small form factor

USAGE SUMMARY

"small form factor" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a type of electronic device that is smaller or more compact than the standard size. For example, "This laptop is designed with a small form factor, making it perfect for use in cramped spaces or on-the-go."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

However, there's also a similar but smaller and cheaper Vostro 270S (small form factor) for £382.80.

The Guardian - Tech

If you're never going to open it up and add to it, a mini-tower (MT) or small form factor (SFF) case will be fine.

The Guardian - Tech

Its small form factor and design is top notch.

TechCrunch

The D110a is a small form factor printer / scanner combo.

TechCrunch

Very impressive for a small form factor (SFF) PC.

TechCrunch

The chapter discusses small form factor fiber-optic interfaces.

Handbook of Fiber Optic Data Communication A Practical Guide to Optical Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

But games running on those small form factors have always seemed like impractical tech demos.

TechCrunch

Mostly, that is because of its smaller form factor.

TechCrunch

Another, slightly smaller form factor will clearly be another guess.

TechCrunch

It's a NAS that uses 2.5″ hard drives, making for a much smaller form factor.

TechCrunch

Technically, the phone will be based on the PSPgo but will have a smaller form factor.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In marketing materials, highlight the benefits of a "small form factor", such as portability and space-saving features.

Common error

Avoid using "small form factor" when describing general items that are simply small, as it is a technical term primarily used for electronic devices and components. Instead, use descriptive adjectives like "tiny", "compact", or "miniature".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "small form factor" is as a noun phrase, typically used as an adjective to describe a device or component. It functions to specify a particular characteristic related to the size and physical dimensions. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is standard in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

31%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "small form factor" is widely used and understood, particularly in the context of electronics and computing, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves as a technical descriptor for devices with reduced dimensions, offering advantages like portability and space efficiency. While grammatically correct and commonly used, it's important to reserve it for technical contexts, avoiding misuse in general descriptions. Related phrases like ""compact design"" or "miniaturized size" can offer alternatives in less technical scenarios. Its prevalence in news and media, science, and wiki sources underscores its relevance in both technical and general discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compact design

Emphasizes the space-saving aspect of the design.

miniaturized size

Highlights the reduced dimensions of the object.

space-saving design

Focuses on the benefit of requiring less space.

reduced footprint

Technical term referring to the amount of surface area occupied.

compact dimensions

Refers to the small measurements of the object.

streamlined design

Indicates an efficient and compact arrangement.

miniaturized construction

Emphasizes the creation of something smaller than usual.

portable size

Highlights the ease of carrying due to its size.

lightweight design

Focuses on the reduced weight, often associated with small size.

ultra-compact design

Emphasizes an extremely reduced size and efficient use of space.

FAQs

How is "small form factor" used in a sentence?

"Small form factor" is often used to describe computers, electronics or components that are smaller than their standard counterparts. For example, "This mini PC boasts a "compact design" and a "small form factor", making it ideal for tight spaces."

What is an example of a device with a "small form factor"?

Examples of devices with a "small form factor" include mini PCs, netbooks, and some single-board computers. These devices are designed to be compact and space-efficient, without compromising on functionality.

What's the difference between "small form factor" and "compact design"?

While both terms relate to size, "small form factor" is a more technical term, commonly used in electronics to specify dimensions and layout. "Compact design" is a broader term that can apply to any object designed to be space-efficient.

What are the advantages of using a device with a "small form factor"?

Devices with a "small form factor" are often more portable, consume less power, and take up less space, making them ideal for environments where space is limited or for on-the-go use. They also tend to be more energy-efficient.