PC Cases Guides - PremiumBuilds https://premiumbuilds.com/category/pc-cases/ Wed, 14 Apr 2021 11:45:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.4 https://premiumbuilds.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cropped-premiumbuilds-favicon-new-2-32x32.png PC Cases Guides - PremiumBuilds https://premiumbuilds.com/category/pc-cases/ 32 32 160969867 6 Best Micro-ATX Cases for Compact PC Builds in 2021 https://premiumbuilds.com/guides/best-micro-atx-cases/ https://premiumbuilds.com/guides/best-micro-atx-cases/#respond Tue, 13 Apr 2021 13:26:00 +0000 http://premiumbuilds.com/?p=1449 The trend of building PCs with smaller chassis’ and more compact form factors are quickly growing in popularity and with good reason. There are plenty of well-built, good-looking and affordable micro-ATX cases available these days, and with that wide range of choice means that there is plenty of choices when picking a Micro-ATX case. Micro-ATX builds… Read More »6 Best Micro-ATX Cases for Compact PC Builds in 2021

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The trend of building PCs with smaller chassis’ and more compact form factors are quickly growing in popularity and with good reason. There are plenty of well-built, good-looking and affordable micro-ATX cases available these days, and with that wide range of choice means that there is plenty of choices when picking a Micro-ATX case.

Micro-ATX builds are typically considered the middle-point between a small form factor PC build (SFFPC) – often with mini-ITX form factor cases – where the volume of the PC case must be below 20 litres, and a regular mid-tower ATX PC build. Small ATX cases do exist (covered here) but they aren’t easy to come by. Micro-ATX PC cases typically are about 25-50 litres in internal capacity, which is not small enough that it can become tricky to fit in a full-length GPU or perhaps install a water cooling loop, but not big enough where there is a lot of empty wasted space and not taking up too much precious room on or below your desk. It is surprising just how much PC you can fit in a Micro ATX case, and this is perhaps why they continue to grow and grow in popularity.

In this guide, we’ll go over the top micro-ATX options to consider for your next 2021 mATX build. We will explore cases ranging from low-end and budget-friendly choices to premium, high-end chassises. 


Best mATX Cases – Our Recommendations

DesignModel
phanteks-enthoo-evolv-matx-tempered-glass-1-0-Phanteks Enthoo Evolv mATX 'Tempered Glass' Edition
corsair-carbide-series-air-240Corsair Crystal 280x
corsair-obsidian-series-350dCorsair Obsidian 350D
fractal-design-define-mini-c-tgCooler Master Silencio S400
thermaltake-core-v21Thermaltake Core V21
in-win-301In Win 301

1. Phanteks Enthoo Evolv mATX ‘Tempered Glass’ Edition

phanteks-enthoo-evolv-matx-tempered-glass-1-0-

Hands down the Enthoo Evolv mATX TG edition is our favourite Micro ATX case on the market, and without hesitation would be my case of choice if I were to do a Micro ATX build. The aesthetics of the Enthoo Evolv are heads and shoulders above the competition, with a sleek design and solid build quality, and beautiful tempered glass side window to show off your build.

This micro ATX case also comes in at under 42 litres of capacity, supporting video cards of up to 319mm (slightly less than the Obsidian Series 350D), and CPU coolers of up to 192mm in height, so it means you won’t be limited to opting for just a low profile CPU cooler. Water cooling is also supported, and 360mm radiators will fit – meaning this micro ATX case is perfect for those wishing to water cool their build.

The case is certainly on the heavy side at weighing in at 9 kg, and that is the price to pay when picking a case built with aluminum and tempered glass! In addition, the Enthoo Evolv TG doesn’t have soundproofing or USB type C, but apart from that it’s difficult to flaw this superb Micro ATX case.


2. Corsair Crystal 280x

Corsair Crystal 280X RGB

Corsair’s first mention on this list, the Crystal 280x is a modern follow-up to the incredibly popular Carbide Air 240. Featuring a unique and largely glass design, the case is strikingly sharp and showcases the interior beautifully. Released in 2018, this case features a dual-chamber layout for easier building and organization. One half is entirely glass, while the other is sleek black to hide away wires and wraps. The Crystal 280x delivers great airflow and satisfying thermals to support even the most demanding and extreme micro-ATX builds.

The Crystal 280x is 389mm x 276mm x 351mm and can support ATX format PSUs up to 180mm. CPU coolers up to 150mm are supported, and GPUs up to 300mm fit in the case. Some of the larger video cards available will not fit in this case, but most users should not have a problem. Still, it’s best to double-check to be sure. These numbers are direct, if slight, upgrades over the Carbide Air 240 that the Crystal 280x replaces.

Water cooling is fully supported in the Crystal 280x. It can fit up to three 240mm radiators for an AIO CPU or GPU liquid cooled system. In addition, there’s plenty of room for expansion and cooling potential, with up to 4 full height expansion slots available and six 120mm cooling fans. Included in the case are two 120mm fans. The Crystal 280x is also available in an RGB form for slightly more money, replacing the two fans with RGB ones that feature customizable LEDs. Overall, the Crystal 280x is a great case to consider for your next Micro-ATX build if you enjoy the glass look. It is missing some modern I/O – a lack of USB Type-C support is disappointing. Still, with its impressive build quality, design, and internal capacity, it’s hard to go wrong with this case.


3. Corsair Obsidian 350D

corsair-obsidian-series-350d

The Obsidian 350D is a great option for those wanting to get a rock-solid, capable PC case for their next Micro ATX build. Coming in at just under 42 litres of internal capacity, the Obsidian 350D supports up to video card lengths of 380mm, so more than capable for supporting even the larger cards out there. Water cooling is supported out of the box, with a max radiator length of 280mm able to fit within the frame, as well as 5 fan spaces in total – meaning this case can drive plenty of airflow to keep your micro ATX rig as cool as possible. In terms of design, the Obsidian Series 350D doesn’t try to do anything fancy or stand out, it was built to be a solid, straight-to-the-point PC case that prioritizes function over form.

Features that this PC case lack include sound-proofing and USB type-C on the front I/O. Apart from that, it is really hard to fault the Corsair Obsidian Series 350D, it really is one of the best Micro ATX cases on the market in 2018/19.


4. Cooler Master Silencio S400

Cooler Master Silencio S400

Cooler Master’s PC cases are popular choices across the board, and for good reason. The Silencio S400 represents a unique set of priorities in comparison to other micro-ATX cases on the market, making it a great option for a few types of builders. As the name implies, Cooler Master has focused heavily on making this case silent. Featuring a combination of sound dampening materials across almost the entire interior of the case, sounds gets trapped and absorbed easily. Ventilation is another focus, as various sound-dampeners can be replaced with ventilation covers for better thermal performance.

The Silencio S400 features a slick, modern, and glassless look. Cooler Master has made the I/O on the case expansive with the addition of an SD card reader, single headset jack, and two USB 3.2 ports. While there is no USB Type-C connectivity, the other additions are a welcome feature. It is an understated, sleek PC that fits almost anywhere and supports most hardware on the market.

This micro ATX case measures 8.27 x 16.4 x 16.06 inches in size and supports some versatile build options. It features storage support for 4x 3.5” HDDs as well as 4x 2.5” SSDs. CPU coolers up to 167mm are supported, and GPUs up to 319mm in size fit in the case. While some of the larger graphics cards on the market will fit, thermal performance may become an issue – you may have to choose between silence and optimal performance for top of the line rigs. Luckily, radiator support is standard, fitting up to a  240mm on top, 280mm in front, or a 120mm radiator on the rear.

For those builders interested in improved I/O, great looks, and perfect sound dampening, the Silencio S400 is one of the best micro-ATX cases available.


5. Thermaltake Core V21

thermaltake-core-v21

Of all of the micro-ATX cases we have recommended today, this Thermaltake Core V21 is one of the largest options, with a staggering 45.6L of internal capacity for a micro-ATX case, this option will provide plenty of internal space whilst being smaller than a typical ATX mid tower build. This cubic and modular design looks great in person, and its side window is great for showing off internal components. It’s even possible to stack two of these cases together!

With its large internal capacity, unsurprisingly this means the Core V21 supports practically any size CPU cooler or graphics card available today, with maximum CPU coolers of up to 185mm being able to fit comfortably, as well as graphics cards of up to 350 mm in length. This chassis also makes a great candidate for those looking to watercool their Micro-ATX build, as it is super easy to add AIO systems into the chassis, with radiators of up to 280mm being supported with ease. The modular design even extends to the mounting of radiators, which makes this case a perfect candidate for a micro ATX liquid cooled build in 2020. 

With this case being released in 2014, the Core V21 doesn’t support recent standards such as USB Type C, as well as not having a full toolless design, which is something we would like to see in the next iteration of this case.

Many PC builders have mentioned that mounting the PSU in this system is rather awkward, as well as the lack of access to the rear of the motherboard. With that in mind, we still think the Thermaltake Core V21 is one of the best micro-ATX cases you could pick for your next build. This mATX case surely is a must have.

Useful resources about the V21:

  1. https://www.reddit.com/r/buildapc/comments/505onq/thermaltake_core_v21/
  2. https://www.reddit.com/r/buildapc/comments/48pasi/any_experience_with_thermaltake_core_v21/

6. In Win 301

in-win-301

If you’ve already done research on Micro-ATX cases, you would have probably heard about the In Win 301. This is a fantastic case that is arguably underpriced for what you get. With an impressive build quality, making this case feel like a tank, as well as neat ergonomic features that make this mATX case a pleasure to build with (side panels like oven doors), the In Win 301 impresses us at every level.

Coming in at 25.38L internal capacity, the In Win 301 is definitely on the smaller size of Micro ATX cases, for example the Thermaltake Core V21 mentioned earlier is almost double the size at 45L in volume – yet still supports the same motherboard form factor. Max CPU cooler height and video card length don’t appear to be compromised by this small internal capacity, however, supporting coolers of up to 158mm and video cards of up to 330mm in length – as well as water cooling support with radiators of up to 240mm in length. Quite impressive what can be fitted in this micro-ATX case for the size.

Dust filters are included which is a bonus, although there is no fan control or any soundproofing, as well as USB type C connectivity on the front I/O. This is something we would hope In Win to provide in their next iteration of this m-ATX case (for futureproofing the builds). The In Win 301 is a PC builders dream to assemble and really is difficult to criticize, especially at its price level.

When paired with the right fans in the correct position, this micro ATX case is fantastic for keeping temperatures cool and frame rates high. 3 PWM fans on the bottom acting as the intake and 3 fans on the front and back as the exhaust is recommended for the In Win 301 for extremely impressive performance for a Micro ATX case. With a impressive 96% review rating from TweakTown, this is certainly a micro-ATX case worth considering for your next build.

Examples of InWin 301 Buiilds:

  1. https://www.reddit.com/r/buildapc/comments/6ai4e8/in_win_301_build_stoked/
  2. https://www.reddit.com/r/Amd/comments/7kmcfc/in_win_301_ryzen_7_build_xpost_from_pcmasterrace/

Micro ATX Case Buyers Guide

What to take into consideration

1. Internal Capacity

Internal capacity is one of the most important considerations to take when picking a Micro ATX case, since ones with a larger internal volume (measured in Litres (L)) will be able to house larger components such as longer graphics cards and taller CPU coolers – which often correlate with greater cooling performance due to greater fan sizes and heat exhausts/fins.

2. Number of fan spaces

Knowing the total number of fan spaces and the fan sizes that can be accomodated in a mATX case is important to know since the more fan spaces you can fit in the build – given they are setup and orientated correctly to manage heat flow effectively – will result in better airflow and cooler components when under load.

3. Accessibility

A PC case with good accessibility is important in making the PC build as easy and stress free as possible. For example, mATXs with easy access to the rear or the motherboard, or even just screwless design panels will make life far simpler when it comes to building the m-ATX PC.

4. I/O ports and connectivity

Front I/O connectivity is important for those who use plenty of peripherals and need convenient access to them, for example charging or connecting to an external hard drive. Newer PC cases are being equipped with USB 3.1 that has up to 10GB/s of bandwidth, and some cases even feature the newest USB Type-C standard on the front I/O. Having this would be great for a future-proof micro ATX build for years to come.


Summary

DesignModel
phanteks-enthoo-evolv-matx-tempered-glass-1-0-Phanteks Enthoo Evolv mATX 'Tempered Glass' Edition
corsair-carbide-series-air-240Corsair Crystal 280x
corsair-obsidian-series-350dCorsair Obsidian 350D
fractal-design-define-mini-c-tgCooler Master Silencio S400
thermaltake-core-v21Thermaltake Core V21
in-win-301In Win 301

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LOUQE Raw S1 Overview: What Are Its Features? https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/louqe-raw-s1-overview/ https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/louqe-raw-s1-overview/#respond Tue, 06 Apr 2021 15:59:38 +0000 https://premiumbuilds.com/?p=806860 Recently announced on Twitter, LOUQE’s Raw S1 is a compact case promising to be more capable and slightly larger than the Ghost S1, their last case offering. Continuing the Swedish company’s history of high-quality, form-factor cases, the Raw S1 sports an aggressive finish sure to attract some new heads. Their previous cases are some of… Read More »LOUQE Raw S1 Overview: What Are Its Features?

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Recently announced on Twitter, LOUQE’s Raw S1 is a compact case promising to be more capable and slightly larger than the Ghost S1, their last case offering. Continuing the Swedish company’s history of high-quality, form-factor cases, the Raw S1 sports an aggressive finish sure to attract some new heads.

Their previous cases are some of the most popular choices for Mini-ITX builds around thanks to their premium materials and minimalist aesthetics. From early images and specs, the new LOUQE Raw S1 offers an increase in size without compromising on much of anything.

The design is reminiscent of the Corsair One, as both are small, thin, vertically based cases. Among the key differences between the two is that LOUQE’s Raw S1 is fully customizable rather than prebuilt. It is also a unique blend of minimalist aesthetic, aggressive sizing, and premium materials. With a clear focus on performance and cooling, it should be a powerful option for gamers interested in clean aesthetics without compromise.


Specifications

LOUQE recently released the Raw S1’s specifications on their website, allowing builders to finally get a look at what exactly can fit in this case. The volume of this case is the same as the Corsair One at 12 L and shares a similar profile. For comparison, LOUQE’s previous entry, the Ghost S1, has a volume of 8.2 L and sits horizontally.

 LOUQE Raw S1
Design
Dimensions (H x W x D) & Volume379 x 172 x 191 mm, 12L
Supported Form FactorsSFF, Mini ITX, Tower (Sandwich layout)
Supported Fans120mm (back), 140mm (top)
GPU SupportTriple-slot up to 145 x 65 x 320 mm
Maximum CPU Cooler SizeUp to 75mm
Drive Support1x 2.5” slot (SSD/HDD), NVME
I/OUSB-C / Type-C extension

Aesthetics

LOUQE Raw S1

The new RAW S1 promises full gaming PC power in one of the smallest chassis currently available. Its thin, minimum aesthetic is also unique; the popular Corsair One and Ghost S1 are two of the only other thin cases of this size. Outside of these options, it is rare to find other models that can also support powerful components. In an already limited category, LOUQE aims to situate itself as the best option.

Aesthetically, the Raw S1 has a unique look that blends a modern style with aggressive, “gamer”-esque patterns and details. Red details on the interior, sand-blasted aluminum, and interesting cooling lines accentuate the look. However, most of the build is a simple sheet of aluminum. LOUQE has masterfully balanced these aesthetic choices with performance thanks to small features like a floating top plate and uni-body construction. It is extremely similar to the Corsair One in size, while their designs differ dramatically. Both are slim, vertical cases that are 12 liters in volume that can fit almost anywhere.

An important note: the Corsair One case is only available in prebuilt configurations, severely limiting GPU and CPU options. Meanwhile, the Raw S1 will support most graphics cards and CPUs on the market thanks to its construction. The Raw S1 is a more subtle design than the Corsair One, opting for simple sides and vents instead of the Corsair One’s LEDs and large vents. Instead, the Raw S1 looks much closer to its smaller brother, the Ghost S1. There are almost no markings or features on the outside of the case. In fact, the front only features one small button for power, and I/O options are limited to a single Type-C placed on an angled panel.

As for looks, the Ghost S1 is most similar. In fact, it looks quite a bit like the same case stood vertically if a few inches were added all around. This is not an issue; the design of the Ghost S1 is a major selling point for many buyers. However, people who were not fans of LOUQE’s last offering are unlikely to change their minds here.


Thermal Performance

Despite its unique design, the case’s thermals do not suffer. LOUQE has tested temperatures in the chassis with two different GPUs. Using the 3D-mark Firestrike extreme benchmark, the Nvidia RTX 3080 FE (2-slot) reached 70 °C with the case closed. In the same test, an EVGA RTX 2070 FTW3 Ultra (3-slot) reached just under 60 °C. The Raw S1’s ability to fit 3-slot graphics cards is a nice step-up from some competitors. It supports triple-slot GPUs up to 145 x 65 x 320 mm in size. For comparison, the Ghost S1 fits dual-slot GPUs up to 143a x 45 x 305 mm.

This increase in size can be found across all specs comparing the two cases. CPU Heatsink height support also increases from 66 mm in the Ghost S1 to 75mm in the Raw S1. This is, of course, largely thanks to the extra 4 liters of volume that the Raw S1 comes equipped with. It is important to note, however, that it is still an extremely small case.

Considering the total size of this offering and its support for some of the largest graphics cards on the market, thermal performance holds up extremely well. There are not many fan formations – only two fans can fit in the case – but it is clear that airflow was a major consideration during design.


Additional Features

The LOUQE Raw S1 comes packed with other features and qualities. Its uni-body aluminum construction promises extremely high durability. This is great for when the case moves around – an easy to execute task thanks to the included carrying handle on the top of the chassis. While most builders will not get much out of the inclusion, the Raw S1’s size does make it ideal for LAN parties. Plus, the handle is almost impossible to notice while the computer is sitting there, so it does not affect the aesthetics at all.

It also comes equipped with a PCIe 4.0 riser for easier building and customizability. This is a great feature to compliment the unique way to build in the case; the entire interior can be pulled out of the frame for building. While hot-swapping components will still prove difficult, it is a nice quality-of-life upgrade over their previous Ghost S1 case.


Overall Placing

LOUQE Raw S1

The Raw S1 is a unique offering for those who want a small, minimalist, and vertical computer case. Its unique and simple design is sure to go with almost anything, and the focus on performance and fit shines through. It is a simple design – one that will not appeal to everyone, however. Fans of the Ghost S1 will likely enjoy this case as well. Otherwise, those looking for a beautiful case with nice aesthetics and nice quality of life choices will still find a good option here.

ghost-s1-black

The case is not without its issues, however. The I/O inclusions are pitiful; only one Type-C port is hard to justify or use outside of the most limited case. It can fit three-slot GPUs of quite large sizes, but the biggest on the market may still not fit. Finally, although thermal performance does seem good in LOUQE’s in-house tests, real-world trials must be done. It is still a compact case; cooling and performance will always be worse than in a traditional tower.



Relevant Guides

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Corsair 4000D vs 5000D: What Are The Key Differences? https://premiumbuilds.com/comparisons/corsair-4000d-vs-5000d/ https://premiumbuilds.com/comparisons/corsair-4000d-vs-5000d/#comments Thu, 18 Mar 2021 18:36:53 +0000 https://premiumbuilds.com/?p=806283 Corsair has been a leader in PC case design for a long time, making some of the most beloved models of the past. Recently rebranding their cases so that future releases match a number code, simplifying the buying process, the 4000D and 5000D are some of the company’s newest offerings.  Introduced in September of 2020,… Read More »Corsair 4000D vs 5000D: What Are The Key Differences?

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corsair 4000d vs 5000d

Corsair has been a leader in PC case design for a long time, making some of the most beloved models of the past. Recently rebranding their cases so that future releases match a number code, simplifying the buying process, the 4000D and 5000D are some of the company’s newest offerings. 

Introduced in September of 2020, the 4000D introduced new features and technology to help with cooling while retaining a sleek, modern style. The 5000D built upon these innovations and bumped up the size, introducing more room for water-cooled or enthusiast rigs. 

However, size is not the only change between these cases. Before beginning your build, there are some key differences between the Corsair 4000D and 5000D you should know.


Specifications

CaseCorsair 4000DCorsair 5000D
DesignCorsair 4000DCorsair 5000D AIRFLOW Black
Size48.55L (453mm x 230mm x 466mm)66.25L (520mm x 245mm x 520mm)
Fan Layout6x 120mm OR 4x 140mm (2x 120mm included)

1x 360mm front radiator OR 1x 280mm roof radiator
10x 120mm OR 4x 140mm (2x 120mm included)

2x 360mm radiators
Drive Support2x 3.5in slots, 2x 2.5in slots2x 3.5in slots, 4x 2.5in slots
Maximum GPU Length360mm420mm
Maximum CPU Cooler Height170mm170mm
I/O1x USB 3.0, 1x Type C, 3.5mm combination audo/microphone jack2x USB 3.0, 1x Type C, 3.5mm combination audio/microphone jack
MSRP$94.99$164.99
RetailerAmazon.comAmazon.com

An important note: Both the 4000D and 5000D are available in a few variants. Most notable are the AIRFLOW options, where the minimalist front panel is replaced by a mesh screen that improves airflow and cooling. The design specifications are the same for the basic models and the AIRFLOW models, but better temperatures can be expected in the slightly more expensive varieties. 

Cooling – 5000D

Corsair 5000D AIRFLOW Black

Both of these cases excel at cooling, offering a number of fan and radiator placement options. However, due to its increased size and radiator support, the 5000D takes the lead here, featuring a total of 10 possible 120mm fan slots, 4x 140mm, and 2x 360mm radiator slots. In comparison, the 4000D includes a respectable 6x 120mm fan slots, 4x 140mm, and space for one radiator in 360mm, 280mm, or 240mm size.

The 5000D’s inclusion of motherboard tray fans is the largest difference in cooling ability between the two, opening up additional possibilities for water cooling. An additional radiator can also fit in the front of the case, and a push/pull 360mm fits in the top of the chassis. The 4000D still supports plenty of cooling setups, but its smaller size can become an issue with radiator placement. The case has space for only one at a time; either a 360mm radiator in the front or a 280mm radiator on top if low-profile RAM is used. Otherwise, it will only fit a 240mm radiator. 

Both cases come equipped with effective and easy to clean dust filters on the top and bottom, featuring a small yellow tab matching Corsair’s style. It blends comfortably into the rest of the design, but the yellow may not appeal to some builders. The AIRFLOW variant is available for either case, featuring an attractive mesh screen instead of a solid steel front panel, significantly improving airflow.


Storage – 5000D

Corsair 5000D AIRFLOW Black

The 5000D again takes the lead here, fitting two extra 2.5in slots in the case. In total, the 5000D has space for six hard drives – two 3.5in HDDS and four 2.5in SSDs. The 4000D supports only four – two 3.5in HDDs and two 2.5in SSDs.

Across both cases, all storage bays are easily accessible with the back panel off, making installation and adjustments a breeze. Regardless of the variant chosen, the back panel is a solid steel plate.


Form Factor – 4000D

Corsair 4000D

Those interested in a smaller footprint case have a clear winner in the 4000D. While still not a small case – it is firmly in the ATX mid-tower camp – it is positively dwarfed in size by the 5000D. 

The 4000D has 48.55 liters of interior space and measures 453mm x 230mm x 466mm in size. In comparison, the 5000D has 66.25 liters of interior space and measures 520mm x 245mm x 520mm. The superior cooling capabilities of the 5000D are largely due to this increased space, so if the size is not a concern, it may still be a better option.

Even so, the 4000D is more than capable of supporting most builds. Custom water cooling is still possible, but working in the case may be more challenging than the 5000D. Both cases feature a nice cable management system with a 25mm recessed hidden channel for most wiring, making building easy. Improved cable management across both chassis also encourages better airflow and cleaner-looking builds.


GPU Compatibility – 5000D

Corsair 5000D AIRFLOW Black

Both of these cases can fit the best and biggest of new graphics cards, but the 5000D does so with a significant amount of extra room. The Corsair 4000D supports a maximum GPU length of 360mm, while the 5000D has room for 420mm cards. 

For some context, the Founder’s Edition RTX 3090 has a length of 313mm. It will fit comfortably in either case, but performance may be improved in the 5000D thanks to the extra space for cooling. The cases are identical in supporting multiple 3 slot GPUs for SLI setups as well as vertical mounting.


I/O – 5000D

Corsair 5000D AIRFLOW Black

The I/O on both the 4000D and 5000D is modern and future-proofed, but the 5000D includes two USB 3.0 ports, putting it just ahead of the 4000D’s one. Both cases also include a singular type C port, power button, reset button, and combined audio/microphone jack.

All buttons and the yellow-colored USB ports sit flush against the top of the case, adding to the sleek overall look. Both cases support motherboards in Mini ITX, Micro ATX, ATX, and E-ATX sizes to fit any build inside. Expansion slots are identical across both cases, offering 7 rear slots and 2 vertical.


Price – 4000D

Corsair 4000D

The 4000D’s MSRP of $94.99 places it among other mid-to-high tier cases. As the slightly older model, it can also be found cheaper than that among some retailers such as Amazon, where the 4000D is currently available for $84.99. For the price, it offers great value and aesthetics.

The 5000D is a steep increase to $164.99. For the price hike, builders get better I/O, expanded cooling options, and a much larger case. It is a great choice for enthusiasts and people looking for a high-end case, but the increased cost may be hard to justify for the average consumer.


Final Verdict

Corsair 5000D AIRFLOW Black

While the Corsair 4000D is a better budget option, the better cooling and additional space of the 5000D means further expansion in the future. It is a direct upgrade to the 4000D if size and price were not factors. With similar specifications across both cases, most builders will find the most value in the 4000D, but enthusiasts should embrace the 5000D’s extra space, increased storage capabilities, and improved I/O.


4000D & 5000D Alternatives

The Smaller, Budget Alternative: NZXT H510

NZXT H510 White Budget PC Case

The NZXT H510 is a smaller ATX mid-tower case that features a similar aesthetic to the 4000D and 5000D for a cheaper price. The simplified I/O, array of color options, and smaller size make this a great option for mid-tier builders looking for a similar alternative. The H510 retails at $69.99.


The Full Tower Alternative: Lian Li O11 Dynamic XL

LIAN LI O11 Dynamic XL

The 5000D is already large for a mid-tower case, but those who want to go even bigger can upgrade to this full-tower chassis. The Lian Li O11 Dynamic XL is a premium case that compromises on very little, offering improved I/O, more fan space, and a larger footprint than the 4000D or 5000D. This can be a tough case to find, but those interested will find that it retails around $200.


The Premium Alternative: Fractal Design Define 7

Fractal Design Define 7

The Fractal Design Define 7 is a high-level case with some extreme layout options that can offer more versatility than the 5000D at a similar price point. It features a more robust I/O, similar minimalist look, and roomy interior in a smaller footprint. Enthusiasts looking to compare the case to the 5000D can start with a similar price – the case retails at $169.99.


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Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact vs Meshify C: What Are The Differences? https://premiumbuilds.com/comparisons/fractal-design-meshify-2-compact-vs-meshify-c/ https://premiumbuilds.com/comparisons/fractal-design-meshify-2-compact-vs-meshify-c/#respond Tue, 16 Mar 2021 16:54:54 +0000 https://premiumbuilds.com/?p=806231 Fractal Design has been manufacturing affordable and elegant PC cases since its inception in 2007. The company has undoubtedly continued that trend with the recent release of their new Meshify 2 Compact case. Fractal boasts this case as an “evolved” version of their acclaimed 2017 release of the classic Meshify C, which many enthusiasts tout… Read More »Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact vs Meshify C: What Are The Differences?

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fractal design meshify 2 compact vs meshify c

Fractal Design has been manufacturing affordable and elegant PC cases since its inception in 2007. The company has undoubtedly continued that trend with the recent release of their new Meshify 2 Compact case. Fractal boasts this case as an “evolved” version of their acclaimed 2017 release of the classic Meshify C, which many enthusiasts tout as one of the best bang for your buck mid-tower cases to this day. 

With many consumers trending away from bulky full-tower monoliths and moving towards more compact builds, these two cases provide a reasonable medium between both extremes. At a compact mid-tower size, each case supports full-sized components. You won’t have to compromise on power or potentially spend more on SFF (Small Form Factor) components to get the most out of either case. But there are some key differences between the Meshify C and the Meshify 2 Compact that you should know before you begin your build. 


Specifications

CaseMeshify 2 CompactMeshify C
DesignFractal Design Meshify 2 CompactFractal Design Meshify C ATX Case
Total Fan Slots7 (2 Included intake & 1 exhaust)7 (1 Included intake & 1 exhaust)
Drive Support2 universal drive mounts & support for 4 2.5” drive mounts (2 included in box)2 3.5” drive & 3 dedicated 2.5” drive slots. (no brackets included in-box)
GPU Compatibility3-slot cards up to 340mm3-slot cards up to 315mm
PSU Compatibility200mm175mm
I/O2 USB 3.0, 1 USB Type-C, 3.5mm audio & mic jacks.2 USB 3.0, 3.5mm audio & mic jacks.
Price109.9989.99
RetailerAmazon.comAmazon.com

Cooling – Meshify 2 Compact

Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact

Both cases have been constructed with intuitive cooling solutions for the average consumer in mind. Unlike more compact cases, it is much easier to configure high-airflow setups without the need for complex custom cooling solutions. Each case supports 7 total fan mounts, though the Meshify 2 ekes out ahead with 1 additional included front fan and the ability to include a bottom fan without the need to remove the HDD cage, as was the case with the older Meshify C. 

The Meshify 2 Compact’s inclusion of two front intake fans and a rear exhaust out of the box makes it an attractive choice for thermals without the need to purchase additional fans. The two cases are nearly identical in terms of AIO and water cooling compatibility. Both allow for 3-fan radiators at the front of the case and dual-fan models at the top. You will have to remove the HDD bay on both models to allow for a triple-fan radiator over 280mm at the front. 

Each case includes dust filters on the top, front, and bottom as well as an aesthetic geometric mesh front that allows for increased airflow. For looks, both cases offer the option of configuring with metal or tempered glass side-panels. 


Storage – Meshify 2 Compact

Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact

The newer Meshify 2 Compact crushes the Meshify C in terms of drive and storage support. You get 2 included 3.5”/2.5” universal drive mounts as well as space for 4 dedicated 2.5” drive mounts with two included brackets straight out of the box. The Meshify C only supports 2 universal drive mounts and 3 dedicated 2.5” drives, and it does not include any brackets in the box. 

Getting inside the case to remove and adjust mounts is going to be easier with the Meshify 2 Compact. It ditches the thumb-screw bolts for the side tempered-glass panels in favor of a magnetic panel that swings open for easy access to the interior.


GPU Compatibility – Meshify 2 Compact

Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact

Both cases support the biggest and most-demanding consumer GPUs on the market, though you will find a little bit more wiggle room with the Meshify 2 Compact. It allows for a GPU up to 340mm in length, while the Meshify C may be a tight squeeze for cards like the 3090 with a max of 315mm before you need to take out one of the front fans. Those looking for the best performance that the market has to offer should consider that detail, especially being that the Founder’s Edition 3090 is already sitting at hulking 313mm, and that’s not even considering the bulkier third-party releases out there.


PSU Compatibility – Meshify 2 Compact

Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact

Neither case is going to give you trouble when it comes to fitting a full-sized ATX power supply, but simply fitting the PSU isn’t everything. As the demand for higher-wattage units increases, manufacturers are making bigger modular PSUs than ever before. You want as much comfort and space for fitting components without making your build a nightmare. The Meshify 2 Compact allows for a 200mm PSU (165mm without removing the front fan) while the Meshify C can only support 175mm, and that’s only if you take the front HDD bay and fan out. 

Though the Meshify C does have slightly more room for routing cables at the back of the case with spaces varying between 15-35mm while the Meshify 2 Compact is a bit tighter with allowances between 17-28mm. It’s not enough to notice with standard builds, but more enthusiast-level builds may find the extra cable management space a plus.


I/O – Meshify 2 Compact

Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact

The front I/O is where the Meshify C begins to show its age. Both cases include standard USB 3.0 ports as well as separate 3.5mm jacks for mic and audio. The Meshify 2 Compact wins out with an included USB 3 Type-C port that gives a bit more versatility for adding hubs, displays, and transferring data. Both cases offer support for up-to full-sized ATX motherboards as well as 7 rear slots that will be more than enough to support even SLI GPU configurations as well as modern 3-slot GPUs. 


Verdict – Meshify 2 Compact

Fractal Design Meshify C ATX Case

The older Meshify C is going to offer a better budget deal than the brand-new Meshify 2 Compact. The former can be had on retailers like Newegg for $89.99 while the latter will run you $109.99. With such similar specifications across the board, mid-tier builders will find a lot of value to be had with the Meshify C. Though the additional space and more up-to-date I/O of the Meshify 2 C more than makes up for that gap in the price for those looking for a no-compromise case that can support the latest and greatest hardware. 

If USB-C connectivity isn’t a deal-breaker and you don’t plan to do any sort of AIO or custom water cooling, then the Meshify C offers a great deal for the price as long as you don’t mind picking up an extra fan or two down the line. 

Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact

All in all, the Meshify 2 Compact offers the best performance and value right out of the box for builders and enthusiasts looking to make use of every millimeter of space. The convenience of the additional included fan, more internal space, and the more modern USB Type-C connector will save you time and possibly even some money over the more dated Meshify C.


Meshify C & Meshify 2 Compact Alternatives

The Beginner SFF Alternative: The Silverstone SG13B

SilverStone Sugo SG13-1

If you’re looking to take the full plunge into SFF PC building then the Silverstone SG13 is one of the most beginner-friendly options on the market. This case allows you to use a full-sized ATX PSU with your other form factor components, which can save you quite a bit of money when building. The Silverstone has a fully-featured I/O with USB 3.0 and impressive airflow for such a compact case. Aside from the fact that you can purchase the case in neon pink, the most impressive aspect of it is its price. You can purchase this case for approximately ~$50 from most online retailers. 


The Airflow Addict Alternative: Lian Li Lancool II Mesh 

LIAN LI LANCOOL II MESH RGB

This mid-tower may have a boring exterior when compared to the artful geometric mesh on the Meshify cases, but the Lian Li Lancool II Mesh boasts some quality of life features that the other two cases lack. In addition to fantastic thermals, this tempered glass mid-tower comes with three fans and a fan controller. You’ll be able to adjust your fan curves and perfectly manage your thermals right out of the box! You will pay a slight premium for these features with a price set at $119. 


The No Compromises Premium Alternative: Fractal Design Define 7 

Fractal Design Define 7

Coming back to Fractal with a bigger budget means you can afford one of the top mid-tower cases on the market. The Fractal Design Define 7 takes build quality to the next level with brushed aluminum and a high-quality tempered glass side panel. Its sleek white finish, robust front I/O, and roomy interior layout make it a popular choice for enthusiasts that want the best of the best. Those willing to pay for the best will find that this case retails at $169.99. 

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NZXT H1 vs Cooler Master MasterBox NR200: Battle of the SFF Cases https://premiumbuilds.com/comparisons/nzxt-h1-vs-cooler-master-nr200/ https://premiumbuilds.com/comparisons/nzxt-h1-vs-cooler-master-nr200/#respond Fri, 05 Mar 2021 13:48:08 +0000 https://premiumbuilds.com/?p=805651 Small Form Factor (SFF) cases have been gaining more and more popularity as time has gone by; for technology has been improving to the point where it allows for higher levels of performance in a smaller hardware package. With SFF cases, not only do you have a PC that takes up far less space on… Read More »NZXT H1 vs Cooler Master MasterBox NR200: Battle of the SFF Cases

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nzxt h1 vs nr200

Small Form Factor (SFF) cases have been gaining more and more popularity as time has gone by; for technology has been improving to the point where it allows for higher levels of performance in a smaller hardware package. With SFF cases, not only do you have a PC that takes up far less space on your desk, or area of work, but you also have a much more portable machine that you can transfer between rooms, offices, or even homes.

Given the release of the new X570, and upcoming Z590, mini-ITX motherboards – as well as the release of Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 30 Series and AMD’s Radeon RX 6000 Series GPUs – there has never been a better time to build a brand new PC, of any form factor for that matter.

Finding the case to fit the GPU of your choice, and the appropriate cooling to match, is the most difficult part of building a SFF PC, as the limited amount of internal space allows for very few compatible options.  For a case to be classified as “SFF”, it must have a total internal space with a volume that does not exceed 20 liters. Finding such cases from mainstream PC hardware manufacturers can be difficult, as options are quite limited. Two popular options that do exist are the NZXT H1, and Cooler Master’s MasterBox NR200.

These two cases both do fit the small form factor specifications, but they couldn’t be any more different. The NZXT H1 is more of a pre-made, and easy to put together, option, whereas the MasterBox NR200 is slightly larger, but far more flexible and customizable case

If you are trying to decide between which of these two models to models, this article will help you find the best case for your needs, as we will analyze the differences between the two and provide you with a rundown of which option best suits the preferences of different setups.


Specifications

ModelNZXT H1Cooler Master NR200
DesignNZXT H1Cooler Master MasterBox NR200
SizeMini-ITXMini-ITX
Dimensions187 mm (W) x 387.7 mm (H) x 187.6 mm (D)185 mm (W) x 292 mm (H) x 376 mm (D)
Volume13.6 L18 L
3.5” Bays01 (Max 2)
2.5” Bays22 (Max 3)
I/O Ports1x USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C, 1x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x 4 Pole Headset Audio Jack2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x 3.5mm Headset Audio Jack
Fan Cooling SupportN/A2x 120 mm (Top – 1x Incl.), 1x 92 mm (Rear – 1x Incl.), 2x 120/140 mm (Side), 2x 120 mm (Bottom)
Radiator Cooling Support1 x 140 mm (Integrated AIO Liquid Cool for CPU)92 mm (Rear), 120/240 mm (Bottom), 120/140/240/280 mm (Side)
GPU Clearance305 mm (L) x 128 mm (H) x 45 mm (W) – 2.5 Slot330 mm (L) x 156 mm (H) x 60 mm (W) – Triple Slot
CPU Cooler Clearance138.5 mm155 mm
Dust Filters3: Left, Right, Back4: Top, Bottom, Left, Right
PSU SupportSFX-LSFX, SFX-L
Warranty3 Years for Case + Riser Card + AIO Liquid Cooler, 10 Years for PSU2 Years
Price (As of writing)$349$99
AvailabilityAmazon.comAmazon.com

Cooling

The biggest difference between the two cases lies in the fact that the NZXT H1 allows for no custom cooling, as it is instead dependent on the cooling of the individual components. The integrated 140 mm liquid AIO cooler of the CPU, a 120 mm fan on the PSU, and whatever fans the GPU will have are going to need to keep the PC cool during operation. On the other hand, the Cooler Master NR200 has two included case-fans: Cooler Master’s own Sickleflow PWM models. These fans can output 62 CFM of airflow and 2.5 mmH2O of static pressure. 

The Cooler Master NR200 also allows for the installation of up to five additional case-fans, which is incredible for a SFF case. This same cooling space can also be used for liquid cooling, as radiators are supported for the rear, bottom, and side of the case. Additionally, there is 155 mm of CPU cooler clearance, meaning that you can install a low-profile air CPU cooler, like a Scythe Big Shuriken 3, or a slightly larger CPU cooler, like a Noctua NH-U9S or a NH-C14S. 

Both cases also have included dust filters: three for the NZXT H1, and four for the MasterBox NR200.


GPU Compatibility

The 32% larger size of the MasterBox NR200 also allows for a larger GPU to be installed, as it is compatible with graphics cards that have a three-slot heatsink thickness, and a length of 330 mm –so the majority of full-sized GPUs will fit in this case. On the other hand, the NZXT H1’s space limits will not allow most Nvidia GeForce RTX 30 Series graphics cards, as all GeForce RTX 3080 and 3090 models are incompatible, and only the GeForce RTX 3070 Founder’s Edition and ASUS Dual variants will fit.


Storage

If you plan on carrying-over a 3.5-inch HDD to your new SFF build, then the MasterBox NR200 will be the only compatible option, as the NZXT H1 cannot accommodate these hard drives. It can, however, hold two 2.5” SSD/HDDs. The MasterBox NR200 allows for three 2.5” SSD/HDDs via two dedicated 2.5” slots, and one hybrid 2.5” or 3.5” slot.


PSU Compatibility

The NZXT H1 comes with a pre-installed 650-watt SFX-L 80-Plus Gold power supply, with a fully modular cable design that is cooled by a 120 mm fluid-dynamic bearing fan that has a mean time between failures of 100,000 hours. This PSU should be able to accommodate the majority of builds, as CPUs and GPUs are becoming more and more power-efficient, and still have rather low TDPs. Also, given that higher-end full-sized GPUs do not fit in the case, 650 watts should be more than enough power. 

The MasterBox NR200 includes no such PSU, but it allows for an SFX or SFX-L PSU to be installed. This, of course, allows for more flexibility in regards to the wattage of the power supply, as well as its 80 PLUS efficiency rating. 


I/O Connectivity

The connectivity found in the I/O panel of both cases is very similar, with the only difference being that the Cooler Master NR200 has two USB 3 Type-A ports, whereas the NZXT H1 has one USB 3 Type-A, and one USB 3 Type-C ports. Both do include a 3.5 mm headset audio jack.


Verdict

Given the additional value of its integrated liquid AIO cooler and SFX 650W Gold PSU, is the NZXT H1 worth the additional $250 it costs? Well, it really depends on whether or not you are looking to build your PC from scratch, or whether you want the process to be easy, straightforward, and quick. 

NZXT H1

Having the case manufacturer take care of cable management, cooling, and even the PSU, is incredibly convenient; as all you need to do is install the motherboard, CPU, and GPU and you are ready. The GPU will, thus, be the only component you will need to check the dimensions for. On the other hand, if you don’t mind going through the extra effort, you can add even more powerful cooling, and a better rated PSU, for the same price as the difference between the NZXT H1 and the Cooler Master NR200, more or less.

Cooler Master MasterBox NR200

 

All in all, convenience will be the deciding factor on which option is better suited for your needs. The Cooler Master NR200 does offer more value for its price, which is traded for easy-installation bundled in the purchase of the NZXT H1.  


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4 Best Portable PC Cases with Handles for 2021 https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/best-pc-cases-with-handles/ https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/best-pc-cases-with-handles/#respond Thu, 13 Aug 2020 17:33:46 +0000 https://premiumbuilds.com/?p=6480 Though full-sized desktop PC are not quite as portable as laptops, they are definitely much more powerful and considerably less expensive. To help make desktops somewhat portable, some case manufactures added handles atop the cases. These handles used to be reserved only for micro-ATX and mini-ITX form factors, but now all form factors have a… Read More »4 Best Portable PC Cases with Handles for 2021

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best pc cases with handles

Though full-sized desktop PC are not quite as portable as laptops, they are definitely much more powerful and considerably less expensive. To help make desktops somewhat portable, some case manufactures added handles atop the cases. These handles used to be reserved only for micro-ATX and mini-ITX form factors, but now all form factors have a case variant that includes handles; even full towers!

The handles are great and all, but they are definitely not the only aspect to be analyzed when purchasing a case. Cases are a very important component of a PC rig, for they allow you to future proof your build, and determine the type and level of cooling your setup will function under. In particular, the four main aspects that you need to take into account when purchasing a case are:

  1. Its cooling capability: How many fans it allows to be mounted, whether or not it includes any fans, whether it has an airflow optimized design, and its cable management design so that the case isn’t cluttered.
  2. Its size: Full towers can house pretty much any type of motherboard, while mid-towers can carry EATX, ATX, and smaller mobos, mini-towers can sometimes hold an ATX motherboard, but are usually used for mATX or mITX motherboards, and finally SFF cases can only have an mITX motherboard attached.
  3. Its noise levels: The amount of noise the case allows to escape from its enclosure, be it from the multiple case-fans, the CPU cooler, or the PSU.
  4. Its looks: A case doesn’t necessarily need to have a tempered glass panel and RGB lighting to look good. Even a sleek simplistic design can also look great, so it all depends on its overall design.

Depending on which of the aspects above you would prefer to focus on, you must keep in mind that the remaining aspects will suffer to a degree. For example, a small form factor case will inevitably have higher temperatures due to the cramming of hardware in a limited amount of space. That being said, no matter what type of case you choose to go for, it is always a good idea to invest a good portion of your budget, because the tower can stay with you even after several upgrades to your hardware components. To help you find the best case for your particular needs, one that will also include level of portability, we’ve compiled a list of the best handle-including cases for every form factor available.


Best PC Cases with Handles – Our Recommendations

Best Mid-Tower Case with Handles

ASUS TUF Gaming GT501

ASUS’s mid-tower option provides a unique level of portability support, as the TUF Gaming GT501 has woven-cotton handles atop the case which can support up to 30 kilograms (about 66 pounds) of weight. The case is made of 1.5mm thick galvanized steel with a special coating that is scuff and scratch-resistant. Of course, galvanized steel is nowhere near as thermally efficient as aluminum, but having an all-aluminum mid tower case would drive the price up considerably.

The TUF GT501 has a sturdy 4mm smoked tempered glass side panel, fitting up to seven 120mm case fans, five 140 mm case fans, or two 360mm radiators. Four case fans are included with the case, one in the back (140mm) and three in the front (120mm). The 140mm fan is PWM controlled, and the three front fans are Aura Sync RGB compatible. The top panel has adjustable mounting points for easier installation. Magnetic dust filters are also included: one up front, one on the top, and one on the bottom where the PSU is mounted. For easier cable routing the case also has a cable grommet, three Velcro wraps and a 30mm cable management hole. In terms of storage, it can hold up to seven 2.5” SSDs, four of which can be swapped for 3.5” HDDs. The front panel I/O is a bit lacking, with only two USB 3.0 slots and the standard audio jacks.

All-in-all the ASUS TUF Gaming GT501 is a sturdy mid-tower with plenty of compatibility and a nice set of stylish woven handles that give it a degree of portability lacking in similarly sized towers. You can find the GT501 for $169, which is a bit on the expensive side, but for the four fans included and the overall build, it is definitely worth the cost.


Best Full Tower with Handles

Panzer EVO RGB

Cougar’s Panzer is appropriately named, because it is built like a tank. The Panzer EVO RGB is one of the only full towers that includes handles for portability, and these handles can hold up to 35kg of weight (roughly 77 pounds). The Panzer comes in various models, with the EVO, EVO RGB, and Max having the same characteristic handles. The Panzer EVO RGB comes equipped with not one, not two… but four tempered glass panels: one on each side, one in the front, and one on the top panel. So, if you are a gaming enthusiast that loves a panoramic RGB light display, this case if perfect for you. It even has a headset hook (front) and a keyboard tray (top) to allow you to free up space from your desk while the computer is not in use.

The Panzer itself includes four 120mm case fans: three in the front and one in the rear side of the case, and all four of these fans have RGB lighted rings equipped with 18 LEDs. The case can support a total of eight 120mm fans and four LED strips, so there is plenty more RGB pizzazz that you can still add on for the case to feature. The Panzer EVO RGB allows you to control the speed of the fans via a fan control slider-switch in the front I/O. In addition, the case includes a Cougar “Core Box” with a remote control that allows you to adjust the lighting effects of the case fans and any LED strips you install.

If you’d rather have water cooling rather than case fans, then the Panzer EVO RGB can support up to four radiators: one 360mm on the front and on the top, one 120mm in the back, and one 140mm underneath. For better cable management the case has two covered cable guides that route the cables behind the motherboard tray. The front I/O itself has two USB 3.0 ports, one USB 2.0 port, one USB 3.1 Type-C port, and the standard audio jacks. In terms of connectivity, the Cougar EVO RGB can fit an EATX motherboard, up to four two-slot 390mm GPUs, four 2.5” SSDs, and two 3.5” HDDs which can also be used for 2.5” SSDs. Do note that due to the all-around glass panels, the noise levels emitted from this case may be high, so it is best to opt for hardware that emits the least amount of noise possible.

The Panzer EVO RGB allows for a deep level of customization and a plethora of lighting effects. It is a stylish, and portable, full tower case that is well worth the $169 investment. If you are not that much into RGB lighting, then do check out the Cougar Panzer Max which comes at a $152 price and removes the front, top, and right-side glass panels; keeping only the one on the left side. The Panzer Max is also missing one of the included case fans (it comes with three fans), and the fan remote control, so the price drop may not be that enticing.


Best SFF/HTPC Case with Handles

SilverStone Milo Slim

If you are building a home theatre PC then you want a case that is simple, slim, and can hold a full-sized graphics card—-. A case that is easily transferred from one room to another, or from one house to another, and has good enough noise isolation to where the fans down interfere with the audio. Well, the SilverStone Milo Slim fits all these qualifications and then some.

Standing upright at about the size of a small briefcase, with a handle at the top and four base supports, this 12-liter PC case can fit a full-sized graphics card of up to 330mm in length, so you won’t need to worry about finding a low-profile graphics card. The GPU also has its own compartment in the case for optimal airflow. The Milo Slim can fit a CPU cooler of to 58mm in height, and it has a motherboard tray cutout for easy M.2 SSD installation. For storage, it has two tool-less 2.5” drive caddies for SSDs, which should be more than enough for an HTPC or SFF PC. It even has an optical drive bay for those that prefer using old-school Blu-Ray or DVD discs. On the front side of the case, underneath a cover, lie the I/O ports, which include two USB 3.0, and two audio jacks.

The only downside of this case is its inability to hold case fans, so despite its airflow optimized design it can still run hot. This means that certain hardware options that reach high temperatures should be avoided for this case, like for example AMD’s 5700 XT. If your hardware components have good thermal solutions, then this case is perfect for an HTPC setup that can even be used as a gaming console alternative.

You can currently purchase the SilverStone Milo Slim for £79.99, which is a great price for a small, simple, and portable mini-ITX case that works great for a living room PC setup.


Best Mini-ITX Case with Handles

Lian Li TU-150

Definitely one of the coolest mini ITX cases out there, the Lian Li TU-150WX shows that function can also have style. Equipped with a magnetic retractable handle on the center top of the case, the TU-150WX doesn’t sacrifice its sleek looks for its portability.

It has a 3mm tempered glass side panel and an all-aluminum body with 1.5mm brushed aluminum front, top, and side panels. It can hold a dual-slot GPU of up to 320mm long, and either two 2.5” SSDs, or one 2.5” SSD and one 3.5” HDD. Where this case excels is its cooling potential. It can support a CPU cooler of up to 165mm tall, meaning it can potentially fit a high-end Noctua NH-D15; which is quite impressive for a mini-ITX case. In addition, it can also fit up to four 120mm fans: two of which would be situated underneath the GPU, one in the back of the case, and one in the front. The Lian Li TU-150WX also has ventilation holes on the right and back panels, so it is optimized for airflow. The case does not support much in terms of liquid cooling, but with four 120mm case fan slots and a full-sized CPU cooler, there really isn’t any need for such. The cable management is equally impressive, as you can hide cables either atop or behind the motherboard tray, depending on what better fits the build you are looking to make. The top I/O panel supports two USB 3.0, one USB 3.1 Type C, and two HD audio jacks. Important to note is that this case only support SFX or SFX-L PSUs.

Despite not quite fitting the SFF size parameters, as it is slightly larger than 20L, the Lian Li TU-150WX is an elegant and sleek mITX case that is easily portable, and has great cooling potential. You can currently find the silver version of the TU-150WX for $109, which is a great deal given the quality of materials and overall design of the case.

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7 Smallest Mini ITX cases that fit a full-size GPU https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/smallest-mini-itx-cases-for-full-size-gpu/ https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/smallest-mini-itx-cases-for-full-size-gpu/#respond Mon, 30 Mar 2020 15:41:29 +0000 https://premiumbuilds.com/?p=4053 All computers used to be the size of a modern car wedged up against a wall, with no room for additional peripherals or even your chair. While computers these days are much more conveniently sized, the idea that a bigger computer means more power still pervades every gamer’s thought. When you see a massive PC… Read More »7 Smallest Mini ITX cases that fit a full-size GPU

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smallest itx cases that fit full size gpu

All computers used to be the size of a modern car wedged up against a wall, with no room for additional peripherals or even your chair.

While computers these days are much more conveniently sized, the idea that a bigger computer means more power still pervades every gamer’s thought. When you see a massive PC with glowing lights, your first thought is how well it can probably run Crysis.

However, as the mobile phone industry has shown, computers are getting smaller and smaller while still being incredibly powerful.

ITX cases are a great example of this; small motherboards fitting into a small case allow for an incredibly compact computer that fits wherever you want it.

But what are you to do if you want to make sure you can still play your games? What are the best ITX cases that can still fit a full size GPU?


Best Mini ITX Cases that fit a full size GPU – My Recommendations

1. NCase M1 V6

NCase M1 v6

Most computer parts designed today are done so from the confines of a boardroom. Business people and CEOs designing what they think they should be selling based on market projections and research data gathered other months upon months of irritating surveys.

But what if you designed it a different way? What if you found out what the people wanted by letting them make the decisions?

The mini ITX case by NCase, the NCase M1, is truly one of a kind when it comes to its development. Designed and funded entirely by crowdsourcing, every single element of its design and functionality were deliberated on by intense hobbyists and knowledgeable, regular users.

The result is, essentially, a shrunken down PC chassis that somehow manages to fit everything you could possibly need inside it.

With ample coolers and space for a full size GPU, this is the ITX case you should get if you want to pay homage to the skills and value contributed by the general community.

Plus, it’s basically like a normal case was hit with a shrink ray, so it looks really cool as well.


2. NZXT H1

NZXT H1

The NZXT H1 is a really interesting mini ITX case because it manages to be a tall tower PC, while still remaining small enough to be called an ITX and Small Form Factor (SFF).

Perhaps even better, it comes pre-built with almost everything you need. It isn’t just the chassis and motherboard; the CPU, the port setups, and even the power supply are all built in and integral to the design. You just need to jam in whatever regular sized RAM cards and GPU you want, and you are ready to go.

This is the ITX case for those that want to stay as small as possible, but still have a glimmer of elegance and sophistication to its design. Plus, you barely have to do any work whatsoever, and who doesn’t love that?


3. Phanteks Evolv ITX

Phanteks Evolv ITX

For some people, making a move to a small ITX PC can be a bit daunting. They find the idea of trying to move to a teeny, tiny computer a bit scary; how will it fit all of my components? How is it going to handle the heat build-up?

For those that remain trepidatious about making the jump, you should consider the Phantex Evolv ITX.

The Phantex Evolv looks incredibly like a normal PC, with even the same kind of width to height dimensions, only just a bit smaller.

With enough space to fit in a regular GPU and a surprisingly large number of accessible ports, this metal exterior ITX chassis is decently heated functional and acts as a great way to get into the world of ITX PC cases.

It is roomy and incredibly accessible, making for a really convenient way to fiddle with your parts, and is thus a PC hobbyists dream SFF PC.


4. Dancase A4-SFX

Dancase-A4SFX

There is always this idea these days of trying to shop local and to buy your stuff from the little guy. After all, why not prioritize shopping at smaller, more limited establishments to try and support small businesses, rather than the massive companies?

For those that want to shop small, the A4 SFX is the ITX case for you.

Designed by one man, this case was created entirely with the goal of being the smallest possible ITX case that can still fit a GPU. Designed to hold even the largest GPU, such as the behemoth that is the RTX 2080 Super, this case will mean you can slot your ultra high powered PC in whatever nook or cranny that you want.

Perfect for those with an incredibly limited desk space, this is the ITX case for those with nowhere to put anything, yet still want something powerful.


5. Silverstone ML08

Silverstone ML08

Every gamer is familiar with the shape and organization fo their consoles. Slotting that PS4 into the side of your monitor or TV was perhaps the modern equivalent of playing Tetris, and now that you’ve accomplished it, you are probably a master of it by now.

So if you want to keep up your console-slotting skills, you should take a look at the Silverstone ML08.

Designed to look like a vertical standing console, this is the ITX case for those that want to keep their PC up on their desk with them. Able to slide up against your monitor or fit snuggly into a sideways drawer, this ITX case is small, but still able to handle a full GPU.

While it doesn’t really come with anything other than the motherboard and case, it is easy to see how even larger cooling apparatus and computing components could fit in this strangely vertical PC case.

It even comes with a convenient handle to allow you to carry it to a LAN gathering or a convention!


6. Corsair Crystal 280X RGB

Corsair Crystal 280X

While the main delight of ITX cases is the fact that they can sort of wedge wherever you want them to, while still having the GPU and CPU power to game effectively, there is still a huge delight in some of the larger options.

The Corsair Crystal 280X RGB is a great case that almost straddles the line between ITX and regular ATX case design. Taller than it is wide, you are going to need to foist this one against the side of your desk, perhaps even using it as a bit of a coaster. But it is the perfect thing to get if you have a corner with nothing in it for it to sit comfortably in.

With some really gorgeous glass paneling and a beautiful RGB internal display, this is the ITX case for those that still want the dazzling wow factor of a modern PC case, but don’t have the width to fit them.

The only thing is that you’ve got no Type C USB 3.1s, but it’s a small price to pay for beauty.


7. Louqe Ghost S1

ghost-s1-black

Scandinavia has always been inspirational when it comes to any kind of functional design principles. With the Louqe Ghost S1, that now applies to ITX cases as well.

With a sizeable volume of 7.3 liters, you’ve got enough space to store any full size GPU you’d like, as well as three drive slots.

However, the best part about the Ghost S1 is its modularity. Say you get one of these sleek beauties, but find that your cooling system or GPU is just that touch too big for its small size? You can imply use their Top Hat modulation to expand the total volume of your case. Effectively, Louqe has made an ITX case that comes in different sizes.

With some really great ventilation options and more choice than you could know what to do with, Louqe Ghost S1 is the perfect ITX case for those that want to tinker, change and update their PC as they go.

It even comes with a convenient handle to allow you to carry it to a LAN gathering or a convention!


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Best Tempered Glass PC Cases for 2021 https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/best-tempered-glass-pc-cases/ https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/best-tempered-glass-pc-cases/#respond Tue, 24 Mar 2020 15:54:46 +0000 https://premiumbuilds.com/?p=4021 If you got an RGB variant of every PC component you can find waiting in your PC parts list, and you can’t wait till you’re able to sit back and enjoy the hardware’s glorious panoramic RGB light show – you know that you’re first going to need a case, and preferably one featuring a see-through… Read More »Best Tempered Glass PC Cases for 2021

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best tempered glass pc cases

If you got an RGB variant of every PC component you can find waiting in your PC parts list, and you can’t wait till you’re able to sit back and enjoy the hardware’s glorious panoramic RGB light show – you know that you’re first going to need a case, and preferably one featuring a see-through tempered glass (TG) display.

Tempered glass allows for better noise containment, over plastic or aluminum, is scratch resistant, and of course looks amazing, as it allows you to display your RGB hardware to its maximum effect. The downside to tempered glass cases is that they are a bit more expensive, but the money is definitely worth it for something you know will last you for years to come.

A good case is one that will have a nice, clean, design – allowing for good cable management – and have the appropriate storage capacity depending on your need and the capabilities of your motherboard. Most importantly, it must allow (or contain) the best case-fans to fit in properly, so you can have the best airflow design that you can get. Maintaining the proper temperatures for your system is paramount. If the included fans have some extra RGB flair, then of course we’re all for that too.

So, let’s get into it. What are the best tempered glass PC cases you can buy in 2020, depending on your build?


Best Tempered Glass PC Cases – Our Recommendations

Best Micro ATX Tempered Glass Case

Corsair Crystal 280X RGB

The Corsair Crystal 280X RGB micro-ATX case has three tempered glass surfaces – top, side, and front – so its display is second to none for its size. It has a good amount of storage, allowing for two 3.5” and three 2.5” storage drives, and in terms of cooling: six 120mm fans or three 240mm radiators (front, top, and bottom) for liquid cooling. To minimize cable clutter, it has a dual-chamber layout which allows you to fit your PSU into a dedicated rear chamber.

Where this case shines, though, is the cooling. First-off, it has three different dust filters on the front, the roof, and the floor of the case, so dust accumulation won’t be significant enough to heat your system for long periods of time. Next, the way it’s designed allows for cool air from the fans to be directed to the hottest PC hardware units – and the onboard fans it has are top of the line. It includes two Corsair LL120 RGB fans, which are the best 120mm RGB fans you can find, with 43.25 CFM of airflow and an amazing-for-the-size 1.61mm H2O of static pressure. These are also some of the best-looking RGB case fans out there, so definitely a great addition (not to mention added value) to the case.

You can currently find the Corsair Crystal 280X RGB Micro-ATX case for $150, and in two color variants: white or black.


Best Budget Mini ITX Tempered Glass Case

NZXT H210

If you want to go even smaller than the micro-ATX, then this mini-ITX case is an amazing way to show off your PC components in a small package. If you aren’t yet accustomed to mini-ITX, or have allocated too much money towards the hardware components (can’t blame you for that), then you might be looking for a case on a budget. For that, we’ve got you covered with the NZXT H210 case for SFF builds.

This budget mini-ITX case has great value for its price. It comes with a side panel of tempered glass, and weighs only 5.9 kilograms (13 pounds). In terms of storage, it allows for a respectable three 2.5” and one 3.5” storage drives, as well as four 120mm fans (2x front, 1x top – included, 1x rear – also included), or if you prefer water cooling, it allows for two front 120mm (or one 240mm), as well as one rear 120mm radiators. For cable management, it has NZHT’s patented cable routing kit which comes with pre-installed channels to run your cables through, as well as straps to hold them in place.

The fans that are included are NZXT Aer P 120mm case-fans which run up to 2000 RPM and offer up to an amazing 2.93mmH2O of static pressure, best placed on heat-sinks or radiators to better dissipate their heat. The downside of these fans is that they can be quite noisy, as they can reach up to 36 dBA, which is quite audible. The cooling that these two units supply may not be flashy, as they don’t have RGB lighting, but they will sufficiently keep your hardware nice and cool.

The best feature of this case, is its price, as it you can find the NZXT H210 ITX case for just under $80.


Best Overall Mini-ITX Tempered Glass Case

NZXT H1

Next, the best overall mini-ITX tempered glass case money can buy in 2020 is hands-down the NZXT H1.

This case is amazing, both in value and in style. This small case can hold full-sized 2-fan GPUs, and it comes with several pre-installed components. It has a toolless SSD tray, an integrated 650W 80 Plus Gold rated PSU (upwards of 87% efficiency), a built-in AIO 140mm cooler, pre-routed power cables, and finally a PCIe rise card which allows for a vertical mounting of your GPU.

For better cooling, it has a dual-chamber airflow, allowing for both positive and negative pressure, which betters the heat dispersion of the hardware. Its compact size makes it look both modern and professional, but the tempered glass allows you to add some extra RGB flair to it. Overall a great vertical-design case for your mini-ITX setup; even for its $350 price tag.


Best RGB Tempered Glass Case

Corsair Obsidin 500D RGB SE

Let’s increase the size from the micro-and-mini-ITX cases, to a mid-tower with an amazing RGB display right out of the box; this is the Corsair Obsidian 500D RGB mid-tower case.

Like the Corsair Crystal 280X RGB Micro-ATX, this case also comes with top-quality Corsair LL120mm RGB fans – three of them this time, to match the increase in size. In regards to capacity, it can hold six 120mm, or four 140mm case fans & one 120mm case fan, and it comes with removable fan and radiator trays that are really useful for the easy installation of cooling units.

It features three smoked-tempered glass panels doors, that can easily be opened, to add or remove components at will, or clean the inside of the case. In fact, it also comes with three removable dust filters (front, floor, and roof) which really help maintain a clean case. PSU and cable covers an added plus for cable management.

The extra kick it offers, is the integrated Commander PRO, which allows for RGB lighting and fan control of up to 6 PWM fans – which you can control using the iCUE software interface.

You can find the Corsair Obsidian 500D RGB SE in the $280 price range, and considering that the fans Corsair LL120 RGB fans alone cost nearly $115(!), it’s a great deal.


Best Premium Tempered Glass Case

Lian Li PC-O11DX Dynamic

This next case – the Lian Li PC-011DX Dynamic – is pretty expensive, and it doesn’t come with any preinstalled fans, but boy does it make up for it in quality and customizability.

This case has two panels of tempered glass, one on the side and one in the front, and can hold a ton of cooling units. It can hold nine 120mm, or six 140mm fans; and for radiators in can hold up to three 360mm radiators without interference. It also has dual-PSU capability as well six SSD and three HDD capacity.

For cable management it has an angled motherboard tray and a back-side cable management bar seal. All this, together with four magnetic dust filters provide unparallel cleanliness for your system.

What really sets this case apart is the customization it allows and the high-quality materials that come with it. You can currently find this case for $135, and since that price is for the case alone, meaning it does not include fans, it may be a bit steep – but the end-result will definitely be worth it.


Best Looking Tempered Glass PC Case

Phanteks Enthoo Evolv X

The next case is unique, has its own RGB lighting, and has a great price-value ratio. We’re speaking of course, of the Phanteks Enthoo Evolv X.

As mentioned, this case comes with integrated digital RGB illumination on the front and side. It also is equipped with three 140mm Phanteks cooling fans which offer a respectable 82.51 CFM of airflow. If you aren’t satisfied with that, it allows for a ton of fans.

Seven 120mm, or six 140mm fans can be placed on this unit – though it is better designed for liquid cooling. It has a modular radiator bracket for an easy setup, as well as integrated fill & drain ports for easy maintenance. The front can hold a 140x420mm radiator, the top a 120x360mm, and the back a 120mm or 140mm radiators.

For storage devices: it can hold six SSDs, with the ability to upgrade to 9, and four 3.5” HDDs, with the ability to upgrade to ten. It also allows for a dual-motherboard setup, with an ITX on top, and ATX on the side. To help maintain all these units, it has dual-lane cable ties with a quick-release and fastening system to keep everything organized. This is one of – if not the – best cases in regards to cable management. Let’s not forget, it has two tempered glass door panels, so you can view your setup, in and out, in all its glory.

You can currently find the Phanteks Enthoo Evolv X case for just under $200.

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5 Best PC Cases for Watercooling (240-360mm AIO/Custom/ITX) https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/best-pc-cases-for-watercooling/ https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/best-pc-cases-for-watercooling/#comments Thu, 28 Nov 2019 15:19:12 +0000 https://premiumbuilds.com/?p=3359 Top tier PC components produce a good deal of heat, and whilst it all ends up in the air in the end water cooling offers functional and aesthetic advantages when you’re planning your premium build. Whether you’re looking for a rock solid 240mm All-In-One cooling solution for your CPU, or you want to go all… Read More »5 Best PC Cases for Watercooling (240-360mm AIO/Custom/ITX)

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Best Watercooling PC Cases

Top tier PC components produce a good deal of heat, and whilst it all ends up in the air in the end water cooling offers functional and aesthetic advantages when you’re planning your premium build. Whether you’re looking for a rock solid 240mm All-In-One cooling solution for your CPU, or you want to go all out with a custom water loop to really show off your skill and creativity, you need a case that facilitates your desired look and performance. In this article I’ll run through some great options for a range of form factors and water cooling solutions.

Primer: Water cooling – a solution to a hot problem.

A ‘traditional’ cooling solution for a CPU or GPU is a pretty simple device: A metal heat sink sits flush to the component to be cooled, and the increased thermal mass allows heat to move away from the component. Usually fins are used to increase surface area, whilst a fan helps to shift air away from the heat sink, increasing the temperature gradient and moving more heat away. You still see this set up on entry-level graphics cards and in the supplied intel and AMD CPU coolers and provided you’re not dealing with powerful components it works well. Higher power devices require heat pipes – these sealed pipes contain volatile liquid that evaporates at the hot side then recondenses at the cold side, using the considerable energy absorption of phase change to draw even more heat away. This cooler design is apparent in almost every aftermarket air cooler you can buy. But what happens when you need to overclock, you live in a hot climate, or you run demanding processes for long periods of time? 

When you need to pull as much heat out of your CPU and GPU as possible there isn’t much substitute for water cooling. Adding water to the mix adds significant thermal mass to the cooling system meaning you can pull far more heat away from the PC before temperatures rise. It also allows you to pass that warmed water through a radiator, which can have a drastically larger surface area and bring more of the water into proximity with cold airflow to cool it. 

A water cooling set up in its simplest form requires a radiator, a cold plate, piping to connect them, and a pump to drive water around a circuit. 

The simplest route into water cooling is an All-In-One cooling system – ‘AIO’ – which combines the three components in a sealed system ready to install. Corsair, NZXT, Cooler Master and Deepcool all sell these systems. There is a range of radiator sizes, intended to combine with standard 120mm and 140mm case fans. Whilst 120mm AIO’s look like a convenient option to place at the exhaust location of your case, next to the CPU, we’d advise against it: A 120mm radiator doesn’t offer enough surface area to be a worthwhile upgrade over a good heatpipe air cooler. Any AIO should have a 240mm radiator as a minimum unless you’re working in a very space constrained system and a 120mm (or even smaller!) radiator is all you can fit. 

The next step is a ‘custom loop’ involving a pump and reservoir system, custom radiators and waterblocks, and either soft or hard tubing and connectors to route the fluid between the components. If this is what you’re planning, then countless hours of tearing down GPUs, measuring thrice and then cutting your thumb, chasing leaks and tightening couplings await you. The reward? Rock bottom temperatures and the ability to create a truly stunning lean and clean aesthetic to your PC. EK are the market leaders in Custom water cooling equipment, alpha cool and Thermaltake offer sound alternatives. Whilst budget offerings from smaller manufacturers exists, when you’re mixing fluids with electronics it’s wise to consider the support and quality control on offer from the manufacturer to prevent things from going wrong.

So what are our recommended PC cases for watercooling in 2021?

Best PC Cases for Watercooling – Our Recommendations

AwardDesignModelForm Factor
Best Case for 240mm AIO RadiatorCooler Master Mastercase H500Cooler Master Mastercase H500Mid-tower
Best Case for 280mm AIO RadiatorPhanteks-Enthoo-Evolv-ATXPhanteks Enthoo Evolv ATXMid-tower
Best Case for 360mm AIO RadiatorCorsair Obsidian 500DCorsair Obsidian 500DMid-tower
Best Case for Custom Loop WatercoolingLian Li PC O11 DynamicLian-Li PC-011 DynamicMid-tower
Best ITX Case for WatercoolingNcase-M1NCase M1ITX
Alternative SFF Case for WatercoolingNZXT H210iNZXT H210iITX

Best Case for a 240mm AIO Radiator

Cooler Master Mastercase H500

A 240mm Radiator is the most common and lowest cost way to get an effective water cooled set up. The Cooler Master Mastercase H500 is a chunkily styled and highly engineered case with a great range of cooling options. It’s supplied with a pair of huge 200mm front intake fans, making the top radiator location the obvious choice for a 240mm CPU radiator expelling hot air out of the top of the case. The case comes supplied with a choice of mesh and glass front panels as well as magnetic filters on all intakes, and a full sized tempered glass side panel to highlight the build inside. Cable management covers much like it’s namesake the NZXT H500 give you the ability to hide away unsightly straggling cables, whilst hard drive caddies add an air of class to 3.5” discs. The Cooler Master H500 has topped testing for thermals particularly with the mesh front panel installed, making this case an excellent choice for anyone who wants the best cooling capacity for a powerful PC along with a highly configurable interior. 


Best Case for a 280mm AIO Radiator

Phanteks-Enthoo-Evolv-ATX

A 280mm Radiator AIO provides a huge amount of cooling surface area, combined with the quiet but powerful operation of a pair of 140mm fans. Phanteks have long built cases with great water cooling support and the Enthoo Evolv ATX is no exception. This full-sized ATX case boasts front and top mounting locations for 240mm, 280mm or 360mm radiators making it one of few cases to give you options for 280mm radiator placement. The top location has a slide out tray to make fitting the AIO radiator simple and they’ve given thought to clearances meaning the top mount radiator location won’t foul tall RAM sticks. The case will grow with you too, as it’s supplied with custom loop reservoir mount locations and plenty of routing options for pipework, as well as remote pump locations in the ‘basement’ PSU shroud. The other features of this case enable a versatile range of builds with multiple hard drive locations as well as PSU and front panel dust filters. Manufactured entirely from 3mm aluminium yields clean and industrial looks, and it’s available with a choice of a windowed, full glass, or opaque side panels depending on your preference. 


Best Case for a 360mm AIO Radiator

Corsair Obsidian 500D

The Obsidian 500D is a signature premium case from Corsair but maintains a ‘mid tower’ form factor. The look is clean and slick with a pair of tempered glass side panels that swing out for easy access to the internals and a neat central cable routing to ensure the build won’t look cluttered. Radiator placement options are numerous but include 360mm front radiator support, and for a simple cooling solution for a powerful CPU such as a Ryzen 3900X or Intel i9-9900K a 360mm AIO fits the bill perfectly. This case will allow you to make full use of a 360mm AIO such as the Corsair H150i Pro or the frankly awesome (if over the top) Asus ROG RYUJIN 360.  At $165/£150 this isn’t the cheapest of cases but given the features and build quality the price is fair and you can be sure of excellent cooling capability when combined with a 360mm AIO.


Best Case for Custom Loop Watercooling

Lian Li PC O11 Dynamic

If you’ve decided on a full custom cooling loop for your next build, then you’re likely agonising over what case will best present your handiwork. The Lian-Li PC-011 Dynamic is an evolution of the PC-O11, a pretty unique case with dual chamber design with one side encased in tempered glass. It has been remodelled to incorporate a laterally mounted 360mm radiator, providing ample cooling capacity for a full loop even if you choose not to use the additional top mount radiator location. The visible side of the case provides a huge amount of room for ‘activities’ with pipework, pumps, radiators and RGB fans. The compartmentalised design keeps the showy parts of the build clean of the less pretty components like a PSU and hard-drives in order to ensure the custom loop is pride of place. With so little else to dictate the placement of components, you’ve got free reign to build a loop you can really be proud to show, and that’s why this case gets our recommendation for a full water cooling custom loop build. 


Best ITX Case for Watercooling

Ncase-M1

Venturing into the compact world of ITX builds might make you think you’re not going to have room for watercooling: On the contrary, powerful CPU’s in small spaces need all the help they can get in shedding heat, and to address this some tiny case designs like the 12-litre NCASE M1 have built-in 240mm radiator support. This can be used with an off the shelf AIO, or else built into a very compact custom loop. Just ensure your radiator is slim enough – NCASE recommend using a Swiftech’s H220 or Cooler Master’s Glacer 240L. It has been built and improved upon through enthusiast feedback to ensure that it caters to a wide variety of components and configurations. If packing a hot CPU, full sized GPU and a 240mm radiator into a case not much bigger than a shoebox appeals to you, then the NCASE M1 should be at the top of your list.

If you don’t need something quite as small as the M1, then the NZXT H210 is a development of the ever-popular NZXT H200 and supports a 240mm Radiator at the front of the case: A great option if you want compact rather than truly small, but still need a powerful CPU cooling solution. It’s also keenly priced at $80/£80.


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Best ‘Smallest’ Micro-ATX Cases https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/smallest-micro-atx-cases/ https://premiumbuilds.com/pc-cases/smallest-micro-atx-cases/#respond Tue, 19 Nov 2019 13:17:33 +0000 https://premiumbuilds.com/?p=3288 For anyone that knows the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, the micro-ATX (mATX) form factor makes a lot of sense. Sometimes, your case and motherboard are just a bit too big, with so many extra features you’ll never need but will take up valuable space on your desk or in your room. And… Read More »Best ‘Smallest’ Micro-ATX Cases

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smallest micro atx cases

For anyone that knows the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, the micro-ATX (mATX) form factor makes a lot of sense. Sometimes, your case and motherboard are just a bit too big, with so many extra features you’ll never need but will take up valuable space on your desk or in your room. And sometimes, your case and motherboard are just too small, making building a torture test and leaving no room for your components to breathe and cool off to attain maximum performance. But then, you find that magical size in-between and discover that it has everything you need and nothing you don’t, while giving you plenty of choices that range from absolutely tiny to almost ATX-size. Goldilocks might not have ended with the creation of the mATX form factor, but it might as well have given how perfectly it fits in.

Micro-ATX has managed to become the happy medium between the very very tiny ITX form factor and the quite large ATX form factor. But even with mATX, there is quite a bit of variety. And plenty of builders want to save as much space as possible, without entering all the way into mini-ITX territory. So for someone looking for the best, smallest mATX case available today, our recommendations below will guide you based on what YOU find most important. We are looking for a small size, but not at the expense of quality.

With those criteria in mind, here are our recommendations for best smallest mATX PC cases:

Smallest Micro-ATX Cases – Our Recommendations

AwardDesignModel
Best Smallest Budget mATX CaseAntec Slim VSK2000-U3Antec Slim VSK2000-U3
Best Silent Smallest mATX CaseCooler Master Silencio S400CoolerMaster Silencio S400
Best Versatile Value Smallest mATX CaseCoolerMaster Masterbox Q300LCoolerMaster MasterBox Q300L
Best Portable Value Small mATX CaseCoolermaster MasterBox Q300PCoolerMaster MasterBox Q300P
Best Looking Smallest mATX Casecorsair crystal 280xCorsair Crystal 280X
Alternative Aesthetic Small mATX Casecorsair-carbide-series-air-240Corsair Carbide Air 240

Best Smallest Budget mATX Case

Antec Slim VSK2000-U3

If you are looking to keep costs down and don’t mind a very slight increase in space to save a few bucks, Antec offers a similarly small case called the Antec Slim VSK2000-U3 for a very reasonable $50 (less than half of the Minuet 350). This case is actually even smaller at 12.3L, but offers only a 250W PSU, and sports a similar subtle design, making it perfect for the budget builder trying to keep the size footprint to an absolute minimum.


Best Silent Smallest mATX Case

Cooler Master Silencio S400

While windowed cases are all the rage, some builders still prefer a more workman-like product that is very sober, but very functional. And amongst the prime features of a case of any size is its ability to dampen fan noise and keep things quiet. While all cases will help to a degree, some cases are bit for silence. CoolerMaster has offerings at the ATX size for this (Silencio 550) that are relatively well-known, so they decided to expand to the mATX form factor and build our recommendation for best silent smallest mATX case: the CoolerMaster Silencio S400.

The beauty of these cases is not only that they dampen sound, or that they are small. It’s that CoolerMaster has taken care to ensure that those are only some of the features. To allow for customization and increased ventilation, the S400 has the option to remove the top panel and remove the sound dampening aspect for slightly more noise, but also much more airflow. Similarly, the front mount is reversible, so that the front panel door can open on either side of the case based on which direction allows for better airflow. This type of detailed thought, combined with the typical CoolerMaster build quality and inclusion of the quiet FP120 fans to really double-down on the silence aspect, make this case exciting for anyone looking to maximize their zen-ness while building their rig. At $90, this case is a great buy for our quiet, tiny mATX builders.


Best Versatile Value Smallest mATX Case

CoolerMaster MasterBox Q300L

While the Antec Slim VSK2000-U3 is extremely affordable, not everyone is interested in quite so small a case, or one that might be limiting in terms of GPU/cooling options. And while quiet is nice, not everyone needs the dead silence of the Silencio S400. So for anyone looking for a very affordable, very versatile case, we can look at a different offering from our well-respected manufacturer CoolerMaster. For our best versatile value smallest mATX case, we recommend the MasterBox Q300L.

In terms of value, it is very tough to beat the MasterBox Q300L. The typical price is right near $45, and even lower on sale. But for the price, this case is packed with features into its tiny package. A comprehensive front panel that can be moved to different placements, a beautiful big window, a nice cable management spot behind the motherboard, and magnetic dust filters to keep the inside clean. Other than having an acrylic instead of tempered glass window, it really is tough to complain with the quality for the price, hence the recommendation in our value category.


Best Portable Value Small mATX Case

Coolermaster MasterBox Q300P

And if all of that wasn’t enough, CoolerMaster took the same interior and added different choices for outer fittings to really be sure you get exactly what you need. If you are looking for a tiny portable PC that still uses the mATX form factor, the MasterBox Q300P adds some great removable handholds to help you bring your PC to where it needs to be. This one is a bit more expensive at $85, but includes two RGB fans and an RGB hub, so you still get great bang-for-your-buck for a versatile, small, portable mATX case.


Best Looking Smallest mATX Cases

This category is tough, because it is very subjective. But given that a couple of the options above are at-best subtle, and at-worst boring, we wanted to include a category that shows off some of the beautiful cases that manage to stay small while still using the mATX form factor. Both come from the same high-quality manufacturer, and one of them has been mentioned on this site before. Our two recommendations for best aesthetics in a small mATX case are the Corsair Crystal 280X, and the Corsair Carbide Air 240.

corsair-carbide-series-air-240

In terms of pure size, the Carbide Air 240 is the smaller of the two and is truly a marvel. The full-size acrylic window combined with the sleek form, asymmetric front meshing and front panel I/O, and well-thought out design come together to make a very attractive mATX case. The optimization for airflow and ability to hold a dual-fan GPU, while maintaining the small footprint, are great examples of finding the balance between smallness and function. Unless you really want to go as tiny as possible like with the Antec offerings or an ITX build, this case will give you plenty of performance and great looks, all for right around $150.

corsair crystal 280x

And on the slightly bigger side, the Crystal 280X is just a beautiful chassis. The dual-compartment layout and double glass paneling help keep cables clean while showing off the insides of your rig. It’s not the tiniest case available, and for some reason it seems to ‘present’ as larger than it actually is, but if you want a build that looks terrific, uses the mATX form factor, and does not take up your entire desk, the Crystal 280X has great build quality and will impress anyone you meet. It’s not cheap at $170 (including two fans and a hub), but you get what you pay for, which is a beautifully designed, well-built mATX case.


Conclusion

Whether you want the absolute tiniest mATX to rival even many ITX builds, or something that just uses the most of what mATX has to offer and really differentiates itself from ATX, this guide hopefully shed some light on what cases to consider. Depending on what is most important to you, mATX offers a diverse selection of small cases, many of which excel at specific attributes like silence or portability, and others that really take mATX to the extreme limits of compactness. Make sure you think about what exactly you are looking for before making your purchase, but once you’ve decided on your priority, this guide should help make the buying process a little bit easier.

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