When building a PC, one of the most critical components you will install is your motherboard. On a motherboard, there are many electrical connections on the back of the board and the front of the board. Since computer cases are made from metals, there must be space between the motherboard and the case to prevent them from touching each other.
What Are Standoffs on a Motherboard?
Standoffs are small pieces of metal similar to screws. However, instead of a head, a standoff has an anchor where another screw can be inserted. Standoffs are traditionally screwed into a case. Then the motherboard is placed on top of the standoffs and screwed into them. Each motherboard screw requires a standoff. Depending on what form factor motherboard you have (i.e., ATX, mATX, mini-ITX), differing amounts of screws and standoffs, are required.
Do I Need Motherboard Standoffs?
Yes, you do. However, you may not need to install standoffs. Many computer cases come with standoffs built directly onto the case or preinstalled for you. Regardless of whether or not you have built-in, preinstalled, or separately included standoffs, you must make sure your case supports your motherboard’s form factor.
Do Motherboard Standoffs Come With Motherboards?
No! They do not. It’s a common misconception, as standoffs are included with (or built onto) the computer case itself. Motherboards are standardized within form factors, but cases can vary significantly in shape, size, and depth, so screws and standoffs are included to guarantee compatibility. However, there is a lot of standardization when it comes to screws and standoffs in modern computing. Most likely, if you have standoffs from an ATX case, for example, these standoffs will work with any ATX board in any ATX case.
What Happens if You Don’t Use Motherboard Standoffs?
Whether or not you fry your motherboard, CPU, both, or fail to boot, is unknown, but without standoffs, one of these outcomes is all but guaranteed. Simply put: If you install a motherboard without standoffs, you will end up sad. It is best practice to take the time and care to install all screws and standoffs your motherboard supports because entirely securing your motherboard guarantees you won’t ever run the risk of shorting the board.
