Micro Form Factor vs. Small Form Factor vs. Ultra Small Form Factor Desktops

Buying a new computer presents you with seemingly endless options. You need to pick a manufacturer, make sure it has all the right specs, and decide if you want a new or refurbished computer. 

Well, there’s one more decision you need to consider before making your purchase: form factor. 

The form factor of your future computer dictates the shape and size of the machine as well as the hardware put to use within it. For example, a graphics card intended for a standard desktop likely won’t work in an ultra small desktop. Different form factors require unique hardware components, for the most part. This impacts their usability, making picking the right form factor crucial. 

Picking the right form factor depends partially on how you’ll use the computer and partially on size preference. Yet, exploring the different non-standard form factors can be confusing, as many manufacturers use these terms interchangeably or have their own marketable terms.

It’s time to hone in on the true definition of each form factor and discuss the pros and cons of each. Read on to discover which of these smaller form factors might be right for you.

What’s the Real Difference Between the Form Factors?

Generally speaking, a microtower PC is larger than small form factors (SFFs) and ultra-small form factors (USFFs). A microtower is designed to stand upright similar to a standard desktop. Conversely, SFFs and USFFs are designed to lay flat, similar to a gaming console. Some USFFs can even be mounted to the back of a monitor due to their flat design. 

You may discover that the differences vary between manufacturers. The important thing to focus on is the overall size of the computer you’re considering along with its hardware specifications. Will it suit your needs?

Microtower Pros and Cons

A micro desktop is designed to have similar specs as a full-size desktop but in a smaller case. Many standard components will fit in a microtower and allow this form factor to be nearly as usable as a desktop computer. This form factor has actually become increasingly popular with PC builders as it can be just as powerful but in a smaller package.

Pros:

• Lighter than standard desktops, but not as light as SFF or USFF
• Aesthetically pleasing as it departs from the standard desktop shape
• Doesn’t sacrifice specs to be smaller, depending on the exact unit

Cons:

• Generates more heat due to less space for cooling systems
• Limited expansion slots with most non-standard motherboards
• Can be difficult to upgrade, both with finding the right parts and performing the actual upgrades 

Small Form Factor (SFF) Pros and Cons

Desktops advertising a small form factor (SFF) typically lay flat and are significantly smaller than micro towers or standard desktops. They’re still perfectly fine computers that can handle average computer use, which is why they’ve become common in corporate settings. 

Pros:

• Lighter than other form factors, other than USFF
• Decreased power consumption
• Highly portable, SFF desktops can travel with you (provided you have a monitor, mouse, and keyboard)

Cons:

• Limited expansion and upgrade capabilities, if any
• Potential heat generation issues, but most manufacturers have designed their PCs with this in mind
• Limited usability and likely won’t handle most games or video editing projects

It’s worth noting that “SFF” is sometimes used to mean “Slim Form Factor.” Pay attention to how the acronym is used as a slim desktop is different from a small form factor desktop. 

Ultra Small Form Factor (USFF) Pros and Cons

Sometimes called a mini desktop, USFF desktops are the smallest cousin in the form factor family. The small package can still handle most standard usage needs and is famous for its portability and mountability. 

Pros:

• Can be mounted to the back of a monitor to effectively create an all-in-one PC
• Extremely portable, provided you bring the peripherals
• Low power consumption

Cons:

• Usage limitations, typically USFF computers struggle with anything beyond basic usage
• Typically no expansion options and repairs can be difficult
• Often more expensive than other options that pack the same punch

Which Form Factor is Right for You?

Do you need a hardcore gaming machine or video editing powerhouse? A microtower may be the best choice. Do you want to create a media center? You may want an SSF PC. Or do you just need something to handle normal computer usage? Explore the world of USFFs.