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form factor

American  
[fawrm fak-ter] / ˈfɔrm ˈfæk tər /

noun

  1. Computers. the design specifications of computing electronics that enforce uniformity and allow interchangeability of components.

    the form factor for circuit boards.

  2. the physical dimensions of an electronic device.

    The form factor of the new phone is thinner and lighter than that of the older models.


Etymology

Origin of form factor

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

As Apple chases a new iPhone form factor, it faces soaring component costs as demand for memory chips from AI data centers outstrips supply.

From MarketWatch Apr. 20, 2026

“We see great potential for the human form factor in robotics,” he wrote in a recent report.

From Barron's Nov. 14, 2025

Can you tell us why you believe the Stream Ring is the right form factor?

From The Wall Street Journal Nov. 8, 2025

"Unlike VR headsets, glasses are an everyday, non-cumbersome form factor," said Forrester VP, Research Director Mike Proulx.

From BBC Sep. 18, 2025

"For making an actual product, you would need to package it into a usable form factor," he explains.

From Science Daily May 14, 2024

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