PC Case Guides - Appuals Tech from the Experts Sun, 31 Dec 2023 17:10:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 Choosing The Best Wall Mount PC Case In 2024 https://appuals.com/best-wall-mount-pc-cases/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-wall-mount-pc-cases https://appuals.com/best-wall-mount-pc-cases/#disqus_thread Wed, 30 Nov 2022 01:18:02 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=289020 Mounting your PC case on the wall is a unique way to elevate the aesthetics of your setup, but which is the best wall mount PC case? Not every case is fit to be mounted on the wall. In fact, most PC cases out there do not offer any such functionality. You will have to …

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Mounting your PC case on the wall is a unique way to elevate the aesthetics of your setup, but which is the best wall mount PC case?

Not every case is fit to be mounted on the wall. In fact, most PC cases out there do not offer any such functionality. You will have to select one of the specialized PC cases that are designed to be mounted on the wall.

There are relatively limited options in this category, and the majority of the options do seem to be offered by one company. Nevertheless, it is important to do your research and find the very best wall mount PC case you can for your particular setup.

You can also check out our selection of the best open air PC cases, as some of those cases can be mounted on the wall as well.

Without further ado, here are our picks for the very finest wall mount PC cases out there.

The Best Wall Mount PC Case – Our Picks

#PreviewProduct NameAwardDetails
1Thermaltake Core P8Best Overall Wall Mount PC Case
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2Thermaltake Core P5 Open AirBest Open Air Wall Mount PC Case
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3Cooler Master MasterFrame 700Most Unique Wall Mount PC Case
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4Thermaltake Core P3 Open AirBest Mid Tower Wall Mount PC Case
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5Thermaltake Core P1 Open AirBest Mini ITX Wall Mount PC Case
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#1
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Product NameThermaltake Core P8
AwardBest Overall Wall Mount PC Case
Details
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#2
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Product NameThermaltake Core P5 Open Air
AwardBest Open Air Wall Mount PC Case
Details
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#3
Preview
Product NameCooler Master MasterFrame 700
AwardMost Unique Wall Mount PC Case
Details
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#4
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Product NameThermaltake Core P3 Open Air
AwardBest Mid Tower Wall Mount PC Case
Details
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#5
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Product NameThermaltake Core P1 Open Air
AwardBest Mini ITX Wall Mount PC Case
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Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 18:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

At appuals.com, we love to test out PC cases. Our highly enthusiastic team is well-versed in the intricacies of PC cases and we look forward to upcoming innovations in this field. We’ve been doing these reviews for a long time, and it shows in how thorough and insightful they are. Hassam Nasir, our resident PC hardware guru, has been writing case reviews since the time of side-panel case fans.

You might say that he enjoys delving into the finer points of PC hardware, such as airflow testing, thermal evaluation, acoustic testing, cooling potentials of AIOs, and so on. Since he has been fixated on PC technology since the days of the Antec Lanboy, his knowledge should come as no surprise.

In spite of this, we don’t only depend on our past knowledge; we test each PC case thoroughly before reporting about it. We check for issues with airflow, thermal competence, and acoustic profiles among other aspects. Quality and durability testing of cases is where our team really shines. When writing our reviews, we always keep the user’s perspective in mind. We can help you in your search for a suitable PC case, whether you require a cheap alternative or the best one available.

1. Thermaltake Core P8

Best Overall Wall Mount PC Case

Pros

  • Extremely Spacious
  • Can Support 20 Fans
  • Excellent Build Quality
  • Space for four 480mm Radiators

Cons

  • Very Expensive

238 Reviews

Form Factor: Full Tower | Dimensions: 660 x 260 x 626mm | Weight: 22.6 kg | Fan Mounts: 20 | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

In our roundup of the finest wall mount PC cases, the Thermaltake Core P8 stands out as one of the most audacious solutions. In this case, the only sort of cooling that will be optimal is custom loop water cooling; any other method will not be enough. The Core P8 is one of the most stunning cases on the market; but, in order to get one, you will need to be committed to using a custom water cooling system.

The Core P8 is another massive full-tower case, measuring in at 660 x 260 x 626 mm and weighing in at over 22.6 kg. To be fair, this case is quite large and heavy for something that is supposed to be hung on your wall. However, it is also a unique case thanks to its loads of features and unique design elements. A fully loaded Thermaltake Core P8 build can elevate the aesthetics of any wall.

You can also explore our selection of the best dual PC cases for more options in that category.

Your spectacular water-cooling setup may be observed in all of its grandeur since this case’s front panel, both side panels, and both of the case’s panels are made of tempered glass. The Core P8 is a really appealing case, in spite of the fact that it is relatively large and that there is a wide variety of various fan mounts available. When this case is fully loaded with fans and lit up with RGB lights, it is one of the most impressive sights in the world of PC gaming.

Best Wall Mount PC Case
Thermaltake Core P8

Furthermore, the design of the Core P8 is modular, which enables you to change out individual frame components to better match your build plan and the specific requirements of your custom water cooling system. This is made possible by the Core P8’s modular internal design. By extension, the front and top tempered glass panels can be removed to completely transform this case into a wall mount PC case.

The P8’s spacious interior allows it to handle motherboards with a variety of form factors, including ATX, micro ATX, and mini ITX, in addition to the larger E-ATX form factor. The generous proportions of the P8 make this a realistic possibility. It is possible to put a water-cooling distribution plate in the P8, which is helpful for organizing the tubing runs that make up the loop.

This approach becomes a more interesting choice if we take into consideration the available water-cooling options. Radiators with dimensions of 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm, 420mm, and 480mm may be installed in any of the available slots on the Core P8. On top of all that, the case comes with a wealth of mounting options that allow you to attach anywhere from one to twenty 120mm radiators or case fans.

Also, due to the fact that it was designed from the ground up with water cooling in mind, the Core P8 is widely regarded as being among the best water cooling cases as well. The potential buyer will have to put in a significant amount of time and effort, both financially and physically, in order to purchase this case; nevertheless, the end result will undoubtedly be worth it.

Strictly for the purpose of wall-mounting, this case might be a bit too heavy and a bit too expensive. There are some affordable alternatives available, notably from Thermaltake, however, they do not provide the same level of flexibility or features that are present in this case. If you are willing to go all the way, this case is the best overall wall mount PC case you can buy.

2. Thermaltake Core P5 Open Air

Best Open Air Wall Mount PC Case

Pros

  • Minimalistic Design Language
  • Premium Build Quality
  • Ideal for Water Cooling
  • Integrated VESA Mount

Cons

  • Relatively Pricy

Form Factor: Full Tower | Dimensions: 607 x 333 x 569mm | Weight: 12.2 kg | Fan Mounts: 4 | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

By a wide margin, the most ambitious implementation of an open-air enclosure is seen in the Thermaltake Core P5 TG. It is the ideal combination of a high-quality design, a thoughtfully laid out framework, and customization options. This is a dream come true for every passionate builder out there.

As a happy coincidence, it also happens to be one of the best cases available on the market for creating a complete custom loop. The brilliant design is responsible for all of these unique features. More full tower options can also be found in our selection of the best full tower cases.

Thermaltake made an effort to make the difficult task of putting up an open-air PC case a little less painful. After opening the packaging, the first item that will be visible to you is the main chassis. It is surrounded by all of the mountable trays and accessories that are offered.

Included in the package are brackets for the power supply unit (PSU) and expansion slots, mounting hardware for a custom loop, and even a PCIe ribbon cable.

Best Wall Mount PC Case
Thermaltake Core P5 Open Air

At the rear, there is a VESA mount that can be used to place it on the wall, which is really convenient. If you aren’t feeling particularly adventurous, you may always use the robust feet that are supplied in the package instead.

The motherboard tray is quite conventional, and overall, the chassis is relatively analogous to a typical one. Nevertheless, you have the option of installing a vertical PCIe mount for the GPU or even rotating the entire motherboard via a 90-degree angle.

Speaking of the motherboard, the Thermaltake Core P5 is compatible with a motherboard that is either ATX, Micro ATX, or mini-ITX, all of which are common for a full tower PC case. Because of the adjustable PCIe slots, the graphics card may be installed in either the horizontal or the vertical orientation.

The clearance for the GPU is 570mm when the water reservoir is not present, which is sufficient for housing even the most powerful GPUs currently on the market. However, after adding a reservoir to the construction, the clearance for the GPU does not go beyond 280 millimeters, which can create compatibility difficulties with a variety of recent and powerful GPUs.

Therefore, you might have to make a compromise with either the reservoir or the GPU. You may use water cooling or air cooling with the Core P5; it supports up to a 480mm radiator on the left side or 4x 120mm fans, or you can fit 3x 140mm fans in it. Be sure to check out our selection of the best high CFM case fans to fill out your Core P5 build.

The Core P5 was built primarily for water cooling systems, but you can also use air cooling with it. It is possible to utilize an air cooler with a height of up to 180mm, which is more than enough for a good number of CPU coolers.

One of the exterior sides is totally solid and does not have any ports on it. On the right side of the case is where you’ll find all of the ports, the power button, the audio connector, and a Thermaltake logo. The rear of the device is where you’ll find the trays for the SSDs and hard drives. In addition to it, a hard drive cage is provided.

In general, this is an exceptionally great case. It would be nice if there were a few more cable routing holes, and a front USB-C port would have elevated the feature set a bit as well. As a whole, the Core P5 is a strong contender in this roundup and is our pick for the best open air wall mount PC case.

3. Cooler Master MasterFrame 700

Most Unique Wall Mount PC Case

Pros

  • Unique Design
  • Great for Complex Builds
  • Multiple Build Possibilities

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not for Beginners

104 Reviews

Form Factor: Full Tower | Dimensions: 702 x 306 x 410mm | Weight: 11.8 kg | Fan Mounts: 6 | Motherboard Support: SSI EEB, SSI CEB, XL-ATX, E-ATX, ATX, Micro ATX, Mini ITX

The Cooler Master MasterFrame 700 is an open-air case that can be mounted on the wall and features a one-of-a-kind “double-wing” design. It also features an enormous tempered glass panel. Due to the way the wings are laid out, it has exceptional compatibility with other components, and it can accommodate practically any piece of hardware.

In our Cooler Master MB511 RGB Review, we also looked at yet another model of the company’s popular computer cases.

The majority of your components should be installed in the primary motherboard tray that has enough space for two full-sized power supply units and should be able to accommodate a broad variety of motherboard form factors. You can install motherboards ranging from the very large (SSI EEB) to the tiny (mini ITX) form factors. This is one of the few cases that will allow you to mount a dual-CPU workstation on the wall. If you intend to do so, you should invest in this case.

The Cooler Master MasterFrame 700 only has 100×100 VESA mount holes, which may restrict the type of setup that can be built inside of it. The maximum weight that can be supported by a 100×100 construction is rather low, and Cooler Master suggests that only projects weighing less than 14 kg be mounted on the wall.

Best Wall Mount PC Case
Cooler Master MasterFrame 700

That ought to be plenty for a rudimentary gaming rig, but there isn’t much room for expansion here. Having said that, complex builds with custom loop water cooling will almost certainly exceed that, which means that you may need to experiment with some DIY solutions here, provided that you use a sturdy wall bracket of a good grade.

The wings of the MasterFrame 700 are ideal for mounting radiators since each wing has enough space for a 360mm radiator. A 360mm radiator is more than enough for most general consumers, so we see the radiator support of this case as adequate. Even our selection of the best CPU coolers for i9 13900K tops out at 360mm. Since they are attached to the main motherboard tray by means of high-quality hinges, the wings are free to be repositioned in accordance with the configuration of your system.

For cooling purposes, you are going to have to go with soft tubes since it is highly unlikely that a hardline water-cooled construction would work in this setting. On the motherboard tray, there is also a mount for a third 420 mm radiator; however, this mount cannot be accessed until the MasterFrame 700 is being used as a test bench.

Speaking of the test bench, you can convert the MasterFrame 700 into a high-end test bench by turning it over onto its two support rails. This bench setting lays the wings at an angle, and those may be used to attach fans or radiators. It is quite unlikely that the majority of people would make use of this feature, but having it available is nevertheless a fascinating alternative to have.

Thanks to its open-air design, this case can also be considered as one of the best airflow PC cases out there.

The Cooler Master MasterFrame 700 is an impressive computer case that brings a range of unique features thanks to its distinctive design. It is an excellent choice for use with numerous radiators and huge motherboards. Of course, it is expensive, and owing to its unconventional structure, it is rather difficult to build in; nonetheless, there are not many rivals who offer the same things that it offers.

At the end of the day, there are not a lot of cases that offer the functionality of the MasterFrame 700. We have picked this case as the most unique wall mount PC case on our list.

4. Thermaltake Core P3 Open Air

Best Mid Tower Wall Mount PC Case

Pros

  • Ideal Mid-Tower Size
  • Great Build Quality
  • Unique Aesthetics

Cons

  • Relatively Pricy
  • Only 3 Fan Mounts

Form Factor: Mid Tower | Dimensions: 469 x 332 x 513 mm | Weight: 11.3 kg | Fan Mounts: 3 | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

The Thermaltake Core P3 is an open-air case that falls in the mid-tower category, and it is one that we recommend to the majority of potential buyers. You may use the case either horizontally or vertically, or you can mount it on the wall using the VESA mounts that are provided.

As evidenced by the other choices on this list, it is not the only wall-mountable mid-tower PC case offered by Thermaltake, we believe that due to its competitive cost and extensive feature set, it is the most optimal wall-mount PC case for the vast majority of customers.

The Core P3 is an adaptable enclosure that provides users with the choice of horizontal or vertical placement for their graphics card. You can get away with a longer GPU if you’re only using an AIO liquid cooler instead of a reservoir and radiator, despite Thermaltake’s assertion that the maximum length of a GPU with a reservoir and radiator is just 280mm. Having said that, you probably don’t want to go up to the 450mm maximum that Thermaltake claims is possible, mostly to prevent obstructing the AIO.

Best Wall Mount PC Case
Thermaltake Core P3 Open Air

It is clear that Thermaltake put considerable effort into the design of its wall-mounted cases, as seen by the fact that the Core P3 is compatible with a variety of VESA mounting schemes. Mounting holes of VESA 75×75, 100×100, and 200×200 mean that the Core P3 may be attached to virtually any kind of hardware available on the market today.

The Core P3 is designed to support both horizontal and vertical installation of the GPU, and a PCIe riser cable is supplied for the latter option. If you want to install a mini ITX motherboard, the Core P3 also offers support for a vertical power supply installation. This is a nice touch that should provide some aesthetic flare and help compensate for the Core P3’s reduced size.

Speaking of aesthetics, the Core P3 carries forward the same design language as the other excellent cases in the Core family. This case is a sight to behold when it is filled with high-end hardware and hung on the wall. The placement of the radiator is particularly interesting from an aesthetic point of view since the RGB fans are facing the front and can disperse their lighting in a more pleasing manner.

The RGB lighting is very well-implemented and is one of the best PC case lighting solutions we have yet seen.

In general, the Thermaltake Core P3 is an excellent case that stands out due to the adaptability of its architecture and mounting options, as well as its amazing appearance and reasonable pricing. This wall-mount computer case is the one you should look into purchasing initially if you do not require space for a large motherboard or dual radiators. In addition to black, the Core P3 may also be purchased in red and white.

The white version of the Core P3 can also be considered one of the best white PC cases on the market.

You can go for the more expensive and larger Core P5 as it will include support for two more drive mounts, as well as support for additional fans and larger radiators. The vast majority of consumers, in our opinion, will not see a return on investment from spending the additional money, but the option is available for those who require the additional features.

All in all, the Core P5 is our pick for the best mid tower wall mount PC case on the market.

5. Thermaltake Core P1 Open Air

Best Mini ITX Wall Mount PC Case

Pros

  • Relatively Affordable
  • Superb Design

Cons

  • Quite Cramped
  • Mediocre Build Quality
  • Not for Beginners

315 Reviews

Form Factor: SFF | Dimensions: 380 x 320 x 422mm | Weight: 9.5 kg | Fan Mounts: 2 | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX

Consider the Thermaltake Core P1 to be the youngest sibling of the Core P cases that were previously mentioned. It is an adaptation of the Core P5 for the mini ITX form factor and maintains the majority of its counterpart’s design language. Obviously, in order to create a more compact version, certain concessions will need to be made. Fortunately, it maintains most of the redeeming features of a larger case, while only having a few minor downsides to speak of.

Like the rest of the Core P series, the Core P1 is characterized by a basic yet distinctive design. It has a robust metal construction and an open-air design with no canopy. The primary metal chassis has a sturdy feel to it, which will inspire confidence as you assemble components inside of it. The overall build quality is top-notch, as we have come to expect from this line of cases from Thermaltake.

The Thermaltake Core P1 is only compatible with a motherboard that has a mini-ITX form factor since it is a fairly compact case. The Core P1 offers a GPU clearance of 380mm, which is sufficient to accommodate the majority of the fastest GPUs currently available on the market. As a result, you don’t need to worry about GPU dimensions despite the Core P1’s compact size.

Best Wall Mount PC Case
Thermaltake Core P1 Open Air

In addition to that, the PCIe slots are adaptable, which means that the GPU may be installed in either the horizontal or the vertical orientation. The Core P1 is primarily designed around all-in-one (AIO) and do-it-yourself (DIY) water and liquid cooling solutions. The radiator support on the side can go up to 240 millimeters, and there is room for two 120-millimeter fans on the left side of the case. However, the fans can be removed if a thicker radiator is desired.

In line with the mini ITX theme, building in this chassis is somewhat more difficult than usual due to its diminutive size. On the other hand, you won’t have any problems if you’ve ever built a computer in an ITX chassis previously. Just keep in mind that this was designed for a special use case, and may not be ideal for someone who is just starting out as a PC builder.

Once you have a clear idea of your build plan, it can be fairly straightforward to assemble it in this case. The working surface is useable despite being a bit cramped, and you also get several excellent cable management paths. You can even fit a whole custom water-cooling loop within the chassis, which is something that isn’t usually possible to do in an ITX case.

On the other hand, there are a few drawbacks that can discourage you from proceeding. The screws that secure the motherboard spacers are a little bit loose and don’t inspire a lot of trust in the user. In addition, there are some radiators that might be challenging to install due to the limited width of the mounting area. The riser cable that is given for the GPU is also not of very high quality.

Due to its relatively modest price point, you can also consider this case to be among the best budget PC cases when it comes to wall mounting.

Taking everything into consideration, the case is not terrible for the price, and it is particularly noteworthy in that regard. This particular case is actually an easier recommendation for wall mounting due to its compact size, and it can elevate the look of your PC setup without taking up a lot of space.

In essence, the Core P1 is our pick for the best mini ITX wall mount PC case on the market.

How we picked and tested

Adding wall mounting to the process of selecting a PC case ultimately adds complexity. Even a minor error in the calculation might cause incompatibility, necessitating an overhaul or even a rebuild in a new case.

In light of this, we were careful to establish strict criteria for the selection of the cases included in this overview.

Our key consideration while choosing wall mounting PC cases was the size. Generally, wall mount PC cases take up a lot of area, and it’s always a good idea to leave some headroom in case you decide to expand. In light of this, our featured collection consists mostly of full tower cases, but we decided to throw in some compact examples as well for the sake of completion.

In the second step, we chose enclosures that were the most suitable for use in a wall mounting application. This entails having exclusive wall mounting hardware, being modular, and having enough space for large custom water cooling loops. The inclusion of additional wall mounting provided by cases was also taken into account.

Aesthetic considerations were also important in narrowing down the options for this list. Incorporating a wall mounted PC into your setup may greatly improve its aesthetic value, and the PC case plays a significant role in this. So, the cases’ layout and lighting were thoughtfully deliberated.

We also paid close attention to the numerous quality-of-life aspects that might influence the overall value of a case. We paid special attention to things like a case’s weight and construction quality.

Pricing and value for money were definitely taken into account while selecting the finalized cases. Despite the fact that most wall mounting cases are somewhat pricey, we gave preference to those that provided the best value for money in terms of features and compatibility.

Nothing was overlooked by our elite testing crew when it came to the hardware we were evaluating. Each candidate was thoroughly examined by subjecting it to a collection of tests developed to gauge its thermal and airflow efficiency.

Since the airflow of the casing is also utilized to cool the radiators, thermal testing is essential for water cooling systems as well. The empirical and objective data from these tests was invaluable in the process of compiling this analysis.

As a result, the editorial team has a much clearer picture of the range of case quality and thermal performance available to them.

We have compiled a list of the top wall mount PC cases currently available by combining the results of our tests with an impartial examination of the features and costs offered by the cases.

Air Cooling vs. Water Cooling

When searching for a cooling solution for your PC, the first decision you will need to make is whether you want liquid cooling or air cooling. This decision between water cooling and air cooling is an important one since it may have an effect on the type of case you go with and other parts of your new build.

When compared to air coolers, all-in-one liquid coolers, which are more commonly referred to as AiOs, have an inherent performance advantage when it comes to cooling. This pattern holds true across all price points: the very best liquid coolers are often a significant step beyond even the very best air coolers in terms of performance and efficiency. On the other hand, liquid coolers are noticeably more costly and offer a worse return on investment than air coolers that are functionally equivalent.

The ability of water (or the liquid mixture contained within the AiO coolers) to hold heat is noticeably higher than that of air. This indicates that it has the capacity to take in a significant amount of heat energy for every degree Celsius that its temperature rises. Due to this process, water is able to become a conductor of heat away from hot components such as CPUs in a manner that is far more effective.

On the other hand, air is infamous for being an extremely poor conductor of heat. Due to the fact that it may, in some circumstances, perform the role of an insulator, air is one of the least desirable transfer mediums there is. This means that the ceiling for air cooling is naturally lower than the ceiling for water cooling.

In the majority of cases, cooling using air rather than water is not only more efficient but also more cost-effective. Even while air coolers offer a superior value proposition, their overall performance is not as strong as that of top-tier all-in-one (AiO) liquid coolers. In addition, they frequently have inferior aesthetics and might have worse acoustic performance.

For modern flagship CPUs and CPUs with a high power budget, we recommend using liquid coolers rather than air coolers. However, you can get away with air coolers on basically anything else, and save a bit of money while doing so.

How to Optimize your Case Airflow

Improving the flow of air within the computer’s chassis is a crucial step in designing a custom PC. Users on a more casual basis, as well as enthusiasts, should give this method a shot. This will reduce the likelihood of your computer’s components overheating, reduce the likelihood of dust building up in the chassis, and extend the life of your computer’s components.

Initially, we’ll focus on increasing the pressure inside the chassis. To have positive airflow, it is necessary that the interior fans draw in more cool air than they exhaust as warm air. This results in a positive cooling cycle, which is what you want to achieve.

Negative air pressure occurs when more air is being expelled than is being sucked in. As a result, a vacuum is created, which has the ability to begin sucking air from the cracks and crevices of the chassis, leading to a massive buildup of dust. In a system where air pressure is maintained throughout, the intake and exhaust cycles cancel each other out.

You may further lower CPU and GPU temperatures by moving the system to a cooler location, where cooler air can be drawn in. In this whole process, fans are the key players, and their size, speed, alignment, and kind may make or break the effectiveness of air circulation.

If situated properly, radiators can also serve as efficient fans. In addition to ensuring that your system cools appropriately and that its circulation is not interrupted by unwelcome foreign bodies, two of the most essential things you can do are to keep your system clean on a regular basis and to take preventative measures to keep dust and other particles out of your setup.

Finally, if your chassis is still overheating, you may want to check out our suggestions for the best airflow PC case alternatives and consider switching it. Perhaps our extensive PC case buying guide will be useful here.

Buyer’s Guide

Wall mounting a PC case is a fun idea that can spruce up your setup and take it to the next level. However, there are a lot of things that can go wrong when picking out the best wall mounting case.

Here are some of the factors that you should keep in mind when shopping for a wall mount PC case. Some of these are specific to this category, but most of them can be applied to general PC case shopping as well.

Form Factor

In wall mount PC cases, the form factor and size hold a lot of importance. Of course, you don’t want a gigantic case taking up all your wall space, and on the flip side, you don’t want a tiny enclosure either. It is important to consider the form factor and size of the wall mount PC case in question before making your decision.

A case’s available area is also crucial for achieving optimal ventilation. The cooling system consists of the fans and other cooling components, which must be kept at an appropriate distance from the motherboard and given adequate room to breathe in order to perform optimally.

The case must be able to guarantee that all components are maintained at temperatures that are appropriate for them, or as low as is reasonably possible, even if you are able to fit all of your components within the case. It may be challenging to accomplish this in smaller cases, but it becomes much easier to do so with bigger ones.

As a result, full tower cases provide superior ventilation compared to alternative case designs. While a mid-tower chassis may suffice, airflow quality often diminishes with decreasing case size. For this reason, mini ITX enclosures typically have poor ventilation.

The extra room is also important since it allows you to install water cooling loops and any other specialized cooling accessories that may be required to properly cool specific components. A larger case gives you more room to install custom cooling for individual components.

Compatibility

Compatibility ought to be your number one concern if you are selecting a new computer case, just because it is so critical. Even though the vast majority of the accessible cases are really diverse in terms of the components they are compatible with, you must still make sure that the components you select are intended to be used with the case you want to utilize.

When choosing a computer case, double-check that it has enough space for your motherboard and other components like the power supply and graphics cards. It is very crucial to take into account the length of the graphics card while making your decision.

The case should be big enough to fit all of the components of your cooling system, have enough space to arrange all of the cable connections in an orderly fashion, and have an airflow architecture that is beneficial for your components.

In addition, expansion slots and modular brackets are both wonderful additions to any computer case; nevertheless, it is not necessary for a PC case to include any of these features. Your first order of business should be finding fans and other components for your radiators that are of a size and shape that is suitable for the ones you wish to install. It is important to evaluate whether or not the casing is compatible with the radiator sizes that are to be employed.

It is in your best interest to double check that all of your components are compatible with the case that you have chosen if you want to spare yourself problems in the future. The case that you have chosen should be compatible with all of your components.

Airflow

An excellent computer case is one that provides adequate ventilation for the variety of components it can hold. Furthermore, it is preferable to have a case that is already tuned for airflow from the manufacturer, since this will reduce the amount of tweaking required. It’s not always as easy as just adding extra fans to fix the problem of inadequate ventilation.

As a consequence of this, you want to give top priority to selecting a case that not only offers sufficient space for effective ventilation but also is designed to improve the performance of such a feature.

As of right now, there are so many different computer cases available for purchase that you have a vast array of possibilities from which to select. Some of these solutions are too ambitious, while others are deceptively simple but nevertheless manage to achieve remarkable levels of effectiveness.

Look for unrestricted front panels, ideally made of mesh with big holes. The front panels of some modern cases are very clever, providing enough ventilation without sacrificing style.

That’s why it’s important to look for features like dust filters and mesh panels when deciding on a computer case. Having enough airflow is important even if you plan on using water cooling for your components since you’ll need to cool the radiators in addition to the graphics card and other devices.

It won’t be difficult to maintain perfect airflow conditions in your PC case with the help of our comprehensive tutorial that explains how to optimize your system’s airflow.

Aesthetics

At the end of the day, wall mount PC cases are all about aesthetics. There is no functional benefit in hanging your PC up on the wall, in fact, it can lead to a few issues in the day-to-day operation of the case. On the flip side, however, a wall mounted PC case is one of the most beautiful sights in PC building, if it is done right.

This is why the design and aesthetics of the PC case are so important. First of all, it has to match your entire setup. This can range from something as basic as color to more complicated design elements like minimalistic aesthetics and RGB lighting. On the subject of RGB lighting, you should make sure that the lighting of your selected case can synchronize with the various RGB lighting ecosystems out there.

Of course, tempered glass panels are an integral part of most PC cases, and the same holds true for wall mount PC cases. What is unique about wall mount cases is that most of them take a modular approach. You can remove or change the positioning of the various panels in order to give your build a customized look.

All in all, it is vital that you consider the overall aesthetics of your build when buying a wall mount PC case. It may even be helpful to design and plan your build in software before you finalize your purchase decision.

Mounting Capability

It should be self-evident from the name that a wall mount PC case should be able to be mounted on a wall without the need for additional mounts purchased from a third party. Wall mount cases often have holes cut into them to accommodate a variety of various VESA mount sizes.

In addition, it is preferable if the mounts were included in the packaging by the makers of the product. It is impossible for a case to be included in this category if it does not include built-in support for wall mounting.

You should also make sure that the case is feasible for wall-mounting in your particular setup. Some cases might be too heavy or too large for certain setups, which is why you may need to purchase third-party mounts.

Best Wall Mount PC Case - FAQs

Can any PC case be mounted on the wall?

Not every PC case can be mounted on the wall. Most PC cases are not designed to be hung on walls, and thus they do not have mounting hardware or capabilities. You will need specially designed wall mount PC cases for this purpose. They have specific mounting designs on their panels and usually come with compatible hardware.

Are wall mount PC cases worth it?

Wall mount PC cases are worth it if you are committed to the idea of wall mounting your PC. They can provide a fresh new look to your gaming setup, and make it stand out from the crowd. They can also protect the components from dust and debris which is an added benefit.

Are wall mount PC cases safe?

Wall mount PC cases are completely safe if you follow the instructions and carefully secure the mount. You have to make sure that you stay within the maximum load-bearing capacity of the mount. This information can be usually found in the user’s manual of the PC case.

Can I use wall mount PC cases on a desk?

You can also use wall mount PC cases on a desk. Most wall mount cases also come with standard rubber or metal feet just like other PC cases, so you can place them on the desk and use them normally. Just make sure you don’t forget to attach the feet before you place them on a desk.

What to look for in a wall mount PC case?

You should look for compatibility and size when selecting a wall mount PC case. It should be big enough to hold all your components, and should also have the correct mounting slots for your devices. Moreover, you should consider aesthetics and looks as that is a major selling point of a wall mount PC case.

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The 5 Best Performing Micro ATX Cases For Gaming PCs https://appuals.com/best-micro-atx-cases/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-micro-atx-cases https://appuals.com/best-micro-atx-cases/#disqus_thread Fri, 29 Oct 2021 14:07:04 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=102211 The popularity of compact PC builds has been on a constant rise in the past few years, but picking the best micro ATX case for that build still remains a challenge. Enthusiasts are turning more and more towards smaller PC cases due to their practicality and functionality, and micro ATX cases have become popular once …

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The popularity of compact PC builds has been on a constant rise in the past few years, but picking the best micro ATX case for that build still remains a challenge. Enthusiasts are turning more and more towards smaller PC cases due to their practicality and functionality, and micro ATX cases have become popular once again among the PC gaming crowd. This trend is also supported by the fact that most of the best budget PC cases are also micro ATX in form factor. Since the core components such as CPUs and GPUs have become exponentially more efficient in the past few years, one can still expect decent thermals and performance in a small form factor enclosure, which was not possible even a few years ago.

Best Micro ATX Cases
Micro ATX Cases 2023

However, selecting a micro ATX case for a compact gaming PC build is not as straightforward as it might seem. The thermal and airflow performance of the case has to be given paramount importance for obvious reasons. Other features such as cable management, drive support, fan and radiator support, front I/O, and aesthetics also have to be considered when making a purchase decision. Finally, the price has to be taken into consideration as well when buying the best micro ATX cases, as it would be unwise to spend hundreds of dollars on a case that provides fewer features than a normal ATX chassis.

The Best Micro ATX Case – Our Recommendations

#PreviewProduct NameAwardDetails
1Cooler Master MasterBox NR400Best Overall Micro ATX Case
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2Cooler Master MasterBox MB320L ARGBBest Looking Micro ATX Case
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3Thermaltake Core V21Most Practical Micro ATX Case
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4CoolerMaster MasterBox Q300LBest Value Micro ATX Case
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5Thermaltake S100 SnowMost Unique Micro ATX Case
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#1
Preview
Product NameCooler Master MasterBox NR400
AwardBest Overall Micro ATX Case
Details
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#2
Preview
Product NameCooler Master MasterBox MB320L ARGB
AwardBest Looking Micro ATX Case
Details
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#3
Preview
Product NameThermaltake Core V21
AwardMost Practical Micro ATX Case
Details
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#4
Preview
Product NameCoolerMaster MasterBox Q300L
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#5
Preview
Product NameThermaltake S100 Snow
AwardMost Unique Micro ATX Case
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Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 16:23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Compact PC cases have a lot of quirks and features that potential buyers should keep in mind before making the purchase. These cases also face slight issues in terms of airflow, so don’t expect compact cases to be like the best cases for airflow. However, the positives are also significant as compact cases take up way less space in your setup and are generally cheaper as well. Keeping the factors mentioned above in mind, here are the 5 best micro ATX case options for compact gaming PC builds.

1. Cooler Master MasterBox NR400

Best Overall Micro ATX Case

Pros

  • Impressive Airflow
  • Minimalistic Design
  • ODD Option
  • Convenient Layout

Cons

  • Only 2 Stock Fans Included

1,161 Reviews

Form Factor: Micro ATX | Dimensions (W x H x D): 210 mm x 411 mm x 411 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm | Front Panel: 2x USB 3.0, 1x 3.5mm Headset Jack| Motherboard Support: Micro ATX, mini-ITX

Kicking things off is the Cooler Master MasterBox NR400, a micro ATX case that is designed to provide an efficient cooling solution and plenty of features for a high-performance system build. It is marketed as a budget-friendly option for gamers and enthusiasts looking for a compact and functional case.

Aesthetically, the MasterBox NR400 has a sleek and minimalist design, with a brushed metal front panel and a tempered glass side panel that offers a nice view of the internal components. The case has a black color scheme with subtle accents on the front panel and power button. The overall build quality is decent, with a sturdy steel frame that feels solid and durable.

One of the primary features of this case is its supreme airflow. The MasterBox NR400 is designed for efficient cooling, with a mesh front panel that allows for maximum airflow. The case supports up to five fans, with one pre-installed 120mm fan at the front and one 120mm fan at the rear. You may want to purchase additional fans if you want to maximize the performance of your components, or if you prefer RGB lighting.

Best Micro ATX Case
Cooler Master MasterBox NR400

The case also has room for a 280mm radiator at the front and a 120mm radiator at the rear, providing flexibility for liquid cooling options. It may be a little cramped inside if you want to install a liquid cooling loop in this case, but the compatibility is available nonetheless.

In terms of expansion, the case has a spacious interior that can accommodate a variety of components, including up to a 346mm graphics card, a 166mm CPU cooler, and a standard ATX power supply. The NR400 has a cable management system that helps keep cables tidy and out of the way, and a PSU shroud that makes installation and maintenance easier.

Additionally, the case features an optional ODD bay that can be used to install an optical drive. This is a unique feature that is not present in a lot of modern cases. You can also install a hard drive under the ODD mount, and the case provides USB 3.0 on the front panel for easy connectivity.

The MasterBox NR400 is priced rather fairly considering the feature set, making it a budget-friendly option for gamers and enthusiasts on a limited budget. It offers a good balance of features, design, and performance at a reasonable price point. Moreover, it is hard to find airflow-focused cases in this price category.

Overall, the Cooler Master MasterBox NR400 is a solid micro ATX case that offers great value for the price. It has a sleek design, efficient airflow, and ample space for high-performance components. The case’s features make it a compelling option for budget-conscious gamers and enthusiasts looking for a functional and affordable case.

2. Cooler Master MasterBox MB320L ARGB

Best Looking Micro ATX Case

Pros

  • Included ARGB Fans
  • Exquisite Design
  • Decent Airflow
  • Adaptable Drive Cage

Cons

  • Relatively Expensive

2,728 Reviews

Form Factor: Micro ATX | Dimensions (W x H x D): 217 mm x 410 mm x 435 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm | Front Panel: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Jack, 1 x 3.5mm Mic Jack, 1x ARGB/PWM Hub | Motherboard Support: Micro ATX, mini-ITX

Our pick for the best looking micro ATX case is the Cooler Master MasterBox MB320L ARGB, which is a case that features addressable RGB lighting and a sleek design. It is a mid-range, compact option for gamers and enthusiasts who want to add some style and flair to their PC builds.

Looks are the defining feature of this case, and the MasterBox MB320L ARGB has a stylish and modern design, with a smoked front panel and a couple of 120mm ARGB fans pre-installed behind the panel. The front panel has a dark tint to it which is quite unique, and the tempered glass side panel allows you to look at your build in all its glory. The build quality is acceptable, with a sturdy steel frame that feels durable.

Of course, the MasterBox MB320L ARGB is not all about the looks. The case is also designed for optimal airflow, with a pair of large mesh strips on either side of the front panel that allow for decent air intake. The case supports up to five fans, with two pre-installed 120mm fans at the front and one 120mm fan at the rear. The case also has room for a 280mm radiator at the front, providing flexibility for liquid cooling options.

Best Micro ATX Case
Cooler Master MasterBox MB320L ARGB

Moreover, the case has a spacious interior that can accommodate a variety of components, including up to a 360mm graphics card, a 159mm CPU cooler, and a standard ATX power supply. Cable management is comfortable and convenient, although the case does not have any rubber grommets to cover the cutouts. The PSU shroud gives the case a clean layout and covers up the excess wiring comfortably.

Obviously the MasterBox MB320L ARGB’s standout feature is its addressable RGB lighting. The front panel ARGB fans can be customized with various lighting effects and colors through the included controller or motherboard software. The case also has an ARGB button on the top panel, adding an extra touch of customization. The lighting is bright and vibrant, adding a dynamic element to the overall aesthetic of the case.

The price of the MasterBox MB320L ARGB is a little higher than competitors with similar features, but the former has the advantage of ARGB lighting that is usually not present in most budget cases. In this price bracket, the MB320L ARGB is a great value for the money, although it can be a bit more expensive than some of the budget offerings on this list.

At the end of the day, the Cooler Master MasterBox MB320L ARGB is a great mATX case that offers a sleek design and vibrant ARGB lighting. It has efficient cooling, ample space for high-performance components, and a variety of customization options. The case’s ARGB lighting and aesthetics make it a compelling option for gamers and enthusiasts looking to add some style and flair to their PC builds.

3. Thermaltake Core V21

Most Practical Micro ATX Case

Pros

  • Ample Space Due To Cube Shape
  • Horizontal and Vertical Motherboard Mounting Options
  • Easy To Work In
  • Good Airflow

Cons

  • Old-School Design Language
  • Build Quality Could Have Been Better
  • Cable Management Options Are Unimpressive

Form Factor: Micro ATX | Dimensions (W x H x D): 320 mm x 336 mm x 424 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm | Front Panel: 1 x Audio/Mic, 2 x USB 3.0 | Motherboard Support: Micro ATX, mini-ITX

The Thermaltake Core series is a value-oriented line of cases that aims mainly to maximize the bang-for-the-buck proposition of the buyer. The Core V21 is one such case that stands out from the pack due to its interesting design and practicality. This is a cube-shaped case that supports micro ATX and mini ITX boards, and can thus be used for compact PC builds. The cube shape also makes this one of the best cases for water cooling in the micro ATX form factor.

Despite being a compact case with an unusual design, it still possesses quite a big footprint with the dimensions of 320 mm x 336 mm x 424 mm (W x H x D). This does improve the practicality of the case quite a bit, but it also slightly defeats the purpose of a compact case in the first place. Still, the Core V21 is very easy to work in due to its cube shape and it has some unique features as well. The motherboard can be placed both vertically and horizontally which allows the user to personalize their build in the Core V21. The case also comes with a 200 mm fan at the front which is a nice inclusion by Thermaltake as it provides good airflow.

Best Micro ATX Case
Thermaltake Core V21

As far as the looks go, this is where the Thermaltake V21 falls a bit flat. The cube-shaped design feels very old-school and outdated, and it cannot match the clean and minimalistic designs that are found on cases today. There is also a lot of negative space inside the chassis, and the lack of a PSU shroud is a glaring oversight that should not have happened considering the design of the case. The side panel of the case is also acrylic rather than tempered glass which gives it a cheap look. Safe to say that Thermaltake has prioritized functionality over looks for the V21.

More PC Cases: Best Dual PC Cases

The Core V21 from Thermaltake is not a bad case at all, in fact, it is one of the more reasonable and practical choices on our list. The cube shape definitely makes it the most practical micro ATX case on our list. It does have good airflow, excellent practicality, and great features which make it a really attractive value, however, the aesthetics of the case leave a lot to be desired.

4. CoolerMaster MasterBox Q300L

Best Value Micro ATX Case

Pros

  • Budget Oriented
  • Magnetic Dust Filters
  • Good Cable Management Space
  • Flexible Orientation

Cons

  • Poor Airflow
  • Unremarkable Build Quality
  • No PSU Shroud

Form Factor: Micro ATX | Dimensions (W x H x D): 387 mm x 230 mm x 378 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 240mm | Front Panel: 1 x Audio/Mic, 2 x USB 3.0 | Motherboard Support: Micro ATX, mini-ITX

The MasterBox lineup of cases from CoolerMaster is aimed at maximizing the value proposition by providing good quality cases at affordable prices. The MasterBox Q300L is the micro ATX offering from this line that provides just the basics in order to get the job done. This case might just be the best value micro ATX case on our list today. You might also check out our Cooler Master MB511 Review which is a more reasonable ATX case from Cooler Master.

At first glance, the MasterBox Q300L might seem like a barebones case with no-frills, but it does have some good features to offer. The cable management structure of the case is satisfactory and the overall internal layout is also quite convenient. There is plenty of space inside the case to work in easily, and it offers some modularity as well. The case is quite compact but still, it can support a 240mm AiO radiator for cooling, or you can instead increase the substandard airflow by installing more fans in those spots. One big positive point is that full-size dust filters are provided for both the front and the top, which is a nice inclusion.

Best Micro ATX Case
CoolerMaster MasterBox Q300L

The MasterBox Q300L does not offer anything special as far as aesthetics are concerned. Its overall look is quite basic, and the build quality is also unremarkable in many spots. The side panel has an interesting design because the I/O of the case is located on the left side as well, which gives it a unique look. The panel itself is acrylic and does not hold a candle to the more premium cases in our list, but that is to be expected given the price point. This case can also be counted as one of the best cases under $70 if you are limited to that budget.

All in all, the CoolerMaster MasterBox Q300L is a budget-oriented offering that gets the job done at an affordable price point. Although it may not have the best airflow or the latest features, it is still good enough for a compact, micro ATX build without breaking the bank.

5. Thermaltake S100 Snow

Best White Micro ATX Case

Pros

  • Minimalistic Design Language
  • Unique White Color
  • Dust Filtration

Cons

  • Unremarkable Airflow
  • Only 1 Included Fan

2,591 Reviews

Form Factor: Micro ATX | Dimensions (W x H x D): 220 mm x 411 mm x 441 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm | Front Panel: 1 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x HD Audio | Motherboard Support: Micro ATX, mini-ITX

If you’re in the market for a micro ATX case that combines style and functionality, look no further than the Thermaltake S100 Snow. This case offers a clean and minimalist design, efficient airflow, and a range of features that make it an excellent choice for PC builders. It is our pick for the best white micro ATX case on the market right now.

Starting with the aesthetics, the Thermaltake S100 Snow has a sleek and modern design, with an all-white steel frame and a tempered glass side panel that provides a nice view of the internal components. The front panel is made of high-quality plastic that gives the case a premium look and feel. The build quality is excellent, and the all-white design gives the case a stylish and elegant appearance.

Efficient airflow is critical for keeping your components cool and running smoothly, and the Thermaltake S100 Snow struggles a bit in that department. The case features a solid panel with a perforated side that allows for limited air intake. In terms of fan support, the S100 can support up to five fans, but it comes with only one included fan at the rear. The case also has room for a 280mm radiator at the front which is a decent option for liquid cooling.

Best Micro ATX Case
Thermaltake S100

The Thermaltake S100 Snow has a compact and well-organized interior that can accommodate a variety of components, including up to a 330mm graphics card, a 160mm CPU cooler, and a standard ATX power supply. The case has a cable management system that helps keep cables tidy and out of the way, although we would have liked to see some rubber grommets on the cable cutouts.

Moving to the capabilities of the case, the Thermaltake S100 Snow comes with various features that make it an attractive option for micro ATX builds. It has a tool-less design for easy installation and upgrades, a magnetic dust filter at the top and bottom for easy cleaning, and USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports on the front panel for easy connectivity. You also get a small cutout at the side of the power supply shroud so you can admire your PSU in all its glory.

In terms of value, the Thermaltake S100 is a really competitive case. It is one of the more affordable options for PC builders who are looking for a stylish and functional micro ATX case. It offers a good balance of features, design, and performance at a reasonable price point. Moreover, it is hard to find a white PC case at this price point that checks all the boxes.

In essence, the Thermaltake S100 Snow is an excellent choice for PC builders who are looking for a clean and minimalist micro ATX case that offers a unique all-white design, a well-organized layout, and a range of features. Its reasonable price point makes it an attractive option for gamers and enthusiasts who want to build a stylish gaming PC, despite its struggles in the airflow department.

Micro ATX Cases vs. Mini-ITX Cases – Comparison

If you are in the market for a compact case of any sort for your new compact PC build, then you might find yourself contemplating between a mini-ITX case and a micro ATX case. Both of these case types are smaller than the typical ATX cases you find in the mid-tower format, but they actually serve slightly different purposes. If you want to choose between a micro ATX case and a mini-ITX case, then you should consider their differences first.

Micro ATX cases, although smaller than standard ATX, are still larger than mini-ITX cases. Furthermore, micro ATX cases are actually cheaper than mini-ITX cases in most instances. This is because mini-ITX cases are specific cases that require a lot of R&D in terms of tooling and manufacturing, so they end up costing more due to their limited volume. Micro ATX cases are also more readily available for the exact same reason. Due to their larger size, micro ATX cases also tend to have better airflow than the smaller mini-ITX cases.

However, on the flip side, the mini-ITX cases are typically much smaller than your average micro ATX case which can play in your favor if you want a really compact build. You would also want to opt for a mini-ITX case if you want a build with some sort of portability factor. For a more in-depth comparison of the two case types, you should definitely check out our guide on micro ATX vs. mini ITX cases. If you finally settled on micro ATX for your build, then be sure to pick one from our selection of the best micro ATX case options in the roundup above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What case fits a micro ATX?

Micro ATX motherboards can be installed in either a full-size ATX case or a compact micro ATX case. Smaller motherboards such as mini-ITX are also supported in both the micro ATX and ATX cases. As a general rule of thumb, smaller size motherboards can be installed in bigger cases but not the other way around.

Is micro ATX cheaper than ATX?

Generally, micro ATX cases and motherboards are a little bit cheaper than their ATX counterparts. This decrease in price can be attributed to lower manufacturing costs due to fewer raw material requirements. This means that you can save some money by going with a micro ATX setup rather than a standard ATX one. Mini-ITX motherboards, on the other hand, are typically more expensive or on par with ATX motherboards in terms of pricing.

Are micro ATX cases good for airflow?

Micro ATX form factor can be as good as ATX when it comes to the airflow but it all depends on the design of the case. Typically, micro ATX cases still have adequate fan mounting options and, therefore, can have great airflow as well. However, some ill-designed micro ATX cases can have terrible airflow due to poor design as well. Mini-ITX cases on the other hand are more challenged in terms of space so it is hard for those cases to have great airflow.

Is micro ATX worth it?

Yes, the micro ATX form factor is worth buying in both motherboards and PC cases. This is because it is typically cheaper than the ATX form factor, but offers more or less the same functionality as ATX. Micro ATX cases are also smaller in size which makes them excellent for compact gaming setups with limited desk space. Micro ATX cases and motherboards usually offer the same feature set as standard ATX options in those categories, so you’re not losing a lot by going with micro ATX instead.

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The Smallest Mini ITX Cases For Compact Builds https://appuals.com/best-smallest-mini-itx-cases/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-smallest-mini-itx-cases https://appuals.com/best-smallest-mini-itx-cases/#disqus_thread Fri, 29 Oct 2021 12:28:08 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=100929 Over the past few years, the industry trend has moved towards compact builds and people are looking for the smallest mini ITX cases for their rigs. There is truly no alternative to some of the best full tower cases with a big motherboard and a lot of components but still, the need for a Mini …

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Over the past few years, the industry trend has moved towards compact builds and people are looking for the smallest mini ITX cases for their rigs. There is truly no alternative to some of the best full tower cases with a big motherboard and a lot of components but still, the need for a Mini ITX case cannot be ignored. First of all, such a case greatly saves space on your desk and you can use multiple monitors easily, while a configuration like that is very troublesome for a large ATX case. Secondly, since the Mini ITX cases are very small, they weigh a lot less than the ATX cases and this also makes them quite much portable. Last of all, since these cases are small, it also means that the material used in their design is also less than ATX cases which is why Mini ITX cases are fairly cheaper.

Smallest Mini ITX Cases
Smallest Mini ITX Cases

All these advantages result in a much better experience and due to advancements in the designs, it is now possible to put high-end components in these cases too, which eliminates the common misconception that one cannot make a high-end PC using a Mini ITX case. We will be looking at the smallest among the Mini ITX cases which would still allow you to build your dream PC. If you want to build inside a compact case, but you don’t want to go down the mini ITX route, check out our picks for the best micro ATX cases as well, which will provide similar functionality at a cheaper price.

The Smallest Mini ITX Cases – 5 Great Options

#PreviewProduct NameAwardDetails
1Thermaltake Core V1 Snow EditionSmallest White Mini ITX Case
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2Cooler Master Elite 130Smallest Mini ITX Case For Air Cooling
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3BitFenix Prodigy Arctic WhiteSmallest Tower Mini ITX Case
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4InWin A1 BlackSmallest RGB Mini ITX Case
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5Cougar QBXSmallest Mini ITX Case For Water Cooling
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#1
Preview
Product NameThermaltake Core V1 Snow Edition
AwardSmallest White Mini ITX Case
Details
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#2
Preview
Product NameCooler Master Elite 130
AwardSmallest Mini ITX Case For Air Cooling
Details
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#3
Preview
Product NameBitFenix Prodigy Arctic White
AwardSmallest Tower Mini ITX Case
Details
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#4
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Product NameInWin A1 Black
AwardSmallest RGB Mini ITX Case
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#5
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Product NameCougar QBX
AwardSmallest Mini ITX Case For Water Cooling
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Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 23:05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Smallest Mini ITX cases are all the rage nowadays due to their excellent space-to-performance ratio. People nowadays are moving away from typical large-sized full tower PC cases and even mid-tower cases, and are now preferring something compact. Mini ITX cases might not be the best airflow PC cases out there, but they serve a specialized function that other cases cannot. This is why we have curated a selection of the smallest mini ITX cases on the market that will be perfect for a small-sized PC build with desktop components. Moreover, these mini ITX cases will also be great for something portable, if that is the route you want to pursue.

1. Thermaltake Core V1 Snow Edition

Smallest White Mini ITX Case

Pros

  • 200mm Fan Included
  • Dual Modular Rack Design
  • Great Airflow
  • Easy To Work In
  • Smart Cube Shaped Design

Cons

  • Few Expansion Bays
  • Difficult Cable Management

Form Factor: Mini ITX tower | Motherboard Support: Mini ITX | Dimensions: 260 mm x 276 mm x 316 mm | Weight: 9.15 lbs | Radiator Support: 140mm | I/O Ports: 1 x Audio/Mic, 2 x USB 3.0 | Drive Bays: 2.5”: 2, 3.5”: 2

Thermaltake is a well-known brand for PC casings, peripherals, and other computer hardware. Thermaltake Core V1 Snow Edition is one of the most widely used Mini ITX casings due to its cheap price and good features. The overall design of the case is quite beautiful with the curvy ends and holed vents. The casing provides a modular design with the upper chamber providing efficient cooling while the lower chamber provides space for the PSU and cable management. Speaking of the PSU, you might want to take a look at our picks for the best SFX PSUs for your compact build.

Smallest Mini ITX Cases
Thermaltake Core V1 Snow Edition

The snow edition stirs the things with its white color as most of the cases are only available in black. This is also the smallest white mini ITX case in this shape on the market. The I/O panel is placed on the side of the case to provide ease of use. It comes with interchangeable side panels which provide easy customization and there are removable dust filters for the PSU to prevent the dust from getting inside the case. For more options, take a look at our picks for the white PC cases as well.

The included 200mm fan provided great airflow for intake during the testing and we felt no need for any other intake fan. Meanwhile, with two 80mm rear fans, the system was giving a high-pitch noise which is why we think that unless you are using a high-end graphics card, you should use only one fan. We think this case could have used top mounting to improve the airflow but still, it provides a sweet experience and should be your top priority when looking out for a cheap Mini ITX case.

2. Cooler Master Elite 130

Smallest Mini ITX Case For Air Cooling

Pros

  • Relatively Affordable
  • Practical Cuboid Design
  • Full-size ATX PSUs Supported
  • Interchangeable Side Panels
  • Good Airflow

Cons

  • Unimpressive Aesthetics
  • Unremarkable Cable Management

Form Factor: Mini ITX tower | Motherboard Support: Mini ITX | Dimensions: 240 mm x 207.4 mm x 398.5 mm | Weight: 6.8 lbs | Radiator Support: 120mm | I/O Ports: 1 x Audio/Mic, 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 2.0 | Drive Bays: 2.5”: 5, 3.5”: 3

Cooler Master Elite 130 is an old case but it provides such great features that we could not just resist putting it on this list, however, the design of the case is rather boring. It provides ample space for the graphics card and the power supply but you must use a low-profile CPU cooler because the power supply is quite close to the motherboard. The side panels of the case include big rectangle-shaped holes, which is good for airflow but there is no dust filter there, resulting in the dust getting inside the case easily. The front of the case, however, uses the dust filter which is used along with a 120mm fan for intake. On a related note, you might also want to take a look at our Cooler Master MB511 case review if you want to check out more products from Cooler Master.

Smallest Mini ITX Cases
Cooler Master Elite 130

This case can use very long graphics cards as nothing is obstructing the path. A blower-style graphics card would also be very efficient, which takes the air inside from the side of the graphics cards and the hot air is ejected directly out of the case. The air cooling mechanisms inside this case are effective which is why we consider this case as the ideal smallest mini ITX case for air cooling on our list. If a long graphics card isn’t your thing, then you can take a pick from our best low-profile graphics card selection as well.

There is also space for an optional 80mm side fan which would directly blow the air onto the motherboard and the processor. The I/O panel is divided into two parts, where the right side provides a power button and a USB 2.0 port while the left side provides two USB 3.0 ports and audio jacks. There is almost no cable management in this case which would upset many users and unless you are not disturbed by the visible fat cables, this case should interest you a lot.

3. BitFenix Prodigy Arctic White

Smallest Tower Mini ITX Case

Pros

  • Feels Sturdy
  • Easy-To-Clean Fan Grills
  • Relatively Spacious
  • Tower Design

Cons

  • Not Ideal For Open-Air GPUs
  • Wobbly Handles
  • Unremarkable Cable Management

Form Factor: Mini ITX tower | Motherboard Support: Mini ITX | Dimensions: 250 mm x 404 mm x 359 mm | Weight: 15.4 lbs | Radiator Support: 240mm | I/O Ports: 1 x Audio/Mic, 2 x USB 3.0 | Drive Bays: 2.5”: 9, 3.5”: 5

BitFenix Prodigy is a case that balances things very well and its rich design provides so many features that a normal user is stunned. First of all, the case provides two big handles for easy transportation while a similar design also exists at the bottom for leaving some space between the desk surface and the case. This also allows the user to invert the case and completely change the orientation of the components which is a unique feature among PC cases.

More PC Cases: Best Budget PC Cases

Smallest Mini ITX Cases
BitFenix Prodigy Arctic White

The fan mounting capability of this case is also very good with a total of five fans supported in the case, however, the side panel of the case has small holes which is why there is very little room for the graphics card to breathe, leading to a bit higher temperatures. The amount of expansion bays is also unbelievable and it is very impressive to have fifteen internal bays for such a compact case. The I/O panel of the case is located at the side, providing ease of use, and consists of two USB 3.0 ports, a power button, a reset button, and audio jacks. This case might also be ideal for HTPCs due to its size. On a related note, you can find our picks for the best HTPC cases as well.

Surprisingly, the price of this case is not as high as its features and can be considered by even the mid-range budget customers. There are not many cases that rival the qualities and features of this case and if you can afford this case, you will not regret your purchase. This is also one of the smallest tower mini ITX case options you can find on the market, which is a niche design segment.

4. InWin A1 Black

Smallest RGB Mini ITX Case

Pros

  • Built-In RGB Lighting
  • Wireless Charging Module Included
  • Impressive Aesthetics
  • Good Build Quality

Cons

  • Only Two Drives Supported
  • Difficult Assembly
  • Unremarkable GPU Airflow

Form Factor: Mini ITX tower | Motherboard Support: Mini ITX | Dimensions: 224 mm x 273 mm x 357 mm | Weight: 13.2 lbs | Radiator Support: 120mm | I/O Ports: 1 x Audio/Mic, 2 x USB 3.0 | Drive Bays: 2.5”: 2, 3.5”: 2

InWin casings are getting popular very much recently due to their unique designs. Their casings provide unimaginable designs and are priced very high due to this reason. InWin A1 is no exception and the casing provides RGB lighting along with a stylish stand that is transparent in color. The changing RGB lighting and the transparent stand create an illusion that the case is floating in the air, which looks spectacular. This design also makes it the best smallest RGB mini ITX case on our list.

Smallest Mini ITX Cases
InWin A1 Black

The casing has no top and front fan mounting but you should not get the wrong idea here. There is space for two 120mm fans at the bottom and also a 120mm fan at the side. The bottom fans help the graphics card breathe easily as it is very close to the bottom while the side fan blows cool air inside. There is also space for a 120mm fan at the rear which can be used for the exhaustion of the hot air out of the case. With all these fans, we experienced cool temperatures and there was no thermal throttling among any of the PC components.

Related Roundup: Dual PC Cases

The I/O panel is located at the top of the case and provides two USB 3.0 ports, a power button, and audio jacks. An exceptional feature of this case is that it provides a Qi wireless charger so that you can charge your smartphone by just placing them on the top of the case. The case also includes a 600-watt gold-rated power supply which is not of very high quality but should suffice the needs of most of the users. All these features make this case quite expensive for an average user and that is why it is only targeted at high-end users, to whom it provides a profoundly sweet experience.

5. Cougar QBX

Smallest Mini ITX Case For Water Cooling

Pros

  • Side Hinge Design
  • 7 Fan Mounts
  • Good For Water Cooling

Cons

  • Not Ideal For Long PSUs
  • Troublesome PSU Mounting
  • Proprietary Screws
  • Constricted For Air Cooling

Form Factor: Mini ITX tower | Motherboard Support: Mini ITX | Dimensions: 178 mm x 291 mm x 384 mm | Weight: 9.96 lbs | Radiator Support: 240 mm | I/O Ports: 1 x Audio/Mic, 2 x USB 3.0 | Drive Bays: 2.5”: 4, 3.5”: 1

Cougar is a German brand that manufactures gaming products and Cougar QBX is one of its two Mini ITX casings. Despite that, the quality of this case is quite impressive. The casing provides a brushed-aluminum look like the famous Corsair Obsidian series, although the actual material of this case is plastic, which is sturdy enough to withstand bumps and presses. As this casing is targeted towards gamers, the cooling capability of this casing is eminently overwhelming as it supports a total of seven fans, which is why it can be coupled with high-end PC components without affecting the performance.

More PC Cases: Open-Air PC Cases

Smallest Mini ITX Cases
Cougar QBX

The top fans are the major factors in exhausting the hot air while there is space for two 120mm fans at the bottom for the efficient cooling of the graphics card. The fan along the side panel can be used to throw air directly on the motherboard which greatly extends the life of the motherboard, although there is no dust filter on the side panel. This case would work best with an AiO liquid cooler or even a liquid-cooled hybrid graphics card. This functionality makes it the best smallest mini ITX case for water cooling on our list. If you’re interested in more cases like this, check out our selection of the best cases for water cooling as well.

We observed no issues during the testing as all the components were cooled very efficiently, however, make sure that your power supply is not long enough that it blocks the path of the graphics card, and if it does then choose a graphics card with a short length. This is the only issue with this casing and if you plan to use a small power supply, this casing will take care of all of your needs at a minimal price.

Things To Know When Buying a Mini ITX Case

Choosing a PC case can be a bit of a tricky decision. Unlike most of your components, the PC case is not exactly functional in terms of performance, but choosing the wrong one can still indirectly affect the performance of other components. Airflow is the paramount factor that you should consider while picking a PC case, and in the smallest mini ITX cases unfortunately the airflow suffers a bit. Still, you should be mindful of these factors when picking the best case for you.

The first order of business should be to decide the size of the case that you want. There are basically 4 types of computer cases out there on the basis of size. Firstly, there is the ATX form factor, which can be labeled as the standard mid-tower configuration. Smaller cases in the micro-ATX form factor also exist, and so do extremely compact cases using the mini ITX form factor, which is the focus of our roundup. Take a look at our guide for mini ITX vs. micro ATX cases if you’re confused about the two compact form factors.

Secondly, you should turn your attention to compatibility. A PC case should, first and foremost, be able to hold and support each and every one of your PC components. Think about the motherboard size, the radiator size, the number of fans, the number of SSDs and HDDs, the size of your CPU cooler, and the size of your graphics card. You should also think about cable management and aesthetics, since the computer case is a showpiece for your particular build, so it should definitely look nice. Moreover, airflow becomes a strong consideration here since that is the part that may directly impact your performance.

Using these tips, you should be able to land on the perfect case for your build. If you want a more in-depth walkthrough, be sure to check out our detailed PC case buying guide for this purpose. Using the steps mentioned in the guide and our selection of the best smallest mini ITX cases, you should have your compact PC build ready in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between micro ATX and mini ITX?

Micro ATX cases, although smaller than standard ATX, are still larger than mini ITX cases. Furthermore, micro ATX cases are actually cheaper than mini ITX cases in most instances. Due to their larger size, micro ATX cases also tend to have better airflow than the smaller mini ITX cases. However, on the flip side, the mini ITX cases are typically much smaller than your average micro ATX case which can play in your favor if you want a really compact build. You would also want to opt for a mini ITX case if you want a build with some sort of portability factor

Do mini ITX cases have good airflow?

Generally, the smaller the case, the worse it is in terms of airflow. However, good engineering and smart design can often overcome the challenges you might face in this regard. Look for mini ITX cases with large perforated panels and huge vents. Furthermore, you should also keep in mind the number of fans that the case is able to hold. An important thing to note in this regard is the “breathing room” of the fans. You should make sure that the case in question has enough space in between the fan and the chassis/components that the air can be pulled/pushed with ease.

Are mini ITX cases expensive?

Mini ITX cases are often much more expensive than regular ATX and micro ATX cases. This is because mini ITX cases are specific cases that require a lot of R&D in terms of tooling and manufacturing, so they end up costing more due to their limited volume. Micro ATX cases are also more readily available for the exact same reason, while small mini ITX cases tend to be a little rarer. It all comes down to the specificity of the cases in question, and the market for the cases which is way smaller than the one for regular cases.

Should I buy a mini ITX case?

The benefits of opting for a mini ITX case are clear. These cases are really compact and their small size is their main strength and primary selling point. The small size, and consequently low weight, also make these cases the ideal cases for a portable build. If you want a portable computer with desktop components that you can carry from one place to another, then you might want to go with a mini ITX case for that build. However, the airflow situation and higher price of small mini ITX cases are also to be considered before making a purchase decision.

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The 7 Best PC Cases For Airflow To Boost Thermal Performance https://appuals.com/best-pc-airflow-cases/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-pc-airflow-cases https://appuals.com/best-pc-airflow-cases/#disqus_thread Tue, 26 Oct 2021 18:29:23 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=182235 Choosing the best airflow PC case for your next build should be your top priority. Airflow is a surprisingly undervalued factor and many new PC builders do not pick out the best cases for airflow. Nowadays, the PC case market is filled with dozens of case options that have very poor airflow. Case manufacturers tend …

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Choosing the best airflow PC case for your next build should be your top priority. Airflow is a surprisingly undervalued factor and many new PC builders do not pick out the best cases for airflow.

Nowadays, the PC case market is filled with dozens of case options that have very poor airflow. Case manufacturers tend to prioritize aesthetic choices like tempered glass and RGB lighting over actual airflow.

Poor airflow can lead to higher temperatures of components such as your CPU and GPU, making them perform worse and shortening their lifespans. This is why it is always wise to look for cases that have the best airflow configurations.

You can also check out our selection of the best water cooling cases if you are going down that route. Without further ado, here are our picks for the very best airflow PC cases on the market.

The Best Airflow PC Case – Our Picks

#PreviewProduct NameAwardDetails
1Lian Li LANCOOL II MeshBest Overall Airflow PC Case
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2Fractal Design Torrent RGBBest Premium Airflow PC Case
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3Phanteks Eclipse P400ABest Looking Airflow PC Case
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4Fractal Design Meshify CBest Built Airflow PC Case
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5CoolerMaster NR600Best Micro ATX Airflow PC Case
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6Fractal Design Focus GBest Value Airflow PC Case
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7CoolerMaster MasterBox Q500LBest Budget Airflow PC Case
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#1
Preview
Product NameLian Li LANCOOL II Mesh
AwardBest Overall Airflow PC Case
Details
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#2
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Product NameFractal Design Torrent RGB
AwardBest Premium Airflow PC Case
Details
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#3
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Product NamePhanteks Eclipse P400A
AwardBest Looking Airflow PC Case
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#4
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Product NameFractal Design Meshify C
AwardBest Built Airflow PC Case
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#5
Preview
Product NameCoolerMaster NR600
AwardBest Micro ATX Airflow PC Case
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#6
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Product NameFractal Design Focus G
AwardBest Value Airflow PC Case
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#7
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Product NameCoolerMaster MasterBox Q500L
AwardBest Budget Airflow PC Case
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Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 22:03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

At appuals.com, we love to test out PC cases. Our highly enthusiastic team is well-versed in the intricacies of PC cases and we look forward to upcoming innovations in this field. We’ve been doing these reviews for a long time, and it shows in how thorough and insightful they are. Hassam Nasir, our resident PC hardware guru, has been writing case reviews since the time of side-panel case fans.

You might say that he enjoys delving into the finer points of PC hardware, such as airflow testing, thermal evaluation, acoustic testing, cooling potentials of AIOs, and so on. Since he has been fixated on PC technology since the days of the Antec Lanboy, his knowledge should come as no surprise.

In spite of this, we don’t only depend on our past knowledge; we test each PC case thoroughly before reporting about it. We check for issues with airflow, thermal competence, and acoustic profiles among other aspects. Quality and durability testing of cases is where our team really shines. When writing our reviews, we always keep the user’s perspective in mind. We can help you in your search for a suitable PC case, whether you require a cheap alternative or the best one available.

1. Lian Li LANCOOL II Mesh

Best Overall Airflow PC Case

Pros

  • Superb Airflow
  • Three Included Fans
  • Excellent Build Quality
  • Dual Tempered Glass

Cons

  • Relatively Pricy

1,558 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Mesh Panel | Side Material: Tempered Glass | Included Fans: 3x 120mm RGB Fans | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

Lian Li is a popular name in the computer hardware industry, producing anything from desktop computer cases to power supplies, cooling options, and even workstations. After the relative failure of their Lancool II series, they released the Lancool II Mesh line, which prioritizes airflow above other elements to keep your system cool. These models are also available in white, at a slightly higher cost than black.

The white version of the Lian Li LANCOOL II Mesh can also be considered one of the best white PC cases on the market.

Rather than force consumers to choose between two different models of the Lancool II Mesh, Lian Li has released two models at the same price, the Lancool II Mesh Performance and the Lancool II Mesh RGB, both of which are identical in every way except for their color scheme. The difference between these variations would seem obvious at first glance; one supports RGB fans, while the other is more minimalist.

A complete mesh front panel with huge 1.5 mm holes is featured on both the RGB and performance models. Mesh panels on the inside of the casing allow for maximum airflow, resulting in system cooling that is unmatched by prior models. This Mesh pattern was chosen because it is both aesthetically pleasing and functional since it helps to filter the air that is drawn in.

Best Airflow PC Case
Lian Li LANCOOL II Mesh

A USB type-C port is located on the top of the casing, along with two USB 3.0 ports, a power reset switch, a combined mic and audio jack, and a reset button. In addition to the standard reset button, the performance model includes a built-in fan controller with Low, Medium, High, and Auto configuration choices. The RGB version also has a reset button and an A-RGB Color and Mode button.

Your storage drives are easily accessible via the drive cage’s tidy cutouts on the back end, which allow for access to the drives’ power and data connections. To provide more room for the PSU cables, this cage is mounted on a sliding panel that allows it to travel back and forward.

In this regard, two 120 mm fans may be installed below the basement’s detachable cover panels to help in cooling your GPU. Lian Li preinstalled three regular PWM 120 mm fans and a detachable fan controller on the motherboard’s rear that can handle up to 6 four-pin fans.

An innovative rotating motherboard panel is built into the motherboard tray, allowing the user to install a motherboard up to 280mm wide, which is the maximum size for an E-ATX form factor. There are two huge panels installed behind the motherboard to conceal all the messy wires. Aside from the SSDs, nothing except the tempered glass and the matte black covers are visible.

Due to the mesh construction, air can circulate freely within, making it much cooler than you’d anticipate. Additional mesh panels at the system’s rear increase its cooling capacity further. We advise going with the Performance variant since it offers the best airflow solution while also remaining fairly simple in design.

In essence, this PC case won us over with its clean design, convenient cable management features, solid build, and excellent ventilation. Thanks to its many innovative features and excellent thermals, we recommend this case as the best overall airflow PC case in our roundup.

2. Fractal Design Torrent RGB

Best Premium Airflow PC Case

Pros

  • Unique Front Panel
  • Designed for Airflow
  • Neat Cable Management
  • Comes with 5 RGB Fans

Cons

  • Quite Expensive

399 Reviews

Form Factor: Full Tower | Front Material: Plastic Vents | Side Material: Tempered Glass | Included Fans: 2x 180mm RGB fans, 3x 140mm RGB fans | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

Fractal is a company known for producing high-quality products that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally robust. Fractal has introduced the Torrent series which is intended solely to deliver optimal airflow. The Torrent is available in three different form factors: the Compact for mid-tower setups, the Nano for mini-ITX motherboards, and the conventional Torrent for full-tower setups.

You can also explore our selection of the best full tower cases for more options in that form factor.

Maximum ventilation has been built into this enclosure as the name seems to suggest. It does so by including two fans and a silver Y-shaped grill on the front panel. As we are well aware of Fractal’s tendency to prioritize airflow, the Prisma AL-18 180 mm fans were provided rather than the more common 120 mm or 140 mm fans. It may not seem like much, but these fans spin at nearly 1200 RPM. Keep in mind that despite its slower rotational speed, this 180mm fan provides significantly higher airflow.

There is a dust filter below the front grill panel and another one at the bottom of the casing that can be pulled out to the front. The three Fractal-supplied Prisma AL-14 PWM 140 mm fans in the bottom row are protected by this dust filter.

Best Airflow PC Case
Fractal Design Torrent RGB

The IO ports are located on the top panel, but the design is kept simple by keeping the power button centrally located and the two USB 3.0 ports on the sides. The headphone and microphone jack are located on the left, while the USB type-C port and the reset button are on the right. Each of the four SSD trays is secured to the chassis by a single metal screw. The rear of the motherboard tray has two more 3.5-inch expansion slots.

We get tempered glass on the case’s sides, and in this iteration, the glass is black with a subtle tint. The glass may be easily removed by pulling it out of its slots from the top. While this may make removing the panel less of a hassle, it also makes it less secure. The same tempered glass is found on the other side of the case, and there are plenty of Velcro straps and rubber grommets inside to keep cables neat and tidy.

The Fractal Design Torrent RGB Black’s whole rear panel has a cutout in a honeycomb design, allowing for optimal heat dissipation, whereas other cases just provide a small gap cutout for the fan to exhaust the heat out of the system.

Considering the negatives, though the silver grille up front seems sturdy, it is really comprised of lightweight plastic. Given the high price of this computer case, this is a minor letdown. There’s a chance it’ll break easily because it’s made of plastic.

You can also check out our list of the best open-air cases for more options in that category.

With its bigger 180 mm fans, the Fractal Design Torrent RGB Black aims to be the most effective airflow PC case possible. The design is the tiebreaker, and it shows that Fractal has produced this device without cutting back on quality.

Although not perfect, this case easily earns the title of best premium airflow PC case due to its plentiful positives and minimal negatives in terms of features, design, and performance.

3. Phanteks Eclipse P400A

Best Looking Airflow PC Case

Pros

  • Spacious Interior
  • Front Mesh Panel
  • Good Quality Included Fans
  • Lots of Expansion Options

Cons

  • RGB version can be pricy

2,498 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Mesh Panel | Side Material: Tempered Glass | Included Fans: 2x 120mm Black Fans | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

Phanteks is widely regarded as one of the finest and most popular case makers in the industry, and the company’s Eclipse line of cases has quickly emerged as a crowd favorite among PC builders. The goal of the series is to offer a premium product at a price that is affordable.

This product will provide all of the necessary elements for a fantastic case, but it will not have any extra “bells and whistles” that are just not necessary. This pattern continues with the Phanteks Eclipse P400A, which is among the very best cases with impressive airflow and is a continuation of the trend.

The RGB lighting in this case is very well-implemented and is one of the best PC case lighting solutions we have yet seen.

The Phanteks Eclipse P400A is a mid-tower chassis that has the fantastic build quality and a wide variety of incredible features. The front of the case is composed of mesh, which allows for improved ventilation, while the left side of the enclosure contains a side panel made of tempered glass.

Best Airflow PC Case
Phanteks Eclipse P400A

Since the chassis is compatible with ATX, micro ATX, and mini-ITX motherboards, you have the flexibility to configure the P400A according to your preferences. In addition, Phanteks has improved the value proposition for this case by including two black 120mm fans in the package at no additional cost to the customer.

There is an RGB version of the Phanteks P400A that costs a bit more but comes with 3 front RGB fans in the case. This can improve the airflow even more along with looks, making the P400A the best looking airflow PC case.

The cabin of the P400A is relatively roomy inside, providing plenty of working space for its occupants. The front of the case is designed to accommodate either a 240mm or a 360mm radiator, and there are additional radiator mounting locations available for a 280mm radiator as well. Even our selection of the best CPU coolers for i9 13900K tops out at 360mm.

You also have the option of installing a 240mm radiator on the top of the P400A, and the rear panel can accommodate a 120mm radiator.

In terms of the alternatives available for installing the radiator, this translates to the P400A having a high degree of versatility. In addition, the chassis is designed to accommodate a wide variety of storage devices, including up to six hard disc drives (HDDs) and eight solid-state drives (SSDs) measuring 2.5 inches across. The initial kit comes with both two HDD trays and two SSD mounts that are specifically designed for use with SSDs.

Rubber grommets cover the cutouts in the steel panel, making the case an excellent choice for cable management. In addition, the panel is made of steel. It is evident that the presence of these grommets, which are not even present in some $100 cases, is a fantastic addition here.

Since the rear area behind the motherboard tray is also fairly adequate for cable management, you should not have too much of an issue when it comes to handling your custom-sleeved wires in this case. In order to make the front I/O as user-friendly as possible, it has two USB 3.0 ports, a microphone, headphones, a power button, a reset switch, and a controller for three different fan speeds.

When considering its reasonable, the Phanteks P400A offers a level of value that is nearly impossible to match. If you are hunting for a value-oriented PC case with supreme airflow, you can confidently recommend this one thanks to the front mesh panel as well as the comprehensive support for water cooling radiators and storage drives.

4. Fractal Design Meshify C

Best Built Airflow PC Case

Pros

  • Excellent Airflow
  • Spacious Case
  • Mesh Design
  • Easy to Clean Filters

Cons

  • Relatively Expensive

2,613 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Mesh Panel | Side Material: Tempered Glass | Included Fans: 2x 120mm Black Fans | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

Some cases tend to be more suited to one function than another, as is the case with “gaming” cases that focus on aesthetics at the expense of adequate ventilation. This is not the case with Fractal Design Meshify C, however, which is a case with a great airflow design and aesthetics that can give any other case a run for its money.

Aside from its all-black color scheme, the Fractal Design Meshify C doesn’t offer much in the way of novelty. The all-black aesthetic makes it suitable for use in a wide variety of gaming environments. However, white cases are becoming more popular, so if that’s what you’re seeking, you might want to take a look at our roundup of the best white PC cases.

The Meshify C from Fractal Design is a small and stylish case that doesn’t skimp on durability. Modern devices typically have a tempered glass surface on one side, but if you want a more conventional look, a version with a solid panel is also available. Airflow is increased and maintenance is simplified thanks to the front filter’s angular mesh.

Best Airflow PC Case
Fractal Design Meshify C

Two 120mm fans are already integrated into the Fractal Design Meshify C, providing even more effective cooling. The provided fans are very silent and move a lot of air, which is exactly what we want to see in a case like this. There is no RGB option, but you can swap out the fans if you purchase one of these RGB fan packs.

The additional space afforded by the Fractal Design Meshify C is only one of its many advantages. Five distinct storage approaches are available for your drives, as the case supports 2 hard drives and 3 SSDs simultaneously.

Many people are concerned that their cases won’t be able to accommodate a modern RTX GPU because of their massive size. However, this is not the scenario because the maximum supported length of the GPU is 315mm. There will still be room for advanced cooling mechanisms, such as more fans or even water cooling.

The fact that the Fractal Design Meshify C doesn’t include built-in RGB lighting is the product’s one minor drawback, but overall, the Fractal Design Meshify C is an excellent option, especially considering its competitive pricing. However, you may need to purchase an additional RGB strip for use in this enclosure.

Be sure to check out our Fractal Design Meshify 2 Review as well for a similar PC case.

There are several choices available when shopping for a PC case with optimal ventilation. However, only a handful can truly deliver the best of the best at an affordable price. The Fractal Design Meshify C is a good example of this.

Our findings lead us to conclude that the Fractal Design Meshify C is the best built airflow PC case. The Fractal Design Meshify C is an excellent PC case and a worthwhile investment for the future, despite a few minor flaws that some users may find trivial.

5. CoolerMaster NR600

Best Micro ATX Airflow PC Case

Pros

  • Minimalistic Design
  • Front Mesh Panel
  • Relatively Affordable

Cons

  • No RGB Lighting
  • No Included Fans

1,161 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Mesh Panel | Side Material: Tempered Glass | Included Fans: None | Motherboard Support: Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

In terms of case design and achieving the ideal airflow, CoolerMaster does not have the best reputation in the industry. They have a lot of great cases like the CM MB511 and the H500P Mesh, but they also have some failures like the original H500 and a lot of the MasterBox Lite cases.

However, with the release of the NR600, they have provided not only one of the most cost-effective but also one of the best airflow-focused cases currently available on the market.

In our Cooler Master MB511 RGB Review, we also looked at yet another model of the company’s popular computer cases.

The CoolerMaster NR600 is quite an undervalued case, and the fact that it even exists is unknown to a great number of people. It is a mid-tower case that supports micro-ATX and mini-ITX motherboards and features a tempered glass side panel and a full mesh front panel.

Best Airflow PC Case
Cooler Master NR600

The case does not have compatibility with ATX motherboards which is a little surprising, considering that it is virtually the same size as an NZXT H510. CoolerMaster made the unfortunate decision to not include any fans in this case, which is another poor decision. Yet, this decision may be justified given the pricing range of this case.

Be sure to check out our selection of the best micro ATX cases as well for more compact options.

The NR600 is a chassis with an emphasis on airflow, and it is obvious from looking at the case. In addition to having big ventilation holes towards the back of the case and at the top of the case, it also includes a complete mesh front panel that enables the highest amount of air to travel through.

If you are interested in purchasing this case, the most prudent thing for you to do is shell out the additional money for a three-pack of standard, non-RGB fans designed specifically for cases with effective airflow. Given that the case itself is very value-oriented, grabbing a pack of high CFM fans may be the best approach.

If we can disregard the fact that the NR600 has a mesh front panel, the NR600’s design is pretty similar to that of the iconic NZXT H510 in terms of its overall appearance. The design of the power supply shroud and the contours of the side panel made of tempered glass are very similar to those of the H510.

If you purchase the ODD version, which supports an optical disc drive, the chassis has a decent appearance, but one would not describe it as classically beautiful. This is especially true if you consider the fact that it supports an optical disc drive. The cable management area is also enough, and a number of rubber grommets are given to ensure that the front view is uncluttered and uncluttered-looking.

If you are searching for a PC case that is simple in design and has excellent airflow for an affordable price, the NR600 is another excellent choice you should consider. On the other hand, in order to take full benefit of the mesh front panel, it is recommended that the case be purchased together with some fans.

All in all, it is our pick for the best micro ATX airflow PC case out there.

6. Fractal Design Focus G

Best Value Airflow PC Case

Pros

  • Front Mesh Panel
  • 2 Included Fans
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Acrylic Side Panel
  • Included Fans have only White LEDs

3,188 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Mesh Panel | Side Material: Acrylic | Included Fans: 2x 120mm White LED Fans | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

Considering that it can typically be found advertised for anywhere around $60, the Fractal Design Focus G is one of the most budget-friendly options that we have included in our roundup. The Focus G is a better deal than the NR600 due to the fact that it already comes with two 120mm fans that have been put in the front of the case.

This is despite the fact that the NR600 is also a case that costs in the same ballpark. Having said that, the Focus G does have a few weak spots in its design that need to be addressed.

Another option for those looking for a mid-tower chassis, the Focus G offers compatibility for ATX, micro ATX, and mini-ITX case motherboards. At this price point, compatibility for ATX motherboards is a welcome addition, considering the majority of cases in this price range only support the smaller form factors.

Best Airflow PC Case
Fractal Design Focus G

There are two 120mm white LED fans that have been pre-installed; however, because of their fixed white illumination, they may not be suitable for the aesthetic of every installation. The front of the case is made up of a mesh panel in its whole, which is a beautiful touch; however, the side of the case has an acrylic panel, which is not the ideal material for making a transparent window.

The presence of the acrylic panel is a negative since, in general, acrylic feels and looks inferior to glass. Moreover, the material also has a dreadful tendency to scratch very readily. This makes the addition of the acrylic panel a letdown. Despite this, the choice is rational given the modest cost of the case and the exceptional value proposition it offers.

As was just said, the presence of a mesh front panel is a fantastic feature that is included with this product. This is, in fact, the shining star of the whole case. We often see cases that cost 10 times this one but they do not include a mesh front panel and have worse thermals as a result. The inside construction of the casing is of high quality on the whole, and there is sufficient room for cable management.

It’s no secret that Fractal Design is an incredible PC case company that’s responsible for producing some truly remarkable cases, and the Focus G is without a doubt one of those products. This is the best value airflow PC case on the market purely due to its superb bang for the buck and should be considered if you are on a reasonably limited budget for a case.

It is an ideal case for those who do not want to compromise on airflow and thermals despite being on a relatively modest budget.

7. CoolerMaster MasterBox Q500L

Best Budget Airflow PC Case

Pros

  • Very Affordable
  • Unique Layout

Cons

  • Aftermarket Fans Needed
  • Acrylic Side Panel
  • Cramped Interior

1,985 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Steel with Perforations | Side Material: Acrylic | Included Fans: None | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

The MasterBox Q500L is yet another odd product that can be obtained from CoolerMaster. It is an inexpensive computer chassis with a price point of around $50 in mind. The Q500L is a mid-tower chassis that offers compatibility for ATX, micro ATX, and mini-ITX motherboards within a case that is quite compact in comparison to other mid-tower cases.

It has a front steel panel that is perforated numerous times and is protected by a dust filter; this configuration is designed to allow for somewhat more airflow than a solid steel panel would. The side panel, like the one on the previously described Focus G, is made of acrylic. On the other hand, in contrast to the Focus G, the Q500L does not come with any fans of its own.

The interior configuration of the Q500L is likewise fairly distinctive in its own right. Due to the limited space available, CoolerMaster built it in such a way that the power supply is positioned at the very front of the case in a vertical orientation, and the motherboard is positioned such that it goes all the way from the very top to the very bottom of the chassis. The bracket for the power supply unit (PSU) may also be moved to provide additional mounting possibilities.

Best Airflow PC Case
CoolerMaster MasterBox Q500L

Having said that, the inside space is already very congested, so putting together a workstation in the Q500L might not be the most pleasurable experience.

Despite having a perforated front panel, the Q500L does not have the most ideal airflow in its standard configuration. However, no other case in this price bracket even offers a similar front panel. If you want to make a little bit of an improvement to the airflow problem, you might consider purchasing this case together with a set of fans to install. After you install a couple of fans, the thermals immediately improve.

It should not come as a surprise that the build quality of the casing is not the finest given that it is sold at such an extremely low price. Nevertheless, the Q500L is a one-of-a-kind, relatively compact case at a price that is extremely reasonable. Additionally, it is a case that contains the majority of the features that one can fairly anticipate finding in a case of this price range.

Speaking of budget options, you can check out our selection of the best budget PC cases for more alternatives as well.

Overall, the Q500L is a stripped-down version of the options that are mentioned above it in our case roundup. It makes a lot of compromises, but the price point that it targets is extremely competitive and you won’t find a similar design in that range anyway. We consider the Q500L as the best budget airflow PC case on the market after a few fans are installed in it.

How we picked and tested

Airflow is a surprisingly undervalued feature in the current PC case market as the majority of cases out there prioritize other aspects of the case over airflow. Most manufacturers traded airflow and thermal performance for aesthetics and RGB lighting, which is a poor tradeoff all things considered.

In light of this, we were careful to establish strict criteria for the selection of the cases included in this overview.

The size of the PC cases in question was a matter of priority for us. The quality of airflow tends to scale linearly with the size of the PC case, and more space for future growth is always welcome. Therefore, we focused on mid-tower and full-tower variants for this roundup.

Second, we picked out casings that worked best with available PC hardware in terms of compatibility. We especially focused on cases that made it easier to upgrade the cooling potential of the system by accommodating additional fans and radiators, etc. Extra water cooling features provided by cases were also taken into account while rating them.

While compiling this list, we paid close attention to how each case looked aesthetically, as well. The case has a significant role in determining the aesthetic value of any PC build in a particular setup. So, the cases’ style and illumination were thoughtfully explored.

We also paid close attention to the many intangibles associated with quality of life that might ultimately decide a case. We took into account a variety of criteria, including, but not limited to, the case’s weight and overall quality of construction.

The value and cost of each case that we selected were also taken into account. Though most cases with superior airflow tend to be a bit pricey, we gave preference to those that provided the best value for money.

Our professional hardware testing team did not spare any effort in ensuring the highest standards of testing. Each contender was thoroughly examined by subjecting it to a series of tests developed to gauge its thermal and airflow efficiency.

Since the airflow of the casing is utilized to cool the radiators, thermal testing is essential for water cooling systems as well. Our ability to compile this overview was considerably aided by the empirical and objective data we gathered from these examinations.

This provided the editorial staff with valuable insight into the build quality and thermal performance of the variety of cases in our roundup.

We have compiled a list of the best airflow PC cases on the market by combining the results of our tests with an impartial examination of the cases’ features and costs.

Airflow Optimization Guide

When building your own PC, one of the most important things you should do is work on improving the circulation of air within the computer’s chassis. This approach should not just be tried by enthusiasts, but also by regular users on a more casual basis. This can keep the components of your computer from overheating, prevent the chassis from suffering exponential dust buildup, and, in general, improve the components’ expected lifespan.

In the first step, we are going to work on building up positive pressure inside the chassis. When we talk about positive airflow, what we mean is that the fans located inside of your system are taking in more fresh air than they are pushing out of the system in the form of hot air. Due to this, a positive cooling cycle is produced, which is exactly what you want to achieve.

When there is more air being flushed out than there is being drawn in, negative air pressure develops. This creates a potential vacuum that may start sucking air from cracks and crevices in the chassis, which results in an enormous amount of dust accumulation. The intake and expulsion cycles are balanced in a system with equal air pressure.

Moreover, placing the system in a cooler environment will allow for cooler air to be pulled in, which will reduce the temperatures of both your CPU and your graphics card (GPU). Fans, which are the primary operators in this entire cycle, have the potential to be the ultimate game-changers in successfully circulating the air depending on their size, speed, alignment, and type.

Radiators, if placed appropriately, may function as effective exhausts. In addition to ensuring that your system cools properly and that its circulation is not disrupted by unwanted foreign bodies, keeping your system clean on a regular basis and taking preventative efforts to keep dust and other particles that might cause blockages out of your setup are two of the most important things you can do.

Last but not least, if your chassis is still becoming too hot, you should consider looking at our recommendations for the best airflow PC case alternatives currently available and replacing it if necessary. It’s possible that our in-depth PC case buying guide will come in handy here.

Buyer’s Guide

The PC case market is flooded with dozens of cases that are utterly useless in terms of their functionality and have absolutely terrible airflow. These cases often prioritize aesthetics and RGB lighting over airflow, which is a poor deal in exchange for the health of your components.

This is why our specialized team of hardware experts has curated a comprehensive PC case buying guide. These factors should be considered carefully when shopping for a PC case, lest you end up regretting your choice.

Case Size

When it comes to cases that are optimized for airflow, the amount of available space is of the highest importance. The fans and other cooling components will make up the cooling system, and these components need to be kept at a reasonable distance from the motherboard and allowed sufficient room to breathe in order to function properly.

Even if you are capable of accommodating all of your components within the case, the case itself needs to be able to assure that all of the components are maintained at temperatures that are ideal for them or that are as cold as is reasonably feasible. This may be difficult to achieve in cases that are of a smaller size, but it gets much simpler to do so in larger cases.

This means that full tower cases are a far better solution if you want the best airflow as compared to other types of cases. While it is possible to get away with a mid-tower chassis, the quality of airflow generally decreases as the case gets smaller. This means that mini ITX cases generally suffer a lot in terms of airflow due to their compact size.

The increased space will also be crucial since it will enable you to set up any additional cooling accessories that are necessary to cool certain components, such as water cooling loops. Having this space in a bigger case will allow you to cool specific components more effectively.

Compatibility

When deciding which computer case to buy, compatibility should be at the top of your list of priorities. In spite of the fact that the majority of the available cases are very versatile in their compatibility, you still need to be sure that the components you choose are compatible with the case you want to use.

Be sure to verify specifically that the selected case can handle your motherboard and provides a proper amount of clearance for the various components of your computer, such as the power supply and the graphics cards. The length of the graphics card is an especially important consideration to make.

The case should be large enough to accommodate all of the components of your cooling system, have adequate room to neatly arrange all of the cable connections, and have an airflow layout that is generally effective.

Additionally, expansion slots and modular brackets are both fantastic additions to any PC case, but it is not required to have either one of these features. Your major concern should be finding fans and other components that are compatible with the radiator sizes that you want to install. Compatibility of the case with those radiator sizes should also be a consideration.

If you want to save yourself trouble in the future, it is in your best interest to double-check that all of your components are compatible with your selected case.

Airflow and Ventilation

It is possible to recognize a good PC case by the fact that it has sufficient airflow in proportion to its size and variety of the components that it can house. Moreover, it is a good idea to have a case that is readily optimized for airflow from the manufacturer, so that you don’t have to tinker much with it. The simple installation of more fans is not necessarily going to solve the problem of poor airflow design.

As a result, your first choice should be to choose a case that has been made in such a way that it not only offers adequate space for optimal airflow but also is designed to improve upon that aspect of the case’s performance.

Due to the fact that there is a multitude of PC cases now available on the market, you have access to a broad array of alternatives to choose from. These choices range from certain implementations that are too enthusiastic to others that are plain but incredibly effective.

Be sure to look for front panels that are unrestricted, preferably employing a mesh material with large holes. Nowadays, case manufacturers are innovating in this regard, and we have seen some unique front panel designs that allow for a lot of air to be drawn in without any compromise to aesthetics.

Therefore, when choosing a case for your computer, make sure to check for options that include dust filtering and mesh panels. Even if you want to use water cooling for your components, having sufficient airflow is essential since it is necessary to cool down the radiators in addition to the graphics card and other components.

With the assistance of our in-depth guide that details how to optimize your case’s airflow, it won’t be difficult for you to keep the airflow conditions in your PC case at the ideal level.

Aesthetics

If you are the owner of a custom PC and you want to display your rig in all of its splendor, the aesthetics of your machine are quite important. It is not at all crucial in terms of functionality; yet, there is a certain assurance and sense of satisfaction that comes with having a well-designed computer.

This particular subject also encompasses a large number of unique points of view, which means that even if there is a case that you really appreciate, there is still a good probability that there is someone else there who does not prefer it. It makes no difference if you like stealthy black cases or all-white builds with loads of RGB lighting because it all comes down to a question of personal preference.

Not only does the layout of the computer case have an influence on its proportions, but it also has an impact on the number of cables and components that can be contained inside of it. Therefore, there is still a functional element to design at the end of the day.

Before you make a final decision on your purchase, however, you should give some thought to the style and appearance of the computer case you intend to buy.

Best Airflow PC Case - FAQs

How many fans do I need?

The number of fans that you need to install depends entirely on your budget and preference. In a case with 6 fan options, it would be ideal to install two intake fans and one exhaust fan. After a certain point, the benefit is not worth the added cost.

Is positive pressure better than negative pressure?

Positive pressure is better than negative pressure in a PC case because it reduces dust buildup and improves the temperatures of components such as the CPU and GPU. You can establish positive pressure by installing more intake fans than exhaust fans.

Does fan RPM matter?

Fan speed or fan RPM does have an impact on performance and acoustics, but not to an extent that it should worry the average consumer. If the number of intake fans in your case is the same as the number of exhaust fans, then the fan RPM dictates the pressure of your case, whether it is positive or negative

How to improve airflow in a PC case?

You can improve airflow in a PC case by installing more fans, especially on the intake side. You can also install bigger and faster fans that can move more air, or you can modify the front panel if you are comfortable with modifications.

What type of PC case has good airflow?

Generally, the mesh type of PC cases have better airflow than those that have tempered glass on the front panel. Mesh panels offer less resistance to the incoming air, which is why it is easier for the intake fans to draw in more air and cool down the components.

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The Best Full Tower Case – For Enthusiasts https://appuals.com/best-full-tower-cases/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-full-tower-cases https://appuals.com/best-full-tower-cases/#disqus_thread Tue, 26 Oct 2021 17:58:48 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=94585 Choosing the best full tower case out of the several options on the market can be a bit of a challenge. A computer case is definitely one of the core components that you look for when building a new PC. We want something having a solid build quality, providing great features, and most of all, …

The post The Best Full Tower Case – For Enthusiasts appeared first on Appuals.

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Choosing the best full tower case out of the several options on the market can be a bit of a challenge. A computer case is definitely one of the core components that you look for when building a new PC. We want something having a solid build quality, providing great features, and most of all, great aesthetics. With an increase in the demand of the customers, manufacturers have been designing great innovative computer cases with eye-candy designs. If Full-Tower Case is not your thing, make sure you go through Mini-ITX Cases, and Micro-ATX Cases.  Best Full Tower Case

Full Tower PC Cases.When we talk of full-tower cases, it means that the user will have humongous space to install the components whether that be multiple graphics cards, storage devices, or most of all, cooling components such as fans, radiators, or other liquid cooling components. This is not usually possible in mid-tower cases like the NZXT H700i we reviewed. You don’t need to worry, as we will be discussing In this Full Tower Updated Case Buying Guide, the most jaw-dropping full tower casings ever designed to entertain the diverse needs of even the most extreme hardware enthusiasts in detail. These include RGB Full Tower Case, Tempered Glass Full Tower Case, Stealthy, and Overall Full Tower Cases. Now without any further wait, let’s dive right into it.

Best Full Tower Case – Our Picks

#PreviewProduct NameAwardDetails
1Corsair Obsidian 1000DBest Overall Full Tower Case
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2Thermaltake Level 20Best Looking Full Tower Case
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3Cooler Master Cosmos C700MBest RGB Full Tower Case
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4Thermaltake View 91 RGBBest Tempered Glass Full Tower Case
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5be quiet! Dark Base Pro 900 Black Rev.2Best Stealthy Full Tower Case
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#1
Preview
Product NameCorsair Obsidian 1000D
AwardBest Overall Full Tower Case
Details
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#2
Preview
Product NameThermaltake Level 20
AwardBest Looking Full Tower Case
Details
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#3
Preview
Product NameCooler Master Cosmos C700M
AwardBest RGB Full Tower Case
Details
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#4
Preview
Product NameThermaltake View 91 RGB
AwardBest Tempered Glass Full Tower Case
Details
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#5
Preview
Product Namebe quiet! Dark Base Pro 900 Black Rev.2
AwardBest Stealthy Full Tower Case
Details
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Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 14:49 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Full tower cases have sort of gone out of fashion, but there are still plenty of applications where full tower cases make perfect sense. Water cooling is one of the primary applications for which a full tower case is perfect, which is why we included some full tower cases in our roundup for the best cases for water cooling as well. In any case, here are our picks for the best full tower case options you should consider if you’re building a gigantic rig.

1. Corsair Obsidian 1000D

Best Overall Full Tower Case

Pros

  • Premium Build Quality
  • Lots of Fan/Radiator Mounts
  • Great Contemporary Design
  • Dual System Support
  • Built-in Controller

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Extra-Heavy

2,326 Reviews

Top Mounting: Up to 2 x 480 mm | Front Mounting: Up to 2 x 480 mm | Rear Mounting: Up to 2 x 120 mm | Total Expansion Bays: 11

Obsidian 1000D is the flagship case from Corsair which provides premium build quality along with rich features. It can be concurrently used with an E-ATX based system and a Mini-ITX based system i.e. two times each component. This feature depicts the humongous size of the case. The case dimensions are 27.3” x 12.1” x 27.3” (LxWxH). The basic structure of the case is manufactured with brushed aluminum which gives superb looks and has smoked tempered glass panels on the sides, front and top. It might also be one of the best airflow cases we have encountered in the full tower category.

The case weighs 65-lbs which is quite a shocking amount in the PC casing industry making it one of the heaviest computer cases. Large dust filters are placed on the front, top, rear, and bottom to house 2 x 480mm (front), 2 x 480mm (top), 2 x 120mm (rear) trays, and the PSU vents. The front panel of the case features 2 x USB 3.1 Type-C, 4 x USB 3.0, Power Button, Reset Button, and 3.5mm Jacks for Speaker and Microphone.

Best Full Tower Case
Corsair Obsidian 1000D

The case also includes a built-in fan and lightning controller named “Corsair Commander Pro” supporting up to 6 PWM fans, 2 RGB Strip Controls, and 4 Temperature Controls. Obsidian 1000D replaced the previous flagship Obsidian 900D and included a tempered glass-based design and RGB features. The Commander Pro is definitely one of the best RGB controllers on the market.

It is also important to note that this case at stock does not include any fan or radiator tray which will further increase the costs as many cases in the market are already shipped with certain fan configurations. All the cable management is done on the back of the motherboard mount area and behind the side glass, lies a door. The case comes with a 2-year warranty by Corsair which is enough for a PC case. It is the best overall full tower case on our list only targeted at extreme enthusiasts who don’t care about the price and want just the absolute best.

2. Thermaltake Level 20

Best Looking Full Tower Case

Pros

  • Exceptionally Unique Design
  • Included 3x RGB Fans and 2x RGB LED Strips
  • Isolation Of Components
  • Modular Designs
  • Tons Of Possibilities

Cons

  • Low Price/Performance Ratio
  • Few Mounts For Fans/Radiators

1,473 Reviews

Top Mounting: N/A | Front Mounting: Up to 1 x 480 mm, 1 x 360 mm | Rear Mounting: Up to 1x 140 mm| Total Expansion Bays: 11

Thermaltake recently released its new series of PC casings, with Thermaltake Level 20 as the flagship. This case has a unique design with three separate chambers named PSU Chamber, MB Chamber, and Storage/LCS Chamber. These chambers are specifically designed to isolate the component areas in such a way that heat can be properly dissipated without affecting the independent components. Each chamber has side-ways opening tempered glass panels while the basic structure has curved aluminum corners. At first glance, this is definitely the best looking full tower case on our list. You might also consider purchasing the RGB fan packs to complement this case perfectly.

The motherboard chamber can support up to 360mm radiator as well as 3 x 120 or 2 x 140 mm fans on the front and 1 x 120mm or 1 x 140mm fan with/without radiator at the rear, the storage chamber can support up to 420mm radiator with 3 x 120mm or 3 x 140mm fans while the PSU chamber hosts the PSU in either the horizontal or vertical alignment. The front I/O ports consist of 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C, 4 x USB 3.0, Power Button, and 3.5mm Jacks for Microphone and Speaker.

best looking full tower case
Thermaltake Level 20

The casing also includes a Riing Plus RGB Controller for fans and lightning which can be synced with Razor Chroma products. Moreover, the controller features voice recognition for setting various lightning styles or fan speeds with “Alexa” enabled devices. If this color isn’t good enough, get a White PC Case that can match your PC Build theme.

Thermaltake has included three Riing Plus 14 RGB fans and two Lumi Plus LED strips which add decent lightning. There is support for up to eleven internal bays (6 x 2.5″/3.5″ with HDD Cage,  2 x 2.5″/3.5″ with HDD Bracket, 3 x 2.5″ or 2 x 3.5″ with HDD Bracket) though no space for a 5.25″ drive such as optical drives. The motherboard chamber is also fitted with a built-in PCIe riser cable for vertical mounting on the PCI-E components especially the graphics card.

This case is released by Thermaltake upon completion of 20 years since the company has entered the computer industry and this is why it was released at a premium price making it more of an antique piece than a regular computer casing. This is definitely not one of the budget PC cases, but if you are a fan of Thermaltake products then this case might intrigue you a lot, otherwise, we will recommend considering other choices.

3. Cooler Master Cosmos C700M

Best RGB Full Tower Case

Pros

  • RGB Strips On Exterior Look Great
  • Several Fan Mounts
  • Excellent Design
  • Solid Build Quality

Cons

  • Quite Heavy
  • Use Of Plastic In Several Areas
  • Value Proposition Isn't Great

736 Reviews

Top Mounting: Up to 1 x 420 mm | Front Mounting: Up to 1 x 420 mm | Rear Mounting: Up to 1 x 140 mm | Total Expansion Bays: 10

Cooler Master Cosmos C700M is from the “Cosmos” series which is Cooler Master’s top-end series. The structure of the case comprises aluminum and plastic with curved tempered glass panels. Two RGB strips are also embedded in the front and top aluminum area while on the bottom, there is ambient RGB lighting. The case has mounts for cooling solutions on all four sides with 1 x 420mm on the front, 1 x 420mm on the top, 1 x 140mm at the rear, and 1 x 280mm at the bottom. The top of the casing provides thick aluminum handles for mobility while the I/O ports are located on the top front area. We also checked out another Cooler Master case in our Cooler Master MB511 RGB Review.

The I/O ports consist of 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C, 4 x USB 3.0, Power Button, and 3.5mm Jacks for Microphone, Speaker, RGB Control Buttons, and Fan Speed Control Buttons. A unique feature of this casing is the layout design of the motherboard which is getting trendy. The motherboard can be used in inverse layout or 90-degree rotated layout giving the user a lot of customization.

Best Full Tower Case
Cooler Master Cosmos C700M

The Cosmos C700M comes pre-installed with 3 x 140mm fans on the front and 1 x 140mm fan on the back and weighs around 50-lbs with the stock configuration. The casing supports up to ten internal bays (5 x 2.5″, 4 x 3.5″, and 1 x 5.25″) with one reserved for optical drives which can be needy in times. On a related note, you might also be interested in our picks for the best open-air PC cases you can buy.

The casing also includes a unique design for slanted horizontal placement of graphics cards by means of a PCI-E riser and frame. The case comes with a 2-year warranty by Cooler Master in case any RGB or other electronic component becomes faulty. This casing has decent aesthetics while providing a lot of space for cooling solutions. It might not be the perfect case but at this price, you will not get a better product. Still, our verdict places it as the best RGB full tower case on our list.

4. Thermaltake View 91 RGB

Best Tempered Glass Full Tower Case

Pros

  • Included 4x RGB Fans
  • Modular Design
  • Lots of Fan/Radiator Mounts
  • Double Sided Tempered Glass

Cons

  • Very Heavy
  • Assembly is Difficult For beginners
  • Quite Expensive

Top Mounting: Up to 1 x 480 mm | Front Mounting: Up to 1 x 480 mm | Rear Mounting: Up to 1 x 140 mm , 1 x 480 mm (inside) | Total Expansion Bays: 12

The “View” series by Thermaltake is full of tempered-glass panel cases as indicated by name of the series. View 91 is the top model in the view series with tempered glass panels on the front and both sides. This casing provides a unique location for radiator mounting, the area for which is reserved adjacent to the motherboard. Moreover, a lot of fans can be installed behind the motherboard tray for cooling the storage drives placed on the backside. This might just be one of the tempered glass cases on the market today.

The casing supports 480mm space on the top, 480mm on the front while 420m space at the bottom and 140mm space at the rear. However, a radiator of a maximum of 280mm can be installed at the bottom due to clearance issues. The massive tempered glass windows on the front and sides make this case the best tempered glass full tower case on our list.

best RGB full tower case
Thermaltake View 91 RGB

It provides 2-way GPU placement in horizontal alignment. As for the I/O ports are concerned, there are placements for 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C, 4 x USB 3.0, Power Button, and 3.5mm Jacks for Microphone and Speaker. There is space for dual liquid cooling reservoirs to offer maximum cooling potential. Thermaltake has included 4 x Riing Plus RGB Fans in the stock configuration which is a big plus point in justifying the cost of the case.

More Case Roundups: Best Micro-ATX Cases

There is space for twelve internal drives either 2.5″ or 3.5″ though no space for an optical drive. It comes with a 3-year warranty which is more than other manufacturers. The casing also supports Amazon Alexa and Razer Chroma Sync for control and synchronization of products. If you are a fan of casings that provide a great view of components then this case is the best choice as it not only allows a great view but also supports a lot of cooling solutions.

5. be quiet! Dark Base Pro 900 Black Rev.2

Best Stealthy Full Tower Case

Pros

  • Relocatable MB-tray
  • Good Value Proposition
  • Sound-Dampened Air Vents
  • Wireless Charging Support

Cons

  • Unremarkable Interior Design
  • Lack Of Lighting
  • Slightly Cramped Inside

857 Reviews

Top Mounting: Up to 1 x 420 mm | Front Mounting: Up to 1 x 420 mm | Rear Mounting: Up to 1 x 140 mm | Total Expansion Bays: 17

be quiet! Dark Base Pro 900 rev. 2 is a computer case targeted towards people who value acoustics more than aesthetics, although it’s not shabby in the looks either due to the brushed aluminum on the front and top. It is available in three colors, orange, silver, and black.

The major uniqueness of the case lies in the location-adjustable motherboard tray. Also, both the motherboard and storage trays can be mounted inverted creating a mirrored look. Sound dampeners are used in all areas of cooling vents to minimize internal noise. Speaking of cooling vents, there is 420mm space on the top, 420mm on the front, 140mm at the rear, and 280mm at the bottom.

best stealthy full tower case
be quiet! Dark Base Pro 900 Black Rev.2

The I/O ports are also unique with a Qi Wireless Charger on top, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen. 2 Type-C port, 1 x Quick Charging port, 2 x USB 3.0 ports, 3.5mm Microphone/Speaker jacks, and a Power Button. The case comes with a built-in dual-rail fan controller supporting up to 8 x fans. A pleasant LED strip also comes pre-installed with six changing colors. If the colors are not your thing, then you can still rock a stealthy look without lights as this is the best stealthy full tower case on the market in our opinion.

More be Quiet! Products: be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 Review

The case comes pre-installed with 3 x Silent-Wings-3 Fans manufactured by the same company to aid in acoustic performance. It supports seventeen internal drives and the drive bays are removable to increase airflow. Case weight is around 30-lbs which is suitable for mobility and comes with a 3-year warranty which is appreciable looking at the cost of the case. This case is quite an attractive product as it comes at a cheap price considering the number of new generation features. This casing comes at a cheap price while providing premium features making it the best bang for the buck.

Are Full Tower Cases Worth Buying?

Picking a full tower case in might not be the best of ideas if you’re just building a regular gaming rig. Full tower cases are usually some of the more specialized cases when it comes to the case market, and it doesn’t usually make a lot of sense for a regular consumer to buy a full tower case. Mid-tower ATX cases are the norm for a reason, but there are some instances where full tower cases make sense.

If you are building a custom water cooling loop, then you might consider buying a full tower case for that. Even mid-tower cases can accommodate water cooling loops, but they are a bit space constrained when it comes to tubing and radiator mounting. Full tower cases can even allow you to accommodate two separate loops for the CPU and GPU, with individual radiators for each one. Airflow is also better in a full tower case due to the large chamber size.

However, that is pretty much the extent of the benefits. On the contrary, full tower cases are large and bulky, so you need a lot of desk space to place one. Also, forget about moving one yourself when it is full of components since they can become really heavy once there is a build inside. On top of that, they are usually very costly, and can easily reach several hundred dollars in price. Therefore, you must be cautious when choosing a full tower case, and if you decide to get one, be sure to check out our PC case buying guide and choose one from the options in our best full tower case roundup above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What case size is best for airflow?

Airflow is directly dependent on the number of fans you can install and the amount of air that is available to them. This means that more air and more fans will account for a higher airflow inside the case. This pattern is observed in full tower cases due to their sheer size and lots of fan mounting options. The airflow is usually better in full tower cases than mid-tower cases, but a lot depends on the vents that the case manufacturer has provided for the fans to breathe.

What is the difference between a full tower and a mid-tower case?

A full tower case is larger in size than a mid-tower case. The dimensions of full tower cases vary widely depending on the model and the manufacturer, but they are usually somewhere in the ballpark of 8 inches by 20 inches. This means that a full tower case can accommodate a lot more components than a mid-tower case. Usually, full tower cases have support for radiator sizes that cannot be installed in a mid-tower case, such as 480mm.

Is a full tower case worth it?

The question of whether or not a full tower case is worth it depends entirely on your use case. For most consumers, a full tower case is not the best use of money and does not provide the highest price-to-performance benefit. Full tower cases are more suited towards enthusiasts, especially those that want to implement custom water cooling in their builds. Full tower cases are usually really expensive so it’s best to avoid them if you don’t plan to build a complex custom water cooling loop in your rig.

Which size case is best for water cooling?

Custom water cooling can be done in any size of PC case but the difficulty level definitely increases as you go towards smaller and smaller cases. We wouldn’t recommend doing custom water cooling in micro-ATX or mini-ITX cases due to their airflow constrictions and general lack of space. Mid-tower cases can be used for custom water cooling fairly easily but you will be a bit restricted on the radiator sizes you can install. Finally, for the ultimate custom water cooling experience without any limits, you can look towards full tower cases.

 

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Best Budget PC Case: RGB, ATX, and Budget Cases Ranked https://appuals.com/best-budget-pc-case/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-budget-pc-case https://appuals.com/best-budget-pc-case/#disqus_thread Sat, 23 Oct 2021 23:50:50 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=77908 If you plan to build a PC on a budget, you might be on the market looking for the best budget PC case for your build. We all know that a case is one of the primary things you should decide about your system. Obviously one of the more integral parts for a system, a …

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If you plan to build a PC on a budget, you might be on the market looking for the best budget PC case for your build. We all know that a case is one of the primary things you should decide about your system. Obviously one of the more integral parts for a system, a case should be selected with peace of mind so you don’t have to worry about replacing it at least a few years down the line. If you are on a budget it can be an arduous task of selecting a decent chassis. As we noted in our Fractal Design Meshify 2 White review, the case industry is focusing more and more on the price-to-performance ratio in recent years, which should play in our favor.

best budget PC case
Complete Buying Guide On Buying Budget PC Case in 2023.

You might want to skimp out on your case and just pick up the cheap PC case one you can find, but you might regret that decision. You need a case that is well built and will not look out of place in your overall setup. Now we might not be able to get premium cases like the NZXT H700i that we reviewed, but that does not mean that we can’t get a decent chassis in this budget. With that being said, finding a case under $50 can be a tough task that is why this guide was created to help you with that. Let’s have a look at the best affordable cases you should be aware of.

The Best Budget PC Case Options – Our Picks

#PreviewProduct NameAwardDetails
1Cougar MX330-GBest Overall Budget PC Case
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2AeroCool Cylon RGBBest RGB Budget PC Case
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3Cooler Master MasterBox Q300LBest Micro-ATX Budget PC Case
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4Thermaltake Core V1 CubeBest Mini-ITX Budget PC Case
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5Cooler Master Masterbox Lite 3.1Best Value Budget PC Case
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#1
Preview
Product NameCougar MX330-G
AwardBest Overall Budget PC Case
Details
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#2
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Product NameAeroCool Cylon RGB
AwardBest RGB Budget PC Case
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#3
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Product NameCooler Master MasterBox Q300L
AwardBest Micro-ATX Budget PC Case
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#4
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Product NameThermaltake Core V1 Cube
AwardBest Mini-ITX Budget PC Case
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#5
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Product NameCooler Master Masterbox Lite 3.1
AwardBest Value Budget PC Case
Details
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Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 21:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Picking the Best budget PC case can be a bit of a challenge due to the dozens of options that are present on the market. However, most of the budget-oriented cases under $50 are built with compromise in mind. These cases are best avoided since they often compromise on critical features such as build quality and airflow. Sure, you might not be able to get the best airflow cases in this budget, but there are plenty of options out there that will satisfy your components’ needs while providing plenty of cool air to them. These are our favorite budget PC cases out there.

1. Cougar MX330-G

Best Overall Budget PC Case

Pros

  • Great Looks
  • Relatively Thinner Than Other Cases
  • PSU Shroud
  • Mesh Front Panel
  • Decent Airflow

Cons

  • Comes With Only One Fan
  • Might Be Hard To Work In

Form Factor: Mid-tower/ATX | Fan mounts: 5 | Storage Expansion Bays: 4 | Transparent Side Panel: Yes | I/O Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, Audio in/out, Power button, Reset button | Weight: 5.9kg

Cougar is a great brand for PC components and their products are usually built like a tank. Cougar MX330-G is the tempered glass variant for the MX330 and usually goes for $40-50. The overall design of the casing is quite impressive and is somewhat thinner than the other cases listed here. You get great features like a full mesh front, dust filters, tempered glass side panel, and PSU shroud. The tempered glass is definitely a cool feature in this price point.

Best Budget PC Case
Cougar MX330-G

The I/O panel provides four USB ports, unlike most of the cases which provide only two of them. The cable management of the case is pretty impressive as well and you can easily hide the cables on the backside. There can be two fans installed at the front, two at the top, and one fan at the rear; not the best but good enough for most builds. Moreover, this means that you won’t be able to install 360mm radiators in this case by any means. The case provides two 3.5″ bays and two 2.5″ bays, leading to a total of four expansion bays. As for the motherboard is concerned, you can install up to ATX motherboards while MX330-G itself is a mid-tower case.

Overall, this case provides a great value and is suitable for even high-end builds, as it provides a great performance along with sufficient features. For this reason, we have titled this case as the best overall budget PC case under $50 on our list.

2. AeroCool Cylon RGB

Best RGB Budget PC Case

Pros

  • Fantastic Looks
  • Decent Construction
  • Impressive RGB Implementation
  • Available in White
  • PSU Shroud

Cons

  • Mediocre Airflow
  • Acrylic Side Panel

Form Factor: Mid-tower/ATX | Fan mounts: 5 | Storage Expansion: 5 | Transparent Side Panel: Yes | I/O Ports: 1 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, Audio in/out, Power button, Reset button, LED Button | Weight: 3.8 kg

If you’re on the hunt for a budget-friendly PC case that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics, look no further than the AeroCool Cylon. This case is designed with RGB enthusiasts in mind, offering customizable lighting and a sleek, futuristic design that is sure to turn heads.

Kicking things off with the design, the AeroCool Cylon PC Case is streamlined and cutting-edge in appearance. It has an acrylic side panel that provides a transparent look at your hardware and a sleek black brushed metal exterior. The front panel of the case houses the star of the show which is a diagonal RGB strip that can be illuminated in different colors and patterns.

The RGB lighting improves the case’s aesthetic and can be adjusted to suit individual tastes. The acrylic side panel may not be the most durable solution, but at this price point, it is hard to complain about minor inconveniences.

best budget PC case aerocool
AeroCool Cylon RGB

Airflow is not really the best feature of the AeroCool Cylon case, and there is just one fan included with the case from the factory. The case can use up to five fans, but you may need to buy more if you want to maximize ventilation. Even though the front panel has slits for increased airflow, the limited number of supplied fans may limit the cooling capacity.

AeroCool’s Cylon PC case works with a broad variety of parts, including ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards. Moreover, it can accommodate CPU coolers up to 155mm in height and graphics cards up to 371mm in length, making it suitable for the vast majority of PC gaming rigs. Compatibility for components is fairly healthy and you should be able to install the majority of your components without a hitch.

Furthermore, AeroCool Cylon’s construction isn’t top-notch, especially when compared to higher-end alternatives. The plastic components and the steel housing both seem quite fragile. To be clear, this case is competitively priced and meant to be a low-cost alternative. The low price implies that certain manufacturing costs have to be reduced.

Although the case’s build quality isn’t perfect, many users may be prepared to overlook this minor flaw in exchange for the design advantages and low price. When you factor in the case’s functions and aesthetic, the AeroCool Cylon PC Case is a solid investment, especially in the budget category. It’s a great option for gamers searching for a stylish and effective entry-level case, thanks to its extensive personalization features and cool design.

3. Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L

Best Micro-ATX Budget PC Case

Pros

  • Side-mounted I/O ports
  • Modular Design
  • Magnetic Dust Filters
  • Compact Micro-ATX Form Factor

Cons

  • Airflow Is Poor
  • Unremarkable Build Quality
  • No PSU Shroud

Form Factor: Mini-Tower/Micro-ATX | Fan mounts: 6 | Storage Expansion Bays: 3 | Transparent Side Panel: Yes | I/O Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, Audio in/out, Power button, Reset button | Weight: 3.7kg

Cooler Master is a high-end professional company that designs tons of cases covering a large range of prices. However, MasterBox Q300L is a budget case and provides a very modern design. First of all, the case is built in a very modular way, i.e. you can use the case both in the horizontal position and vertical position because the insides can be rotated easily. Moreover, the I/O panel can be fully positioned on any side of the case. This case might just be the best micro-ATX budget PC case under $50 out there right now.

Best Budget PC Case
Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L

The front panel has 2 USB 3.0 ports and your audio jack for headsets and mics. It is a mini-tower case that supports both mini ITX and Micro ATX motherboards, although it provides more than enough expansion bays (5 bays). There can be installed six fans in the case, two at the front, two at the top, one at the bottom, and one at the rear of the case. A great feature of the case is that you get magnetic dust filters at the front, bottom, and top which aids a lot in keeping the dust away. You can take a look at our picks for the best micro-ATX cases as well, if you want more options in this form factor.

Aesthetically, this case is quite a mixed bag. Firstly, the case looks good when you initially look at it due to its slightly unconventional design. The side window, although acrylic, does provide a decent enough aesthetic touch to the case. The I/O ports on the side also add a unique case element that is not quite found in other cases usually.

Coming to the front, it is quite a weird choice by Cooler Master. The front is perforated metal with a magnetic filter stuck on top. This defeats the purpose of the perforations as the air now has to travel through two different sized holes to get inside, and that is reflected in the abysmal temperatures of this case. Speaking of airflow, you might also be interested in the best open-air PC cases which take completely the opposite approach as the Q300L.

Overall, it is a good case for simpler builds but the thing holding it back is that you can still get better airflow at this price point and the radiator support is not that great in this case.

4. Thermaltake Core V1 Cube

Best Mini-ITX Budget PC Case

Pros

  • Unique PC Case
  • Easy To Work In
  • Surprisingly Amazing Airflow
  • Great For Space Constrained Setups

Cons

  • Complex Cable Management
  • Difficult Component Installation
  • Build Quality Could've Been Better

Form Factor: Mini-ITX Cube | Fan mounts: 3 | Storage Expansion Bays: 4 | Transparent Side Panel: Semi (Mesh) | I/O Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, Audio in/out, Power button, Reset button | Weight: 3.22kg

Last up on our list is a mini ITX case from Thermaltake. This is aptly named the V1 cube as it very much looks like a small cube case. This is a very tiny ITX case and the only decent affordable one. It has a mesh design with grills all around. It has a large 200mm fan on the front and you can use a 140mm radiator with that.

Best Budget PC Case
Thermaltake Core V1 Cube

It can fit a graphics card up to 285mm which is very impressive for this small form factor. As for storage, it has two 2.5 inch drives and two 3.5 inch drives. Surprisingly this case has really good airflow and cooling. The build quality is passable as well.

Of course, this is not for beginner builders as this is a smaller case and a bit difficult to build in for newcomers. The cable management isn’t all that great either because of the limited space. For mini-ITX cases, you should take a look at our picks for the best mini-ITX cases in this roundup.

Overall, we will say that this case should only be bought if you want to do something adventurous and change the regular form factor of your system. Nevertheless, this is the best mini-ITX budget PC case under $50 on our list.

5. Cooler Master Masterbox Lite 3.1

Best Value Budget PC Case

Pros

  • 3 Customizable Aesthetic Trims
  • Dark Mirror Front Panel
  • Looks Decent

Cons

  • Poor Airflow
  • No PSU Shroud
  • Unimpressive Build Quality
  • No Fan Mount At The Top

Form Factor: Mini-Tower/Micro-ATX | Fan mounts: 4 | Storage Expansion Bays: 3 | Transparent Side Panel: Yes | I/O Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, Audio in/out, Power button, Reset button | Weight: 4.08kg

Cooler Master Masterbox Lite 3.1 is a relatively new case and comes with quite a style. It has a dark mirrored front panel that really isn’t transparent but looks really great with LED fans. The side panel window is acrylic and very large, it also has good visibility so you can see the internals of your case.

The red trim on this case looks really vibrant and this would look great in a black and red build. Unfortunately, this case seems to put form over function, as the airflow is quite bad due to small vents, compared to competitors.

More PC Cases: Best PC Cases For Water Cooling

Best Budget PC Case
Cooler Master Masterbox Lite 3.1

It supports micro-ATX and mini-ITX motherboards. Storage expansion includes space for two 3.5″ drives and one 2.5″ drive; not much but enough to support several terabytes of space. The front panel can fit three 120mm fans or two 140mm fans, while the rear can support a single fan.

Surprisingly, there is no place to install any fan at the top, which is another reason for bad airflow. However, if you can increase your budget by a bit, you can go for the Cooler Master MasterBox MB511 RGB, which we reviewed some time ago.

Overall, Cooler Master Masterbox Lite 3.1 is not so good when it comes to airflow, however, if your system is not that powerful and you want the top-of-the-line looks, this case might hold a lot of value. With that said, this case might just be the best value budget PC case under $50 on our list as of yet.

How To Select The Base Budget PC Case

Choosing the best budget PC case for your particular build can be a bit of a challenge for first-time PC builders as well as for experienced builders. This is because there is no budget PC case that fits the demands of each and every user and their individual build. Each PC case has its own particulars and nuances that you must learn about and judge whether or not that case fulfills the purpose that you want from it in your particular setup.

The first order of business should be deciding your budget for the purchase. After that, you should decide the size of the case that you want. There are basically 4 types of computer cases out there on the basis of size. Firstly, there is the ATX form factor, which can be labeled as the standard mid-tower configuration. Smaller cases in the micro-ATX form factor also exist, and so do extremely compact cases using the mini-ITX form factor. In addition to these 3 sizes, the case industry is also rife with extremely large full-tower cases, which are now becoming less and less common due to their humongous size, however, those might not be available in the budget price brackets.

Now that you have decided on the form factor, you should focus your attention on compatibility. A PC case should, first and foremost, be able to hold and support each and every one of your PC components. Think about the motherboard size, the radiator size, the number of fans, the number of SSDs and HDDs, the size of your CPU cooler, and the size of your graphics card. You should also think about cable management and aesthetics, since the computer case is a showpiece for your particular build, so it should definitely look nice. Budget cases do often make compromises in the aesthetics department, such as substituting tempered glass panels for acrylic ones, but you can make your own choices there.

Keeping these steps in mind, you should be ready to choose the perfect budget PC case for your build. It might even be one of the best budget PC case options that we mentioned on our list today, or it might be something entirely different. You can also check out our detailed PC case buying guide if you want to learn more about buying a PC case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which PC Case manufacturer is best?

Just like with any other product, it is not the best idea to purchase a PC case based on the brand name alone. All brands have made good and bad products, so it would be a wise approach to focus on the individual product in question, rather than the entire brand itself. With that said, there are certain case brands that are popular among general users and enthusiasts alike, such as Corsair, NZXT, Cooler Master, Phanteks, Fractal Design, Thermaltake, and Be Quiet! etc.

Is negative case pressure better?

On a general note, it is agreed upon in the enthusiast community that positive case pressure is better than negative case pressure in a number of scenarios. The biggest advantage in favor of positive case pressure is the dust buildup or rather, the lack of it. Negative air pressure causes a lot of dust buildup very quickly because the air is actually being sucked in through little cracks and openings in the chassis itself. This might work in the favor of GPU temperatures in certain scenarios, but the dust buildup factor negates its benefits.

Are full tower cases worth it?

Full-tower PC cases are becoming less and less popular even among enthusiasts due to their unwieldy size and weight. They are usually extremely expensive as well, with little to no actual benefits over standard mid-tower ATX cases. The one main benefit of full-tower cases in the past few years was water cooling, and now even that is possible in standard mid-tower cases such as the Lian Li O11 Dynamic. Therefore, we can safely assume that full-tower cases are not worth it.

Does the case fan speed matter?

The fan speed (generally denoted by fan RPM) does have an impact on performance and acoustics, but not to an extent that it should worry the average consumer. If the number of intake fans in your case is the same as the number of exhaust fans, then the fan RPM dictates the pressure of your case, whether it is positive or negative. Furthermore, fans with a higher RPM ceiling do have the capacity to move more air, thus aiding in thermal performance, but this does come at the tradeoff of acoustics. It is a balancing act when it comes to the number of fans and fan RPM.

 

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Best Raspberry Pi 4 Cases: Tested and Ranked https://appuals.com/best-raspberry-pi-4-cases/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-raspberry-pi-4-cases https://appuals.com/best-raspberry-pi-4-cases/#disqus_thread Wed, 20 Oct 2021 15:37:07 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=193757 Raspberry Pi computers are incredibly imaginative devices for people who like tinkering with electronics, and like work on small projects. We know that there is a lot you can do with these small and cheap computers. You can use them as retro emulators, add a screen and use it as a small display, and much …

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Raspberry Pi computers are incredibly imaginative devices for people who like tinkering with electronics, and like work on small projects. We know that there is a lot you can do with these small and cheap computers. You can use them as retro emulators, add a screen and use it as a small display, and much more. The possibilities appear to be near limitless.

This is mostly because everyone has different use of Raspberry Pi 4 cases, and not all cases will work with every specific situation. However, if you know what you’re looking it’s not hard to track down the right cases. Here are some of our personal favorites when it comes to Raspberry Pi cases. Note that we’re only looking at the best raspberry pi 4 case in this guide only, not other models.

Some prefer Rasberry Pi computers just for minimalistic setups. You may want to consider mini computers or Mini-ITX cases if you want to go for the DIY route.

The Best Raspberry Pi 4 Case You Can Buy Today

#PreviewProduct NameAwardDetails
1Argon Neo Raspberry Pi 4 Heatsink CaseBest Overall Case for Raspberry Pi 4
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2Pimoroni Pibow Coupe 4Best Barebones Case for Raspberry Pi 4
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3Flirc Raspberry Pi 4 CaseBest Looking Case for Raspberry Pi 4
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4MazerPi Raspberry Pi 4 CaseBest Affordable Case for Raspberry Pi 4
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5MazerPi Armor Case For Pi 4Best Cooled Case for Raspberry Pi 4
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#1
Preview
Product NameArgon Neo Raspberry Pi 4 Heatsink Case
AwardBest Overall Case for Raspberry Pi 4
Details
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#2
Preview
Product NamePimoroni Pibow Coupe 4
AwardBest Barebones Case for Raspberry Pi 4
Details
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#3
Preview
Product NameFlirc Raspberry Pi 4 Case
AwardBest Looking Case for Raspberry Pi 4
Details
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#4
Preview
Product NameMazerPi Raspberry Pi 4 Case
AwardBest Affordable Case for Raspberry Pi 4
Details
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#5
Preview
Product NameMazerPi Armor Case For Pi 4
AwardBest Cooled Case for Raspberry Pi 4
Details
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Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 15:36 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

You can use these computers with or without a case, but we recommend you do so with a case. You’ll want something that can protect the board, and a case can even add some aesthetic appeal to your Raspberry Pi. There are a plethora of options available, and a lot of them are easy to find straight from Amazon. But there is more to that story than you might initially think. It can be kind of hard to pick between all these options. Without further ado, let’s get started with our choices for the best case for Raspberry Pi 4.

1. Argon Neo Raspberry Pi 4 Heatsink Case

Best Overall Raspberry Pi 4 Case

Pros

  • Excellent Passive Cooling
  • Attractive Design
  • Easy Access To GPIO Pins
  • Included Thermal Pads

Cons

  • Integrated Vents Are Small

971 Reviews

Cooling Type: Passive | Dimensions: L3.86 x W2.95 x H1.1 inches | Weight: 112g

First on our list is the Argon Neo case. This is one of the more stylish, and better passively cooled cases on this list. It has access to all the ports and is small and lightweight. It works with HATs, CSI/DSI modules, and looks quite sleek while doing so. This case has little to no tradeoffs, and that’s why it tops our list.

Best Overall Case Raspberry Pi 4 Case
Argon Neo Raspberry Pi 4 Heatsink Case

Normally with other cases, you have to pick between protection, style, and access to all the connections. This isn’t a problem with the Argon Neo as it has everything you might need and more. It’s an attractive-looking case that uses a gunmetal-gray design on the top and on the sides. The bottom of the case is black shiny plastic. An aluminum plate will cover the surface of the Raspberry Pi 4. This plate uses an included thermal pad to attach both the CPU and RAM for passive cooling.

You’ll be happy to know that this has generous cutouts for GPIO pins and even the CSI ports. Fitting a standard HAT on the Neo is quite easy. You don’t need an extender or a ribbon cable, as there is plenty of room inside. The top is removable and magnetic, which adds to the sleek look. You’ll need to remove this top if you want to use a camera module though. Passive cooling is also quite strong with this one. These attributes make us rank the Neo case as the best overall Raspberry Pi 4 case.

2. Pimoroni Pibow Coupe 4

Best Barebones Raspberry Pi 4 Case

Pros

  • Interesting Design Language
  • Lots Of Color Options
  • Lots Of Accessibility
  • Easy To Assemble

Cons

  • No Cooling Solution

36 Reviews

Cooling Type: None | Dimensions: L3.9 x W2.6 x H0.59 inches | Weight: 80g

Pimoroni is a very popular brand when it comes to Raspberry Pi 4 accessories. This is why the Pibow Coupe 4 is so popular among Raspberry Pi 4 owners. For people who prioritize ease of access, the Pibow Coupe 4 is an excellent choice. While it may not be the most protective-looking thing in the world, it gets the job done quite well. This is why we crown this case as the best barebones Raspberry Pi 4 case.

For people who want easy access to all the GPIO pins, this Raspberry Pi case is a safe option. If you want to add a HAT on your Raspberry PI, the Pibow Coupe 4 makes things very accessible. It’s not completely sealed and leaves the GPIO pins untouched. There is enough room to run as many cables as possible in this case. This includes access to the camera and displays CSI ports. There are also a couple of color options available.

Best Barebones Raspberry Pi 4 Case
Pimoroni Pibow Coupe 4

You can get it in Ninja, Red, and Rainbow colorways. The Ninja is a stealthy black color, but the rainbow looks like the most flashy option and will brighten up any desk. This case does not have a cooling solution, but the CPU is uncovered so you can add your own heatsink on here. Even with a heatsink on top, you can easily add a HAT on top. This colorful case comes together in layers that you need to assemble manually around the Pi and tighten down with included screws.

There is a lot of open airflow around the CPU and the side area. This allows the board plenty of room to breathe. While this doesn’t provide a lot of protection around the ports, ease of access is much better. Pimoroni makes similar cases for the Pi Zero and other models.

3. Flirc Raspberry Pi 4 Case

Best Looking Raspberry Pi 4 Case

Pros

  • Incredibly Attractive Design
  • Great Passive Cooling
  • Standard HATs Work Fine

Cons

  • Some GPIO cables Might Cause Problems
  • Not The Easiest To Build

3,384 Reviews

Cooling Type: Passive | Dimensions: H3.5 x W2.5 x H1 inches | Weight: 108g

Next up, we have the best looking Raspberry Pi 4 case enthusiasts. This one is the Flirc Pi 4 case in minimal looking silver color. In terms of design, this is the best-looking case out there. It has a lot to offer, from the design to the passive cooling capability. No wonder it’s such a popular choice. It has a lot of other things to offer as well, so here’s a quick breakdown.

Hands down, this is the best choice when it comes to fit and finish. The exterior is made out of aluminum, and it feels quite solid. It takes the Raspberry Pi from an unassuming board to sleek looking mini PC. The manufacturing process is quite good here, and the overall quality looks great. It also fits the Raspberry Pi 4 perfectly. The GPIO ports are easily accessible through the bottom of the case.

Best Looking Raspberry Pi 4 Case
Flirc Raspberry Pi 4 Case

You can even use a standard-sized HAT with this case, and it includes a heatsink for it. It comes with a thermal pad and four screws. Thermal pads for both the RAM and the CPU are also included here. After some thermal testing, we were left quite impressed with this case. At both idle and load, the Flirc case helps out a lot. It might get close to the throttling threshold, but not near enough to slow down the Pi 4.

The only problem is that you might have some trouble with certain GPIO cables. Sure, there is a lot of clearance but manually removing the PI4 from the case and adding it back to the case can be a bit of a pain. If that’s not a concern for you, this is an excellent case and a very smart choice as well.

4. MazerPi Raspberry Pi 4 Case

Best Affordable Raspberry Pi 4 Case

Pros

  • Very Affordable
  • Lots Of Accessories
  • Easy Accessibility

Cons

  • Loud Fan
  • Flimsy Build Quality

990 Reviews

Cooling Type: Active | Dimensions: L3.94 x W1.57 x H1.97 inches | Weight: 44.7g

The Raspberry Pi 4 serves its purpose as an affordable little computer. So, it makes sense if you don’t want to overspend on a case for it. While the Flirc case and the Argon Neo both look good, you might be able to get away with something considerably cheaper. The MazerPi case happens to be just that, and it’s a great budget-Raspberry Pi 4 Case option.

You might also be interested in the best white PC cases if you want to build a standard gaming PC instead.

The MazerPi includes a lot of accessories in the box. This includes the case itself, a heatsink for the processor, a fan, and of course, thermal pads. Remember that this isn’t a passive cooling case, so the fan will be something you’ll need to take into account. Unfortunately, the fan included here isn’t exactly silent. It’s not loud either, sure, but it is audible so you’ll have to deal with that. This design works with the Pi 4 Model B perfectly.

Best Affordable Raspberry Pi 4 Case
MazerPi Raspberry Pi 4 Case

For a cheap case, it is relatively easy to install and use a well. The build quality isn’t all that great, but that’s to be expected for the price. Still, it feels a bit flimsy and doesn’t exactly inspire confidence. Thankfully, the fan does cool the chip quite well, and you’ll notice a drop in temperature anywhere from 10-13 degrees. The GPIO ports are easily accessible from the side of the case.

Overall, this is the best affordable Raspberry Pi 4 case. There are a few caveats such as the audible fan and the build quality, but those aren’t major concerns in the long run. Turns out you can get away with a cheap case like this one.

5. MazerPi Armor Case For Pi 4

Best Cooled Case for Raspberry Pi 4

Pros

  • Excellent Thermal Efficiency
  • Great Value Proposition

Cons

  • Hard To Build
  • Unappealing Design
  • Fragile Thermal Pads

571 Reviews

Cooling Type: Active | Dimensions: 3.94 x 1.57 x 2.36 inches | Weight: 3.98 ounces

Next on our list is yet another MazerPi. They are definitely doing something right to land twice on this list. This Armor case is a great option and is worth considering for sure. If you are mainly focused on thermals and performance, this one is a safe bet. However, it does make some sacrifices in other areas. It’s up to you if you want to deal with them.

Speaking of compact PCs, you might also be interested in our list of the best micro-ATX cases for compact PC builds.

First off, while this case is quite protective, it doesn’t really look the part. To be fair, some people are fond of this aesthetic and like having the heatsink and ports on show. However, we have to say that cases like the Flirc and Argon Neo look much better than this one. It’s tolerable, but the fact that you can see the wires for the fans doesn’t earn a point in terms of looks. Thankfully, this case does have one major redeeming quality.

Best Case For Raspberry Pi 4
MazerPi Armor Case For Pi 4

Like we said in the beginning, this case is focused purely on thermals. It comes with Dual fans constructed that cool the CPU as well as the other components. This makes sure that the Pi 4 is always running cool. It does make a major difference as you’ll notice a huge drop in thermals with both of the fans running. The fans are a bit quieter here, unlike their previous case on this list.

Apart from aesthetics, this does have a few more minor flaws. One of the big ones is that it can be a bit hard to put together. Instead of using Phillips head screws, this one uses proprietary screws instead. Be careful when applying the thermal pads as well, as they can break if you are too hasty. If you can deal with all of that for great performance, this is the best cooled Raspberry Pi 4 case, just for thermal efficiency.

Things To Know About The Raspberry Pi 4

If you are interested in compact builds and small gaming PCs, you might have heard of Raspberry Pi. This tiny little device is quite an ingenious product that makes a ton of sense in today’s market. Nowadays, people are moving away from bulky full-tower computers and even laptops when they just want to do simple stuff. The Raspberry Pi is the ideal device for such a scenario where you need a tiny bit of computing power to do everyday tasks, but don’t want the bulk of PCs and laptops.

The Raspberry Pi is just a bare PCB or a “circuit board” with some basic components such as CPU and RAM soldered onto it. Bear in mind that the Raspberry Pi is just a plain board and you will need separate components such as the power supply, storage, display cables, peripherals, and a display to make full use of this tiny computer. The Pi can make use of various operating systems, but the official one is known as Raspbian and it is recommended for first-time users.

The Pi 4 iteration is now able to decode 4K video, uses faster USB 3.0 storage, uses true Gigabit ethernet, and is generally fast and snappy so it should be a great little computer for your mundane PC tasks. Our selection of the best Raspberry Pi 4 cases should also help you pick out the perfect case for your new Raspberry Pi system, so you can get up and running in no time.

Best Case For Raspberry Pi 4 - FAQs

How can I make my Raspberry Pi 4 more powerful?

A Raspberry Pi is an intricate little device that is compact and useful. There are a few steps you can take to make your Raspberry Pi 4 a bit more powerful. Try using a better quality power supply for your Pi, and install a lightweight operating system on it. Always make sure your system is clean of any bloatware and unwanted software. You can also try using a higher quality SD Card in the Raspberry Pi to improve storage quality and I/O operations. Lastly, you might try your hand at overclocking as well, but with care.

Does Raspberry Pi 4 need a fan?

Since the Raspberry Pi system is a tiny, well-integrated computer that is quite efficient, it does not need active cooling most of the time. You can get away with completely passive cooling if you are not using your Raspberry Pi system for extended periods of time. However, for extended durations of use and for heavier workloads, you should definitely consider installing a fan in the system to provide active cooling. Lower temperatures are always better for electronics, even if they come at a bit of an acoustic cost.

Can you add more RAM to Raspberry Pi 4?

Unfortunately, the Raspberry Pi 4 does not support upgrading RAM since the RAM chips are directly soldered onto the CPU itself as a BGA package, and are not found as separate replaceable modules. However, the Raspberry Pi 4 comes in configurations of 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB RAM so you should be able to find a configuration that suits your needs pretty easily. Just be careful about your initial choice because you can’t upgrade the memory down the line.

How do I keep my Raspberry Pi 4 cool?

The two main methods of keeping the Raspberry Pi 4 cool are the same as the methods for keeping any CPU cool. For ideal temperatures, you should install a heatsink on the Raspberry Pi 4 CPU and, where possible, apply active cooling via a fan. The heatsink will aid the heat dissipation of the CPU dramatically, and the fan can help even further by cooling down the processor and the heatsink fins directly. Without these measures, the CPU of the Raspberry Pi 4 can reach throttling temperatures which are somewhere near 85 C.

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Best Water Cooling Cases For High-End Builds https://appuals.com/best-water-cooling-pc-cases/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-water-cooling-pc-cases https://appuals.com/best-water-cooling-pc-cases/#disqus_thread Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:52:36 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=195283 One of the most efficient and fun methods for cooling your PC components is to use a custom loop water cooling system. Having said that, getting your hands on the best water cooling cases is not exactly an easy feat. As powerful CPUs and GPUs have been more widely available over the past few years, …

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One of the most efficient and fun methods for cooling your PC components is to use a custom loop water cooling system. Having said that, getting your hands on the best water cooling cases is not exactly an easy feat.

As powerful CPUs and GPUs have been more widely available over the past few years, it has become increasingly popular for PC hardware enthusiasts to integrate their computer components inside of a custom water cooling loop.

Not only does a bespoke water-cooling loop provide effective cooling performance, but it also transforms your personal computer into an attractive display masterpiece at the same time.

Even if it is feasible to implement water cooling in budget PC cases, we want to make sure that you are aware of all of your alternatives. PC cases that are designed to accommodate water cooling typically perform more effectively than their counterparts. The following are, in our opinion, the best PC cases available in 2023 for using water-cooling components.

Let’s get started!

The Best Water Cooling Cases – Our Choices

#Preview Product NameAwardDetails
1LianLi O11 Dynamic XLBest Overall Water Cooling Case
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2Corsair Obsidian 1000DBest Premium Water Cooling Case
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3Thermaltake Tower 900Best Showcase Water Cooling Case
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4Cooler Master Cosmos C700MBest RGB Water Cooling Case
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5Thermaltake Core P8Best Stealthy Water Cooling Case
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6Thermaltake Level 20Best Designed Water Cooling Case
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7Phanteks Eclipse P400ABest Compact Water Cooling Case
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#1
Preview
Product NameLianLi O11 Dynamic XL
AwardBest Overall Water Cooling Case
Details
Check Price
#2
Preview
Product NameCorsair Obsidian 1000D
AwardBest Premium Water Cooling Case
Details
Check Price
#3
Preview
Product NameThermaltake Tower 900
AwardBest Showcase Water Cooling Case
Details
Check Price
#4
Preview
Product NameCooler Master Cosmos C700M
AwardBest RGB Water Cooling Case
Details
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#5
Preview
Product NameThermaltake Core P8
AwardBest Stealthy Water Cooling Case
Details
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#6
Preview
Product NameThermaltake Level 20
AwardBest Designed Water Cooling Case
Details
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#7
Preview
Product NamePhanteks Eclipse P400A
AwardBest Compact Water Cooling Case
Details
Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 20:02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

At appuals.com, we love to test out PC cases. Our highly enthusiastic team is well-versed in the intricacies of PC cases and we look forward to upcoming innovations in this field. We’ve been doing these reviews for a long time, and it shows in how thorough and insightful they are. Hassam Nasir, our resident PC hardware guru, has been writing case reviews since the time of side-panel case fans.

You might say that he enjoys delving into the finer points of PC hardware, such as airflow testing, thermal evaluation, acoustic testing, cooling potentials of AIOs, and so on. Since he has been fixated on PC technology since the days of the Antec Lanboy, his knowledge should come as no surprise.

In spite of this, we don’t only depend on our past knowledge; we test each PC case thoroughly before reporting about it. We check for issues with airflow, thermal competence, and acoustic profiles among other aspects. Quality and durability testing of cases is where our team really shines. When writing our reviews, we always keep the user’s perspective in mind. We can help you in your search for a suitable PC case, whether you require a cheap alternative or the best one available.

1. LianLi O11 Dynamic XL

Best Overall Water Cooling Case

Pros

  • Impressive Tempered Glass Design
  • Loads of Internal Space
  • Tons of Fan Mounting Options
  • Superb Build Quality

Cons

  • Unconventional PSU Layout

466 Reviews

Form Factor: Full-Tower | Dimensions: 471 x 285 x 513 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm | Front Panel: 4x USB 3.0, 1x USB 3.1 type-C, 1x HD audio | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

The Lian Li O11 Dynamic XL is not only one of the finest cases that can be purchased right now, but it also tops our list as the best overall water cooling case. The O11 Dynamic series has become a best-seller among PC builders and has gained legendary status in the industry as a result of its forward-thinking design, cutting-edge features, and spacious interior.

The computer case was designed in collaboration with “Derbauer,” better known as “der8auer” in online overclocking communities. He has ensured that the case is suitable for high-performance computer components and that it is compatible with rigs that have been customized with water cooling.

As a complete tower chassis, the O11 Dynamic XL measures 471 x 285 x 513 mm and tips the scales at 11.6 kg. You may use any consumer desktop motherboard with this PC case because it is compatible with E-ATX, ATX, mini-ITX, and micro ATX. However, for the sake of aesthetics, we recommend not using a motherboard smaller than a standard ATX.

Best Water Cooling Cases
LianLi O11 Dynamic XL

The Lian Li O11 Dynamic is distinguished from the other products on the market by the use of seamless tempered glass for both the front and sides of the device. As a result of the O11 Dynamic not having a necessity for airflow from the front, this style is perfect for it. In terms of airflow, this enclosure supports a broad range of different fan configurations and directions, which allows it to satisfy the cooling requirements of even the most powerful components.

In this scenario, there are two key locations where intake fans might be put to beneficial use. The O11 Dynamic XL features slots on the bottom and the right side of the motherboard tray for the installation of cooling fans. Attaching the water-cooling radiators, each of which is capable of simultaneously supporting up to three 120mm fans, can also be done in these places if desired.

Radiators with diameters ranging from 120mm to 360mm may be placed in any one of the three available slots in the housing for these components. A 360mm radiator is more than enough for most general consumers, so we see the radiator support of this case as adequate. Even our selection of the best CPU coolers for i9 13900K tops out at 360mm.

Tubes leading to the heat-generating components can be routed along the length of the computer case from a water cooling distribution block installed to the right of the motherboard tray. This method not only produces an attractive and well-organized water-cooling loop but also aids in enhancing the build’s visual appeal.

You won’t be let down if you go with the Lian Li O11 Dynamic XL as your water-cooling solution of choice.

2. Corsair Obsidian 1000D

Best Premium Water Cooling Case

Pros

  • Supports Dual Systems
  • Attractive Modern Design
  • Loads of Features
  • Luxurious Build Quality

Cons

  • Very Expensive

2,326 Reviews

Form Factor: Super Tower | Dimensions: 693 x 307 x 697 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm, 420mm, 480mm | Front Panel: 4x USB 3.0, 2x USB 3.1 type-C, 1x HD audio | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

Corsair’s flagship case, the Obsidian 1000D, offers excellent build quality combined with a wealth of features and is known as the company’s “showpiece.” It is possible to use it with an E-ATX-based system and a mini-ITX-based system simultaneously, which is equivalent to using two whole PCs inside a single chassis. This characteristic conveys the enormous proportions of the case.

You can also explore our selection of the best dual PC cases for more options in that category.

The dimensions of the case are 27.4″ by 12.1″ by 27.4″ which translates to 693 x 307 x 697 mm respectively. The brushed metal used in the construction of the case’s primary framework lends it a sophisticated appearance. Additionally, the front, sides, and top of the enclosure are covered in tempered smoke glass. Moreover, it has the potential to be one of the best airflow cases that we have come across in the full tower category.

It is one of the heaviest computer cases due to the case’s weight of 65 pounds, which is quite a startling number in the PC case market and places it among the heaviest computer cases. Large dust filters are placed on the front, top, rear, and bottom of the case to filter out the incoming air.

Best Water Cooling Cases
Corsair Obsidian 1000D

The case also contains two trays measuring 480 millimeters (front), two trays measuring 480 millimeters (top), and two trays measuring 120 millimeters (back), as well as the vents for the power supply unit. The front panel of the casing has 3.5mm jacks for speakers and microphones, as well as two USB 3.1 Type-C ports, four USB 3.0 ports, a power button, and a reset button.

The case also comes with an integrated fan and lighting controller known as the “Corsair COMMANDER Pro.” This controller allows for the operation of up to 6 PWM fans, 2 RGB Strip Controls, and 4 temperature controls. You can configure the Commander Pro controller using the Corsair iCUE RGB software. There is no question that the Commander Pro is among the very best RGB controllers currently available on the market.

It is also essential to note that the stock model of this case does not come with any fans or a radiator tray. This omission will lead to an increase in costs because the majority of cases currently available on the market are already equipped with certain fan configurations. The case does have a lot of cable management room, and all of the cable management is done on the rear of the space where the motherboard is mounted.

Corsair provides a two-year warranty on the case, which is more than sufficient for a PC case’s safety needs. It is the best premium water cooling case that we have on our list, but it is solely intended for serious enthusiasts who aren’t concerned about the cost and want just the very best.

3. Thermaltake Tower 900

Best Showcase Water Cooling Case

Pros

  • Unique Shape
  • Ideal for Showcase Builds
  • Can Support 560mm Radiators
  • Tempered Glass on 3 Sides

Cons

  • Unusually Expensive

1,613 Reviews

Form Factor: Super Tower | Dimensions: 752 x 423 x 483mm | Radiator Support: 480, 560mm | Front Panel: 4x USB 3.0, 1x HD Audio | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

If you have room on your desk for a computer chassis that is bigger than a full tower, then you might be inclined to buy one of the various super-tower cases. These cases often have the largest and most roomy interiors available for custom water cooling, and they are constructed with the explicit purpose of providing space for bespoke water cooling systems in mind.

The Thermaltake Tower 900 is one of the most impressive super-towers currently available. It stands out from the majority of other PC cases due to its larger size as well as its distinctive visual expression. The majority of PC cases are in the shape of rectangular boxes with narrow fronts and broad sides. In contrast, the Tower 900 is a boxier chassis that has a wide front and narrow sides, making it the perfect showcase for water cooling.

The Tower 900 has dimensions of 752 millimeters by 423 millimeters by 483 millimeters, and it is compatible with E-ATX, ATX, mini ITX, and micro-ATX motherboards. The tower’s size is not the only aspect of the Tower 900 that could give the impression of being excessive. This computer case weighs around 24.5 kilograms, which is more than twice as heavy as a Lian Li O11 Dynamic XL.

Best Water Cooling Cases
Thermaltake Tower 900

However, the Tower 900 is designed to be large for a specific purpose. It is possible to fit any build conceivable under the sun with this computer case; but, owing to its size and weight, it may be difficult for you to fit this computer case on your desk.

The Tower 900 is fully equipped with a variety of water-cooling features. The radiators that can be supported by this case have a maximum length of 560 millimeters, which is an absolutely enormous radiator size. In addition to this, building a custom loop inside of this case is a pleasure because of its ridiculously huge size and well-thought-out design.

The Tower 900 is also modular, which means that you may modify the components that are housed within the chassis to ensure that it is an exact match for your particular project. There are also controls for RGB lighting included, which is a wonderful addition to the casing.

Be sure to check out our selection of the best high CFM case fans to fill out your Tower 900 build.

If you have no problem with its price and weight, the Tower 900 is a massive computer case that has the potential to be a good display piece. However, it does not come cheap. It is easy to construct within, it is capable of housing enormous radiators that no other standard case is capable of housing, and it has a one-of-a-kind boxy form that can appeal to your sense of style.

However, due to the possibility that the completed system may weigh more than 100 pounds, you will need to be prepared to make a significant financial investment in a specialized water cooling system. Still, it is the best showcase water cooling case in our roundup.

4. Cooler Master Cosmos C700M

Best RGB Water Cooling Case

Pros

  • Impressive RGB Implementation
  • Tons of Space
  • Modern Design Language
  • Superb Build Quality

Cons

  • Very Heavy

736 Reviews

Form Factor: Full-Tower | Dimensions: 639 x 306 x 651 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm, 420mm | Front Panel: 4x USB 3.0, 1x USB 3.1 type-C, 1x HD audio | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

The “Cosmos” series is Cooler Master’s highest-tier product line, and the Cooler Master Cosmos C700M is a star of that line. The framework of the casing is made up of plastic and metal, and it has panels made of curved tempered glass. In addition, there are two RGB strips integrated in the front and top areas of the metal, and there is also ambient RGB lighting on the bottom.

The RGB lighting is very well-implemented and is one of the best PC case lighting solutions we have yet seen.

Mounts for cooling solutions can be found on all four sides of the case: one measuring 420 millimeters on the front, one measuring 420 millimeters on the top, one measuring 140 millimeters on the back, and one measuring 280 millimeters on the bottom. The I/O ports are found on the top front portion of the housing, while the top of the casing features thick metal grips for mobility purposes.

In a related vein, you might also be curious about our recommendations for the open-air computer cases that are now available to purchase in the year 2022.

Best Water Cooling Cases
Cooler Master Cosmos C700M

The I/O ports include a power button, as well as 3.5mm jacks for a microphone, speaker, RGB control buttons, and fan speed control buttons. Additionally, there is one USB 3.1 Type-C connector and four USB 3.0 ports.

Internally, the design and layout of the motherboard are one of the standout characteristics of this case. The user has a lot of leeway for customization because of the motherboard’s ability to be utilized in either an inverted configuration or a layout rotated by 90 degrees. This implementation is becoming quite trendy in recent years.

The Cosmos C700M has a stock configuration that weighs around 50 pounds and comes pre-installed with three 140mm fans on the front and one 140mm fan on the rear. These fans are part of the standard package. The chassis has the capacity to support up to ten internal bays, with five measuring 2.5 inches, four measuring 3.5 inches, and one measuring 5.25 inches. Of these, one space is set aside specifically for optical drives, which may be needed occasionally.

In our Cooler Master MB511 RGB Review, we also looked at yet another model of the company’s popular computer cases.

The casing also has a one-of-a-kind design that allows for the vertical and slanted positioning of graphics cards by utilizing a PCI-E riser and the included frame. Cooler Master offers a warranty on the case for a period of two years in the event that any RGB or other electrical component develops a defect during that time.

This PC case offers a reasonable amount of space for custom cooling solutions while yet maintaining a respectable look. It’s possible that this is not the most spacious case available for water cooling, but it is certainly not out of the conversation. Ultimately, our conclusion is that it is the best RGB water cooling case on our list.

5. Thermaltake Core P8

Best Stealthy Water Cooling Case

Pros

  • Space for four 480mm Radiators
  • Can Support 20 Fans
  • Extremely Spacious

Cons

  • Very Expensive
  • Ridiculously Heavy

238 Reviews

Form Factor: Full-Tower | Dimensions: 660 x 260 x 626mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm, 420mm, 480mm | Front Panel: 1x USB 3.1 (Gen 2) Type-C, 2x USB 3.0, x 2 USB 2.0, 1 x HD Audio | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

The Thermaltake Core P8 is one of the bolder options in our assortment of computer cases. Aside from custom water cooling, no other kind of cooling will suffice in this circumstance. You need to be committed to bespoke water cooling to purchase a Core P8, however, the upshot is one of the most impressive cases available.

You can also check out our list of the best open-air cases for more options in that category.

The Core P8 is yet another enormous full-tower case; its dimensions are 660 millimeters by 260 millimeters by 626 millimeters, and it weighs more than 22.6 kg. This is almost twice as hefty as the Lian Li O11 Dynamic XL, which is another choice in the full-tower category. Even if the O11 Dynamic offers a few improvements, the Core P8 has specialized water-cooling features that are far more effective.

Thanks to its roomy interior, the P8 can accommodate not just ATX, micro ATX, and mini ITX motherboards, but also the bigger E-ATX form factor. This is possible because of the P8’s generous dimensions.

Best Water Cooling Cases
Thermaltake Core P8

When we take into account the water-cooling features that are accessible, this option becomes more exciting. There are numerous available slots on the Core P8 that can accommodate radiators of a variety of sizes, including 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm, 420mm, and 480mm.  As if that weren’t enough, the case comes with a plethora of mounting options that let you install anywhere from one to twenty 120mm case fans or radiators.

Since the front panel and both side panels of this case are composed of tempered glass, your gorgeous water-cooling rig can be admired in all of its glory. The Core P8 is a very appealing case, despite the fact that it is rather large and that there is a broad range of different fan mounts available. There are very few sights in the realm of PC building that can compare to the sight of this computer case when it is completely packed with fans and illuminated with RGB lights.

Furthermore, the Core P8’s internal design is modular, allowing you to swap out individual chassis components to better accommodate your build plan and the unique needs of your custom water cooling system. A water-cooling distribution plate, useful for arranging the loop’s tubing runs, may be installed in the P8 as well.

It is hard to call any water cooling case “stealthy”, but the Thermaltake Core P8 is a good contender for that category. If you do not install fancy RGB fans and lighting in this case, it is the best stealthy water cooling case that we recommend on our list.

As a whole, the Core P8 is one of the best full tower cases for water cooling because it was made for that specific purpose. Although the purchase of this case will involve serious financial and physical effort on the part of the customer, the outcome is certainly worthwhile.

6. Thermaltake Level 20

Best Designed Water Cooling Case

Pros

  • Extraordinary Design
  • Modular Compartments
  • Unlimited Possibilities

Cons

  • Ridiculous Price Tag
  • Hard to Work In

1,473 Reviews

Form Factor: Super Tower | Dimensions: 688 x 279 x 731 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 280mm, 360mm, 420mm, 480mm | Front Panel: 4x USB 3.0, 1x USB 3.1 type-C, 1x HD audio | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

In 2018, Thermaltake launched a new range of PC cases, among which the Thermaltake Level 20 is the flagship offering. This particular case offers an otherworldly design with separate chambers for your different components.

The power supply unit chamber (PSU Chamber), the motherboard chamber (MB Chamber), and the storage and liquid cooling system chamber (LCS Chamber) each have their own dedicated space within this case. These chambers have been thoughtfully crafted with the intention of isolating the component sections in such a manner that the heat may be drained effectively while maintaining the integrity of the individual components. 

While the main structure’s edges are made of curved aluminum, each chamber features glass panels made of tempered glass that open in a sideways manner. At a glance, it’s clear that this complete tower case has the most appealing design of any of the options we’ve compiled. You might also think about buying the best RGB fan packs to make this case seem even better with their vibrant lighting.

Best Water Cooling Cases
Thermaltake Level 20

The storage chamber can support up to 420mm radiators with 3 x 120mm or 3 x 140mm fans, and the PSU chamber can host the PSU in either a horizontal or vertical alignment. The motherboard chamber can support up to 360mm radiators, as well as 3 x 120 or 2 x 140 mm fans on the front, and 1 x 120mm or 1 x 140mm fan with/without radiator at the rear.

The front I/O ports include a power button, as well as 3.5mm jacks for both the microphone and the speaker. Additionally, there is one USB 3.1 Type-C port.

Related Read: Soft Tubing vs Hard Tubing 

Moreover, the chassis is equipped with a Riing Plus RGB Controller that allows the fans and lighting to be synchronized with other Razor Chroma products. In addition, the controller supports voice recognition, which can be used to configure a variety of lighting schemes or fan speeds when used with devices that are enabled with Amazon Alexa.

Thermaltake has provided a sufficient amount of lighting by including three Riing Plus 14 RGB fans and two Lumi Plus LED strips in this package. There is support for a maximum of eleven internal bays, however, there is no room for a 5.25′′ drive such as an optical drive. In addition to this, the chamber that houses the motherboard has a built-in PCIe riser cable that allows for vertical installation of PCI-E components, notably the graphics card.

Since Thermaltake commemorated the completion of 20 years in the computer industry with the release of this case, the company decided to charge a higher price for it than they would for a standard computer case. This gave the case the appearance of a collectible piece rather than a modern computer enclosure.

As a result, the price is totally outrageous and definitely does not provide a lot of value for money. Still, we have crowned this case as the best designed water cooling case due to its unbelievable design.

7. Phanteks Eclipse P400A

Best Compact Water Cooling Case

Pros

  • Compact Option
  • Great Airflow

Cons

  • Relatively Limited Space
  • Loud Front Fans
  • Limited Radiator Compatibility

2,498 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Dimensions: 470 x 210 x 465 mm | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm | Front Panel: 2x USB 3.0, 1x HD Audio | Motherboard Support: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

Phanteks is a brand name that has become practically ubiquitous with devices that are responsible for cooling your PC.  The Phanteks P400A is a case that has a straightforward appearance but is in fact quite sophisticated and well-thought-out in its construction. It is possible that this PC case is the best compact water cooling case in our roundup.

Your PC components will fit nicely within the Phanteks P400A, which has an ATX mid-tower form factor. There are three distinct variations of this case available and all three are sold separately: one is black without RGB, another is black with RGB fans, and the third is white with RGB fans. It is clear that the Phanteks P400A is a large case, as evidenced by its dimensions of 470 millimeters by 210 millimeters by 465 millimeters.

A solid metal mesh covers the front of the case, and immediately behind it are three 120mm fans. Controls and buttons, in addition to extra USB ports, are located on the top of the device. This is also where the power button is located. If you have an RGB model, the buttons located at the top of the device allow you to adjust the lighting effects as well as other aspects of the device.

Best Water Cooling Cases
Phanteks Eclipse P400A

Since there is lots of room within the Phanteks P400A for you to make any upgrades, purchasing this case is like making an investment in the future potential of the case. On the topic of expansion, you are able to install an E-ATX motherboard, and the Phanteks P400A has room for two hard disc drives, two solid-state drives, as well as four optical drives. This case also comes equipped with a bracket and mounts for the GPU and HDD, making it simple to install both of those components.

The mesh on the top panel has a magnetic filter as well, which filters the air that is drawn into the case and collects any dust particles that may be present. The fact that this filter is simple to clean is still another advantage offered by it.

The white version of the Phanteks P400A can also be considered one of the best white PC cases on the market.

There are alternative products available on the market that are comparable in cost to the Phanteks P400A, but none are as optimized for water cooling as this case. Thanks to its spacious interior, this case excels in a diverse range of areas which makes it an outstanding option for a computer case that can be used in multiple projects.

The Phanteks P400A is a terrific PC case to have because it will ensure that your water cooling components have all of the ventilation they require for optimal performance. It comes with a price tag that is fair, and it is definitely an investment that is wise for any future upgrades that you might want for your PC.

How we picked and tested

Picking the ideal PC case is already a complex task even before you add water cooling into the mix. Even the tiniest miscalculation can lead to compatibility issues and you may even need to reconstruct the entire build in a different case.

This is why we laid down stringent criteria when selecting the cases for this roundup.

Our primary focus was on the size of the PC cases we selected. Custom loop water cooling requires a lot of space, and it can even be helpful to have additional room to expand further down the line. This is why we selected large full-tower and super-tower cases in our roundup.

Secondly, we selected the cases that offered the best compatibility for water cooling components on the market. This includes space for reservoirs, custom tubing, large radiators, multiple fans, and other accessories. Any bonus water cooling features offered by cases were also considered in the final ranking.

Moreover, the aesthetics of the cases were also a major point of focus during the selection process of the different cases on this list. Custom loop water cooling can elevate the looks of your build to another level, and the case plays a huge part in that. Therefore, the design and lighting features of the cases were carefully considered.

We also laid a focus on the miscellaneous quality-of-life factors that can make or break a case. For example, the weight and build quality of a case are some of the factors we evaluated closely in this process.

Of course, we also considered the price and value proposition of the various cases that were shortlisted. While most water cooling cases are generally expensive, we prioritized cases that offered a better bang for the buck when it comes to water cooling features and compatibility.

In the testing process, our team of specialized hardware experts left no stone unturned. We carefully evaluated each selected case by running them through a gauntlet of tests specifically designed to test airflow and thermal performance.

Water cooling is directly dependent on the airflow of the case as the air is used to cool down the radiators, which is why thermal testing is crucial in this regard. The empirical and objective data obtained from these tests helped us greatly in the creation of this roundup.

This gave the editorial team a great idea of the quality of the different cases and the thermal performance that can be expected from them.

Combining the testing data with the objective analysis of the cases’ features and prices, we have curated a selection of the best water cooling cases you can buy for your next build.

AiO Liquid Coolers vs. Custom Loop

When deciding between an AiO liquid cooler vs. custom liquid cooling loop, you may be considering which option offers the greater value. The operation of both of these liquid-based cooling methods is similar but has some fundamental differences as well.

It should be made clear that AIO liquid cooling and custom loops are both viable methods of cooling, with many factors tipping the scales in favor of the custom loop and many others suggesting that AIO liquid cooling is superior.

From a true enthusiast’s point of view, a bespoke loop liquid cooling system is far superior to an all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooling solution. With a personalized loop, you can enhance both performance and aesthetics.

Subsequently, if you have an enthusiast-level motherboard with built-in VRM water cooling, you may benefit from a custom water cooling solution even more. The custom loop can be inserted into the pre-installed water-cooling heatsink to achieve better temperatures of the VRM. This can improve the performance and stability of the VRM in the long term.

One also has to take into account the advantage of custom liquid cooling loops in terms of aesthetics. You can design an extraordinary PC build with the use of appropriate hardline tubing, beautiful water blocks, and unique coolant. Using a custom loop can really elevate the looks of your PC build.

This is not to say that the AiO liquid coolers are not viable options, though. Since the temperature gain is not actually proportional to the higher cost, you should definitely stick with AiO coolers if you do not have an infinite budget for your build. All-in-one liquid coolers hold a massive advantage over custom loops since the latter is so much more expensive by comparison.

Also, ordinary AiO coolers are better suited for use in a regular PC build since custom liquid cooling loops require constant attention and maintenance. Consider these factors when you weigh the benefits of upgrading to custom loop liquid cooling against conventional closed-loop cooling for your next build.

How to Optimize your Airflow

When building your own PC, one of the most important things you should do is work on improving the circulation of air within the computer’s chassis. This approach should not just be tried by enthusiasts, but also by regular users on a more casual basis. This can keep the components of your computer from overheating, prevent the chassis from suffering exponential dust buildup, and, in general, improve the components’ expected lifespan.

In the first step, we are going to work on building up positive pressure inside the chassis. When we talk about positive airflow, what we mean is that the fans located inside of your system are taking in more fresh air than they are pushing out of the system in the form of hot air. Due to this, a positive cooling cycle is produced, which is exactly what you want to achieve.

When there is more air being flushed out than there is being drawn in, negative air pressure develops. This creates a potential vacuum that may start sucking air from cracks and crevices in the chassis, which results in an enormous amount of dust accumulation. The intake and expulsion cycles are balanced in a system with equal air pressure.

Moreover, placing the system in a cooler environment will allow for cooler air to be pulled in, which will reduce the temperatures of both your CPU and your graphics card (GPU). Fans, which are the primary operators in this entire cycle, have the potential to be the ultimate game-changers in successfully circulating the air depending on their size, speed, alignment, and type.

Radiators, if placed appropriately, may function as effective exhausts. In addition to ensuring that your system cools properly and that its circulation is not disrupted by unwanted foreign bodies, keeping your system clean on a regular basis and taking preventative efforts to keep dust and other particles that might cause blockages out of your setup are two of the most important things you can do.

Last but not least, if your chassis is still becoming too hot, you should consider looking at our recommendations for the best airflow PC case alternatives currently available and replacing it if necessary. It’s possible that our in-depth PC case buying guide will come in handy here.

Buyer’s Guide

Water cooling can be a tricky process, especially due to the various compatibility issues that can arise thanks to its bespoke nature. On the flip side, it is one of the most interesting and fascinating features you can implement in your custom rig.

Therefore, it is more than crucial that you buy one of the best water cooling cases if you want your build to go smoothly. Keep in mind the following factors when shopping for your PC case.

Size

In cases that are designated for water cooling, space is of the utmost significance. The cooling system will consist of components such as the pump and the reservoir in addition to a number of radiators of varying sizes. These components have to be kept at a safe distance from the motherboard and given adequate room to breathe.

Even if you are able to store all of your components inside the case, the case itself must be able to ensure that all of the components are kept at temperatures that are optimal for them or as cool as possible. This may be difficult to accomplish with cases that are small in size, but it becomes easier as the size of the case increases.

Due to this, full tower cases are a substantially superior option for water cooling. You can also get away with water cooling in a mid-tower chassis, whereas mini ITX models are not recommended for this application. The space will also be essential since it will enable you to set up your cooling loops as well as any accessories that are necessary to cool specific components.

Compatibility

When considering which PC case to purchase, compatibility should be at the top of your list of priorities because it is the single most crucial aspect of buying a water cooling PC case. Even though the vast majority of computer cases offer at least some level of support for water cooling, you still need to make sure that they are compatible with your selected components.

Particularly, be sure to check that your selected case can support your motherboard and offers a sufficient amount of clearance for the various components of your computer, such as the power supply and the graphics cards. The case should have sufficient size to house all of your water cooling parts, provide the space to organize all of the cables, and be generally efficient in its airflow configuration.

Moreover, in-built water reservoirs and reservoir mounts are also wonderful complements to any PC case, but they are not necessary. Your primary focus should be on compatibility with the radiator sizes that you plan to use, as well as the fans and reservoirs that go along with them.

Cross-checking the compatibility of your components with your case will save you a ton of hassle down the line.

Airflow

A decent PC case can be identified as one that has adequate airflow relative to the size and number of the components it will house. Along with that, it is a good idea to have a case that is large enough so that you will have room for upgrades in the future without having to modify anything else about the system. There are several reasons why merely installing additional fans cannot always be the solution.

As a result, your first option should be to select a case that has been constructed in such a manner that it not only provides sufficient room for optimum airflow but also is intended to improve upon that.

You have a wide variety of options available to you due to the abundance of PC cases now on the market, which range from some executions that are too enthusiastic to others that are straightforward but extremely effective. By keeping system temperatures and dust accumulation to a minimum, which further ensures the lifespan of concerned components, adequate airflow may be achieved.

Be sure to look for mesh panels and dust filtration when selecting your desired case. Even if you plan on water cooling, airflow is crucial since it is required to cool down your radiators as well as the graphics card and other components. Maintaining the ideal airflow conditions in your case is easy to do with the aid of our comprehensive guide that explains how to optimize your airflow.

Design and Aesthetics

The design and overall look of the case itself lead us to our final point. If you are a PC owner and you want to show off your rig in all its glory, then the aesthetics matter a lot. From the perspective of functionality, it is not at all significant; however, there is a certain confidence and sense of pride that comes with a well-designed PC.

This particular realm also comes with a lot of diverse viewpoints, so even if there is a case that you really appreciate, there is still a good probability that there is someone else there who does not actually appreciate it. It all comes down to personal opinion, so it doesn’t matter if you prefer stealthy black cases to those that stand out with their RGB lighting in a white chassis.

The layout of the PC case has an effect not only on its dimensions but also on the number of cables and components that may be housed within it. Therefore, it can still be functional in some specific scenarios. Nevertheless, it is important to consider the design and aesthetics of your PC case before you finalize your purchase decision.

Best Water Cooling Cases - FAQs

What is the difference between a full tower and a mid-tower case?

The difference between a full tower and a mid-tower case is that a full tower is much larger in size and heavier in weight than a mid-tower case. Generally, full towers measure roughly 550 – 750mm tall and 220 – 320mm wide. However, it can vary depending on the manufacturer.

Is water cooling better than air cooling?

Water cooling can be considered better than air cooling in terms of pure thermal performance. AiO water coolers also have the benefit in the department of aesthetics, but they are more expensive than comparable air coolers. Air cooling offers better value for money and also does not have the risk of leakage.

Does custom liquid cooling require maintenance?

Custom liquid cooling does require a bit of maintenance. Nowadays, there are many products available on the market that decrease the likelihood of contamination in the loop. However, personal care and attention have no substitute and even a perfectly prepared liquid cooling loop would require a bit of maintenance from time to time.

Can I use any case for custom water cooling?

You can use any case for custom water cooling as long as it has enough space to physically hold all your components. You should also make sure that the case you select has mounting points for your radiator of choice. Moreover, it is wise to select a case that has good airflow for better performance.

Is custom water cooling worth it?

A custom liquid cooling loop is worth it if you want to improve the temperatures of your CPU drastically while also improving the overall aesthetic of your PC. However, if you are looking for the best price-to-performance ratio, then you might be better off with a standard AiO cooler.

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Best White PC Cases: Performance and Aesthetics https://appuals.com/best-white-pc-cases/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-white-pc-cases https://appuals.com/best-white-pc-cases/#disqus_thread Mon, 18 Oct 2021 18:42:15 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=182695 A lot of factors come into play when you’re choosing the best white PC case for yourself. The size, availability of ports, support for fans, and additional drive bays, and more. Alongside, we will look at budget white PC case, value, dual-chamber, and few more types of white cases. All of those are valid and …

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A lot of factors come into play when you’re choosing the best white PC case for yourself. The size, availability of ports, support for fans, and additional drive bays, and more. Alongside, we will look at budget white PC case, value, dual-chamber, and few more types of white cases. All of those are valid and important in helping you decide which one you want to go for. However, there is another important factor that probably trumps all of these, and that is the design. No one wants a box-like PC case with nothing to offer being used with their build. That might just end up dulling your whole rig. Lately, minimalistic builds have seen a rise in their preference in the gaming community. White PC cases are on a rise in popularity as we noted in our Fractal Design Meshify 2 White Review.

Best White PC Cases
Roundup of all White PC Cases Available That You Can Buy Today.

White PC cases are not always the ones people go for. Black cases have the advantage of easily being able to blend in with just about any type of surrounding that you might have in your room as we noted in our Cooler Master MB511 Review. Choosing a white PC case for your PC might be a bit tricky, but getting it definitely improves the flavor and taste of your overall build. So, the question arises, which one is the right choice for you? How can you decide if one case is better than the other? Allow us to help you with all of those and give you the 5 white PC cases that you should be looking into.

The Best White PC Cases You Can Buy Today

#PreviewProduct NameAwardDetails
1NZXT H510 EliteBest Overall White PC Case
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2Corsair Crystal Series 680XBest Dual Chamber White PC Case
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3Thermaltake H200Best Value White PC Case
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4Corsair iCUE 220TBest RGB White PC Case
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5Phanteks Eclipse P300Best Budget White PC Case
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#1
Preview
Product NameNZXT H510 Elite
AwardBest Overall White PC Case
Details
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#2
Preview
Product NameCorsair Crystal Series 680X
AwardBest Dual Chamber White PC Case
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#3
Preview
Product NameThermaltake H200
AwardBest Value White PC Case
Details
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#4
Preview
Product NameCorsair iCUE 220T
AwardBest RGB White PC Case
Details
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#5
Preview
Product NamePhanteks Eclipse P300
AwardBest Budget White PC Case
Details
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Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 19:57 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Making your pick from the hundreds of options that are available on the market is never an easy task, and this is exactly the scenario when looking for the white PC case out there. There is not a single case that can appeal to every user out there, so every individual user has to look for their perfect white PC case. However, that is not to say that we can’t help in the process by providing some suggestions. With that in mind, here are our picks for the best white PC cases you should consider.

1. NZXT H510 Elite

Best Overall White PC Case

Pros

  • Excellent Design
  • Sturdy Build Quality
  • Included 2x AER II aRGB Fans
  • Included NZXT Smart Hub
  • Excellent Cable Management System

Cons

  • Mediocre Airflow
  • No Support For 360mm Radiators

Motherboard Form Factor Support: Up to ATX | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.1, Audio I/O, Power button, Reset button | Tempered Glass: Yes

The NZXT H510 Elite is a top-notch quality PC case that works wonders for anyone that owns it. It accompanies some astounding highlights. The case has an all-steel development that furnishes the case with added quality. Additionally, its development guarantees that the case is likewise solid. It is made with smart innovation and highlights.

Related Review: Nzxt H700i Mid Tower Case Review

This wonderful PC case comes with two 140mm AER RGB fans that look elegant. NZXT builds on the already great H500 look, and the addition of a front glass panel makes it even better. The fans are quite different from others on the market, and they look unique. They have this soft glowing look to them, and the unorthodox shape just adds to the overall aesthetic value here.

Best White PC Cases
NZXT H510 Elite

This guarantees ideal airflow. Furthermore, the Hue 2 lighting channels included guarantee dynamic personalization. On the off chance that excessive noise annoys you, you will be satisfied to realize that the case accompanies versatile noise decrease. It upgrades cooling and noise balance, along these lines, ensuring the best gaming performance for you. Installing or removing the board is quick and simple. Also, the case accompanies a full-size tempered glass panel. This permits you to show off your amazing build. This case supports motherboards of sizes Mini-ITX, Micro-ATX, and ATX.

Many people are not fans of NZXT cases for the fact they have “bad” airflow. We don’t know where this notion started from, but it doesn’t matter for most people. If your build consists of a single GPU, you’ll be fine with this chassis. Sure, enthusiasts might be bothered by this “lack of airflow”. However, for most people, the difference is marginal from other computer cases.

Downloading the NZXT Cam programming enables you to control the Smart Device as well as component monitoring, GPU overclocking, and an FPS overlay in games. The NZXT H510 Elite packs premium highlights, high-quality materials, and a set of features mostly found in considerably more costly cases. The H510 Elite is easily the best overall white PC case.

2. Corsair Crystal Series 680X

Best Dual Chamber White PC Case

Pros

  • Dual Chamber Design
  • Three Tempered Glass Panels
  • Easy To Work In
  • Three Pre-installed Fans
  • Good Cable Management

Cons

  • High Price
  • Delicate Device Trays

Motherboard Form Factor Support: Up to ATX | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio I/O, Power button, Reset button, RGB button | Tempered Glass: Yes

The Second in our best white case is the Corsair Crystal Series 680x – It is one of the costly PC cases accessible in the market. However, it legitimizes the value point, because of what it offers. The Corsair Crystal Series 680X is greater, better, and improved. The case indeed comes very much ensured. It is encircled by glass boards around it. If we talk about the base of the PC case, it is lifted with four feet. The feet guarantee appropriate wind flow. The case comes with three pre-installed LL120 RGB fans which are a bonus. You have the option of installing either three 120 mm fans, or two 140 mm fans.

More PC Case Roundups: Best Open-Air PC Cases

Best Dual Chamber White PC Case
Corsair Crystal Series 680X

It has an amazing form and looks aesthetic. Further adding to the comfort is the double chamber internal design. This essentially lets you take care of the entirety of the links behind and away from the watcher’s eyes while still showing off the lit-up guts of your PC. The design and structure of the 680X make it easy for simpler cleaning just as to keep dust out. This case is by far the best dual chamber white PC case on the market. You can find our selection of the dual PC Cases in this article.

Aside from the storage device trays, each component works incredibly well. The storage device trays are made of plastic and are not unreasonably solid. Generally speaking, it can uphold up to eight fans and four radiators, including one 360mm radiator. A wonderful and fabulously planned white PC case, the 680X appeals to individuals who value comfort without having to sacrifice a ton in the aesthetics department.

3. Thermaltake H200

Best Value White PC Case

Pros

  • Sturdy Build Quality
  • Relatively Compact Size
  • Front Panel Lighting
  • Minimalistic Design Language

Cons

  • Only One Standard Exhaust Fan Included
  • Poor Airflow
  • Cramped Cable Management

Motherboard Form Factor Support: Up to ATX | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio I/O, Power button, Reset button, RGB button | Tempered Glass: Yes

In case you’re looking for a PC case that isn’t simply quick and clean in the working, yet rather serves you in the fundamental just as significant computerized needs like no other; at that point, this Thermaltake H200 is certainly the most ideal choice for you to invest in. The quality standpoint of this PC case guarantees that you benefit from a spotless outside definitely. Additionally, that is not all to its quality standpoint, as this PC case likewise has a front RGB lighting and illuminated aside logo show.  The lighting highlight of this PC case gives you an assortment of lighting choices to pick from.

Best Value White PC Case
Thermaltake H200

To provide you with a more clear PC gaming view, this PC case accompanies a 4-millimeter safety glass comprised of standard mounting. This gives you a more clear and better understanding of the screen; adding straightforwardness to your general user experience. For superior airflow inside the PC case, and to guarantee that all the inside cables aren’t noticeable, this PC case accompanies a unique ventilated plan. The presence of a hinged tempered glass door in this PC case permits you to easily maintain the performance of this gadget; without facing the battles of taking the entire entryway off. Is it classifiable as one of the best airflow PC cases? Yes, it is.

Its measurements being 3.5 inches x 2 or 3.5 inches x 1 + 2.5 inches x 1; all combine to make it a sensibly little PC case. This makes carrying and storing the case easy for anybody and everybody. Perhaps the only issue we see with the H200 is that it only comes with one non-RGB 120mm rear fan out of the box. The all-around built steel instance of this PC case adds greater quality and solidness to its utilization, in contrast with other lightweight materials utilized in the cases. At a great price point, it is the best value white PC case. Also easily falls into the category for the PC cases under $70.

4. Corsair iCUE 220T

Best RGB White PC Case

Pros

  • Included 3x Corsair SP120 RGB Fans
  • Decent Airflow
  • Included Corsair Node Core Controller
  • Easy To Work In

Cons

  • No Included Exhaust Fan
  • PCIe Covers Are Black
  • Front Design Is Unremarkable

8,544 Reviews

Motherboard Form Factor Support: Up to ATX | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio I/O, Power button, Reset button | Tempered Glass: Yes

This PC case is another extraordinary alternative at the cost; as its outstanding viewpoint and brilliant execution, all include greater quality and utilization ease for the users. In computer case you’re looking for a smart PC case that is nothing less than an ideal choice, the Corsair iCUE 220T is the one to go for. For a superior and smart cooling experience, this PC case allows you to illuminate your PC while enabling a fan highlight alongside it. This means that the three included Corsair SP120 RGB Pro fans (which are some of the best RGB fans on the market) are lined up with every 8 LEDs that are individually addressed inside the case.

Best RGB White PC Case
Corsair iCUE 220T

For a splendid lighting impact RGB controlled by the Corsair iCUE programming; this PC case accompanies a lighting node center that gives the lighting impacts directly out of the box. For a more tough and strong usage experience, this 220T RGB PC case is built with strong steel alongside a front plate. This doesn’t just add to the solid toughness of this case but also adds a snappy look to the general case’s standpoint. For a more clear perspective on all the parts inside the PC case and to have the most impact of the led lights, it comes with an edge-to-edge glass side panel window. The whole RGB ecosystem makes it easy for us to label this case as the best RGB white PC case on our list.

On the drawback, the case does not include any exhaust fans. You can easily use any aftermarket high CFM fans from our suggestions. This additionally includes more class and utilization straightforwardness to the general PC case. The finely built front board configuration includes more straightforwardness for the maintenance and cleaning of the dust filters inside the case.

5. Phanteks Eclipse P300

Best Budget White PC Case

Pros

  • Minimalistic Design
  • Great For Stormtrooper Themed Builds
  • Relatively Affordable

Cons

  • Mediocre Airflow
  • No Included RGB Fans
  • Unremarkable Cable Management
  • No Support For 360mm Radiators

437 Reviews

Motherboard Form Factor Support: Up to E-ATX | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio I/O, Power button, Reset button, RGB button | Tempered Glass: Yes

The Phanteks Eclipse P300 is a near-perfect computer case in any perspective, regardless of whether you’re looking at it from build quality, airflow, or its layout standpoint. Building an entry-level gaming PC sometimes can be challenging. With the price cut, normally it means that you get a lower quality item as well. But, that’s not the case with the Phanteks P300 Case The steel and the ABS plastic that has been utilized for this case are of excellent quality. On the off chance that you are looking for incredible highlights in a budget-friendly PC case, you should consider the new Eclipse 300. This case also easily fits into the best PC cases under $50 category.

Best Budget White PC Case
Phanteks Eclipse P300

It has a full metal outside the plan. This consequently adds to its strength and sturdiness. Also, this comes with an integrated PSU cover. It additionally has a tempered glass board which helps in showing off the guts of your PC. This thus gives your room or your office a perfect look. Out of the box, you get only one fan installed in this computer case, however, you can find a metal mesh filter on top which helps filter the air and dust out.

The RGB power light takes into consideration more noteworthy RGB customization. The downlights include ten hues. It is additionally synced with RGB motherboards. On the drawback, this PC is a little on the heavier side. All in All, it accompanies a simple installation. The setup hardly takes any time and should be possible in a couple of simple steps. With the strong build quality and reasonable price tag, it sure is the best budget white PC case on our list.

How To Choose PC Case

Picking the best white PC case for your particular build can be a bit of a challenge for first-time PC builders as well as for experienced builders. This is because there is no PC case that fits the demands of each and every user and their individual build. Each PC case has its own particulars and nuances that you must learn about and judge whether or not that case fulfills the purpose that you want from it in your particular setup.

First of all, you should decide the size of the case that you want. There are basically 4 types of computer cases out there on the basis of size. Firstly, there is the ATX form factor, which can be labeled as the standard mid-tower configuration. Smaller cases in the micro-ATX form factor also exist, and so do extremely compact cases using the mini-ITX form factor. In addition to these 3 sizes, the case industry is also rife with extremely large full-tower cases, which are now becoming less and less common due to their humongous size.

After this step, you should focus your attention on compatibility. A PC case should, first and foremost, be able to hold and support each and every one of your PC components. Think about the motherboard size, the radiator size, the number of fans, the number of SSDs and HDDs, the size of your CPU cooler, and the size of your graphics card. You should also think about cable management and aesthetics, since the computer case is a showpiece for your particular build, so it should definitely look nice.

Keeping these steps in mind, you should be ready to choose the perfect PC case for your build. It might even be one of the best white PC cases that we mentioned on our list today, or it might be something entirely different. You can also check out our detailed PC case buying guide if you want to learn more about buying a PC case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which brand PC case is best?

Just like with any other product, it is not the best idea to purchase a PC case based on the brand name alone. All brands have made good and bad products, so it would be a wise approach to focus on the individual product in question, rather than the entire brand itself. With that said, there are certain case brands that are popular among general users and enthusiasts alike, such as Corsair, NZXT, Cooler Master, Phanteks, Fractal Design, Thermaltake, and Be Quiet! etc.

Do white PC cases turn yellow?

This is a common misconception with white PC cases that needs to be eliminated. Until and unless your PC case is directly exposed to sunlight, or the panels are made of plastic, it shouldn’t have any yellow discoloration even with extended use. This also depends on the quality of the material that is used in the fit and finish of the panels, and how much the manufacturer paid attention to the small details of the case. Nonetheless, you shouldn’t notice any significant discoloration in modern white PC cases.

Are full tower cases worth it?

Full-tower PC cases are becoming less and less popular even among enthusiasts due to their unwieldy size and weight. They are usually extremely expensive as well, with little to no actual benefits over standard mid-tower ATX cases. The one main benefit of full-tower cases in the past few years was water cooling, and now even that is possible in standard mid-tower cases such as the Lian Li O11 Dynamic. Therefore, we can safely assume that full-tower cases are not worth it now.

Should I get a mini-ITX case?

If you plan to build a compact PC with a mini-ITX board, then the mini-ITX case options on the market should be attractive to you. Unlike full-tower cases, this niche is growing day by day with more and more enthusiasts turning to small-sized cases rather than bulky mid-towers. This is the reason behind the massive sales boom of mini-ITX cases. If you can manage to build inside a mini-ITX case and all your components fit inside it, then by all means go for mini-ITX cases as well.

 

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Best PC Case Under $70 For Low-End Builds https://appuals.com/best-budget-pc-cases-under-70/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-budget-pc-cases-under-70 https://appuals.com/best-budget-pc-cases-under-70/#disqus_thread Mon, 20 Sep 2021 20:48:11 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=200043 The PC Case is a seemingly unimportant part of the PC build in terms of performance and is actually overlooked quite a lot by novice builders. Buying the best PC case under $70 has never been so easy either. Most new builders, or even experienced ones sometimes, just pick the best full-tower case that can …

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The PC Case is a seemingly unimportant part of the PC build in terms of performance and is actually overlooked quite a lot by novice builders. Buying the best PC case under $70 has never been so easy either. Most new builders, or even experienced ones sometimes, just pick the best full-tower case that can hold their components and don’t give it much thought beyond that. However, it is proven that the chassis of your PC can sometimes impact performance quite significantly if you do not pay attention to how it is configured. Airflow is the paramount factor by which the chassis can impact your PC’s day-to-day performance.

But this does not mean that you have to spend hundreds of dollars on a PC case for it to have great airflow. We have seen even expensive cases fall flat in that department, while some cheaper offerings can deliver chart-topping numbers just because of their design. There are other factors too that contribute to what makes a case better than another one. The build quality, component support, included fans, and cable management features are all important and should be considered while making a purchase decision.

The Best PC Case Under $70 – Our Top Picks

#PreviewProduct NameAwardDetails
1Phanteks Eclipse P400ABest Overall PC Case Under $70
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2NZXT H510Best Looking PC Case under $70
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3CoolerMaster NR600Best Airflow PC Case under $70
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4Fractal Design Focus GBest Alternative PC Case under $70
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5CoolerMaster MasterBox Q500LBest Budget PC Case Under $70
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#1
Preview
Product NamePhanteks Eclipse P400A
AwardBest Overall PC Case Under $70
Details
Check Price
#2
Preview
Product NameNZXT H510
AwardBest Looking PC Case under $70
Details
Check Price
#3
Preview
Product NameCoolerMaster NR600
AwardBest Airflow PC Case under $70
Details
Check Price
#4
Preview
Product NameFractal Design Focus G
AwardBest Alternative PC Case under $70
Details
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#5
Preview
Product NameCoolerMaster MasterBox Q500L
AwardBest Budget PC Case Under $70
Details
Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 22:03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

PC cases come in different shapes and sizes. They also huge variation in price tag depending on aesthetics, form factors, quirks, and features. A good PC case for water cooling may setback builders up to more than $100 however not everyone can go that route. Are you looking for a PC case that ticks important boxes, looks decent, and gets the job done at significantly lower prices? Then what are you waiting for? Let’s jump right in our 5 best picks for the best PC case under $70.

1. Phanteks Eclipse P400A

Best Overall PC Case Under $70

Pros

  • Spacious Interior
  • Front Mesh Panel
  • Good Quality Included Fans
  • Lots of Expansion Options

Cons

  • Plain Uninteresting Look

851 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Mesh Panel | Side Material: Tempered Glass | Included Fans: 2x 120mm Black Fans | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

Phanteks is one of the best and most popular case manufacturers around, and their Eclipse series of cases has become a fan favorite among PC builders. The series aims to provide a premium product at a reasonable price that has all the essentials for a great case but eliminates any unnecessary bells and whistles in order to save costs. This trend carries over to the Phanteks Eclipse P400A which is one of the very best cases you can buy under $70.

The Phanteks Eclipse P400A is a mid-tower with the excellent build quality and a host of great features. The case features a tempered glass side panel on the left side, while the front is made of mesh in order to improve airflow. The case can support ATX, Micro-ATX, and mini-ITX motherboards so you can equip the P400A however you want. Phanteks has also included 2 120mm black fans in the price which really helps improve the value proposition for this case.

The interior of the P400A is quite spacious with lots of room to work in. The case supports either a 240mm or a 360mm radiator on the front, with additional radiator mounting spots for a 280mm radiator as well. You can also equip the P400A with a 240mm radiator on the top and the rear also supports a 120mm radiator. This means that the P400A is quite versatile in terms of radiator-mounting options. Furthermore, the case supports an extensive array of storage devices with up to 6 HDDs and 8 2.5-inch SATA SSDs across various mounting points. 2 HDD trays and 2 dedicated SSD brackets are included in the initial package.

The case also has great cable-management features with rubber grommets that cover the cutouts in the steel panel. These grommets are not even found on some $100 cases so it is clearly a great inclusion here. The rear space behind the motherboard tray is also quite adequate for cable management, so you should not have too much of a problem when managing your custom sleeved cables in this case. For accessibility, the front I/O includes 2x USB 3.0 ports, a microphone, headphone, power button, reset switch, and a 3-speed fan controller.

All in all, the Phanteks P400A presents a pretty unbeatable value when priced at $69.99. The front mesh panel combined with the extensive radiator and storage drive support easily makes it a recommendation if you are looking for the best overall PC case under $70.

2. NZXT H510

Best Looking PC Case under $70

Pros

  • Minimalistic Design
  • Impressive Build Quality
  • Negative Pressure Airflow
  • 2 Included Fans

Cons

  • Minimal Radiator Support

33,406 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Solid Steel | Side Material: Tempered Glass | Included Fans: 2x 120mm Black Fans | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

The NZXT H510 is one of the most iconic cases that NZXT has ever produced. It was released as a replacement to the quite legendary S340 Elite that was loved by NZXT fans everywhere. The H-series has made a name for itself for bringing the most amazing aesthetics to the consumers, while also being versatile and having plenty of features that PC builders require, and the H510 is no different.

The NZXT H510 is the entry-level option in the H-series from NZXT and it is a mid-tower case with support for ATX, Micro-ATX, and mini-ITX motherboards. The H510 features a tempered glass side panel with quite a unique design, as well as a solid front panel that might be a little restrictive to direct airflow. However, due to the smart placement of the 2 included 120mm fans, the temperatures inside the case are quite impressive for a case with a closed front.

The H510 seems to be quite restrictive in terms of airflow, but testing by several reviewers and users has shown that it is not quite as bad as it seems to be. The H510 is primarily a negative-pressure optimized case, which means that it works best if the two fans are placed as exhausts (which they are from the factory) rather than intakes. This forces the air from the outside to make its way to the inside of the case via small gaps in the chassis due to negative pressure, and that leads to a significant drop in GPU temperatures. The CPU temperatures are not quite so impressive but that can be rectified by using a radiator. The NZXT H510 has support for a 240 or 280mm radiator in the front of the case, but unfortunately no 360mm radiator is supported.

Aesthetically, the H510 is quite amazing as it brings a minimalistic design with sleek lines and clean panels. The iconic NZXT cable management bar is also present in this case which helps to clean up the cable management of your build a little bit. You might also be surprised to hear that a more expensive case like the NZXT H700i looks quite similar as well. The build quality of the case is also excellent, and there are multiple quality-of-life features as well on the case, such as the inclusion of a front USB-C port.

The H510 is one of the most iconic cases in NZXT’s lineup, and it certainly gets full marks for its unique design. If you are looking for a minimalistic case on a budget under $70, then the H510 will be the best looking PC case under $70.

3. CoolerMaster NR600

Best Airflow PC Case under $70

Pros

  • Mesh Front Panel
  • Quite Affordable
  • Minimalistic Look

Cons

  • MicroATX Form Factor
  • No Included Fans

1,161 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Mesh Panel | Side Material: Tempered Glass | Included Fans: None | Motherboard Support: Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

CoolerMaster does not have the best reputation in terms of case design and optimal airflow. They have many excellent cases such as the CM MB511 and the H500P Mesh but sometimes they deliver failures as well such as the original H500 and many of the MasterBox Lite cases. However, with the NR600, they delivered one of the best airflow-focused cases on the market right now, and it is quite affordable as well.

Related Read: 5 Best High CFM Case Fans to Buy

The CoolerMaster NR600 is quite an underrated case and many people are unaware that it even exists. It is a mid-tower case with a tempered glass side panel and a full mesh front panel, that has support for micro-ATX and mini-ITX motherboards. It is a little disappointing that this case does not support ATX motherboards, considering the fact that it is basically the same size as an NZXT H510. The decision of not including any fans is also a questionable decision from CoolerMaster, however that one can be understood due to the price point of this case.

The NR600 is an airflow-focused chassis and that is clear from the looks of the case. It has a full mesh front panel that allows maximum air to pass through, and it also has large ventilation holes towards the rear and the top of the case. The best course of action for someone looking to buy this case would be to spend a little bit extra on a 3-pack of simple non-RGB fans for efficient airflow cases. That should be possible since the listing price for this case is a hair under $60 at the time of writing.

The looks of the NR600 resemble the NZXT H510 quite a bit if we somehow ignore the fact that the NR600 has a mesh front panel. The shape of the tempered glass side panel is particularly similar to the H510, and so is the design of the power supply shroud. The case looks fine, although one wouldn’t classify it as classically beautiful, especially if you get the ODD version that supports an optical disk drive. The cable management room is also decent and multiple rubber grommets are provided for a clean, uninterrupted look from the front.

Overall, the NR600 is another great option if you are looking for a minimalistic and the best airflow PC case under $70. However, the case should ideally be bought with some fans in order to get the full advantage of the mesh front panel.

4. Fractal Design Focus G

Best Alternative PC Case under $70

Pros

  • Front Mesh Panel
  • 2 Included Fans
  • Supports ODD

Cons

  • Acrylic Side Panel
  • Included Fans have only White LEDs

3,188 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Mesh Panel | Side Material: Acrylic | Included Fans: 2x 120mm White LED Fans | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

The Fractal Design Focus G is one of the more affordable entries in our roundup, as it can be seen regularly listed for around $60. Although the NR600 is also a $60 case, the Focus G already includes two 120mm fans that are preinstalled in the front of the case, so that makes it a better value than the NR600. However, there are some areas where the Focus G still falls a little short.

The Focus G is another mid-tower case with support for ATX, Micro-ATX, and mini-ITX cases motherboards. The support for ATX motherboards is a nice feature at this price point, as many of the cases in this range only support the smaller form factors. There are two 120mm white LED fans that are pre-installed, however, they have fixed white lighting and that might not match with the design language of every build. The front of the case is a full mesh panel which is nice, but the side has an acrylic panel which is not the best material to make a transparent window.

Related Read: Fractal Meshfiy White 2

The inclusion of the acrylic panel is a disappointment due to the fact that acrylic generally looks and feels worse than glass, and has a nasty tendency to scratch very easily. Still, the decision can be understood due to the case’s price and excellent value proposition. The inclusion of a mesh front panel is an excellent feature as already stated. The build quality of the case overall is solid inside, and the cable management space is also adequate.

Fractal Design is an amazing manufacturer with some great products and the Focus G is definitely one of them. This is the best alternative PC case under $70 to the ones that are already mentioned and should be considered if you are on a fairly tight $60 budget for a case.

5. CoolerMaster MasterBox Q500L

Best Budget PC Case Under $70

Pros

  • Very Affordable
  • Unique Layout

Cons

  • Average Airflow
  • Acrylic Side Panel
  • Cramped Interior

1,985 Reviews

Form Factor: Mid-Tower | Front Material: Steel with Perforations | Side Material: Acrylic | Included Fans: None | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, mini-ITX

Another quirky offering from CoolerMaster is the MasterBox Q500L which is an ultra-budget casing meant to target the $50 price tag. The Q500L is a mid-tower case with support for ATX, Micro-ATX cases, and mini-ITX motherboards in a chassis that is quite small by mid-tower standards. It has a front steel panel with several perforations covered by a dust filter that should offer a little more airflow than a solid steel panel. The side panel is acrylic just like the aforementioned Focus G. Unlike the Focus G however, the Q500L does not come with any included fans.

The interior layout of the Q500L is also quite unique. Due to its small size, CoolerMaster designed it so that the power supply sits in the very front of the case in a vertical orientation, and the motherboard goes from the very top to the very bottom of the chassis. The PSU bracket can also be relocated to offer multiple mounting options. The interior space is already rather cramped, however, and building a PC in the Q500L might not be the most comfortable experience.

Helpful Roundup: Best 80mm to 200m fans for PC cases

The Q500L also suffers from the problem of bad airflow, as its perforated steel panel struggles to allow adequate air into the chassis. This case should also be bought with a pack of fans to install, in order to improve the airflow situation a bit. Build quality of the case is also not the best, but that is to be expected at this ultra-budget price point. Still, the Q500L offers a unique, compact case at a very affordable price point and one that has most of the features that can be reasonably expected at this price point.

All in all, the Q500L is a barebones alternative to the ones that are listed above it.

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