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There is no single best Mini-ITX motherboard for every build. The right choice is the board whose CPU socket, M.2 lanes, rear I/O, networking, firmware-recovery options, and physical clearances match the case and components around it.
For AMD, the strongest starting points are the ASUS ROG Strix X870-I for premium USB4 connectivity, the MSI MPG X870I Edge TI EVO WiFi for 5Gb Ethernet, and the ASUS ROG Strix B850-I when you want a current AM5 platform without specifically needing every X870 feature. For Intel, the ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I emphasizes Thunderbolt 4 and PCIe 5.0 storage, while the MSI MPG Z890I Edge TI WiFi is the storage-focused option with four M.2 slots.
Quick picks
- Premium AMD connectivity: ASUS ROG Strix X870-I Gaming WiFi, for USB4, Wi-Fi 7, PCIe 5.0 storage, and a feature-heavy accessory package.
- AMD with 5Gb networking: MSI MPG X870I Edge TI EVO WiFi, provided your network equipment and workload can use more than 2.5Gb Ethernet.
- AMD platform without automatically choosing X870: ASUS ROG Strix B850-I Gaming WiFi, with two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, PCIe 5.0 graphics, Wi-Fi 7, and BIOS FlashBack.
- Premium Intel connectivity: ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I Gaming WiFi, especially for Thunderbolt 4 and two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots. Its second M.2 slot changes the graphics connection to x8.
- Intel storage capacity: MSI MPG Z890I Edge TI WiFi, the clearest choice in this group for four onboard M.2 slots and 5Gb Ethernet.
- Intel with a simpler storage layout: Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA, with one CPU-connected PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, one rear PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot, Thunderbolt 4, and 2.5Gb Ethernet.
These are specification-based recommendations, not independent performance rankings. No hands-on thermal, BIOS, throughput, or retailer-stock testing was performed for this roundup, so the right choice depends on your processor, case, cooler, storage plan, and network.
Mini-ITX motherboard comparison
Every board below uses the 17 cm by 17 cm Mini-ITX form factor and two DDR5 memory slots. That common size does not make them interchangeable: M.2 lane allocation, rear I/O, Ethernet speed, firmware recovery, and CPU-dependent PCIe behavior vary substantially.
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| Motherboard | Platform | Memory | Storage | Networking | High-speed rear I/O | Important caveat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS ROG Strix X870-I Gaming WiFi | AM5 / X870 | 2 DDR5 DIMMs | 2 M.2; 2 SATA through included ROG FPS Card | Wi-Fi 7; 2.5Gb Ethernet | 2 USB4 40Gbps Type-C | Storage and expansion behavior varies by Ryzen generation |
| MSI MPG X870I Edge TI EVO WiFi | AM5 / X870 | 2 DDR5 DIMMs | PCIe 5.0-capable storage; verify the manual for slot allocation | Wi-Fi 7; 5Gb Ethernet | 2 USB 40Gbps Type-C plus multiple 10Gbps ports | 5Gb networking needs compatible equipment and a suitable workload |
| ASUS ROG Strix B850-I Gaming WiFi | AM5 / B850 | 2 DDR5 DIMMs | 2 PCIe 5.0 M.2 | Wi-Fi 7; 2.5Gb Ethernet | USB 20Gbps Type-C | Check the exact CPU and BIOS support list |
| MSI MPG B850I Edge TI WiFi | AM5 / B850 | 2 DDR5 DIMMs; up to 128GB listed | 2 M.2; 2 SATA | Wi-Fi 7; 5Gb Ethernet | See the manufacturer specification page for the complete rear-I/O layout | PCIe behavior depends on the Ryzen processor, especially Ryzen 8000 and lower-tier CPUs |
| ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I Gaming WiFi | LGA1851 / Z890 | 2 DDR5 DIMMs; up to 128GB listed | 2 PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2; 2 SATA through ROG FPS Card | Wi-Fi 7; 2.5Gb Ethernet | 2 Thunderbolt 4 | Using the second M.2 slot changes the graphics slot to x8 |
| MSI MPG Z890I Edge TI WiFi | LGA1851 / Z890 | 2 DDR5 DIMMs; up to 128GB listed | 4 M.2 slots | Wi-Fi 7; 5Gb Ethernet | 2 Thunderbolt 4 | Check lane sharing, heatsinks, and whether all four slots are practical for your drives |
| ASRock Z890I Nova WiFi | LGA1851 / Z890 | 2 DDR5 DIMMs | PCIe 5.0 x16 graphics; verify M.2 allocation in the manual | Wi-Fi 7; 5Gb Ethernet; Bluetooth 5.4 | 2 Thunderbolt 4; HDMI 2.1 | Thunderbolt display output requires a processor with integrated graphics |
| Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA | LGA1851 / Z890 | 2 DDR5 DIMMs | 1 CPU-connected PCIe 5.0 M.2; 1 rear PCIe 4.0 M.2; 2 SATA | Wi-Fi 7; 2.5Gb Ethernet | Thunderbolt 4 connectivity | Not the right fit if you need four M.2 slots or 5Gb Ethernet |
Advertised DDR5 speeds are manufacturer support claims, not guaranteed operating speeds. The achievable setting depends on the processor’s memory controller, the specific kit, BIOS version, motherboard configuration, and whether the kit is on the board’s qualified vendor list.
#1 Best Overall
- Ready for advanced AI PCs: Designed for the future of AI computing, with the power and connectivity needed for demanding AI applications
- AMD AM5 Socket: Supports AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 Series Desktop Processors.
- Intelligent Control: AI Cache Boost, ASUS AI Advisor, AI Cooling II and AEMP to simplify setup and improve performance.
- Robust Power Solution: 8(80A)+2(80A)+1(80A) DrMOS power stage, 10-layer PCB, 8 pin ProCool power connectors for stable power delivery.
- Latest M.2 Support: One onboard PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, and one PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot.
Best AMD Mini-ITX motherboards
ASUS ROG Strix X870-I Gaming WiFi: premium AMD connectivity
The ASUS ROG Strix X870-I Gaming WiFi is the most connectivity-focused AMD option in this selection. It supports Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 desktop processors on Socket AM5, provides two DDR5 DIMM slots, two M.2 slots, Wi-Fi 7, Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, and two rear USB4 40Gbps Type-C ports.
Its included ROG FPS Card is important to the storage description: the board’s two SATA ports are provided through that accessory rather than simply appearing as conventional SATA connectors on the main board. That can be useful in a compact system, but it adds another component to install and another area to check against the case and cooler layout.
Choose this board when USB4, PCIe 5.0 storage, Wi-Fi 7, and premium rear I/O matter more than minimizing the motherboard platform cost. Verify the processor-specific storage and expansion behavior before buying, particularly if you are considering a Ryzen 8000 processor rather than a conventional Ryzen 7000 or 9000 desktop chip.
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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsMSI MPG X870I Edge TI EVO WiFi: AMD with 5Gb Ethernet
The MSI MPG X870I Edge TI EVO WiFi is the AMD pick for a compact workstation, enthusiast gaming system, or home server with a real need for 5Gb wired networking. MSI lists Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 support, Wi-Fi 7, 5Gb Ethernet, two rear 40Gbps USB Type-C ports, additional 10Gbps ports, and PCIe 5.0-capable storage.
Do not select it solely because 5Gb is a larger number than 2.5Gb. The switch or router, the other network endpoint, cabling, and the actual workload all need to support and benefit from the faster link. Manufacturer specifications establish the Ethernet capability; they do not establish real-world throughput in your network.
This is the stronger X870 choice when fast local networking and abundant high-speed USB connectivity are central to the build. If your PC connects to a typical 1Gb or 2.5Gb network and you do not need the extra USB bandwidth, a B850 board may be the more rational platform.
ASUS ROG Strix B850-I Gaming WiFi: the balanced AM5 alternative
The ASUS ROG Strix B850-I Gaming WiFi is a feature-rich alternative to the X870 models. ASUS lists support for Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 processors, two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, PCIe 5.0 graphics, Wi-Fi 7, Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, USB 20Gbps Type-C, BIOS FlashBack, and a 10+2+1 power design.
The practical reason to choose B850 is that you may not need every connectivity feature associated with an X870 board. If two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, current AM5 CPU support, Wi-Fi 7, and a modern graphics interface cover your plan, paying for a specific X870 feature set may not improve the finished gaming PC.
BIOS FlashBack is particularly useful for a small build. It can provide a firmware-recovery path without requiring normal troubleshooting access after the board has been installed in a crowded case. Follow ASUS’s current FlashBack procedure and verify the exact processor support list and required BIOS revision before assembly.
MSI MPG B850I Edge TI WiFi: the practical B850 competitor
The MSI MPG B850I Edge TI WiFi brings a different priority to the B850 comparison: MSI lists 5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, two M.2 slots, two SATA ports, two DDR5 slots supporting up to 128GB, and PCIe 5.0 graphics support with supported processors.
It is a good fit when your compact PC will move large files over a fast wired network but you do not need the particular USB4 configuration of an X870 board. The important qualification is CPU-dependent PCIe behavior. MSI notes differences for Ryzen 8000 and lower-tier processors, so check the exact CPU support matrix rather than assuming that every AM5 processor exposes the same graphics and storage connectivity.
Best Intel Mini-ITX motherboards
ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I Gaming WiFi: premium Intel I/O
The ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I Gaming WiFi uses the Z890 chipset and LGA1851 socket for Intel Core Ultra processors Series 2. It supports up to 128GB of DDR5, PCIe 5.0 x16 graphics, two PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 slots, Wi-Fi 7, Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, and two rear Thunderbolt 4 ports.
Its decisive caveat is lane allocation: ASUS warns that installing a drive in the second M.2 slot changes the graphics-slot configuration to x8. That does not make the board unusable, but it is a material trade-off for a build with a high-end graphics card and two PCIe 5.0 NVMe drives. If both slots are part of your plan, read the motherboard manual before choosing the board and confirm that the resulting layout is acceptable for your components.
Pick it for Thunderbolt 4 docks, displays, and storage alongside two fast M.2 slots. Pick a different Intel board if you want to avoid this particular graphics/storage interaction or if four M.2 slots are more useful than the ASUS feature mix.
Rank #2
- Intel LGA 1700 socket: Ready for 12th Gen Intel processors
- Comprehensive cooling: VRM heatsink, PCH heatsink and Fan Xpert
- Ultrafast connectivity: PCIe 4.0, DDR4, 32Gbps M.2 slot, Realtek 1 Gb Ethernet, USB 3.2 Gen 1 and V-M.2 Key E slot for Wi-Fi
MSI MPG Z890I Edge TI WiFi: the Intel storage specialist
The MSI MPG Z890I Edge TI WiFi is the clearest storage-focused Intel candidate here. MSI lists four M.2 slots, PCIe 5.0 x16 graphics, two rear Thunderbolt 4 ports, 5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, support for up to 128GB of DDR5, and compatibility with Intel Core Ultra processors Series 2 on LGA1851.
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Four M.2 slots are not the same as four unrestricted, identically fast NVMe connections. Before populating every slot, check MSI’s manual for PCIe generation, lane sharing, CPU or chipset attachment, included risers or daughterboards, and whether the drive heatsinks conflict with the graphics card, cooler, or case side panel. Compact boards often use stacked layouts to achieve their feature count.
This is the best fit in the group for a small system that needs substantial local NVMe capacity and 5Gb wired networking. It is less compelling if you only need one boot drive and a graphics card, where a simpler dual-M.2 board may reduce installation complexity.
ASRock Z890I Nova WiFi: high-speed networking with display qualifications
The ASRock Z890I Nova WiFi combines PCIe 5.0 x16 graphics, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, 5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and HDMI 2.1. That mix makes it attractive for a compact workstation or media-oriented system that will connect to fast peripherals and a high-speed wired network.
There is an important display-output condition: ASRock says display output through the Thunderbolt ports depends on a processor with integrated graphics. Do not assume that the Thunderbolt connectors will provide the same display function with every Core Ultra configuration or discrete-GPU arrangement. Confirm the processor and display topology before relying on those ports.
Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA: a simpler dual-M.2 Intel layout
The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA is a sensible Intel option when you want the current Z890/LGA1851 platform without prioritizing four M.2 slots or 5Gb Ethernet. Gigabyte lists support for Intel Core Ultra processors Series 2, PCIe 5.0 x16 graphics, one CPU-connected PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, one rear PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot, two SATA ports, Wi-Fi 7, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity.
Its storage arrangement is easy to understand at a high level: one fast CPU-connected slot for a primary drive and a second PCIe 4.0 slot for additional storage, plus SATA. That does not make it objectively faster than the other Z890 boards; its defensible advantage is the less expansive feature mix. It suits a gaming PC or general-purpose compact system that does not need maximum local storage density.
How to choose the right Mini-ITX motherboard
1. Start with the CPU socket and exact processor
AMD and Intel are separate platform decisions here:
- AMD: The X870-I and B850-I boards use AM5 and are listed for Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 desktop processors.
- Intel: The Z890 boards use LGA1851 and are listed for Intel Core Ultra processors Series 2.
Do not treat a chipset name as a complete compatibility guarantee. AMD notes that BIOS updates may be required for Ryzen 8000 and 9000 processors on older 600-series boards; the X870 and B850 products in this roundup are newer, but you should still check the manufacturer’s CPU-support list and BIOS revision for your exact processor. MSI’s B850I listing also calls out CPU-dependent PCIe behavior, and the ASUS X870-I storage and expansion behavior varies by processor generation.
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All eight boards have two DDR5 DIMM slots. Use a matched two-stick kit rather than planning to add a third or fourth module later. A 2x16GB DDR5 memory kit is a reasonable starting capacity for many gaming builds; a 2x32GB DDR5 memory kit is more appropriate for heavier creation, development, virtual-machine, or workstation workloads.
For AMD, look for a kit with an EXPO profile where appropriate; for Intel, an XMP kit may be the relevant profile. Neither profile guarantees the advertised speed on every processor. Check the board QVL, the CPU’s memory specifications, BIOS support, and the cooler or case’s clearance around the DIMM area.
3. Count M.2 slots, then read the lane diagram
Do not compare boards by M.2 count alone. Ask four questions:
- How many slots are present, and what PCIe generation does each support?
- Is the slot connected to the CPU or chipset?
- Does installing a second drive reduce graphics-slot lanes or disable another connector?
- Can the heatsinks and drives physically be installed with your GPU, cooler, and case panel?
The ASUS Z890-I provides a clear example of why this matters: its second PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot changes the graphics configuration to x8. The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA uses one CPU-connected PCIe 5.0 slot and one rear PCIe 4.0 slot. MSI’s Z890I offers four M.2 slots, but the manual is still necessary to understand their actual lane and clearance limitations.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchFor most gaming builds, a PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD is a sensible storage choice even when the motherboard supports PCIe 5.0. Choose a PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD when your sustained-transfer workload can use the added interface capability and your case has adequate airflow around the drive. A PCIe 5.0 slot is useful future flexibility, not proof that a PCIe 5.0 drive is required.
4. Pay for networking only when the rest of the network supports it
Several boards provide 5Gb Ethernet: MSI’s X870I, MSI’s B850I, MSI’s Z890I, and ASRock’s Z890I. Others provide 2.5Gb Ethernet. The faster onboard controller helps only when the switch or router, remote endpoint or server, cabling, and workload can use that link speed.
For a normal internet connection, the motherboard’s Ethernet rating may have little effect. For local backups, a home server, large media projects, or a workstation moving files to a fast NAS, 5Gb can be a meaningful selection criterion. Wi-Fi 7 is similarly dependent on the access point, client device, environment, and network plan; its presence is not a guarantee of a particular wireless speed.
Rank #3
- Supports 3rd Gen AMD AM4 Ryzen / Future AMD Ryzen Processors (3000 and 4000 Series Processors)
- Supports DDR4 4733+ (OC)
- 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16
- Graphics Output: DisplayPort, HDMI
- 7.1 CH HD Audio (Realtek ALC887 Audio Codec)
5. Compare the physical rear I/O, not just the interface names
USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 can be valuable for docks, high-speed external storage, displays, and peripherals, but count the actual connectors and check their documented functions. The ASUS X870-I has two rear USB4 40Gbps Type-C ports; the MSI X870I lists two rear 40Gbps USB Type-C ports plus multiple 10Gbps ports; the ASUS and MSI Z890I boards list two rear Thunderbolt 4 ports.
Connector capabilities are not automatically identical. ASRock specifically qualifies Thunderbolt display output on the Z890I Nova according to whether the processor provides integrated graphics. Check display support, charging, USB data speeds, and alternate modes if a dock is central to your build.
6. Treat firmware recovery as a compact-build feature
BIOS recovery is more valuable when the board is buried under a cooler, radiator, riser cable, or power supply. The ASUS ROG Strix B850-I explicitly lists BIOS FlashBack, giving it a useful troubleshooting advantage for a first-time or frequently upgraded build. On any other board, verify the exact firmware-recovery feature in the current manual rather than assuming that every Mini-ITX board supports the same process.
Before assembly, download the latest manual and firmware instructions, confirm the supported CPU revision, and understand whether recovery requires a particular rear USB port, file name, or power state. This is easier to plan before the board is installed than after a failed boot in a tightly packed case.
7. Verify the whole compact-build clearance chain
Mini-ITX only describes the motherboard footprint. Before ordering, match the board against the exact Mini-ITX case, graphics card, power supply, cooler, radiator, and riser cable you intend to use. Confirm:
- Case support for a 17 cm by 17 cm Mini-ITX board.
- CPU-cooler height and, if applicable, radiator thickness and fan clearance.
- Graphics-card length, height, thickness, power-connector position, and riser-cable requirements.
- Whether the case accepts an SFX power supply or SFX-L power supply, and how much room remains for cables.
- M.2 heatsink height and whether a stacked drive conflicts with the GPU, side panel, or cooler.
- Access to the board’s EPS, ATX, front-panel, USB, antenna, and fan headers after installation.
- Whether SATA or accessory cards such as the ROG FPS Card have a mounting or cable path in the case.
A low-profile CPU cooler or another compact Mini-ITX CPU cooler may be necessary, but cooler compatibility must be checked against the CPU’s heat output and the case’s ventilation. The motherboard’s VRM feature list cannot compensate for a cooler or enclosure that cannot dissipate the system’s heat.
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| Your priority | Start with | Why | Double-check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium AMD USB4 and PCIe 5.0 features | ASUS ROG Strix X870-I Gaming WiFi | Two rear USB4 ports, Wi-Fi 7, two M.2 slots, and the ROG FPS Card | Ryzen-generation-dependent behavior and SATA-card fit |
| AMD 5Gb networking | MSI MPG X870I Edge TI EVO WiFi | 5Gb Ethernet, two 40Gbps USB Type-C ports, and Wi-Fi 7 | Whether your network can exploit 5Gb |
| AM5 with two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots | ASUS ROG Strix B850-I Gaming WiFi | Current Ryzen support, PCIe 5.0 storage and graphics, Wi-Fi 7, and BIOS FlashBack | CPU support list, BIOS revision, and DDR5 QVL |
| Intel with Thunderbolt 4 and two Gen5 M.2 slots | ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I Gaming WiFi | Premium I/O and two PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 slots | Second M.2 slot changes graphics to x8 |
| Intel maximum onboard M.2 count | MSI MPG Z890I Edge TI WiFi | Four M.2 slots, 5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, and two Thunderbolt 4 ports | Lane sharing, heatsinks, and stacked-drive clearances |
| Intel 5Gb networking and Thunderbolt 4 | ASRock Z890I Nova WiFi | 5Gb Ethernet, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI 2.1, and Wi-Fi 7 | Integrated-graphics requirement for Thunderbolt display output |
| Intel with a straightforward dual-drive plan | Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA | One CPU-connected Gen5 M.2, one rear Gen4 M.2, two SATA, and Thunderbolt 4 | It has 2.5Gb rather than 5Gb Ethernet and is not a four-M.2 design |
The MSI MPG B850I Edge TI WiFi is the other AMD board to investigate when 5Gb Ethernet matters but the X870I feature set is unnecessary. Its two M.2 slots, two SATA ports, Wi-Fi 7, and listed 128GB DDR5 capacity make it a practical alternative, subject to the processor-specific PCIe checks described above.
Compact gaming-PC parts checklist
A motherboard is only one part of a Mini-ITX decision. Before placing an order, put the complete parts list next to the case manual:
- Motherboard: Match the socket, chipset, CPU support, BIOS revision, M.2 layout, rear I/O, and case mounting.
- CPU and cooler: Confirm socket support, cooler height, radiator clearance, fan placement, and airflow direction.
- Memory: Use two matched DDR5 modules and check the QVL and physical clearance.
- Storage: Decide which drive uses the primary M.2 slot, then verify lane sharing, heatsinks, and access to any SATA ports.
- Graphics card: Check length, thickness, power connectors, riser orientation, and the case’s supported PCIe generation.
- Power supply: Confirm SFX or SFX-L compatibility, total system power, connector length, and cable bend space.
- Firmware and assembly: Download the manual first, identify the BIOS-recovery method, and install difficult-to-reach cables before the board is enclosed.
Prices, retailer stock, and exact bundle contents can change. Verify the current listing for the exact model and region, then compare it with the manufacturer’s specification page and manual before purchase.
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Does choosing a Mini-ITX motherboard reduce gaming performance?
Is Mini-ITX slower than ATX?
Does choosing a Mini-ITX motherboard reduce gaming performance?
Not inherently. Mini-ITX describes the board’s physical size, not a fixed performance level. Performance and sustained temperatures depend on the CPU, graphics card, power delivery, cooler, case airflow, and firmware. The compact format does create tighter clearance and expansion constraints, so those parts need more careful planning than in a typical ATX build.
Do the X870-I and B850-I boards support Ryzen 9000 processors?
Do all of these AMD boards support Ryzen 9000?
Do the X870-I and B850-I boards support Ryzen 9000 processors?
The ASUS and MSI X870-I and B850-I models in this roundup are listed for Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 processors. Confirm the exact CPU-support list and BIOS revision before buying. Support can depend on the processor generation and the firmware installed on the board.
Should a gaming PC use a PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD because the motherboard supports it?
Do I need a PCIe 5.0 SSD for gaming?
Should a gaming PC use a PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD because the motherboard supports it?
No. A PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD is often the more practical choice for a gaming build. PCIe 5.0 storage is useful when your workload can benefit from the additional interface capability, but motherboard support alone does not make a PCIe 5.0 drive necessary.
Does the second M.2 slot on the ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I affect the graphics card?
Can I use both M.2 slots on the ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I?
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Does the second M.2 slot on the ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I affect the graphics card?
Yes, but ASUS specifies a trade-off: occupying the second M.2 slot changes the graphics-slot configuration to x8. Read the current manual and confirm that this lane arrangement suits your graphics card and storage plan before installing both drives.
The Bottom Line
There is no universal best Mini-ITX motherboard. Choose the AMD or Intel socket first, then select the board whose M.2 lanes, networking, rear I/O, firmware recovery, and physical layout match the rest of the compact PC. For premium AMD connectivity start with the ASUS ROG Strix X870-I; for AMD 5Gb networking consider MSI’s MPG X870I; for Intel storage start with MSI’s MPG Z890I; and for Intel Thunderbolt 4 with two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, consider ASUS’s ROG Strix Z890-I while accounting for its x8 graphics trade-off.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
