Do You Need Two PCIe X16 Slots?

The short answer is no, you do not need two PCIe x16 slots. In fact, most modern motherboards only have a single PCIe x16 slot because the second slot is not needed except in very specific circumstances.

The PCIe x16 slot is used for graphics cards, and the second slot is typically used for an expansion card such as a sound card or network card. However, with the advent of integrated graphics and audio on the motherboard, there is really no need for a second PCIe x16 slot.

There are a few exceptions where you might need two PCIe x16 slots. If you are using multiple graphics cards in an SLI or CrossFire configuration, then you will need two slots.

Some high-end sound cards also require two slots.

But for the vast majority of users, a single PCIe x16 slot is all that is needed. So if you are looking at a motherboard and it only has one PCIe x16 slot, don’t worry – it’s not a problem.