As a tech enthusiast and PC builder for over a decade, I’ve watched the evolution of motherboard form factors with keen interest. Let me tell you something about PC building in 2025 – size matters, but not in the way you might think.
I remember when ATX motherboards were the only serious choice for high-performance builds. But over the past few years, I’ve witnessed a fascinating shift. Mini-ITX boards have captured my attention, and for good reason.
Why I Love Mini-ITX Boards for NAS?
I’ve built dozens of systems, but Mini-ITX builds hold a special place in my heart. Despite measuring just 6.7 × 6.7 inches, I’ve seen these tiny boards transform from basic computing solutions into powerhouse platforms. In my testing, they’ve handled everything from efficient NAS systems to demanding gaming rigs with impressive capability.
What I Consider Before Recommending a Mini-ITX Board
From my hands-on experience, here are the crucial factors:
Socket Compatibility
Trust me on this one – your CPU choice sets the foundation. I’ve worked extensively with both platforms: Intel’s latest 12th and 13th gen processors need an LGA 1700 socket, while AMD’s newest chips require AM5. I always advise my readers to decide their CPU platform first, as it shapes the entire build
The Trade-offs I’ve Found
After building numerous Mini-ITX systems, I’ve learned to work with these limitations:
- Two RAM slots (though I love that many now support high-speed DDR5)
- Single PCIe x16 slot for graphics
- Limited M.2 and SATA storage options
- Compact cooling solutions
But here’s what excites me – modern Mini-ITX boards support:
- Flagship processors like Intel Core i9 and AMD Ryzen 9
- Top-tier GPUs that I’ve pushed to their limits
- Advanced cooling solutions (I’ve built some impressive liquid-cooled systems)
- Lightning-fast networking with 2.5GbE and WiFi 6E
Through my builds, I’ve learned Mini-ITX isn’t about compromise – it’s about smart optimization. I’ve successfully used them for:
- Space-efficient NAS builds
- Compact gaming rigs that travel well
- Powerful workstations
- Sleek home theater PCs
Last but not least, you might be considering NAS motherboard CPU combo like this N5105 NAS Motherboard + CPU . But let me warn you, these come with zero documentation, and very limited drive compatibility, and it will be a costly Chinese adventure. So stay away, please.
Let me share my top Mini-ITX motherboard picks for 2025, ones that I’ve personally tested and can vouch for. These boards prove you don’t need a massive case to pack serious performance.
Our Top MINI-ITX NAS Motherboard Recommendation For DIY NAS Builds (2025)
Let’s start with the greatest mini-ITX motherboards to consider while creating a computer in 2025. However, many mini-ITX motherboards may be used with a liquid cooling system and a high-end graphics card without trouble. Here is the list of best mini-ITX motherboards to buy in 2025.
Asus ROG Strix Z790
Making your tiny PC requires carefully considering what kind of motherboard you need. Limited connection puts a Mini-ITX motherboard at a competitive disadvantage compared to larger boards. Asus made a valiant effort to stuff as much as possible onto this PCB.
| Memory Slots | 2 |
| Memory Type | DDR5-7600 |
| Form Factor | Mini-ITX |
| Chipset | Intel Z790 |
| Socket | LGA 1700 |
| Power Phases | 10+1 |
| Storage | 1x PCIe 5.0 M.2, 1x PCIe 4.0 M.2, 2x SATA |
| Audio | Realtek ALC4050 |
| Networking | 2.5 GbE, Wi-Fi 6E |
| Internal I/O | 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2, 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 |
| Rear I/O | 2x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2, 3x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 2x USB-A 2.0 |
Pros:
- Strong dependability
- Strong connection
- Two slots for PCIe M.2
Cons:
- Limited ability to overclock
- Two DIMM spaces.
- Pricier
Excellent motherboards from Asus are highly recommended, particularly if you intend to use Intel 12th or 13th Gen Core family CPUs. The Asus ROG Strix Z790-I Gaming WiFi is the brand’s newest high-end small motherboard, and we’ve long been admirers of the ROG Strix I line of Mini-ITX motherboards. The specifications list has some remarkable numbers, such as compatibility for up to 96GB of DDR5-7600 RAM, which should provide excellent performance when paired with the greatest CPU that fits within your budget.
ASUS ROG Strix X670E-I
Our preferred small-sized board for AMD systems everything you need for a potent PC that fits into a smaller form factor chassis is included with this tiny ITX ASUS ROG Strix X670E motherboard.
| Brand | Asus |
| Memory Slot | 2 |
| Memory Type | DDR5-6400 |
| Form Factor | Mini-ITX |
| Chipset | AMD X670 |
| Socket | AM5 |
| Power Phases | 10+2 |
| PCI Slots | 1x PCIe 5.0 x16 |
| Networking | Intel 2.5Gb, Wi-Fi 6E |
| Audio | ALC4050 |
| Internal I/O | 1x USB 3.2-C Gen 2, 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 |
| Rear I/O | 2x USB-C 4.0, 5x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 3x USB-A 2.0 |
| Storage | 2x SATA, 1x PCIe 5.0 M.2, 1x PCIe 4.0 M.2 |
Pros:
- Strong connection
- M.2 slots two
- AMD Ryzen 9 CPU support
Cons:
- Pricier
- Two DIMM spaces.
- Limited support for overclocking
The AMD equivalent of the top-rated Intel Mini-ITX motherboard is the Asus ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WIFI. It features two DIMM slots for DDR5 RAM and the same M.2 configuration, however, the AMD platform can only handle speeds of up to 6400MT/s. A similar connection, including USB-C 4.0, Wi-Fi 6E, and 2.5GbE networking, is also available. The ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WIFI has similar drawbacks, like being too expensive for some people and having only two DIMM slots, which may feel like a limitation.
Gigabyte Aorus Ultra B650I
For PCs using mid-range Ryzen 7000 CPUs, the Gigabyte B650I Aorus Ultra AM5 mini-ITX motherboard is perfect. It has an 8+2+1 stage VRM and a PCIe 5.0 slot for NVMe SSDs.
Following are Gigabyte mini-itx nas motherboard specs for B650I
| Memory Slots | 2 |
| Memory Type | DDR5-6400 |
| Form Factor | Mini-ITX |
| Chipset | AMD B650 |
| Socket | AM5 |
| Power Phases | 8+2+1 |
| PCI Slots | 1 |
| Storage | 1x PCIe 5.0 M.2, 1x PCIe 4.0 M.2, 4x SATA |
| Audio | Realtek ALC4080 |
| Networking | 2.5 GbE, Wi-Fi 6E |
| Internal I/O | 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2, 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB 2.0 |
| Rear I/O | 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 2x USB-A 2.0 |
Pros:
- A less expensive Mini-ITX choice
- High-speed DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0 SSD connection
Cons:
- One PCIe 4.0 x16 slot
- Limited capacity for overclocking
One outstanding AMD motherboard for AM5 processors at a great price is the Gigabyte B650I Aorus Ultra. Up to an AMD Ryzen 9 7950X, the board’s 8+2+1 phase power delivery design provides more than enough power. For all of your storage needs, a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot is joined by a PCIe 4.0 slot. Gigabyte has included not two but four SATA ports in case you need more than two disks.
Since this is a less expensive motherboard, PCIe 4.0 is still sufficient to run the newest games, but there won’t be a PCIe 5.0 slot for the GPU. The Gigabyte Mini-ITX AM5 motherboard isn’t the best at overclocking, just like other ITX motherboards, and it becomes rather constrictive when expansion cards and other parts are added to the PC setup. It is our top choice for an AMD system that is affordable.
Gigabyte mini-itx nas motherboard price is $229 on Amazon.
Gigabyte Aorus Pro B760I
A more reasonably priced Mini-ITX motherboard that supports Intel 12th and 13th generation processors is the Gigabyte B760I Aorus Pro. You may access DDR5 RAM, PCIe 4.0 M.2 storage, 2.5GbE networking, Wi-Fi connection, and many USB ports.
| Brand | Asus |
| Memory Slots | 2 |
| Memory Type | DDR5-8000 |
| Form Factor | Mini-ITX |
| Chipset | Intel B760 |
| Socket | LGA 1700 |
| Power Phases | 8+1+1 |
| PCI Slots | 1 |
| Storage | 2x PCIe 4.0 M.2, 2x SATA |
| Networking | 2.5 GbE, Wi-Fi 6E |
| Internal I/O | 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB 2.0 |
| Rear I/O | 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 4x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 2x USB-A 2.0 |
Pros:
- Supports DDR5-8000 Memory
- A less expensive Mini-ITX choice
- Strong connection
Cons:
- One PCIe 4.0 x16 slot
- Limited capacity for overclocking
- Just one M.2 PCIe 4.0 slot
Since not everyone needs (or can utilize) a $400 motherboard, our more reasonably priced choice for Intel processors is the Gigabyte B760I Aorus Pro. Although the full-size x16 PCI slot and M.2 storage have been skimped on, the company still has the ability to create an amazing tiny PC setup. There’s plenty of connectivity on the back I/O panel, including full support for DDR5-8000 RAM—a significant step up from our best Asus choice.
Wireless Gaming Edge MSI MPG B560I
An excellent motherboard that fully supports Intel 10th and 11th generation processors is the MSI MPG B560I Gaming Edge Wi-Fi. This would be a good approach to save money if you didn’t want to employ the most recent Intel technology.
| Brand | MSI |
| Memory Slots | 2 |
| Memory Type | DDR4-5200 |
| Form Factor | Mini-ITX |
| CPU Support | Intel 10th and 11th Gen |
| Chipset | Intel B560 |
| Socket | LGA 1200 |
| Power Phases | 6+2+1 |
| PCI Slots | 1 |
| Storage | 1x PCIe 4.0 M.2, 1x PCIe 3.0 M.2, 4x SATA |
| Audio | Realtek ALC897 |
| Networking | 2.5 GbE, Wi-Fi 6E |
| Internal I/O | 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB-A 2.0 |
| Rear I/O | 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 4x USB-A 2.0 |
Pros:
- Reasonable
- Strong connection
Cons:
- No support for PCIe 5.0 or DDR5.
- compatible only with older CPUs
Reverting to the earlier processor generation can result in even greater cost savings than reducing functionality on a motherboard made in the current generation. With its LGA 1200 socket and Intel B560 chipset, the MSI MPG B560I Gaming Edge WiFi makes it possible. With complete support for DDR4 and PCIe 4.0, this motherboard is ideal for a PC setup with an Intel 10th or 11th Gen processor.
A top-tier motherboard needs to handle higher frequency RAM and include Thunderbolt 3 USB and PCIe 4.0 connectors, as well as an M.2 slot for an SSD update. Thus, your top priority should be to get the best mini-ITX motherboard that supports Thunderbolt. In essence, mini-ITX form factors were created to provide users with laptop-like portability without requiring them to purchase a smaller device. A motherboard repair or purchase should never be viewed as a straightforward process.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
These, in my opinion, are the best cases you can use after evaluating a ton of other ones. In general, NAS cases are distinct since the requirements of each user vary based on the size of the RAID array that will be utilized. For most people, figuring out how many total hard disks you’ll need first is the obvious requirement.
This is often accomplished by first figuring out how much storage you’ll need, then going back to choose the kind of RAID you want to employ, and then deciding how many hard drives and in what size are required to get there. Once you are aware of the storage needs, you will be able to stand back and select a case. Any of the aforementioned solutions will work well for you; the ideal choice will depend on your needs.
We appreciate you reading the article, and we would welcome your comments!
