When I first started building PCs, the only motherboards worth considering were ATX models. Back then, you had to go full-size to get a reasonable array of integrated peripherals and BIOS-level tweaking and overclocking options. These days, however, enthusiast-worthy mobos are available in a range of form factors, including ATX, microATX, and even Mini-ITX. Smaller systems certainly have their appeal, and they’re becoming increasingly easy to build as the number of hard drives and expansion cards needed in typical desktops dwindles.
If I was building a new rig today, I’d probably use a microATX motherboard. But what about you? What motherboard form factor will anchor your next desktop? You can cast your vote over on the right column on the front page or after clicking on the comment link below.
Our last poll asked whether readers are running home-theater PCs. 40% have a dedicated PC set up in their living rooms, and another 12% are set on getting one in the next year. Only 26% of respondents have no plans for a home-theater PC. The rest may lack a living room to host such a system, since the remaining 23% use their desktop or laptop as an HTPC.