Motherboard Standoffs: What They Are and When You Need One GA S REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Computers, Laptops & Tablets > Accessories & Hardware
Motherboard Standoffs: What They Are and When You Need One
Spacing your motherboard from your case is essential
By Ruben Circelli Ruben Circelli Editor University of Massachusetts, Boston Ruben Circelli has been a freelance technology writer and editor since 2014. His work has appeared on dozens of sites, including Komando.com, Twinfinite, and TheGamer. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on August 22, 2021 Reviewed by Jerrick Leger Reviewed by Jerrick Leger Jerrick Leger is a CompTIA-certified IT Specialist with more than 10 years' experience in technical support and IT fields. He is also a systems administrator for an IT firm in Texas serving small businesses. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Accessories & Hardware The Quick Guide to Webcams Keyboards & Mice Monitors Cards HDD & SSD Printers & Scanners Raspberry Pi A standoff is a required metal spacer placed in-between your motherboard and case. 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. Motherboard Chipset: What It Is and What to Look For FAQ How do I install motherboard standoffs? Some motherboards have brass hex standoffs that require a hex driver to install, while others include a clip that snaps into the tray. Place the motherboard over the tray and align the board so that all the standoffs are visible through the mounting holes, then insert the screws/clips to affix the motherboard to the tray starting with the center mounting point. How do I remove motherboard standoffs? Use needle-nose pliers to hold the standoff in place, then unscrew the motherboard screws. You can then remove the motherboard and the standoff. Where do I buy motherboard standoffs? You can purchase standoffs from online retailers like Amazon or Newegg. You might also be able to find them at your local hardware store. Make sure to look for a standoff that is compatible with your case. What is the purpose of installing standoffs and spacers between the motherboard and the case? The standoff serves as a barrier between the motherboard and the metal case. If the metals were to touch, it could cause a short circuit and ruin your computer. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Pick a Motherboard What Are Expansion Slots? How to Unscrew and Reseat Expansion Cards How to Install a Second SSD How to Reseat a Desktop Memory Module How to Install a Graphics Card How to Install a Desktop Power Supply What Motherboard Do I Have? 4 Ways to Find Out Can I Run Windows 11 on My Computer? What is a PSU? What is an ATX Power Supply? How to Reseat Internal Data and Power Cables Latest Windows 10 Drivers (October 21, 2022) How to Replace a Motherboard What Is a POST Code? (Power on Self Test Code) What Is a Video Card? Buyer's Guide to PC Motherboards Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies