In the intricate realm of building PCs, every component plays a crucial role. Take motherboard pins, for instance – a part that’s easily overlooked. I’ve learned that these tiny pieces of hardware are essential for securing my motherboard safely within the PC case.
You’re in the right place if you’ve ever wondered, “Do PC cases come with motherboard screws?” The simple answer to your question is “no,” as most motherboards do not have mounting screws. Your case comes with the mounting screws for your motherboard since each case has a different number of mounting screws and a different way to thread them.
In this article, we’ll discuss do PC cases come with motherboard screws and everything you need to know to build a PC smoothly. Let’s start with our focus question do pc cases come with motherboard screws?
Do Pc Cases Come With Motherboard Screws?
![do pc cases come with motherboard screws?](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-92.png)
As I already told you, motherboards usually don’t come with mounting screws. Your case comes with the mounting screws for your motherboard because each case has different mounting screw needs and thread designs.
Different kinds of screws are used for other things on a motherboard. Such as:
- Standoffs hold the CPU in place inside the PC case.
- Screws to attach the motherboard to the case’s standoffs.
- Screws to hold the M.2 drives in place in the M.2 slots
- Screws for connecting the add-in expansion cards to the PCIe expansion slots
I always make a mental note that the PC case already includes the standoffs and mounting screws. Standoffs, those tiny cylindrical metal pieces with holes that resemble screws on one end, are what you’ll find in the case. They play a crucial role in preventing the CPU from making direct contact with the PC case. So, it’s a key detail to keep in mind.
- The standoffs are put into the case in the same places where the screw holes are on the motherboard.
- The standoffs hold the motherboard in place.
- The standoffs are screwed into the motherboard.
Now that we’ve clarified the short question let’s go on to a more detailed explanation of why you need the screws and what you should do with them. Hare question arises why screws are not included with the motherboard.
Why Mounting Screws Are Not Included With Motherboards?
When I buy a case to house my computer components, I always keep in mind that each one comes with its own set of screws. The size of these screws varies based on the case, particularly the size of the screw holes. It’s important to note that the screws that come with the motherboard might not fit perfectly in all cases.
In pricier cases, you’ll often find larger screws being used. This is done to provide ample support for heavier ATX and extended ATX motherboards. On the flip side, budget-friendly cases typically use smaller screws since they’re designed to accommodate lighter motherboards. So, it’s all about finding the right match for your specific case and motherboard combo.
The following are the only extras that motherboards come with:
- The in/out backplate
- Software drives
- Additional leads and wires
- PCI SSD M.2 Screw
When attaching your motherboard with screws, you should consider different kinds of hardware.
Risers Screws: Another Screw To Consider:
The purpose of risers is to raise the motherboard from behind your computer’s backplate. There are typically two categories of them:
- Risers that the case itself is created with. They resemble painted metal folds in a way.
- Brass risers that screw in. These are made of brass metal, which is not conductive.
The most common place to find simple fold risers is in low-end PC cases. Brass screw risers are common in mid- to high-end PC cases because they provide the user with various mounting options for the motherboard.
Risers screws are tiny brass screws resembling hexagonal bolts, with one end with a male screw thread and the other with a female screw thread hole. Risers typically protrude 5–10mm from a case backplate surface after being screwed into it. However, they can extend up to 30mm.
The riser is screwed into the backplate of the case of your choice in this configuration. The motherboard is then set on top of these risers.
![Screws](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-98.png)
After that, line up the risers with the motherboard’s built-in screw holes. Finally, insert a standard mounting screw into the riser through the motherboard. Now let’s talk about which screws are used for motherboards.
Which Screws Are used For Motherboard?
When it comes to securing motherboards, I usually go for #6–32 x 3/16′′ screws (or occasionally 1/4′′). Although both #6–32 and M3 screws do the job, I find myself leaning towards #6–32 screws more frequently.
What Are Card Fasteners?
Along with standoffs and mounting screws, you need an add-in card or PCIe expansion card attaching screws. The motherboard does not include these. They come with a case or expansion card.
Expansion card screws secure the card to the PC Case when inserting it into the motherboard’s PCIe slot. The expansion card’s fastening screws prevent inadvertent unplugging from the PCIe slot.
A tiny shove or bump can move a card. The slightest movement of an expansion card from its PCIe slot can disable it. Thus, fastening screws are necessary. Heavy expansion cards like the graphics card can move around if not screwed to the case.
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Top 5 Using Advantages Of Risers:
![motherboard risers](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image-22.png)
Information | Importance/Function |
Motherboard Placement | Ensures the motherboard is not in contact with the computer case’s metal to prevent short circuits and damage. |
Riser Screws | Provide space underneath the motherboard for cable management, enhancing airflow quality within the system. |
Enhanced Airflow | Improves the overall airflow within the computer system, aiding in cooling components, especially the CPU. |
Heat Dissipation | Heat dissipation occurs in three dimensions, including removing heat from the top of the CPU and via the motherboard from below the CPU. Allowing airflow under the motherboard aids in additional heat removal. |
Reduced CPU Temperature | Can lead to a temperature drop of approximately 1-2°C, which is crucial when overclocking the CPU for optimal performance. |
Does A Motherboard Come With Screws For Mounting? If Not, Where Do I Look?
![motherboard include mounting screws](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-93.png)
A friend bought a new motherboard for my game computer recently. It was a huge deal. She is ready for PCI Express 4 and will be the foundation of my system for the next five years.
Then disaster happened! Isn’t that what always happens when I mess with computers?
I opened the box and tore through the anti-static film with my teeth (not a good idea). Then I took the board out of the box and held it up like I had just won the World Cup.
After imagining a fan show with 50,000 people for a short while (yes, I have a vivid imagination, but I only have two fans: a Boxer dog named Cali and a desk fan that keeps me calm), I put the board down.
Then, the book with 100 pages about switches, slots, and jumpers (the knitted kind?) was brought out.
Then I took out a piece of metal that was full of holes. I put a piece of double-sided tape on the back, which said “backplate.” BOXER WITH ARMOR!
![metal hole](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image-15.png)
Last but not least, a few extra wires hissed at me and then slithered away. But as I frantically tore the rest of the box apart in my somewhat crazy attempt to find the mounting screws, my eyes got more prominent, and, yes, my ears started to sweat.
I found out that the motherboard didn’t come with mounting screws after I turned the box inside out and upside down and had my dog, Cali, chew on the walls of what was left of the box. Maybe Cali ate the screws during this disaster!
I didn’t like that I might have to wait another 24 hours for screws I ordered through Amazon Prime (What happened to patience?).
To solve all of the world’s problems, such as world hunger, war, and global warming, I used my social networking skills to go on Google and ask if my motherboard should have mounting screws.
I did finally get a reply. It wasn’t fun for me. Here it is, though:
![motherboard screws](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image-16.png)
Do computers come with screws for mounting? No. Most computers don’t come with screws for mounting.
As each case has different mounting screw needs and screw threads, your case comes with motherboard mounting screws. Regarding the M.2 screw, these pins should already be on your motherboard.
Read Also: How Many SSD Can A Motherboard Support? – Unleash the SSD Potential 2023
More Screws For Your Motherboard:
![Screws For Your Motherboard](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-94.png)
There are more factors involved with motherboards besides mounting screws. We’ll look at a few of the additional motherboard-related screws in this area that you should consider when constructing a PC.
Screw M.2:
![M2](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-95.png)
The tiny screws that hold M.2 PCI Express SSD cards in place are known as M.2 screws. When placed into the M.2 Socket, the SSD cards won’t move.
The card won’t be supported without the M.2 screw, though, and it could be damaged by extreme vibrations when you move your PC. Most motherboards already have these tiny screws inserted into one of the pre-threaded holes to support varied-length M.2 SSDs.
![M.2](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image-19.png)
However, the screws are incredibly simple to lose due to their small size. Therefore, make sure your M.2 screw is still in your motherboard. You must purchase a new M.2 mounting screw if the existing one is not screwed into the motherboard.
Note: Remember that brand-new M.2 SSDs do not include the mounting screws they once had. Manufacturers of SSDs presume that your motherboard will include the screw. Since all M.2 screws on all motherboards are identical, I’m puzzled as to why. They’re trying to save a tiny bit of extra money.
More screws for the motherboard: Screws for Cooling Solutions:
![Screws for Cooling Solutions](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-97.png)
The screws for the CPU cooling system are another set of screws associated with the motherboard that you should be aware of. The option to place a cooling system over the top of the CPU to keep it extraordinary is built into 99.9% of all motherboards.
Every cooling system you purchase or includes a new CPU will require a different screw type. Therefore, your motherboard will never come with cooling solution screws. The cooling solution will always be included with them.
Keep reading: Do Motherboards Come With WiFi? A Detail Guide 2023
What Screws Come With Of Motherboard?
The following table lists where to find screws for different components:
![screws on motherboard](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image-17.png)
Components screws Come with | |
Motherboard Standoffs For Motherboard | PC Case |
Motherboard Mounting Screws for motherboard | PC Case |
Expansion Card & Fastening Screws | PC Case or the Expansion Card itself |
M.2 SSD with Fastening Screws | Motherboard |
Screws for PSU to the Case | Power Supply Unit |
Screws for Mounting Hard Disk Drives | PC Case |
Common Mistakes To Avoid (2nd is essential):
![screw on motherboard](https://www.motherboardfx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image-20.png)
Several typical errors with motherboard screws should be avoided, including:
- Using the incorrect screw size or type may cause compatibility problems, motherboards, or cause damage.
- If the screws are tightened too much, the motherboard may bend, resulting in electrical or connectivity issues.
- A short circuit or damage to the motherboard could happen from failing to use deadlocks or risers between the motherboard and the chassis.
Conclusion:
I’ve learned firsthand that not every PC case comes with pre-installed screws for motherboards. It really depends on the type and brand of the case. So, before making any purchase, I always make sure to check the product specs and details to confirm if the necessary screws are included. And if, by chance, my computer case doesn’t come with the motherboard screws, I know I can always grab them separately from different vendors. It’s all about being prepared!
FAQs:
Q1. Do PC cases include all the screws?
Only a few common threads are used for PC board mounts. Typically, the casing includes all the standoffs, screws, and mounting components required to mount the motherboard and drives. It’s typical to have more screws than necessary.
Q2. Do motherboard standoffs come with computer cases?
If so, do they come with the motherboards? No! No, they don’t. Contrary to popular belief, standoffs are part of (or integrated into) the computer case itself.
Q3. What screws are required to attach a motherboard to a computer case?
Screws for motherboards typically measure #6-32 x 3/16′′ (or sometimes 1/4′′). However, M3 screws are used less frequently than #6-32 screws.
Q4. Are all of the motherboard screws required?
You do not need to have everything. You would be right with just two positioned on the motherboard’s diagonal opposites.
Q5. How does Corsair 4000d wind work?
The mid-tower ATX CORSAIR 4000D AIRFLOW has excellent cooling and cable management. Two 120mm AirGuide fans with anti-vortex vanes to cool your components and a steel front panel to optimize airflow.
Read Also:
- Do Motherboards Come With Thermal Paste? – Boost Your Cooling 2023
- Can I Use Isopropyl Alcohol To Clean Motherboard? A Comprehensive Guide 2023
- How to connect power switch to motherboard?
- What Is JFP1 On Motherboard? A Complete Guide In 2024
- What Are Motherboard Standoffs?- A Pro Guide 2024
- How To know what power supply you have? A Step-by-Step Guide
References:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/buildapc/comments/blyud1/do_motherboard_screws_come_with_mobo_or_case/
- https://www.quora.com/Does-the-motherboard-or-the-PC-case-come-with-screws-to-add-on-the-motherboard
- https://linustechtips.com/topic/857116-do-all-computer-cases-or-motherboards-come-with-motherboard-standoffs/
- https://forums.tomshardware.com/threads/do-screws-and-standoffs-come-with-the-motherboard-and-or-case.2381008/
- https://pcpartpicker.com/forums/topic/363808-case-didnt-come-with-standoffs-or-screws