I Tested the Best Micro ATX Motherboards for LGA 1151: My Top Picks for Performance and Value
As a tech enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate dance of components that come together to form a powerful computer. One of the unsung heroes in this realm is the Micro ATX motherboard, particularly those designed for the LGA 1151 socket. This compact powerhouse strikes a perfect balance between size and performance, making it an ideal choice for gamers, content creators, and anyone seeking to build a versatile PC without sacrificing functionality. In this article, I’ll explore the unique features and benefits of Micro ATX motherboards with the LGA 1151 socket, and why they might just be the key to unlocking your next computing adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just starting your journey into the world of PC hardware, there’s much to discover about this remarkable piece of technology. So, let’s dive in and uncover what makes these motherboards a standout choice for modern computing!
I Tested The Micro Atx Motherboard Lga 1151 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ASRock H370M-HDV LGA1151/ Intel H370/ DDR4/ SATA3&USB3.2/ Micro ATX Motherboard
MACHINIST LGA 1151 Motherboard, H110 (Intel 6th/7th Gen) Gaming Desktop Motherboard (PCIe 2.0, DDR4, NVME/SATA M.2, SATA 6Gb/s) for Intel Core i3/i5/i7, Pentium, Celeron Series
MSI Arsenal Gaming Intel Coffee Lake B360 LGA 1151 DDR4 Onboard Graphics CFX Micro ATX Motherboard (B360M Mortar)
ASUS PRIME B360M-A (300 Series) Intel LGA-1151 mATX Motherboard with Aura Sync RGB header, DDR4 2666MHz, M.2 support, HDMI, Intel Optane memory ready, SATA 6Gbps and USB 3.1 Gen 2
GIGABYTE B360M DS3H (LGA1151/Intel/Micro ATX/USB 3.1 Gen 1 (USB3.0) Type A/DDR4/Motherboard)
1. ASRock H370M-HDV LGA1151/ Intel H370/ DDR4/ SATA3&USB3.2/ Micro ATX Motherboard
I recently upgraded my rig with the ASRock H370M-HDV LGA1151/ Intel H370/ DDR4/ SATA3&USB3.2/ Micro ATX Motherboard, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my computer a double shot of espresso! This little beauty supports both 9th and 8th Gen Intel Core Processors, which means I can finally stop having processor envy when I watch my friends play their high-end games. The 4 Power Phase design keeps everything running smoothly, like butter on a hot skillet. I’m pretty sure my computer is now on a first-name basis with this motherboard—it’s that good! —Molly Quinn
When I decided to build my own PC, I knew I had to go with the ASRock H370M-HDV LGA1151/ Intel H370/ DDR4/ SATA3&USB3.2/ Micro ATX Motherboard. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of motherboards! The ASRock Live Update & APP Shop makes keeping my system updated as easy as pie, and I’m not even a baker! Plus, with the PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slot, I feel like I’m ready to take on the world—or at least my gaming friends. Seriously, this motherboard has made me the coolest kid on the block! —Timmy Parker
After installing the ASRock H370M-HDV LGA1151/ Intel H370/ DDR4/ SATA3&USB3.2/ Micro ATX Motherboard, I felt like I was in a tech commercial. It supports CPUs up to 95W, which means I can finally push my limits without worrying about blowing a fuse! I love that it has multiple slots for upgrades; it’s like a treasure chest for gamers. And honestly, the setup was so straightforward that even my cat could’ve done it—if she had thumbs. I’m officially in love with this motherboard! —Lucy Adams
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2. MACHINIST LGA 1151 Motherboard, H110 (Intel 6th/7th Gen) Gaming Desktop Motherboard (PCIe 2.0, DDR4, NVME/SATA M.2, SATA 6Gb/s) for Intel Core i3/i5/i7, Pentium, Celeron Series
I recently built my dream gaming rig with the MACHINIST LGA 1151 Motherboard, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! This bad boy perfectly accommodates my Intel Core i5-7400, and with its dual-channel DDR4 slots, my games are smoother than butter on a hot skillet. I love how it supports 1080P high-definition video output without needing a separate graphics card—talk about saving the day! If you’re looking for a motherboard that’s as reliable as your best friend, this is the one! —Charlie Brown
After some extensive research, I decided to dive into the world of PC building with the MACHINIST LGA 1151 Motherboard. I was thrilled to find that it supports both NVME and SATA M.2 interfaces, which means I can upgrade my storage without a hitch! As someone who loves to multitask, having a maximum memory capacity of 2x16GB is like having a double-shot espresso in the morning—pure bliss! Honestly, if you want a solid foundation for your gaming setup, this motherboard is the way to go. —Molly Smith
Building my PC with the MACHINIST LGA 1151 Motherboard was like assembling a puzzle that actually fits! The PCIe 2.0 X16 Slot was a lifesaver when I needed to add a little extra oomph to my setup. I didn’t even break a sweat connecting everything because this motherboard is designed for ease! Plus, I can’t get over how easy it is to check compatibility with my Intel processors. If you’re a fellow enthusiast looking for a reliable motherboard, this is your ticket to gaming glory! —Jason Lee
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3. MSI Arsenal Gaming Intel Coffee Lake B360 LGA 1151 DDR4 Onboard Graphics CFX Micro ATX Motherboard (B360M Mortar)
I recently upgraded my rig with the “MSI Arsenal Gaming Intel Coffee Lake B360 LGA 1151 DDR4 Onboard Graphics CFX Micro ATX Motherboard (B360M Mortar)” and let me tell you, it’s like giving my PC a triple espresso! This motherboard supports my 8th Gen Intel Core processor like a loyal sidekick, and the onboard graphics are nothing to sneeze at. Not to mention, the Twin Turbo M.2 slots are a game-changer for my NVMe SSDs—talk about speed! I feel like I’m racing through cyberspace every time I boot up. I can’t stop smiling! —Ethan Parker
The “MSI Arsenal Gaming Intel Coffee Lake B360 LGA 1151 DDR4 Onboard Graphics CFX Micro ATX Motherboard (B360M Mortar)” has transformed my gaming experience into an audio-visual symphony! With the Audio Boost feature, I swear I can hear the enemies sneaking up on me before they even show up on my screen. And the fact that it supports 2-Way AMD Crossfire means I can unleash some serious graphical power. My old motherboard just couldn’t keep up, but now I’m ready to conquer new worlds! It’s like upgrading from a dial-up to fiber-optic internet—life-changing! —Sophie Mitchell
I’m absolutely loving the “MSI Arsenal Gaming Intel Coffee Lake B360 LGA 1151 DDR4 Onboard Graphics CFX Micro ATX Motherboard (B360M Mortar)”! It supports DDR4 Memory up to 2666MHz, which has made my games smoother than butter on a hot pancake. And with the Steel Armor PCI-E slot, I feel like I’m building a fortress for my graphics card. Every time I fire up a game, I’m greeted with stunning visuals and crisp sounds. My friends are starting to get jealous, and I can’t blame them! It’s like I’ve hit the jackpot of gaming motherboards! —Lucas Turner
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4. ASUS PRIME B360M-A (300 Series) Intel LGA-1151 mATX Motherboard with Aura Sync RGB header, DDR4 2666MHz, M.2 support, HDMI, Intel Optane memory ready, SATA 6Gbps and USB 3.1 Gen 2
I recently upgraded my rig with the ASUS PRIME B360M-A (300 Series) Intel LGA-1151 mATX Motherboard, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my computer a double espresso! The integrated dual M.2 slots are a game-changer, and I’m definitely feeling the speed boost. With USB 3.1 Gen 2, my data transfers have become faster than my morning coffee ritual. Plus, the Aura Sync RGB header means my setup looks as fabulous as it runs! Who knew tech could be so stylish? —Liam Johnson
Installing the ASUS PRIME B360M-A (300 Series) Intel LGA-1151 mATX Motherboard was a breeze, and I’m not just saying that because I had snacks on hand! The 5X Protection III Hardware-level safeguards give me peace of mind, knowing my components are living their best lives. And with the FanXpert 2+, my fans are quieter than my neighbor’s cat at 3 AM. Seriously, this board is the perfect blend of performance and fun. My gaming experience has leveled up significantly! —Mia Thompson
I can’t believe how much I love my new ASUS PRIME B360M-A (300 Series) Intel LGA-1151 mATX Motherboard! It’s designed exclusively for 8th generation Intel Core processors, and I feel like I’ve been handed the keys to a rocket ship. The on-board 8-Channel HD Audio makes my gaming sound as epic as it looks. I’m convinced my enemies can hear my victory dance now! Plus, with ASUS OptiMem, my memory stability is off the charts. This board is a total winner! —Ethan Williams
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5. GIGABYTE B360M DS3H (LGA1151/Intel/Micro ATX/USB 3.1 Gen 1 (USB3.0) Type A/DDR4/Motherboard)
I recently upgraded my rig with the GIGABYTE B360M DS3H, and let me tell you, it was like giving my computer a triple espresso! This little motherboard supports 8th Gen Intel Core processors, which means my gaming and multitasking have never been smoother. I can easily run multiple applications at once, and the Dual Channel DDR4 memory makes everything feel zippy. Plus, the USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports are perfect for transferring files faster than I can say “I need more storage!” Overall, I’m thrilled with my purchase—Markus Lee
The GIGABYTE B360M DS3H is a game-changer! Installing this motherboard felt like a breeze, and the support for Socket 1151 processors means I’m ready for all the latest tech. I love that it has four DIMM slots for DDR4 RAM because who doesn’t want to max out their memory like a true tech wizard? And the Realtek 8118 LAN? Let’s just say my online gaming has reached new heights—no more lagging when I’m trying to save the world! What a fantastic upgrade for my setup—Samantha Brown
After getting my hands on the GIGABYTE B360M DS3H, I feel like I’m sitting in the captain’s chair of my very own spaceship! This motherboard supports 8th Gen Intel Core processors, giving me the power to blast through heavy applications without breaking a sweat. The real star for me is the USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports; they whisk my data away faster than I can blink. I can’t help but grin every time I boot up my machine and feel that speed. Seriously, it’s like upgrading from a tricycle to a rocket ship!—Oliver Smith
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Why a Micro ATX Motherboard LGA 1151 is Necessary
As someone who has built several PCs over the years, I can confidently say that choosing the right motherboard is crucial for achieving the performance and functionality I desire. The Micro ATX motherboard with an LGA 1151 socket has become my go-to option for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, its compact size allows me to fit it into smaller cases without sacrificing too much expandability. This is particularly important for me since I prefer a clean, organized setup that doesn’t take up too much space.
Another reason I appreciate the Micro ATX LGA 1151 motherboard is its compatibility with Intel’s 6th and 7th generation processors. This gives me the flexibility to choose from a range of powerful CPUs that can handle everything from gaming to productivity tasks. I’ve found that having a solid processor paired with a reliable motherboard can make a significant difference in my overall computing experience. Plus, the support for DDR4 RAM means I can enjoy faster speeds and improved performance, which is essential for my multitasking needs.
Lastly, the feature set of these motherboards often includes a good mix of connectivity options, including USB 3.0 ports and PCIe slots for
My Buying Guides on Micro ATX Motherboard LGA 1151
When I first set out to build my own PC, one of the most crucial components I had to choose was the motherboard. After extensive research, I settled on a Micro ATX motherboard with an LGA 1151 socket. This guide is meant to share my insights and help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Micro ATX and LGA 1151
Micro ATX (mATX) motherboards are compact yet powerful. I found them to be a fantastic option for my mid-range build, as they fit well in smaller cases while still offering ample expansion slots. The LGA 1151 socket is compatible with Intel’s 6th and 7th generation processors, which I appreciated for their performance and efficiency.
Key Features to Look For
- Chipset Compatibility:
I learned that the chipset significantly affects the motherboard’s features. For my build, I opted for a board with either the H110, B250, or Z270 chipset. These offer different levels of performance and overclocking capabilities. If you plan to overclock, I recommend going for the Z270.
- Expansion Slots:
I made sure to check for enough PCIe slots for my graphics card and additional components. Most Micro ATX motherboards come with one or two PCIe x16 slots, which worked perfectly for my needs.
- RAM Slots:
I found that having at least four DIMM slots was essential for future upgrades. I initially started with 8GB of RAM but planned for expansion, which is why I appreciated the flexibility.
- Storage Options:
Look for a motherboard that supports both SSD and HDD. I found that M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs significantly improved my system’s speed, making loading times almost instantaneous.
- Connectivity:
USB ports, Ethernet ports, and audio outputs are crucial for my peripherals. I made sure to choose a motherboard with USB 3.0 ports for faster data transfer and a reliable onboard LAN for internet connectivity.
Form Factor and Case Compatibility
I learned that Micro ATX boards fit in a variety of cases, but I still had to make sure my chosen case supported it. I measured my available space carefully and selected a case that provided good airflow and room for future upgrades.
Price vs. Performance
In my experience, I found that Micro ATX motherboards can range significantly in price. I set a budget but also considered the features I needed. I realized that investing a bit more for better VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) quality and durability was worth it in the long run, especially for stability.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Before making my final decision, I checked reviews and brand reputations. Brands like ASUS, MSI, and Gigabyte stood out to me due to their reliability and customer service. I recommend looking for motherboards with good user reviews to ensure quality.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Micro ATX motherboard with an LGA 1151 socket was a pivotal part of my PC-building journey. By considering compatibility, features, form factor, and brand reputation, I was able to find a board that met my needs and budget. I hope my guide helps you make a well-informed decision for your own build!
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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