Micro ATX vs Full ATX

[Skookum]

Is there any downside to a micro ATX board aside from being more expensive than a normal ATX for the same features?

[ELSknutson]

they usually have a few less PCIe lanes and can come with a few less features like sata ports, fan connectors, etc. but for the most part there is not much difference and personalty If you dont need allot of extras its actualy best to go with the Micro ATX or even mini ITX. It just makes your life easier when it comes time to move it. 

  

[Minabe]

Also hw (like gpu, psu, etc) for microATX tends to be more expensive, if it's even released/exists yet, something to take into consideration.

 

Edit: Ups, seems i confused mini with micro

[Mister Woof]

Genrally speaking, MicroATX tends to haave a more Spartan fearure set vs. both Mini ITX and full ATX, and thus are less expensive than either of the others.

 

There are less models in this form factor available, and some of this is because it is the "in between" form factor that is almost as big as full ATX, and isn't small enough compared to Mini ITX.

 

I have a few MicroATX boards because they met my criteria for space vs features and price the best, but generally I recommend either going full ATX or Mini ITX.

[BTGbullseye]

Unless you're running SLI, mATX is likely to handle everything you throw at it. It's essentially an ATX motherboard with the bottom 3-4 expansion slots cut off.

[Zberg]

Ill say, every ATX mobo build I have had I always tend to think is too damn big.  And the two mini ITX builds have been great, but obviously they have their sacrifices (tight to work in, less air flow, etc).  I think microATX might be the winner in my opinion.  A small microATX build might be the best option.