Mini-STX
Mini-STX is a computer motherboard form factor that supports upgradable processors. The motherboard size is 147×140 mm, which is between Intel's NUC motherboards and Mini-ITX boards that are popular in small form-factor builds.
ASRock extended it by two inches to add an MXM slot creating Micro-STX.Comparisons with NUC
When compared with NUC, the Mini-STX form factor:
- Has 3/2 the motherboard area of a NUC.
- Has processor sockets, allowing for users to upgrade or replace processors.
- Offers the possibility of dedicated GPUs via MXM.
- May have more I/O options due to the larger space available on the back of the board.
Comparisons with Mini-ITX
When compared with Mini-ITX, the Mini-STX form factor:
- Has a motherboard area 3/4 the size of Mini-ITX.
- Is usually limited to SO-DIMMs, rather than full-size DIMMs.
- Lacks a full-size PCIe expansion slot, limiting users to MXM GPUs or less powerful, integrated GPUs and APUs.
- May have less I/O options due to the reduced space available on the back of the board.
- May use a 2-in-1 SATA+power cable instead of separate SATA and power cables.
