards but are smaller and cheaper than ATX boards.
• ATX: ATX boards have the most features and expandability, so they are great for high-end builds that need multiple GPUs, extensive storage, or additional add-on cards. They are also the most expensive and require the biggest cases.

Use Cases

• Mini-ITX: For compact builds, HTPCs, and portable gaming rigs. This is for users who want a powerful system with a small form factor.
• Micro-ATX: This is for users who need a balance of expandability and size. For mid-range gaming PCs, workstations, and general-purpose builds.
• ATX: This is for high-end builds that need the most expandability and features. This is for gaming PCs, workstations, and servers that need multiple GPUs, extensive storage, and additional add-on cards.

AMD vs. Intel Mini-ITX Motherboards: Pros and Cons

Choosing between AMD and Intel Mini-ITX motherboards depends on your needs and preferences. Here’s a comparison of the pros and cons of each:

AMD Mini-ITX Motherboards

• Pros:
  • Socket Longevity: AMD’s AM4 and AM5 sockets have long-term compatibility with multiple generations of Ryzen CPUs, so you can upgrade your CPU without replacing the motherboard.
  • Overclocking: AMD Mini-ITX boards have more overclocking options, which is great for enthusiasts.
  • Value for Money: AMD CPUs offer better value and strong performance at competitive prices.
• Cons:
  • Fewer PCIe Lanes: AMD platforms have fewer PCIe lanes than Intel, which can limit expandability, especially on Mini-ITX boards.
  • Driver Support: AMD’s driver support has been less consistent than Intel’s in the past but has improved recently.

Intel Mini-ITX Motherboards

• Pros:
  • High Single-Core Performance: Intel CPUs have higher single-core performance, which is great for gaming and single-threaded applications.
  • PCIe Lanes: Intel platforms have more PCIe lanes, which are better for multiple GPUs and high-speed storage devices.
  • Stable Driver Support: Intel has a reputation for stable and reliable driver support, which is great for professional use.
• Cons:
  • Socket Longevity: Intel’s socket longevity is shorter than AMD’s, so you may need to replace your motherboard more often to upgrade your CPU.
  • Higher Cost: Intel CPUs and motherboards are more expensive than AMD’s, especially at the high end.

Overclocking on Mini-ITX: What You Need to Know

Overclocking on Mini-ITX boards is tricky due to limited space and cooling options. But with the proper setup, you can still achieve good performance.

VRM Quality and Cooling

The quality of the VRMs (Voltage Regulator Modules) on your board is key to overclocking. Good VRMs ensure your CPU gets clean and stable power, critical for system stability, especially under load.

Due to space constraints on gaming boards, the VRM cooling solution is smaller than that on ATX boards. This can lead to higher temperatures, which can limit your overclocking. To mitigate this, use an AIO (All-in-One) liquid cooler, which can cool efficiently without taking up too much space.

Choosing the Right CPU

When overclocking on a Mini-ITX board, you must choose the right CPU. While high-end CPUs like the Intel Core i9-13900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X have the most overclocking headroom, they also generate the most heat, which can be tough to manage in a Mini-ITX build.

For those who want to overclock but are concerned about cooling mid range CPUs like the Intel Core i5-13600K or AMD Ryzen 5 7600X are a good balance of performance and heat output and are ideal for Mini-ITX builds.

Temperature Management

Temperature management is key when overclocking on a Mini-ITX system. In addition to using a good cooler, ensure your case has good airflow. Consider cases that have multiple fans or mesh panels for better ventilation.

Cable management is also important in a Mini-ITX build, as excess cables can block airflow and lead to higher temperatures. Custom-length cables or a modular power supply can keep the inside of your case tidy and cool.

Storage Solutions for Mini-ITX Builds: Maximizing Space

Storage is a challenge in Mini-ITX builds due to the limited space on the board. But with the right approach, you can have more storage without sacrificing performance.

M.2 NVMe SSDs

M.2 NVMe SSDs are perfect for Mini-ITX builds due to their small size and high speed. Most Mini-ITX boards have one or two M.2 slots for primary and additional storage. Choose PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 5.0 SSDs as they have fast read and write speeds for fast loading and data access for gaming, content creation, and general use.

SATA SSDs and Hard Drives

Mini-ITX boards usually have SATA ports for additional SSDs or hard drives. While slower than NVMe SSDs, SATA SSDs are still good for storage hungry tasks like gaming and media consumption. If you need more storage, a mix of M.2 NVMe SSDs for primary storage and SATA SSDs or hard drives for additional storage maximizes capacity while keeping it compact.

External Storage

External storage is a good option when internal space is limited. External SSDs and hard drives can connect via USB, Thunderbolt, or eSATA and provide more storage without using internal slots. Choose external drives with fast transfer speeds like USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 or Thunderbolt 3/4 for fast data access for backups and media storage.

Cooling Solutions: Air vs. Liquid Cooling in Mini-ITX Builds

Cooling is key in Mini-ITX builds due to limited space and high temperatures. The choice between air and liquid cooling depends on your build and preference.

Air Cooling

Air cooling is popular in Mini-ITX builds for its simplicity and affordability. Low profile air coolers fit in compact cases and cool most CPUs. Look for models that balance performance and noise, especially for HTPCs or gaming PCs where quiet operation is necessary.

Air coolers are easy to install and maintain, with no extra components like pumps or radiators. However, they may struggle with high-end CPUs, especially during overclocking, when cooling demands increase significantly.

Liquid Cooling

Liquid cooling, especially AIO (All-in-One) solutions, is preferred for Mini-ITX builds that need better cooling. AIO coolers are compact, relatively easy to install, and good at heat dissipation, making them perfect for high end CPUs or overclocked systems. They run quieter under load than air coolers.

However, liquid coolers are more complex and require extra components like pumps and radiators, which can be tricky to fit in small cases. They are also more expensive and have a more complicated installation process.

Choose based on your system requirements. For high end CPUs or overclocking, liquid cooling is better. A low-profile air cooler should be enough for everyday use or light gaming without the added complexity of liquid systems.

Mini-ITX Build Examples and Case Studies

To help you choose the best Mini-ITX motherboard for your needs, here are some build examples and case studies that show the versatility of Mini-ITX builds.

High-End Gaming Build: Best Components and Assembly Tips

The Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi motherboard with an AMD Ryzen 9 7950X CPU, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and an NVIDIA RTX 3080 GPU is the best combination for a gaming build. Choose a case with good airflow and enough space for big components like the NZXT H1 or Cooler Master NR200. Both are good for high-end Mini-ITX gaming builds. Ensure enough cooling with the AIO liquid cooler and optimize cable management for the best performance.

Budget Gaming Build: Best Performance on a Budget

For budget gaming, use the Gigabyte A620I AX motherboard, AMD Ryzen 5 7600X CPU, 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and an AMD Radeon RX 6600 GPU for 1080p gaming. Focus on budget friendly components and look for sales to maximize your budget. A budget case like the Fractal Design Core 500 has good airflow and cable management without breaking the bank. Despite its compact size, the motherboard has just two sata ports and more USB ports than typical budget options, so you have more ports for usb devices.

HTPC Build: The Ultimate Home Theater System

An HTPC build should have the ASRock A520M ITX/AC basic motherboard, AMD Ryzen 5 4600G APU, 16GB of DDR4 RAM, and a PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD for a compact PC and power-efficient home theater system. Prioritize low power consumption and quiet operation; consider passive cooling or low profile coolers. The SilverStone ML09 is a good case for HTPC builds.

Portable Workstation: Power and Portability

For a portable workstation, use the Asus ROG Strix Z790-I Gaming WiFi motherboard with an Intel Core i7-13700K CPU, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and an NVIDIA RTX 3070 GPU for demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. Choose a portable case like the Lian Li TU150, which has a built-in handle and can fit full-sized GPUs and AIO coolers, making it perfect for a high-performance portable build with CPU overclocking capabilities and four Sata ports.

Streamer/Content Creator Build: Small but Powerful

For streamers and content creators, the MSI MPG B650I Edge WiFi motherboard with an AMD Ryzen 7 7700X CPU, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and an AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT GPU is a good balance of CPU and GPU performance for streaming, gaming, and editing. Choose the Cooler Master NR200P, which has good airflow and space for multiple drives, perfect for content creation builds. However, some builds might have just six USB ports, so plan your USB devices accordingly.

Where to Buy and How to Get the Best Deals

Finding the best deals on Mini-ITX motherboards and components is key to building a system that’s value for money. Here are some tips on where to buy and how to get the best deals:

Online Retailers and Best Prices

• Amazon: Amazon has a wide range of Mini-ITX motherboards and components, often at competitive prices. Look for sales during Prime Day or Black Friday for the best deals.
• Newegg: Newegg is another good retailer for PC components; they have frequent sales and discounts on Mini-ITX motherboards. Check their daily deals and open box items for more savings.
• B&H Photo: B&H Photo is a good option if you’re looking for higher end motherboards. They have sales on PC components, and their customer service is top-notch.
• Best Buy: Best Buy has Mini-ITX motherboards both online and in store. They have sales and bundle deals, so finding a deal for your build is a good option.

How to Find Discounts and Deals

• Sales: Keep an eye on sales events like Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday, where you can get significant discounts on PC components.
• Bundles: Retailers like Newegg and Amazon offer bundle deals at a discounted price for motherboards, CPUs, and RAM. These bundles can save you money and ensure compatibility between components.
• Price Tracking: Tools like CamelCamelCamel and Honey can help you track prices on Amazon and other retailers and alert you when the price drops on the items you’re interested in.
• Open-Box and Refurbished: Open-box and refurbished items can save you big. Retailers like Newegg and Best Buy have open-box items at a lower price and usually come with a warranty.

Warranty and Return Policy

When buying PC components, consider the retailer’s warranty and return policy. Most retailers have a 30-day return policy, but some components may have a longer return window.

Also, check the manufacturer’s warranty on the motherboard and other components. Most motherboards have at least a three-year warranty, but some brands have extended warranties. Register your components with the manufacturer to avail of the warranty.

Mini-ITX Motherboard FAQ

Common Questions About Mini-ITX Builds

Q: Can I use a full sized GPU in a Mini-ITX build?

A: Yes, most Mini-ITX motherboards support full sized GPUs. But you must ensure your chosen GPU fits your Mini-ITX case. Some larger GPUs may not be compatible with all Mini-ITX cases, so check the GPU clearance before buying.

Q: Can I overclock on a Mini-ITX motherboard?

A: Many Mini-ITX motherboards support overclocking, but you must choose a motherboard with robust VRMs and reasonable cooling solutions. Overclocking generates a lot of heat, and the limited space in a Mini-ITX build makes cooling more difficult.

Q: How many storage drives can I install in a Mini-ITX build?

A: The number of storage drives you can install depends on the Mini-ITX motherboard and case you choose. Most Mini-ITX motherboards support at least one or two M.2 NVMe SSDs and a few SATA drives. However, you can use external storage solutions if you need more storage.

Mini-ITX PCs Troubleshooting

Q: My Mini-ITX build is overheating. What should I do?

A: Overheating is a common problem in Mini-ITX builds because of the limited space for airflow. To fix this, ensure your case has good ventilation and consider an AIO liquid cooler. Also, tidy up your cables to improve airflow and reduce obstructions.

Q: Is my GPU sagging in my Mini-ITX build?

A: GPU sag can happen in Mini-ITX builds because of the compact space and orientation of the components. To fix this, consider using a GPU support bracket or a vertical GPU mount if your case supports it. These accessories will keep the GPU level and reduce the stress on the PCIe slot.

Q: My Mini-ITX build won’t turn on what to check?

A: If your Mini-ITX build won’t turn on, check all your power connections: 24-pin ATX connector, CPU power connector, and GPU power connector. Ensure the power supply is turned on and the case’s power button is correctly connected to the motherboard. If the problem persists, try reseating the RAM and check for loose cables.

Future Trends in Mini-ITX Motherboards

As technology moves forward, we can expect to see these trends in Mini-ITX motherboards:

• Increased PCIe 5.0 support: As PCIe 5.0 becomes more common, more Mini-ITX gaming motherboards support it and faster data transfer for GPUs and SSDs.
• More Wi-Fi 6E and 7: With the demand for fast and reliable wireless networking growing, we will see more Mini-ITX motherboards with integrated Wi-Fi 6E and the upcoming Wi-Fi 7, providing more connectivity options for compact builds.
• Better Cooling: As CPUs and GPUs get more powerful, we will see better cooling solutions for Mini-ITX builds, more efficient AIO liquid coolers, and cases designed for better airflow.
• More focus on Sustainability: With the emphasis on sustainability, we may see more Mini-ITX motherboards and components designed with energy efficiency in mind, lower power consumption, and reduced environmental impact.

Conclusion

In 2024, Mini-ITX motherboards will be a versatile and powerful option for many builds, from high-end gaming PCs to compact PCs and HTPCs. The best motherboard offers the same performance as their similarly equipped motherboards, giving you the added benefit of portability and space-saving design.

Whether you’re building a high-end gaming rig, a budget build, or a specialized build like an HTPC or portable workstation, there’s a Mini-ITX AMD version for you. You can choose the right motherboard by considering compatibility, expansion options, robust power delivery system, cooling, USB support, and future-proofing.