Top 10 Best Micro ATX Motherboards of 2015 - Your Ultimate Guide To Quality Performance!

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Find the best micro ATX motherboards of 2015 to build your perfect PC. Discover powerful features and reliable performance in a compact form factor.


When it comes to building a computer, the motherboard is one of the most important components to consider. It serves as the foundation for all other hardware and determines the overall performance of the system. For those looking to build a compact and powerful computer, micro ATX motherboards are an excellent choice. In 2015, there were several outstanding options on the market that provided excellent features and performance.

First and foremost, the ASUS Maximus VII Gene was one of the best micro ATX motherboards available in 2015. This motherboard was designed specifically for gamers and boasted features such as advanced overclocking capabilities and support for multiple graphics cards. Another standout option was the Gigabyte GA-H97M-D3H, which offered a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance.

For those looking to build a system for video editing or other demanding tasks, the ASRock Z97M OC Formula was a top choice. This motherboard provided excellent overclocking capabilities and support for high-speed RAM, making it ideal for power users. Another great option for power users was the MSI Z97M Gaming, which featured built-in Wi-Fi and support for multiple graphics cards.

When it came to connectivity options, the ASRock H97M-ITX/ac was a great choice. This motherboard offered built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support, as well as plenty of USB 3.0 ports. For those looking for a more compact option, the ASRock J1900B-ITX provided excellent performance in a tiny package.

One of the most impressive micro ATX motherboards of 2015 was the EVGA Z170 Stinger. This motherboard supported the latest Intel processors and offered advanced overclocking options, as well as built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support. Another standout option was the Gigabyte X99M-Gaming 5, which provided support for Intel's high-end Haswell-E processors.

Overall, there were many excellent micro ATX motherboards available in 2015. Whether you were a gamer, power user, or just looking to build a compact system, there was a motherboard that could meet your needs. With features such as advanced overclocking capabilities, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support, and support for multiple graphics cards, these motherboards provided top-notch performance in a small package.


Introduction

When it comes to building a PC, choosing the right motherboard is paramount. The motherboard houses all of the components and peripherals that make up your computer, so it's important to choose a board that is reliable, efficient, and has all of the features you need. This is especially important when it comes to micro ATX motherboards, which are smaller than standard ATX motherboards but still offer plenty of performance and functionality.

What is a Micro ATX Motherboard?

A micro ATX motherboard is a smaller form factor of the standard ATX motherboard. It measures 9.6 x 9.6 inches, compared to the larger ATX's 12 x 9.6 inches. Despite its smaller size, a micro ATX motherboard can still hold the same components as a full-size ATX motherboard, including CPUs, RAM, and expansion cards. Because of this, micro ATX motherboards are often used in compact, space-saving builds.

Top Micro ATX Motherboards of 2015

Here are some of the best micro ATX motherboards of 2015:

Gigabyte GA-H97M-D3H

The Gigabyte GA-H97M-D3H is a great all-around motherboard that offers solid performance, a good set of features, and a reasonable price. It supports Intel's 4th and 5th generation Core processors, has 4 DIMM slots for up to 32GB of DDR3 memory, and includes 6 SATA III ports and 6 USB 3.0 ports.

ASUS Maximus VII Gene

The ASUS Maximus VII Gene is a high-end micro ATX motherboard that is packed with features. It supports Intel's 4th and 5th generation Core processors, has 4 DIMM slots for up to 32GB of DDR3 memory, and includes 8 SATA III ports and 10 USB 3.0 ports. It also features ASUS's SupremeFX audio technology, which provides excellent sound quality.

MSI B85M-G43

The MSI B85M-G43 is a budget-friendly micro ATX motherboard that still offers solid performance. It supports Intel's 4th generation Core processors, has 4 DIMM slots for up to 32GB of DDR3 memory, and includes 4 SATA III ports and 2 USB 3.0 ports.

ASRock H97M Pro4

The ASRock H97M Pro4 is another all-around micro ATX motherboard that offers good performance and features at a reasonable price. It supports Intel's 4th and 5th generation Core processors, has 4 DIMM slots for up to 32GB of DDR3 memory, and includes 6 SATA III ports and 6 USB 3.0 ports.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Micro ATX Motherboard

When choosing a micro ATX motherboard, there are several factors to consider:

Processor Compatibility

Make sure the motherboard you choose is compatible with the processor you plan to use. Most micro ATX motherboards support Intel's Core processors, but some also support AMD processors.

Memory Support

Check how many DIMM slots the motherboard has and what type of memory it supports. Make sure it can support the amount of memory you need.

Expansion Slots

Consider what expansion cards you'll be using and make sure the motherboard has enough PCIe and other expansion slots to accommodate them.

Connectivity

Check how many SATA and USB ports the motherboard has and whether they're the latest versions (SATA III, USB 3.0).

Conclusion

Choosing the right micro ATX motherboard is crucial to building a reliable and efficient PC. The Gigabyte GA-H97M-D3H, ASUS Maximus VII Gene, MSI B85M-G43, and ASRock H97M Pro4 are all excellent choices, but make sure to consider your specific needs and budget when making your final decision.

Introduction to Micro ATX Motherboards

A Micro ATX motherboard is a smaller version of the ATX motherboard. It has a maximum size of 9.6” x 9.6” and is designed to fit in compact computer cases. The smaller size of the Micro ATX motherboard does not compromise its performance, as it contains all the necessary components to run a computer. In fact, Micro ATX motherboards are becoming increasingly popular among computer enthusiasts due to their versatility and affordability.

Benefits of Micro ATX Motherboards

There are several benefits to using a Micro ATX motherboard. Firstly, they are more affordable than their larger counterparts, making them a great choice for budget builds. Secondly, they take up less space, which is ideal for compact computer cases. This makes them a popular choice for home theater PCs (HTPCs) and gaming PCs that are designed to fit in a living room or bedroom. Thirdly, Micro ATX motherboards are compatible with a wide range of components, including graphics cards, RAM, and storage devices.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Micro ATX Motherboard

When choosing a Micro ATX motherboard, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important factors is compatibility. You need to ensure that the motherboard is compatible with your chosen CPU, graphics card, and other components. Another factor to consider is the number of expansion slots on the motherboard. If you plan to add additional components in the future, you will need to ensure that the motherboard has enough expansion slots to accommodate them. Other factors to consider include the number of USB ports, SATA ports, and M.2 slots on the motherboard.

Top Features to Look for in a Micro ATX Motherboard

When looking for a Micro ATX motherboard, there are several features to look for. One of the most important features is the power delivery system. A good power delivery system ensures stable power to the CPU, which is essential for overclocking. Another feature to look for is the number and type of expansion slots on the motherboard. You should also look for a motherboard with a good audio chipset, as this can significantly improve the sound quality of your computer. Other features to look for include built-in Wi-Fi, M.2 slots, and USB 3.1 ports.

Best Budget Micro ATX Motherboards

If you are on a tight budget, there are several Micro ATX motherboards that offer excellent value for money. One of the best budget Micro ATX motherboards is the ASUS Prime B450M-A/CSM. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has four RAM slots, allowing you to upgrade to 64GB of RAM. It also has two PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards and a total of six SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices.Another great budget Micro ATX motherboard is the Gigabyte B450M DS3H. This motherboard also supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has four RAM slots. It has one PCIe x16 slot for a graphics card and a total of four SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices. It also has built-in RGB lighting, which is a nice touch for a budget motherboard.

Best Mid-Range Micro ATX Motherboards

If you have a bit more money to spend, there are several mid-range Micro ATX motherboards that offer excellent performance and features. One of the best mid-range Micro ATX motherboards is the MSI B450M Mortar. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has four RAM slots. It has two PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards and a total of six SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices. It also has a good power delivery system, which makes it ideal for overclocking.Another great mid-range Micro ATX motherboard is the ASRock X570M Pro4. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has four RAM slots. It has two PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards and a total of eight SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which is a nice touch for a mid-range motherboard.

Best High-End Micro ATX Motherboards

If you want the best performance and features, there are several high-end Micro ATX motherboards that are worth considering. One of the best high-end Micro ATX motherboards is the ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Impact. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has two RAM slots. It has one PCIe x16 slot for a graphics card and a total of four M.2 slots for storage devices. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as an excellent power delivery system for overclocking.Another great high-end Micro ATX motherboard is the Gigabyte Z490M Gaming X. This motherboard supports Intel CPUs and has four RAM slots. It has two PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards and a total of six SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as RGB lighting.

Micro ATX Motherboards for Gaming

If you are building a gaming PC, there are several Micro ATX motherboards that are ideal for this purpose. One of the best Micro ATX motherboards for gaming is the ASRock B450M Steel Legend. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has four RAM slots. It has two PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards and a total of six SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices. It also has built-in RGB lighting and a good power delivery system for overclocking.Another great Micro ATX motherboard for gaming is the MSI MPG Z490M Gaming Edge WiFi. This motherboard supports Intel CPUs and has four RAM slots. It has two PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards and a total of six SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as RGB lighting.

Micro ATX Motherboards for Overclocking

If you are planning to overclock your CPU, you will need a motherboard with a good power delivery system. One of the best Micro ATX motherboards for overclocking is the ASUS ROG Strix B550-I Gaming. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has two RAM slots. It has one PCIe x16 slot for a graphics card and a total of two M.2 slots for storage devices. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as an excellent power delivery system for overclocking.Another great Micro ATX motherboard for overclocking is the Gigabyte X570 AORUS PRO WIFI. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has four RAM slots. It has two PCIe x16 slots for graphics cards and a total of six SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as RGB lighting and an excellent power delivery system.

Micro ATX Motherboards with Built-in Wi-Fi

If you want the convenience of built-in Wi-Fi, there are several Micro ATX motherboards that offer this feature. One of the best Micro ATX motherboards with built-in Wi-Fi is the ASRock B450M/AC. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has two RAM slots. It has one PCIe x16 slot for a graphics card and a total of four SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.Another great Micro ATX motherboard with built-in Wi-Fi is the ASUS ROG Strix B450-I Gaming. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen CPUs and has two RAM slots. It has one PCIe x16 slot for a graphics card and a total of two M.2 slots for storage devices. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as RGB lighting and an excellent power delivery system.

Conclusion

Micro ATX motherboards are a versatile and affordable option for computer enthusiasts. They offer many benefits, including affordability, compact size, and compatibility with a wide range of components. When choosing a Micro ATX motherboard, it is important to consider factors such as compatibility, expansion slots, and features such as built-in Wi-Fi and a good power delivery system. Whether you are on a tight budget or have more money to spend, there is a Micro ATX motherboard that will meet your needs.

Best Micro ATX Motherboards 2015

Point of View

As someone who is looking for a compact and budget-friendly motherboard, the Micro ATX form factor is an attractive option. In 2015, there were several options available in the market, each with their own set of features and benefits. After researching and analyzing various models, I have come to the conclusion that the best Micro ATX motherboards in 2015 are those that offer a balance between performance, affordability, and compatibility.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  1. Compact size - Micro ATX motherboards are smaller than full-sized ATX motherboards, making them ideal for compact builds and space-limited setups.
  2. Affordability - Micro ATX motherboards tend to be cheaper than their larger counterparts, making them a cost-effective option for budget builds.
  3. Compatibility - Micro ATX motherboards are compatible with a wide range of processors, including AMD and Intel, and can support multiple GPUs.
  4. Good performance - Despite their smaller size, Micro ATX motherboards can deliver good performance and come equipped with features such as overclocking, high-speed RAM support, and USB 3.0 ports.

Cons:

  1. Limited expandability - Due to their smaller size, Micro ATX motherboards may have fewer expansion slots and ports compared to full-sized ATX motherboards.
  2. Noisy fans - Some Micro ATX motherboards may come with noisy fans due to their smaller size, which can be a concern for those who prioritize quiet operation.
  3. Limited overclocking potential - While Micro ATX motherboards do come with overclocking features, they may not be able to handle extreme overclocking like some full-sized ATX motherboards can.

Table Comparison

Model Price CPU Socket RAM Slots Expansion Slots Features
ASUS Maximus VII Gene $200 LGA1150 4 2 PCIe x16 Overclocking, Wi-Fi, M.2 support
Gigabyte GA-Z97MX-Gaming 5 $120 LGA1150 4 2 PCIe x16 Overclocking, Killer LAN, Sound Blaster X-Fi MB3 support
MSI B85M Gaming $80 LGA1150 4 1 PCIe x16, 2 PCIe x1 Sound Blaster Cinema, Military Class 4 components
ASRock H97M Anniversary $60 LGA1150 2 1 PCIe x16, 2 PCIe x1 ELNA Audio Caps, Intel Gigabit LAN

Overall, the ASUS Maximus VII Gene is the best Micro ATX motherboard of 2015, offering a balance between performance, features, and affordability. However, it may not be the most cost-effective option for budget builds. The Gigabyte GA-Z97MX-Gaming 5 and MSI B85M Gaming are also good choices for those who prioritize gaming and overclocking, while the ASRock H97M Anniversary is a budget-friendly option that still delivers decent performance.


The Best Micro ATX Motherboards of 2015: A Final Word for Our Visitors

As we come to the end of our discussion of the best micro ATX motherboards of 2015, we want to thank you for joining us on this journey. We hope that our insights and recommendations have helped you in your search for the perfect motherboard for your needs.

Throughout this article, we've covered a wide range of factors to consider when choosing a micro ATX motherboard. From the chipset and processor compatibility to the number of expansion slots and connectivity options, we've explored the many features that make a great motherboard.

We've also shared with you some of the top micro ATX motherboards of 2015, including the ASUS Maximus VII Gene, the Gigabyte GA-Z97MX-Gaming 5, and the MSI Z97M Gaming. These motherboards represent some of the best options available for gamers, enthusiasts, and professionals alike.

Of course, there are many other great micro ATX motherboards out there that we didn't have time to cover in this article. It's important to do your own research and find the motherboard that best fits your specific needs and budget.

One thing to keep in mind as you're shopping for a micro ATX motherboard is that it's not just about the features and specs. You also want to make sure that the motherboard is reliable, durable, and easy to use. Look for motherboards with positive customer reviews and high ratings to ensure that you're getting a quality product.

Another important factor to consider is the warranty and support offered by the manufacturer. Make sure that you choose a motherboard from a trusted brand with a good reputation for customer service and support.

When it comes down to it, the best micro ATX motherboard for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you're a gamer looking for high performance and overclocking capabilities or a professional in need of advanced features for your work, there's a micro ATX motherboard out there that's perfect for you.

As we wrap up this article, we want to emphasize the importance of doing your own research and choosing a motherboard that meets your specific needs. Don't just go for the most expensive or feature-packed option; instead, look for a motherboard that offers the right balance of performance, reliability, and affordability.

Thank you again for joining us on this journey through the world of micro ATX motherboards. We hope that our insights and recommendations have been helpful to you, and we wish you all the best in your search for the perfect motherboard.


People Also Ask About Best Micro ATX Motherboards 2015

What Is a Micro ATX Motherboard?

A micro ATX motherboard is a smaller version of the standard ATX motherboard. It measures 9.6 inches by 9.6 inches and has fewer expansion slots than a standard ATX motherboard but can still accommodate most modern components.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Micro ATX Motherboard?

The benefits of using a micro ATX motherboard include:

  • Smaller size: Micro ATX motherboards are smaller than standard ATX motherboards, making them ideal for compact builds.
  • Lower cost: Micro ATX motherboards are often less expensive than their standard ATX counterparts.
  • Less power consumption: Micro ATX motherboards typically consume less power than standard ATX motherboards.

What Should I Look for When Choosing a Micro ATX Motherboard?

When choosing a micro ATX motherboard, you should consider the following factors:

  1. Compatibility: Make sure the motherboard is compatible with your processor, RAM, and other components.
  2. Expansion options: Check how many expansion slots the motherboard has and whether it has enough for your needs.
  3. Connectivity: Look for a motherboard with plenty of USB ports, audio inputs and outputs, and other connectivity options that you need.
  4. Brand reputation: Choose a reputable brand with good customer support and a solid warranty.

What Are Some of the Best Micro ATX Motherboards in 2015?

Some of the best micro ATX motherboards in 2015 were:

  • ASUS Maximus VII Gene: This high-end motherboard was designed for gaming and overclocking.
  • Gigabyte GA-Z97MX-Gaming 5: Another gaming-oriented motherboard with excellent audio and networking features.
  • ASRock B85M-ITX: A budget-friendly option with solid performance and features.