Small form factor doesn’t mean lightweight performance
By Kevin Lee and Mark KnappWhen you’re picking out the gaming motherboard that will serve as the backbone of your gaming PC, it’s worth thinking about whether or not you need all the extras that come with a full-size ATX motherboard. Unless you’re planning to load up on PCIe add-in cards or do some wild overclocking, you’ll likely find that a Micro ATX motherboard will have everything you need to complete your build while also costing a good deal less than an ATX board.
Price isn’t the only benefit of a Micro ATX motherboard. The smaller size also affords you the opportunity to build a more compact gaming PC. This means you can go for a sleeper or a more portable design. If you’ve already got a larger case you’re planning to use, you’ll still likely be able to use a Micro ATX motherboard, as many full ATX cases also support Micro ATX boards.
We’ve picked out a variety of Micro ATX motherboards, giving you options for AMD and Intel processors. You can even find boards with multiple PCIe x16 expansion slots ready for dual-GPU builds, models with PCIe 4.0, and some with truly stunning memory support. From budget builds to high-end rigs, you’ll find a compact motherboard that can do the job here.
TL;DR These are the Best Micro ATX Motherboards:
1. MSI MPG Z490M Gaming Edge
Best Intel Micro ATX Motherboard
CPU Socket: LGA1200 Chipset: Z490 Memory Slots: 4 x DDR4 Channel Support: Dual Max Memory Speed: 4,800MHz Max Memory Capacity: 128GB Expansion Slots: 2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (single at x16, dual at x8/x8), 2 x PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 Slots: 2 x M.2 slot PCIe 3.0 x 4 SSD (M Key) Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC S1200 Codec Wi-Fi: Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.1 Headers: 1 x CPU fan, 1 x Water Pump, 3 x system fan RGB Headers: 2 x 4-pin RGB LED, 2 x 3-pin Rainbow LED Internal I/O: 4 x Sata6Gb/s, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1 (2 ports), 2 x USB 2.0 (4 ports) Rear Ports: 2 x SMA Antenna, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen2, 2 x USB 3.1 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 5 x Audio Ports, 1 x Optical Audio Out, 1 x PS/2 Size: 9.6″ x 9.6″
When it comes to getting a quality Z490 motherboard in the Micro ATX form factor, MSI has the one you’ll want in the MPG Z490M Gaming Edge. This model will accomodate the latest Intel Core processors and supply them with stable power thanks to extra power connectors and an advanced power delivery system. You’ll also get support for fast memory with overclocking capabilities up to 4,800MHz.
As for gaming, the MPG Z490 Gaming Edge offers dual PCIe 3.0 x16 slots that can run at x8 when used simultaneously, giving you the option to go with a dual-GPU setup. You’ll also be able to kit this motherboard out with two NVMe drives, and can enjoy high-speed connectivity over either Wi-Fi 6 or 2.5Gb/s Ethernet.
2. Asus ROG Strix Z490-G Gaming
Best High-End Intel Micro ATX Motherboard
CPU Socket: LGA1200 Chipset: Z490 Memory Slots: 4 x DDR4 Channel Support: Dual Max Memory Speed: 4,600MHz Max Memory Capacity: 128GB Expansion Slots: 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16; 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (4 lanes), 1 x PCIe 3.0 x 1 M.2 Slots: 2 x M.2 slot PCIe 3.0 x 4 SSD (M Key) Audio Chipset: ROG SupremeFX CODEC S1220A Wi-Fi: Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.1 Headers: 1 x CPU fan, 1 CPU OPT fan, 1 x Water Pump, 2 x system fan RGB Headers: 2 x Aura Addressable Strip, 2 x Addressable Gen 2 Internal I/O: 6 x Sata6Gb/s, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A (2 ports), 2 x USB 2.0 (4 ports), Front Panel Audio Rear Ports: 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen2, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x Optical Audio Out, 1 x 2.5Gb LAN, 1 x Asus Wi-Fi Module, 5 x Audio Ports Size: 9.6″ x 9.6″
Normally, going with a smaller form factor comes with some sacrifices, but the Asus ROG Strix Z490-G Gaming motherboard will help make you forget about those trade-offs. It supports 10th-Gen Intel Core processors and up to four sticks of DDR4 RAM running at 4,600MHz. It also delivers two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots (though the second has just four PCIe lanes). You can stock up on high-speed memory to fill the two M.2 slots running at PCIe 3.0 x4 speeds.
There’s plenty to enjoy when it comes to peripheral support as well. You can connect to extra-fast networks thanks to a 2.5Gb/s Ethernet port and Wi-Fi 6, and there’s a huge selection of high-speed USB available through both the rear I/O and internal headers. You also get multiple headers for RGB lighting, and Asus has thrown in a bit of color of its own with lighting zones on the rear I/O shroud.
3. Gigabyte Z490 M Gaming X
Best Midrange Intel Micro ATX Motherboard
CPU Socket: LGA1200 Chipset: Z490 Memory Slots: 4 x DDR4 Channel Support: Dual Max Memory Speed: 4,400MHz Max Memory Capacity: 128GB Expansion Slots: 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16; 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (4 lanes), 1 x PCIe 3.0 x 1 M.2 Slots: 1 x M.2 slot PCIe 3.0 x 4 SSD (M Key) Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC1200 Codec Headers: 1 x CPU fan, 3 x system fan RGB Headers: 2 x Addressable LED strip, 2 x RGB LED strip Internal I/O: 6 x Sata6Gb/s, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0, 2 x Thunderbolt, Front Panel Audio Rear Ports: 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen2, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x 1Gb LAN, 1 x PS/2, 6 x Audio Ports Size: 9.6″ x 9.6″
Gigabyte can get you the compatibility you need for 10th-Gen Intel Core processor without emptying your wallet, and it has plenty to enjoy even at its more modest price point. You’ll still get support for a heap of memory that can overclock up to 4,400Mhz, and your processor won’t want for volts as Gigabyte didn’t skimp on chokes and capacitors. This motherboard even includes two x16-length PCIe slots, though only one runs with a full 16 lanes. That’s still enough to net you 2-Way Crossfire support. Better still, Gigabyte is prepared for PCIe 4.0 in case Intel releases a CPU that can support it for this chipset and socket.
4. Asus Prime H470M-Plus
Best Budget Intel Micro ATX Motherboard
CPU Socket: LGA1200 Chipset: H470 Memory Slots: 4 x DDR4 Channel Support: Dual Max Memory Speed: 2,933MHz Max Memory Capacity: 128GB Expansion Slots: 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16; 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (4 lanes), 2 x PCIe 3.0 x 1 M.2 Slots: 2 x M.2 slot PCIe 3.0 x 4 SSD (M Key) Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC887 Codec Headers: 1 x CPU fan, 1 x Water Pump, 3 x system fan RGB Headers: 1 x RGB Strip Internal I/O: 5 x Sata6Gb/s, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1 (4 ports), 2 x USB 2.0 (4 ports), Front Panel Audio, Optical Audio Out Rear Ports: 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x DVI-D, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x 1Gb LAN, 1 x PS/2, 3 x Audio Ports Size: 9.6″ x 9.6″
The Asus Prime H470M-Plus may not be the most dazzling motherboard to look at, but it’ll get the job done when it comes to building a modest gaming PC that runs on the latest Intel Core processors. You’ll be able to pair your CPU with up to four DDR4 sticks running at 2,933MHz, which may not be the fastest but will do fine in most games. This board even goes a considerable way in providing room for add-in components. You get two full length PCIe slots which you can use for 2-Way CrossFireX, and there are another two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. Asus tops that off with dual PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 slots for speedy SSDs. It all makes for a strong motherboard at a fair price.
5. ASRock X570M Pro 4
Best AMD Micro ATX Motherboard
CPU Socket: AM4 Chipset: X570 Memory Slots: 4 Channel Support: Dual Max Memory Speed: 4,200MHz Max Memory Capacity: 128GB Expansion Slots: 2 x PCIe 4.0 x16 M.2 Slots: 2 x M.2 slot PCIe 4.0 x 4 (Key M) Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC1200 Fan Headers: 1 x CPU fan, 1 x Water Pump, 3 x system fan RGB Headers: 1 x 4-pin RGBW Internal I/O: 8 x Sata6Gb/s, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0 Rear Ports: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen2, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 6 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort 1.2, 5 x audio ports, 1 x Optical Audio Out Size: 9.6″ x 9.6″
If you’re looking the latest Micro ATX motherboard designed to support AMD’s new Ryzen 3rd Generation CPUs, the ASRock X570M Pro 4 is your best option. This was the first X570 mATX motherboard that released, and it continues to provide excellent value for anyone looking to take fullk advantage of Ryzen 3rd Generation chips in a compact PC.
Good news is the ASRock X570M Pro 4 is very well equipped with two PCIe 4.0 slots for both M.2 SSDs and graphics cards. This motherboard also affords you massive memory overclocking support for speeds up to 4,200MHz.
6. Colorful X570M Gaming Pro V14
Best High-End AMD Micro ATX Motherboard
CPU Socket: AM4 Chipset: X570 Memory Slots: 4 Channel Support: Dual Max Memory Speed: 4,000MHz Max Memory Capacity: 64GB Expansion Slots: 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 4.0×4 (x16 slot), 1 x PCIe 4.0×1 M.2 Slots: 2 x M.2 slot PCIe 4.0 x 4 Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC892 Fan Headers: 2 x CPU fan, 2 x system fan RGB Headers: 2 x 4-pin 12V RGB, 2 x 3-pin 5V RGB Internal I/O: 6 x Sata6Gb/s, 1 x COM, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 1, 2 x USB 2.0 Rear Ports: 3 x USB 3.1 Gen1, 1 x USB-C 3.1 Gen1, 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 2, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x PS2, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 6 x audio ports, 1 x RJ45 Gigabite LAN Size: 9.6″ x 9.6″
If you’re after a motherboard that will give your comptact Ryzen rig a more dazzling design, Colorful’s X570M Gaming Pro V14 is the best option. It’s good to go with the latest Ryzen 3000-Series processors, and features plenty of PCIe 4.0 connections to take advantage of the throughput.
You can plug in three expansions cards with its three slots. You can even run dual graphics cards as the PCIe 4.0 x4 slot uses a full x16 slot length. There’s even room for two NVMe SSDs to run on PCIe 4.0 x 4 connections for incredible data transfer rates if you have one of the best SSDs to actually take advantage of that bandwidth. All of that performance is balanced out by style, as this motherboard has as many headers for RGB as it has for fans. Go figure when you’re getting a product from Colorful.
7. Gigabyte B450 Aorus M
Best Mid-Range AMD Micro ATX Motherboard
CPU Socket: AM4 Chipset: B450 Memory Slots: 4 Channel Support: Dual Max Memory Speed: 3,600MHz Max Memory Capacity: 64GB Expansion Slots: 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x4, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 Slots: 1 x M.2 slot PCIe 3.0 x 4 (Key M) Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC892 Fan Headers: 1 x CPU fan, 1 x Water Pump, 3 x system fan RGB Headers: 1 x 4-pin RGBW Internal I/O: 6 x Sata6Gb/s, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0 Rear Ports: 2 x USB 3.1 Gen2, 4 x USB 3.1 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DVI-D, 6 x audio ports Size: 9.6″ x 9.6″
The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M is the best budget AMD mATX board with overclocking capabilities. It packs quite the punch for its $70 price. Onboard, there’s two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots (with the second running in x4 mode), a M.2 storage slot, and support for up to 64GB of RAM.
It also has USB 3.1 gen 2 ports, plus four USB 3.1 gen 1 ports. If you want bang for your buck, look no further.
8. Asus Prime A320M-K
Best Budget AMD Micro ATX Motherboard
CPU Socket: AM4 Chipset: A320 Memory Slots: 2 Channel Support: Dual Max Memory Speed: 3,200MHz Max Memory Capacity: 32GB Expansion Slots: 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 2 x PCIe 3.0 x1 M.2 Slots: 1 x M.2 slot PCIe 3.0 x 4 (Key M), 1 x M.2 slot PCIe 3.0 x 2 (Key M) Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC887 Fan Headers: 1 x CPU fan, 1 x system fan Internal I/O: 4GB Sata6Gb/s, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0 Rear Ports: 4 x USB 3.1 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x HDMI, 1 x D-Sub, 3 x audio ports Size: 8.9″ x 8.7″
There are quite a few budget AMD boards in the mATX form factor, but many of them make significant sacrificesnot so with the Asus Prime A320M-K.
For $60, you get a motherboard with support for all Ryzen CPUs and APUs, as well as 7th generation Athlon X4 processors. It can handle up to 32GB of RAM, has an M.2 slot for storage, and four USB 3.1 gen 1 ports. If you arent looking to spend a ton, the ASUS Prime A320M-K provides a solid base to build your low-priced rig.
What’s Next For Gaming Micro ATX Motherboards
Intel recently introduced its LGA1200 socket and is using its Z490 chipset at the premium tier for its modern CPUs, so it may be a little while before you need to worry about the next series of chipsets. And, when Intel does introduce its next chipsets, they might not offer many startling upgrades. As it stands, rumors suggest Intel (and AMD for that matter) may not be ready with DDR5 support until 2022, according to Tweaktown.
With some luck, the next generation of motherboards for Intel processors will support PCIe 4.0 for increased bandwidth to add-in devices, as motherboard manufacturers have been preparing for this. Some existing Intel-based motherboards even feature PCIe 4.0-readiness, even though there aren’t Intel CPUs available to support this.
AMD’s current X570 chipset is getting old, and there will surely be a new chipset to go alongside the next version of Ryzen processors. The newer B550 chipset fills a more value-oriented segment of the market, and as time goes on, we may see more mATX motherboards incorporating the chipset. That could give you more options for building a compact, budget PC without missing out on some of the next-gen speeds of PCIe 4.0. That said, AMD’s Ryzen 4000-series desktop CPUs won’t require new motherboards in many cases, as the new CPUs will work on existing X570- and B550-based motherboards as well as older X470 and B450 boards, AnandTech reports.
What to Look For in a Micro ATX Motherboard
Micro ATX motherboards might be great for saving you a bit of space and being cheaper than full-sized ATX motherboards, but you should know you’re making a few sacrifices. Chiefly these smaller boards often come with fewer PCIe slotsor even just one on certain models. So you should think about how many graphics cards, sound cards, capture cards, and other PCIe cards you want to install when deciding which mATX motherboard is right for you.
The smaller printed circuit board you get with mATX motherboards also means you’re probably going to have fewer M.2 slots for NVMe and SATA SSDs. The good news is most boards of this size have a least two M.2 slots, but don’t expect there to be four or five on some of the most premium ATX parts.
Kevin Lee is IGN’s Hardware and Roundups Editor. Follow him on Twitter @baggingspamMark Knapp is a regular contributor to IGN and an irregular Tweeter on Twitter @Techn0Mark
Home>>Home>>From budget to bonkers, Intel and AMD, we’ve rounded up the best mATX motherboards for your next PC building project.
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