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Choosing the right motherboard is crucial when building a small form factor PC, especially with the Z790 chipset known for its high performance and support for the latest Intel processors. Compact mATX motherboards offer a perfect balance of power, expandability, and size, making them ideal for small builds.
What to Look for in a Compact mATX Z790 Motherboard
When selecting a motherboard for a small PC, consider factors such as size, power delivery, expansion options, and connectivity. The Z790 chipset provides robust features, but not all mATX boards utilize them equally.
Size and Form Factor
Mini-ITX and micro-ATX are the common form factors for compact builds. Ensure the motherboard fits your case and allows for adequate airflow and cable management.
Power Delivery and Overclocking
Look for robust VRM designs that support overclocking if you plan to push your CPU. Good power delivery ensures stability and longevity.
Expansion and Connectivity
Check for PCIe slots, M.2 slots for SSDs, USB ports, and networking options like Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. Compact boards often sacrifice some expansion slots, so choose wisely.
Top Compact mATX Z790 Motherboards
Based on performance, features, and user reviews, here are some of the best compact Z790 motherboards for small form factor PCs.
ASUS ROG Strix Z790-G Gaming WiFi
This motherboard offers excellent build quality, robust power delivery, and integrated Wi-Fi 6E. Its compact size makes it suitable for gaming and high-performance tasks in small cases.
Known for its durability and great features, this MSI board provides multiple M.2 slots, strong VRMs, and Wi-Fi 6E support, making it a versatile choice for small builds.
Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX DDR4
This model combines affordability with high-end features, including PCIe 5.0 support, excellent networking, and a compact design suitable for small cases.
Conclusion
Building a small form factor PC with a Z790 motherboard is entirely feasible with the right choice of compact mATX boards. Consider your specific needs for expansion, connectivity, and overclocking to select the best motherboard for your build.