E-atx motherboard vs atx, which one is best for you? Here we will compare these two motherboards. It should be easy to decide which one is right for you. In a computer, the motherboard plays a vital role in the overall performance. To run applications successfully, the circuit board connects all the essential components, such as CPU, GPU, RAM, hard drive, etc., together.
A motherboard’s layout and shape are known as its form factor. The case type, power supply, and location of essential components are determined by it. The ATX form factor is most commonly used in industrial and domestic PCs.
ATX stands for Advanced Technology Extended, and it was introduced in 1995 by Intel to standardize motherboards.
The size and functionality of ATX motherboards vary slightly. You can find them in Micro-ATX, Mini-ATX, WATX, EATX, mobile ATX, and pico-ATX. Because some features of one ATX form factor may not be suitable for another type, it is essential to learn the difference between them.
This article will compare ATX and EATX form factors, i.e., Extended ATX, and determine which to buy. I’ll get started now.
What Is ATX?
Let’s start by discussing the “standard”-sized motherboard, the ATX. It is an advanced technology extended motherboard.
The document dates back to 1995. There’s a high probability that your current or previous desktop PC had or had an ATX motherboard.
At this point, ATX is the “regular” choice for PCs and motherboards.
What ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended) is
Wikipedia describes ATX as a motherboard and power supply configuration specification created by Intel in 1995. The motherboard, power supply, and enclosure of desktop computers were all changed for the first time in many years. ATX makes computer components more standard and interchangeable. This document describes the dimensions, I/O panel, mounting points, power and connector interfaces within a computer host case, a motherboard, and a power supply.
ATX Pros and Cons
Pros
- There are many slots and ports on ATX that allow easy expansion.
- With more ports and slots, upgrading is more straightforward.
- There are many styles of ATX cases.
- ATX motherboards are standard in gaming PCs. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of an ATX form factor.
Cons
- The ATX board is large and heavy.
- ATX boards have components arranged to disrupt airflow, resulting in less cooling.
- The price is high.
What Is EATX?
ATX motherboards get either larger or smaller as they get smaller. As a result, it is slightly larger and adds more to the ATX board.
Micro ATX is smaller than ATX and is the next step up.
EATX Pros and Cons
There are several advantages of an EATX if you have a high budget and are more concerned with performance. Make sure you consider the disadvantages as well.
Pros
- The memory can install on it in a massive amount of space.
- A higher number of expansion ports means a higher number of GPUs, which will result in a better gaming experience.
- Due to the large size of the board, the components can cool, and excellent overclocking can be achieved.
Cons
- This project requires a large budget.
- Hobbyist gamers or editors cannot afford EATX unless they have a lot of money.
- Many users find their large size and feature overkill.
ATX VS EATX: Size
Comparing ATX and EATX requires a comparison of size. EATX motherboards have an extra inch or two on the right side of the motherboard compared to ATX motherboards. ATX is 12 * 9.6 in (305 * 244 mm).
It is common to find and use EATX motherboards in servers due to their extra space, which can accommodate the additional hardware generally required for the functions of servers.
EATX motherboards will also have two small benefits: first, their larger surface area will allow for better heat dissipation, and second, they will be easier to use since their greater size leaves more room for the GPU.
ATX VS EATX: Functionality
EATX motherboards offer more ports thanks to their larger size. In contrast, ATX’s PCIe x16 ports are usually three or four. EATX’s can generally have four to eight. At the same time, ATX motherboards have four RAM slots, and EATX motherboards have six or eight.
Thus, if you plan to use SLI or Crossfire, you can install two to three graphics cards using EATX. Alternatively, if you don’t need several graphics cards, there is enough room for graphics cards, capture cards, and so on.
It is possible to install a lot of RAM in EATX, but how high you can go will be determined by how many features the motherboard supports.
ATX VS EATX: Price
When comparing ATX vs. EATX, we should also compare prices. While EATX motherboards are usually more expensive than ATX motherboards, this one is often very different. Although EATX motherboards may be cheaper than ATX motherboards, assuming a similar level of functionality, EATX will almost always cost more.
EATX motherboards also have a cost associated with them, which is that you need to purchase a more significant case to fit them. Take this into consideration. Before buying your case, make sure it is a good fit for your motherboard.
What motherboard should you buy
Best mid-range gaming motherboard
An ATX motherboard is the sweet spot for most builders when it comes to gaming.
With all the features a large majority of builders need, choices, and plenty of space for parts and cooling, ATX mobos are perfect for most setups.
While you may not need all PCIe/SATA/RAM slots, ATX case/motherboards give you more room to ventilate (which makes building easier).
Here are our top picks for the best ATX motherboards:
- For Intel 8th and 9th generation CPUs – MSI MPG Z390 Gaming PRO Carbon For Intel 10th generation CPUs (better if possible) – MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge.
- The ROG Strix B450-F is the ASUS ROG Strix for AMD
Best high-end gaming motherboard/production PC
Let’s be clear: the options above are sufficient for most readers.
On the other hand, if you are less concerned about budget and more concerned about creating the most powerful PC you can, then you should look at an E-ATX motherboard.
Taking advantage of these will give you the most space and utility with no compromises made on compactness.
Because of this, they are appealing not just for gamers but also for those looking for the best production PC (video editing, rendering, etc.).
Furthermore, significant cases offer the most room for cooling, drives, and ease of building.
As long as you don’t mind the size, you may even want to consider E-ATX total tower cases for your high-end build if you want an ATX motherboard (which is also possible).
These are our top picks for the best E-ATX gaming motherboards:
- Asus ROG Maximus XII Hero Z490 powered by Intel
- ASUS ROG Strix X570-F for AMD
Bottom Line
In summary, this post compares the eATX motherboard vs ATX from 3 viewpoints: size, functionality, and price. If you need an ATX or EATX motherboard, it depends on your needs. When you want to build a high-end gaming PC with one graphics card and a limited budget, ATX is a better choice. EATX motherboards are better if you’re making a gaming PC with lots of graphics cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ATX and Microatx?
As one of the offshoots of ATX, Micro ATX differs primarily in size from ATX. In general, ATX boards measure 305mm in width. The length is 244mm. In contrast to ATX boards, Micro ATX boards typically have three expansion slots, four being the absolute maximum.
Is micro ATX good for gaming?
A micro-ATX motherboard is your best bet if you’re building a budget-friendly gaming PC. Because no component will affect your game performance is as much as your graphics card, processor, and memory.
Can I put a Micro ATX motherboard in an ATX case?
Backward compatibility
Backward compatibility with ATX was explicitly defined in the microATX standard. MicroATX motherboards use the same mounting points as full-size ATX boards, and their I/O panels are identical. As a result, microATX motherboards can be fitted inside full-size ATX cases.
Can an EATX motherboard fit in an ATX case?
A regular ATX case will not accommodate EATX as it is Extended ATX.
What is the biggest type of motherboard?
Over the past 25 years, ATX has been the most popular form factor for home and office computers. At 12 inches by 9.6 inches, the ATX is the largest of the three motherboard sizes we’re considering. Specifies that this is the maximum size for ATX boards.
