Are Motherboard Screws Universal? Yes/No?

It might have happened to you or anyone you know. You have bought a new motherboard and want to begin building your PC. Suddenly, you find the motherboard screws missing. So, can you use the old motherboard screws on the new motherboard? Are motherboard screws universal? Let us try finding out in detail. 

Are Motherboard Screws Universal?

Most of the motherboards do not come with any mounting accessories. But all the motherboard accessories and screws are universal. You can use them as per your preferences. The number of screws and other standoff parameters is based on the specific motherboard of your choice.If you lose the screws on your motherboard, your local hardware store or a PC shop are able to provide you with replacement screws. 

So, you do not need to panic if that is something that you are worried about. As a tech expert, I have helped my clients find replacement screws rather easily. It may take a little effort on your part, but it should not be a tough choice to help you in terms of the motherboard screws. The motherboard screws are definitely universal. 

Do Motherboards Come With Screws?

The answer is both yes and no. the motherboard comes with the M.2 screws. The screws required to fit the motherboard and other PC components do not come with it. But you can buy the screws when you buy the case. 

The motherboards that come with the motherboard would include the following:

What Size Are Motherboard Screws?

The standard size of the motherboard screws is something generally observed to be  6-32 in US standard and M3x0.5 in metric. Each motherboard comes with a set of screws that would hold the motherboard o the case. However, the size may be dependent on the model of the motherboard.

In the case of the ATX motherboard manufacturers, the standard standoff size would be at least 6.5 mm. The cross-section of the screws is able to fit into a 10 mm by 10 mm area. The size of the screws will be dependent on the size of the threads in the motherboard standoff. 

Are Motherboard Standoffs Universal?

Yes, just like the motherboard screws, the motherboard standoffs used in the PC industry are also universal. They would be compatible with all the motherboards and across different motherboard designs. The number of standoffs would ideally differ based on the motherboards and their form factors. 

Some standoffs and screws are incompatible based on your motherboard model. Pay enough attention to the types of motherboard and their form factor. The motherboard standoffs used in the standard PC cases are universal. It is advisable to use suitable screws for mounting your motherboard. The use of the right standoffs will ensure that there are no cases of shorting or grounding because of the motherboard touching the metal directly. 

Motherboard Screw Layout and Types – Everything You Need to Know About the Motherboard Screw Size

The motherboards come with different layouts of screws. Let us check out a few good options for screw layouts and types. 

M5x10 

These screws are used for holding the fan to the motherboard. It has a flat head and conical shape. They have handled with the help of a Philips no two screwdrivers. The diameter of the screw is 5.5 mm, and the length is 10 mm. They can be a great option for the Computer case screws. 

6-32 

These are the common screws used on the motherboard. These are used for holding the expansion cards onto the motherboard. It can also be used for the power supply and the side panels. The standard stem length for it is usually 6.35mm. 

Thumbscrews 

The Thumbscrews have a larger head and come with a knurled design. These can be tightened and loosened with the fingers. They generally come with a shank about 7.5mm in length. This is used for holding the side panels of the case. 

M3 hexagonal head 

This screw has a pitch of 0.5 mm and a diameter of 3 mm. the length of the screw is around 5.55 mm. They look almost the same as the 6-32 screws. The only difference between the two types of screws is the pitch. 

M3 metal standoff – Fine thread

These standoffs are used for securing the motherboard to the inside of the case. This is a type of separator and is used to prevent the motherboard from touching the metal directly. 

How Many Screws Are Needed For The Motherboard?

Under ideal circumstances, it is quite essential not to leave any hole, or part unscrewed on a motherboard or the case. However, there are situations where you would find that you have only a few of the screws that you actually need. In such a circumstance, you may need to be happy with as many screws as you may have with you. 

It is advisable to put the screws near the processor. You will also need to ensure that the diagonal opposites are properly attached to the screws. The primary reason that you want to use the screws is to keep the case and the motherboard well aligned. If you do not have enough screws, you can make sure that you have used the screws at all corners and, of course, in the midsection. 

In the case of a larger GPU, it is essential to use the screws to secure it properly. In any case, if you do not want to avoid making your motherboard vulnerable, it is advisable to get the extra screws and secure your motherboards carefully. 

Do Motherboard Have Screws in the Same Location?

Not all the motherboards come with the screws at the same location. The location of the screws would be largely be dependent on the type and form factor of the motherboard. On an ATX motherboard, all the screws are at the exact location across different motherboards and case manufacturers. 

The crux of the matter is that the different motherboards come in different locations based on their manufacturing or form factor. The four standards that you would witness would include ATX motherboards, mini ITX motherboards, manufacturer-specific motherboards such as Mac or Apple, and Custom motherboards. 

Can You Install A Motherboard Without Standoffs?

We do not recommend installing a motherboard without a standoff. If you do not have a standoff, it is advisable not to install the motherboard. In case you do not have the standoffs and want to secure the motherboard anyway, it would be advisable to use a non-conductive sheet between the case and the motherboard.

The critical point is that the bottom of the motherboard should never touch the metal directly.  But do motherboards come with standoffs? People believe motherboards do not come with standoffs. Even I had confusion in my mind before I went on to become a tech expert myself. 

The standoffs do come with your motherboard. At times, you would find that the motherboards have the standoffs built into the motherboard. The motherboards have generalized options in terms of form factors. However, they differ in shape, size, and other parameters. That is precisely why you need screws and standoffs. 

The Concluding Thoughts

Understanding and finding more about the motherboard screws can b a daunting task when it comes to the screws and standoffs on a motherboard – especially if you are a beginner. To understand it better, you need to check out a few background details first.

I assume that I have been able to provide you with enough of the information with respect to the screws and standoffs that are related to the motherboards.