What is the difference between micro ATX and mid-tower? They are undoubtedly different in size. There are many more differences, including graphics cards, expansion slots, drive storage, and more.
The most famous form factor and ATX size, mid-tower cases, keep an excellent balance between space and price.
On the other hand, as more and more people are diverting to more minor cases, micro ATX have been slowly substituting mid towers- the most famous case size for general customers.
In this in-depth article, we are going to discuss the differences between micro tax vs mid tower
Micro ATX Vs Mid Tower
In the below guide, you will find a detailed differentiation of every aspect between these two famous computer cases.
Micro ATX and Mid-Tower Have Both Size Differences
Size is the crucial aspect to consider while looking for a case. This is true whether you plan on upgrading your computer in the near future or not, and whether you intend on adding extra components to your case or not.
Because of this importance, it’s worth comparing micro ATX cases with mid-tower cases. Micro ATX cases will provide you with a more compact option, while mid-tower cases will offer more room to work with and expand.
Generally, micro ATX cases are 14-16 inches tall. These cases are solely appropriate for micro ATX motherboards and are intended for individuals who have space restrictions in their room or workplace.
Micro ATX cases are also lighter compared to mid-tower cases. They have enough space to accommodate 2-5 case fans. Micro ATX cases are more compact than Mid-tower cases.
Mid-tower cases are generally 17-21 inches tall. They are relatively larger than micro ATX cases and nowadays ever-shrinking customer computers.
However, mid-tower cases are comparatively more minor compared to total tower cases. Mid-tower cases are also heavier than micro ATX cases. They accommodate 3-9 case fans more than micro ATX cases.
The Micro-ATX and Mid Tower have the exact dimensions with an overall size of 305 x 210 x 440 mm (WxHxD). The micro ATX is almost similar to the mini-ITX and the mini TFX sizing. A micro-ATX motherboard will fit in a Mid Tower case.
A mid-tower chassis can also be converted into a micro ATX or mini ITX form factor by removing or changing the motherboard tray.
Graphics Cards: Micro-ATX Or Mid Tower?
Micro ATX cases generally adopt 1-2 graphics cards. They are mainly low-profile and budget graphics cards. Due to space restrictions, you can’t put a full-sized graphics card in a micro ATX case. Also, the airflow in micro ATX cases isn’t good, and there might be a rise in the temperature of the components if you use your computer for an extensive period.
Maximum medium to high-end graphics cards adopt two expansion slots each and may lengthen till 31 centimeters lengthy. Leading mid-tower cases can support two such graphics cards, filling sufficient gaming muscle for a minimum of 95 percent of gamers out there. A few gaming mid-tower cases can even adopt up to three graphics cards.
However, an entire tower case for a triple GPU setup is recommended. Also, it isn’t only about stuffing large graphics cards into a computer case. Graphic cards are the warmest components in a computer, striking temperatures till 90 degrees Celsius under load.
Toss in a 60-70 degrees Celsius CPU, and you can end up with something capable of boiling eggs. A mid-tower case’s big inner part lets for better airflow. In addition, it provides you with additional space for extra case fans and more oversized heat sinks.
Both Has Expansion Slots Differences
Expansion slots are generally used for expansion cards like graphics cards, sound cards, network, and connector cards. Medium to high-end graphics cards frequently adopt 2 expansion slots.
Micro ATX cases are just a cut-down version of mid-tower cases. The mounting holes are in a similar place, and it is only cut down to have fewer expansion slots. Micro ATX cases generally have 4 expansion slots, enough space to fit your GPU.
Maximum mid-tower cases will allow for 5-8 expansion slots, and a few might even allow you to install your GPU vertically. If you are not using your every expansion slot or more than one hard drive, then mid-tower cases may be a little excessive for your requirements.
Micro ATX cases are more petite than mid-tower cases but provide limited expansion slots. On the other hand, Mid Tower cases are more prominent and provide multiple expansion slots.
Take note of this fact when you want to build a computer system. If you need many expansion slots, you should buy a mid-tower case. However, if you’re going to save more space on your desktop, you should choose a micro atx case with only two expansion slots.
Which Has More Drive Storage: Micro-ATX Or Mid Tower?
Micro ATX cases have lesser drive storage compared to mid-tower cases. They generally offer four 2.5 inches drive bays, four to six 3.5 inches drive bays, and one to two 5.25 inches drive bays.
On the other hand, mid-tower cases generally offer up to ten 2.5 inches drive bays, six to eight 3.5 inches drive bays, and two to five 5.25 inches drive bays.
It is more than sufficient for having several HDDs, several SSDs, or even both in a single computer. It should be more than sufficient space for the perfect internal storage setup for customers and gamers.
It’s the little things making the most significant difference, which is what makes micro ATX and mid-tower cases so popular. When you’re looking for a case to build your PC, there are tons of options out there.
For instance, mid-tower cases’ main pro is the storage room they have. It’s really easy to cram parts into a mid-tower case because there’s so much room for expansion.
Price: Let’s Know Which Is More reasonable
The price of micro ATX cases is costly compared to mid-tower cases. This is because of their rarity among PC builders. Micro ATX cases are more minor in size, and Mid-tower cases are more considerable. But, the prices of these two cases are almost similar. These are two different computer cases, yet they are priced nearly the same. Then why is it so?
The price of a micro ATX case ranges from $40 to $80, depending on the brand and features of these cases. The cost of a Mid-tower case ranges from $40 to $200, depending on the brand and features of these cases. The mid-tower cases are reasonably priced, making them the best option for an ordinary consumer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is micro-ATX and Mid tower the same?
No, micro ATX cases and mid-tower cases are not the same. However, maximum micro ATX cases can be considered mid-tower cases too but are generally smaller than mid-tower cases. Mid-tower cases fit standard ATX motherboards, which is the most familiar motherboard size in the market, and it can also accommodate smaller micro ATX motherboards.
Can micro ATX fit in mid-tower?
Yes, a micro ATX motherboard will fit in a mid-tower case. A few mid-tower cases are even built for the size of micro ATX motherboards and smaller motherboards. The mounting holes on a micro ATX motherboard are the same as an ATX motherboard of a mid-tower case, and they only have fewer mounting holes because the board is not as significant.
Is mid tower big enough?
Yes, mid-tower cases are big enough. Mid-tower cases are generally around 19 inches tall. They are sufficiently big to fit a high-end gaming rig in them without any trouble. Mid-tower cases are adequately big for excellent air circulation as well. They are big enough to comfortably build in but not so big as to weigh a lot and take up many places on your desk.
Conclusion
Size does matter, particularly for computer cases. But sometimes, it becomes so confusing while choosing between these two different-sized computer cases. To clear your confusion, we have elaborately discussed the differences between micro atx vs mid tower in this article.
While micro ATX cases are smaller in size and more compact, mid-tower cases have the upper hand in all other aspects. We are hopeful that this article has taught you all the things you must know to choose between micro ATX or mid-tower.
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