When you are preparing to build your dream PC, one of the most common questions you might find yourself asking is, does a motherboard come with screws? It is a valid concern, especially when you have all your high-end components laid out on your workbench and you are ready to start the assembly process. The short answer is that it depends entirely on the manufacturer and the specific product package, but generally speaking, the motherboard itself does not include the essential mounting screws you need to secure it inside your case.
Building a computer is an exciting endeavor, but it requires attention to detail, especially regarding the tiny hardware components that hold everything together. Understanding where to find your screws and what types you need will save you a massive headache during the build process. In this guide, we will break down exactly what you should expect when opening your new components and how to ensure you have everything required to complete your build successfully.
Understanding Motherboard Packaging and Included Hardware
Many first-time builders assume that a motherboard box will contain a complete toolkit for assembly. However, motherboard manufacturers like ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, and ASRock design their packaging to include specific items relevant to the board’s functionality, not necessarily the chassis installation. Typically, when you unbox a motherboard, you will find items such as:
- The motherboard itself in an anti-static bag.
- A user manual and quick-start guide.
- SATA data cables for storage drives.
- An I/O shield (or an integrated one pre-installed on the back).
- Wi-Fi antennas (if the board has built-in wireless connectivity).
- M.2 screws or standoffs for NVMe SSD installation.
- Driver installation media (usually a DVD or a USB flash drive).
Notice that motherboard mounting screws—the ones that secure the board to the case standoffs—are noticeably absent from this list. This is because these screws are considered part of the computer case’s hardware ecosystem, not the motherboard’s.
The Case is the Key Source of Your Screws
Since the motherboard doesn’t typically provide the mounting hardware, where do those screws come from? The answer lies within the box of your computer case. When you purchase a PC case, the manufacturer includes a “bag of bits” or a small accessory box. This box contains all the necessary fasteners required to build a system, including:
- Motherboard standoff screws (often labeled as M3 or #6-32 depending on the case).
- Power supply unit (PSU) screws.
- Hard drive and SSD mounting screws.
- Fan mounting screws.
- Zip ties or cable management accessories.
If you have purchased a case and cannot find these screws, check the drive bays or the bottom of the case. Sometimes manufacturers hide the accessory box inside a 3.5-inch drive cage or strap it to the back panel behind the motherboard tray.
Common Types of PC Screws and Their Functions
To avoid confusion, it helps to identify the different types of screws you will encounter during your build. Using the wrong screw can damage your motherboard or strip the threads of your standoffs. Here is a breakdown of the most common fasteners found in a standard PC build:
| Screw Type | Typical Use | Head Shape |
|---|---|---|
| #6-32 Hex Head | Motherboard mounting, PSU, and 3.5-inch HDD | Hex/Phillips combo |
| M3 Screws | 2.5-inch SSDs and optical drives | Flat/Phillips |
| M.2 Screws | Securing M.2 NVMe SSDs to the motherboard | Tiny Phillips head |
| Fan Screws | Longer, coarse-threaded screws for case fans | Self-tapping |
What Happens If You Are Missing Screws?
It can be incredibly frustrating to reach the mounting stage of your build only to realize your case did not come with the necessary hardware or that you have lost the screws. If you find yourself in this situation, do not panic. There are several ways to source the missing parts without having to return your components.
1. Contact the Case Manufacturer
If your case arrived without an accessory box, contact the manufacturer’s customer support. Most reputable companies are happy to send you a replacement hardware kit if you provide them with proof of purchase. This is often the most reliable way to get the exact screws intended for your specific case model.
2. Purchase an Aftermarket PC Screw Kit
You can purchase universal PC screw kits from major online retailers. These kits are inexpensive and usually contain hundreds of pieces, including every common screw type mentioned in our table above. Having one of these kits in your toolbox is a great insurance policy for any PC enthusiast.
3. Visit a Local Computer Repair Shop
If you need your computer running immediately, a local repair shop is your best friend. These shops often have bins filled with spare parts and leftover screws from years of builds. They will often give you a few screws for free or for a very nominal fee if you explain your situation.
The Importance of Motherboard Standoffs
While discussing the question of whether a motherboard comes with screws, it is impossible to ignore the importance of standoffs. Standoffs are the small brass or metal spacers that you screw into the motherboard tray of your case. You then place the motherboard on top of these standoffs and secure them with the motherboard screws.
Never mount your motherboard directly against the metal of the case. Doing so will cause an electrical short circuit, which can permanently damage your motherboard and potentially other components like your CPU or RAM. The standoffs provide the necessary clearance between the back of the motherboard and the case, preventing short circuits and allowing for proper airflow behind the board.
Tips for Managing Your PC Hardware
To ensure you never lose your screws during a build, follow these best practices:
- Use a magnetic parts tray: This prevents small screws from rolling off your desk and disappearing into the carpet.
- Organize as you go: Keep the screws for the PSU, motherboard, and drives in separate bowls or labeled baggies.
- Keep the original box: Always store the remaining screws, zip ties, and manuals in the motherboard or case box. You never know when you might need to add a drive or swap a fan in the future.
- Don’t overtighten: When securing your motherboard, screw them in until they are snug, but do not use excessive force. Overtightening can crack the motherboard PCB or strip the threads on the standoffs.
Special Considerations for M.2 SSDs
While standard mounting screws come with the case, the tiny screws required for M.2 NVMe drives are actually a bit of an outlier. While they are sometimes pre-installed on the motherboard, they are frequently found in a small plastic baggie included in the motherboard box. Because they are incredibly small, they are easily lost. If you are building a new system, check your motherboard box carefully for these tiny screws before throwing away any packaging material.
Conclusion
So, does a motherboard come with screws? In most cases, no. You should expect to find the necessary mounting hardware inside the box that your PC case came in. By understanding the difference between motherboard screws, M.2 screws, and case standoffs, you can approach your build with confidence. Always double-check your case accessories before starting, keep your parts organized, and remember that if something goes missing, there are plenty of ways to source replacements quickly.
Building a PC is a rewarding experience that teaches you how your machine functions from the inside out. By paying attention to the small details—like the hardware that holds your system together—you ensure that your build is safe, stable, and ready to perform at its best. Happy building!
