Mini PCs primarily use Mini-ITX motherboards, a compact form factor measuring 6.7 × 6.7 inches. Designed for space efficiency, Mini-ITX boards support modern CPUs, RAM, and storage while enabling powerful performance in small builds. They’re ideal for home theaters, portable workstations, and gaming setups, balancing size and functionality. Compatibility varies by manufacturer and use case.
Table of Contents
Top 5 Mini PCs in 2025
| Rank | Model | Processor | RAM | Storage | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GEEKOM Mini IT12 (Best Performance) | Intel i5-12450H (8C/12T) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD | $379.00 | Check Price |
| 2 | GMKtec N150 (1TB SSD) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD | $191.99 | Check Price |
| 3 | KAMRUI GK3Plus (Budget Pick) | Intel N95 (3.4GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB M.2 SSD | $169.99 | Check Price |
| 4 | ACEMAGICIAN N150 (Cheapest 16GB) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 256GB SSD | $139.99 | Check Price |
| 5 | GMKtec N150 (512GB SSD) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB PCIe SSD | $168.99 | Check Price |
What Defines the Mini-ITX Form Factor in Mini PCs?
The Mini-ITX form factor, standardized by VIA Technologies in 2001, measures 170 × 170 mm. Its reduced size requires integrated components like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to save space. Despite its compactness, Mini-ITX supports full-sized CPUs, dual-channel DDR4/DDR5 RAM, and PCIe slots for GPUs. Unique mounting holes and power supply compatibility distinguish it from larger ATX or micro-ATX boards.
How Do Mini-ITX Motherboards Balance Power and Size?
Mini-ITX boards use advanced PCB layering and component stacking to fit high-end hardware. Features like PCIe 4.0/5.0 slots, NVMe SSD support, and USB-C headers maximize bandwidth in minimal space. Thermal solutions, such as low-profile coolers and optimized airflow designs, prevent overheating. Power delivery systems are condensed but robust, often supporting 65W–120W CPUs and discrete GPUs with external PSUs.
What Are the Limitations of Mini-ITX Motherboards?
Mini-ITX boards typically offer fewer PCIe slots (1–2), limited RAM slots (2), and minimal SATA ports. Overclocking support is restricted due to space constraints for VRM cooling. Upgradability is limited, requiring careful planning for future expansions. Compatibility with large GPUs or cooling systems depends on the chassis, often demanding low-profile or water-cooled components.
For example, high-end GPUs like the NVIDIA RTX 4090 may not fit in most Mini-ITX cases without vertical mounting brackets or custom modifications. Storage expansion is another challenge—while NVMe drives save space, users needing multiple HDDs must rely on external enclosures. Additionally, the limited number of fan headers often necessitates splitters or hubs for advanced cooling setups. These constraints make Mini-ITX builds better suited for users prioritizing portability over unlimited expandability.
| Component | Mini-ITX Limitation | Alternative Solution |
|---|---|---|
| GPU Size | Max 2.5–3 slots | External GPU enclosures |
| RAM Slots | 2 DIMMs | 64GB DDR5 modules |
| Storage Ports | 2–4 SATA/NVMe | USB4/Thunderbolt expansion |
Which Brands Dominate the Mini-ITX Market?
ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI, and ASRock lead the Mini-ITX market. ASUS’s ROG Strix series emphasizes gaming with RGB lighting and Wi-Fi 6E. Gigabyte’s AORUS line offers Thunderbolt 4 support for creators. MSI’s MPG boards focus on thermal efficiency, while ASRock’s Phantom Gaming series prioritizes affordability. Niche brands like Zotac and Intel NUC cater to ultra-compact and prebuilt solutions.
How Does Thermal Management Work in Mini-ITX Builds?
Thermal management relies on low-profile air coolers, liquid AIO systems, and case fan optimization. Undervolting CPUs/GPUs reduces heat output, while perforated chassis designs enhance airflow. Thermal pads and heat pipes distribute heat efficiently. Noise reduction often requires PWM fans and vibration-dampened mounts. High-end builds may use custom loops with slim radiators.
Can Mini-ITX Motherboards Support Gaming or Professional Workloads?
Yes. Modern Mini-ITX boards support RTX 4090 GPUs, Ryzen 9/Intel i9 CPUs, and 64GB DDR5 RAM, handling 4K gaming and 3D rendering. Thunderbolt 4/USB4 enables high-speed storage and eGPUs. However, sustained workloads require careful thermal planning. Prebuilt systems like Corsair’s ONE PRO and HP Z2 Mini G9 validate professional-grade performance in compact form factors.
What Are Emerging Trends in Mini-ITX Technology?
Future trends include PCIe 5.0 adoption for faster SSDs/GPUs, integrated AI accelerators, and 10GbE/Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. Modular designs allow swappable components, while gallium nitride (GaN) PSUs reduce size and heat. ARM-based Mini-ITX boards, like those with Qualcomm Snapdragon CPUs, target low-power edge computing. 3D-printed custom cases and eco-friendly materials are also gaining traction.
Manufacturers are experimenting with “stackable” PCIe slots that enable vertical component arrangements, effectively doubling connectivity without increasing motherboard footprint. Another innovation is the integration of liquid cooling channels directly into Mini-ITX PCBs, reducing reliance on bulky external radiators. The rise of compute-in-storage devices—which combine NVMe drives with embedded processors—could further streamline data processing in compact systems.
“Mini-ITX is no longer a compromise—it’s a revolution. With PCIe 5.0 and DDR5, these boards rival full-sized systems. The challenge lies in balancing thermals and acoustics, but innovations like graphene-coated heat sinks and hybrid cooling are game-changers.” — James Carter, Lead Engineer at Compact Computing Solutions
News
Advantech Launches AIMB-219 Embedded Mini-ITX Industrial Motherboard with Dual Gigabit Ethernet
Advantech introduced the AIMB-219, a fanless Mini-ITX motherboard supporting Intel Core i3-N305 processors and dual gigabit LAN ports, designed for industrial applications requiring stable performance in extreme temperatures.
Alibaba Showcases 2025 Mini-ITX Motherboards Featuring DDR5 and Dual 2.5GbE Connectivity
Alibaba’s international platform highlights a range of new Mini-ITX motherboards with advanced specs like DDR5 memory, dual 2.5GbE ports, and support for 12th/13th Gen Intel processors, targeting embedded and industrial PC markets.
Zhìlùn Report Predicts Ultra-Thin Mini-ITX Market Growth Driven by 5G and Edge Computing
A 2025 industry analysis by Zhìlùn underscores the rising demand for ultra-thin Mini-ITX boards, emphasizing innovations in 5G integration, edge computing capabilities, and eco-friendly manufacturing trends.
FAQ
- Can I use a standard ATX PSU with a Mini-ITX motherboard?
- Yes, but ensure your case supports ATX PSUs. Many Mini-ITX cases require SFX or SFX-L power supplies.
- Are Mini-ITX motherboards more expensive than ATX?
- Often yes, due to specialized engineering. However, budget options like ASRock’s H510M-ITX/ac exist.
- Do Mini-ITX boards support dual GPUs?
- No—the single PCIe slot limits configurations. eGPU enclosures via Thunderbolt can add secondary GPUs.