Server and workstation motherboards

Server and workstation motherboards are for building file servers, virtualisation hosts, rack systems and high-end workstations. Our range includes boards from Supermicro, ASRock, ASUS and GIGABYTE, in form factors from mini ITX to EEB and with sockets for both Intel and AMD processors.

How to choose a server or workstation motherboard

Processor socket. The socket decides which CPUs you can fit, so pick the processor first. Our range includes LGA 1700, LGA 1851, LGA 1200 and LGA 3647 for Intel, and Socket sTR5 and Socket SP5 for AMD. Socket sTR5 suits Threadripper workstations, while SP5 is aimed at EPYC servers.

Form factor and case. Check that the board fits your chassis before anything else. We stock ATX, micro ATX, mini ITX, Extended ATX, SSI CEB and EEB boards. Extended ATX, SSI CEB and EEB are larger and usually need a server or workstation case with matching standoffs.

Memory slots and type. More slots allow more capacity and more memory channels. Most boards in our range have 4 slots, but there are also 2-slot and 8-slot models, and at least one with 24 slots for memory-heavy servers. Many server platforms use ECC memory, so check whether the board expects registered or unbuffered modules.

Storage and expansion. Look at how many drives you plan to connect and at what speed. Boards in our range offer SATA III, M.2 and PCI Express 4.0 storage connections, and some add SlimSAS for server-grade drive backplanes. Count PCIe slots too if you need a GPU, a network card or a RAID controller.

Remote management. Many server boards include a baseboard management controller, which lets you monitor and restart the machine over the network. This matters for headless systems in a rack or a server room. Workstation and desktop-derived boards often leave it out, so check the specification.

Server and workstation motherboard brands we carry

• Supermicro: a specialist in server hardware, with boards designed for rack systems, storage servers and dense compute nodes. It is the largest brand in this category in our range.
• ASRock: known for server and workstation boards that often pair desktop-style layouts with management features such as a dedicated BMC.
• ASUS: offers workstation boards for professional work with many PCIe lanes and strong expansion options, alongside its server lines.
• GIGABYTE: produces server boards for both Intel and AMD platforms, as well as workstation models.

Also in our range: AMD.

Server and workstation motherboard FAQ

What is the difference between a server motherboard and a desktop motherboard?

A server motherboard is built for continuous operation and expansion rather than gaming or general use. It typically supports ECC memory, offers more memory slots, and often includes remote management and extra storage connections. Desktop boards usually put the emphasis on overclocking and display outputs instead.

Can I use a server motherboard in a workstation PC?

Yes, as long as the case, power supply and cooling suit it. Larger boards such as EEB or SSI CEB need a case that supports them, and server boards often use extra power connectors. Also check whether the board has video output and audio, as some server models do not offer full desktop features.

Which form factor should I choose?

Choose the largest form factor your case supports and that gives you the slots you need. ATX and micro ATX suit most tower workstations and small servers. Mini ITX fits very small builds with limited expansion, while Extended ATX, SSI CEB and EEB boards suit larger chassis and multi-slot setups.

Do I need ECC memory on a server motherboard?

ECC memory is strongly recommended for servers that store important data or run around the clock, because it can detect and correct single-bit errors. Not every board supports it, and some need registered modules rather than standard ones. Check the memory type in the board specification before buying RAM.