Motherboard power cables carry power from the power supply to the motherboard. They include 24-pin ATX main cables, 8-pin CPU (EPS) cables and sleeved extension sets. They suit builders replacing a lost or damaged lead, or tidying up a custom build. Brands in our range include CORSAIR, LIAN LI, KOLINK and SILVERSTONE.
How to choose a motherboard power cable
Connector type. Most current motherboards use a 24-pin ATX connector for main power and one or two 8-pin (often 4+4) EPS connectors for the processor. Check your motherboard manual to see how many CPU connectors it has before ordering.
Compatibility with your power supply. Modular power supplies use connectors on the unit itself, and the pin layout at that end can differ between manufacturers and even between series. A cable made for your exact power supply model or series is the safe choice. An extension cable avoids the issue because it plugs between your existing cable and the motherboard.
Length. Measure the route from the power supply to the motherboard socket, including any path behind the motherboard tray. A full tower needs a longer lead than a compact case, but an overly long cable is harder to hide and can block airflow.
Sleeving and appearance. Individually sleeved wires and cable combs make a build with a window panel look neat, but the electrical job is the same as with a standard cable. Thick sleeved cables are stiffer, so they can be awkward to bend in a small case.
Motherboard power cable brands we carry
- CORSAIR: makes power supplies and sells replacement and sleeved cable sets for its own modular units.
- LIAN LI: known for PC cases and for Strimer, its RGB-lit cable extensions.
- CABLEMOD: specialises in custom sleeved cables and extension kits for enthusiast builds.
- SILVERSTONE: a long-standing maker of power supplies and compact cases, with cables made for its own units.
- AKASA: known for cooling products and PC accessories, including cable extensions.
- be quiet!: a German brand known for quiet power supplies and coolers.
- PHANTEKS: makes cases and cooling parts, and also offers sleeved extension cables.
- PHOBYA: focuses on water cooling and modding accessories.
Also in our range: KOLINK, LENOVO and BITFENIX.
Motherboard power cables: frequently asked questions
What does a motherboard power cable do?
A motherboard power cable connects the power supply to the motherboard and delivers the voltages the board needs. The 24-pin ATX cable supplies the board in general, while the 8-pin EPS cable feeds the processor. Without both connected, a typical desktop PC will not start.
Can I use a cable from a different brand with my power supply?
Not always. Modular power supplies are wired differently by brand and sometimes by series, so a cable that fits the motherboard end may be wrong at the power supply end. Use a cable listed for your exact power supply, or choose an extension cable that connects to your existing lead.
Do I need both a 24-pin and an 8-pin cable?
Yes, nearly every modern desktop motherboard needs both. The 24-pin connector provides main board power and the 8-pin (or 4+4) connector powers the processor. Some boards have a second CPU connector, which is worth checking in the manual.
Do sleeved extension cables improve performance?
No, sleeved extension cables do not make a PC faster. Their benefit is appearance and tidier routing, especially in a case with a glass or acrylic side panel. Buy them for looks and cable management, not for any gain in power delivery.
