Best Micro-ATX Cases for 2023
We rated, reviewed, & compared 11 of the best micro-ATX cases across various budgets. We rated each mATX case listed here based on price, build-quality, and feature set.
If you want to build a small form-factor gaming computer, you have a couple of options for the size of motherboard and case you can you. One of the more budget-friendly form-factors is micro-ATX. Micro-ATX cases are a little smaller than the traditional standard ATX mid tower cases and are a little bit larger than the popular mini-ITX cases.
Also Read: Micro-ATX vs Mini-ITX vs ATX: What’s the Difference?
The nice thing about mATX cases and motherboards is that they typically cost quite a bit less than mini-ITX motherboards and cases. In a lot of instances, gamers working with a tight budget can’t afford a mini-ITX case and motherboard because of their higher price. However, there are plenty of micro-ATX cases and motherboards out there that come in at a fraction of the price.
So, in an effort to help you find the best micro-ATX case for your budget and needs, I’ve put together this buyer’s guide. In this guide, you’ll find 11 of the top mATX PC cases that you can use to building a new high-end gaming PC or a budget-friendly system with.
Table of Contents
– Our Picks for the Best mATX Cases
1. Top Pick: NZXT h500i
2. Runner-Up: Phanteks EVOLV mATX
3. Cube-Style: Thermaltake Level 20 VT
4. Value: Antec P6
5. Budget: Thermaltake Versa h25
6. Honorable Mentions
MORE FROM THIS SERIES1. Best CPUs for Gaming2. Best CPU Coolers3. Best Motherboards for Gaming4. Best Video Cards for Gaming5. Best Memory for Gaming6. Best Solid State Drives for Gaming7. Best Hard Drives for Gaming8. Best Computer Cases9. Best Power Supplies for Gaming10. Best Monitors for Gaming11. Best Headsets for Gaming12. Best PC Gaming Chairs13. Best Gaming Desks
Our Top Picks for the Best Micro-ATX Cases
The table below represents our top selections for the best micro-ATX cases across a range of categories.
We’ve chosen what we feel is the best mATX case overall, our runner-up pick, the best cube-style micro-ATX case, the best value pick, and the best budget-friendly option.
| NAME | SPECS | RATING | |||
|
TOP PICK |
Lian Li 205M |
|
9.1/10 |
Check Price Read Review » |
|
|
RUNNER UP |
Phanteks EVOLV mATX |
|
9.1/10 |
Check Price Read Review » |
|
|
CUBE STYLE |
Thermaltake Level 20 VT |
|
8. 9/10 |
Check Price Read Review » |
|
|
VALUE PICK |
Thermaltake S100 |
|
8.6/10 |
Check Price Read Review » |
|
|
BUDGET |
Montech Flyer |
|
8.4/10 |
Check Price Read Review » |
*To read more about each of these mATX cases, click on the “Read Review »” link to skip to our write-up on that case. You can also keep scrolling down to find more micro-ATX cases based on your budget.
1. Lian Li 205M
The best micro-ATX case overall
Our Rating: 9.1/10
Check Price on Amazon
Lian Li’s 205M micro-ATX case is the perfect option for anyone looking for a nice-looking premium chassis that won’t break the bank.
The 250M is also one of the roomier mATX cases on this list with the ability to hold video cards that are up to 14.8″ in length and up to 6.2″ in height.
The case can also hold up to five different fans and can hold up to a 240mm AIO cooler on the top or front of the case. And, the 250M comes with two 120mm fans preinstalled.
While the 250M and Phanteks EVOLV mATX (listed below) are pretty close in terms of overall quality, the 250M has a little bit more room inside of it and it comes in at ~$40-$50 cheaper.
Overall, the 250M is one of the best smaller form-factor cases on the market overall, let alone one of the best micro-ATX cases. So, if you’re looking for a solid mATX case and you have a budget that can accommodate the 250M, it would at least be worth considering.
2. Phanteks EVOLV mATX
The next best mATX case
Our Rating: 9.1/10
Check Price on Amazon
Another equally as impressive option as Lian Li’s 250M is the Phanteks EVOLV mATX.
The EVOLV mATX also comes with a tempered glass side panel and a PSU shroud. However, it doesn’t have quite as much clearance for video cards as the h500i does as it can only accommodate cards that are up to 12.5″ long.
The good news, though, is that 12.5″ of clearance for graphics cards is more than enough to house even the higher-end GPUs out there. In fact, you’ll find that there are some RTX 3090s and RTX 3080s out there come in at under 12.5″ long. So, really, you aren’t limited in terms of what you can do inside of the EVOLV mATX.
One upside to the EVOLV mATX, though, (at least, in comparison to the 250M), is the fact that it can hold a larger 360mm AIO cooler or radiator. So, if you’re on the fence between the two and you’re looking to fit as big of a cooler in the system as possible, the EVOLV mATX will allow you to go with the bigger radiator.
However, if you prefer the style of the 250M over the EVOLV, then I’d say that you should go with the 250M, as the differences between the cases (feature-wise) probably aren’t so significant to where you’d be mad if you chose one over the other.
3. Thermaltake Level 20 VT
A high-end cube-style mATX case
Our Rating: 8.9/10
Check Price on Amazon
We chose the Thermaltake Level 20 VT as our top choice for cube-style micro-ATX cases. The Level 20 VT has received mostly positive reviews. It comes with four tempered glass panels, three of which are removable, on its front, sides, and top.
The case has a ton of room inside of it with support for graphics cards that are up to 13.8″ long and CPU coolers that are up to 7.3″ tall. Both of those represent enough clearance to allow for pretty much any graphics card or air CPU cooler currently on the market. The case also has a ton of support for liquid cooling as well with room for up to 280mm AIO coolers. You can even fit dual 240mm radiators on the top panel of the case, too.
The one downside of the Level 20 VT, though, is that it costs more than all of the other cube-style cases on this list and it doesn’t offer as much airflow as some of the other options on this list.
However, with the ability to house up to a maximum of nine fans, and its extensive support for liquid cooling, you can potentially make up for its slightly lower levels of airflow by adding additional hardware to it.
But, if you want something that will provide better cooling out-of-the-box, you might want to check out the Corsair Crystal 280X, the Thermaltake Core X2, or the Thermaltake Core V21 below.
4. Thermaltake S100
The best mATX case for the money?
Our Rating: 8.6/10
Check Price on Amazon
For our pick for the micro-ATX case that offers the best value for its price, we chose the Thermaltake S100. Why? Well, the S100 has a lot of the features that are popular among system builders right now (mainly, a tempered glass side panel and a PSU shroud) and it has an all-black sleek-looking design that is neither too plain to scare away users looking for a sexier option and too over-the-top to scare away users that are looking for a simpler design.
And, it has enough room on the inside of to meet most buidlers demands. It with the ability to house graphics cards up to 12.9″ long (which is enough clearance to accommodate most graphics cards out there) and CPU coolers up to 6.4″ tall. It can also hold radiators up to 280mm long as long as the radiator and fans on it are no thicker than 55mm. So, liquid cooling is also a possibility in this case as well.
You get all of these features for just a little under $70. So, the bottom line is that if you are looking for a nice-looking micro-ATX case that has plenty of room to house a high-end build, the S100 is worth considering.
5. Montech Flyer
The best budget micro-ATX case
Our Rating: 8.4/10
Check Price on Amazon
The Montech Flyer is the cheapest option on this list, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad option. It does only come with two fans preinstalled, but it gives you the option to add up to three more later down the road (for a total of five fans).
The design is pretty straightforward, but it does offer a little bit more than other sub-$50 cases. It has a see-through acryllic side panel, a full length PSU shroud, and an RGB strip offset to one side.
With the Flyer, you can fit graphics cards as long as 12.9″ and CPU coolers as tall as 6.2″ inside of this case. Both of those figures are enough to accommodate high-end video cards and CPU coolers.
Ultimately, for just under $50, the Montech Flyer is the perfect option for budget-oriented system builders who need an affordable case that won’t significantly limit their component options.
6. Fractal Design Node 804
Another cube-style micro-ATX case
Our Rating: 8.8/10
Check Price on Amazon
If you’re looking for a cube-style case, one option you have is the Fractal Design Node 804. The Node 804 has an all-black minimalistic design making it a good option for gamers or professionals who don’t want the over-the-top look that some cases come with.
The Node 804 also provides enough room and clearance for users to be able to build a high-end system inside of as well. It comes with support for up to 12.6″ long graphics cards and up to 6.3″ tall CPU coolers. You can also fit liquid cooling radiators that are up to 280mm long in this case, too, so if you want to put a high-end AIO cooler in it, or put custom liquid cooling inside of it, you should be able to do so.
For us, the main downfall of the Node 804, though, is its price. Compared to other cube-style cases on this list (like the Thermaltake Level 20 VT, the Corsair Carbide Air 240, and the Thermaltake Core X2 and Core V1), the Node 804 comes in at anywhere from ~$35-$65 more expensive. For some users (especially those who like the simpler design of the Node 804) that price difference will be worth it. However, if you’re a bit more budget conscious, you might want to check out the other cube-style micro-ATX cases listed above or below.
7. BitFenix Prodigy M
Nice-looking mATX case with handles
Our Rating: 8.
6/10
Check Price on Amazon
The BitFenix Prodigy M offers the signature Bitfenix Prodigy design—just in a slightly bigger format than its smaller mini-ITX brother. The case is available in a variety of colors, like orange, green, or plain white and it comes with handles on the front and back to make it easier to move around.
For clearance, the Prodigy M can hold graphics cards up to 12.6-inches long and CPU coolers up to 6.3-inches tall. It can also hold up to five fans (comes with two preinstalled on the bottom of the case and the back of the case) and it has room to hold a 120mm or 140mm radiator.
The Prodigy M is also one of the more compact micro-ATX cases on this list, so if you want to build a mini gaming PC, this isn’t a bad case do it in.
Ultimately, if you like the Bitfenix Prodigy design, the Prodigy M comes in at a fairly decent price (considering the competition), is one of the more compact mATX options available, and it has multiple color schemes to help you find the right match for your tastes.
8. Corsair Crystal 280X
Another worthy cube micro-ATX case
Our Rating: 8.8/10
Check Price on Amazon
Corsair’s Crystal 280X is another solid cube-style micro-ATX case. The 280X has an attractive design thanks in part to its three tempered glass panels (one on the top, one on the front, and one on the side) and all black color scheme.
It also has a decent amount of interior space as well, thanks to its dual chamber design. The case can hold graphics cards as long as 11.8-inches and CPU coolers as tall as 5.9-inches. It also has space for liquid cooling radiators up to 240mm on either the top, front, or bottom of the case.
The 280X is available in white or black and you can opt for the standard tempered glass edition, or the RGB edition (which also has tempered glass.) If you want to save a little bit of money, the Corsair Carbide Air 240 is essentially the same case, it just doesn’t have tempered glass panels.
Overall, if you like cube-style cases, the Crystal 280X probably has one of the better designs out of all of the box-style cases.
The RGB version of the case is fairly expensive, but the non-RGB version comes in at a somewhat decent price.
9. Thermaltake Core X2
A very roomy micro-ATX case
Our Rating: 8.9/10
Check Price on Amazon
If you’re deadset on a cube-style micro-ATX case and you’ve decided to pass on the Node 804, the Level VT, and the Air 240, you might end up with an even better option in the Thermaltake Core X2. While the other options listed above might feature nicer-looking designs, the Core X2 offers more room on its interior and support for more fans (and larger radiators) than any of the other cube-style cases on this list.
In fact, the Core X2 can accommodate more fans and radiators, and larger graphics cards and CPU coolers than any of the cases on this list. It can hold up a whopping 15 different case fans, as well radiators up to 360mm long. You can also technically run up to six different radiators simultaneously in this case as well.
For clearances, the Core X2 can house graphics cards up to 18.9″ long and CPU coolers up to 9.0″ tall. Both of those figures are well over the actual length and height of any existing graphics cards and CPU coolers. So, you shouldn’t have any problems finding a video card or cooler that will fit inside of this case.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly cube case that has an insane amount of room and fan/radiator support inside of it, the Core X2 might be the best option for you.
10. Thermaltake Core V21
A cheaper cube-style mATX case
Our Rating: 8.6/10
Check Price on Amazon
Another cube-style micro-ATX case that is worth mentioning is the Thermaltake Core V21 (seriously, how does Thermaltake manage so many different lines of cases?!) It’s not quite as roomy and it can’t support as many fans (or radiators) as the Core X2, but it does come in at about ~$100 cheaper and it is no slouch in graphics card/CPU cooler clearance and the maximum number of fans supported.
The Thermaltake Core V21 can house video cards up to 13.8″ long and CPU coolers up to 7.3″ tall. It can also hold up to 11 difference case fans as well as hold radiators up to 280mm long. So, needless to say, there really isn’t a limit on the kind of system you can put inside of this case.
It probably isn’t suited for a quad-GPU system with an extreme custom liquid cooling setup, but for a high-end single GPU setup with a large AIO cooler, this case will work just fine.
11. MasterBox Lite 3.1
A decent budget-friendly micro-ATX case
Our Rating: 8.4/10
Check Price on Amazon
The MasterBox Lite 3.1 gives a whole new meaning to space management. It utilizes modular elements in the design to give you more room to incorporate larger components. At 456mm x 208mm x 381mm and a little under nine pounds, it’s one of the more compact and lightweight designs available.
The Lite 3.1 can house graphics cards as large as 14.
9 inches and CPU coolers as tall as 6.2 inches. Essentially, that means you can build as high-end of a single-GPU system as possible inside this budget-friendly case, as it will fit even the biggest and best GPUs and coolers on the market inside of it.
It also comes with a completely transparent side panel so that you can show off your build.
Ultimately, at this price, the value is insane considering the space you get. If you’re looking for a small form-factor case that will allow you to build a high-end system inside of, or even if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option you can grow into as you upgrade your system, this case fits the bill. You can read more about this case in our review on it, which can be found here.
Which Micro-ATX Case is Right for You?
Whether you’re looking for a stylish micro-ATX case that will make a statement, or a mATX case that can accommodate a high-end gaming PC inside of it, one of the options listed above should do the trick for you.
There are micro-ATX cases above that come with RGB lights, clearance for even the longest graphics cards, and the ability to house robust liquid cooling systems. And, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options you can use to put together a solid entry-level gaming PC.
So, if you’re in the market for a new case, the 11 options above represent what we feel are the best micro-ATX cases currently available.
11 Smallest ATX Cases for Best Compact PC Builds 2023
If you’re looking to build a powerful PC but are compact, then you might want to consider some of the 11 ATX cases designed to be the smallest possible size we have to show you. Most of us wouldn’t turn down a Computer loaded with ferocious hardware, but not everyone has the desk or floor space to accommodate a tower the size of a child.
Fortunately, PC components and case makers are recognizing the growing need for tiny yet powerful machines, so there will be plenty of options in 2020. Although an ultra-compact PC has advantages, there are some factors to consider before purchasing one, not all of them are evident.
In this article, we’ll discuss the advantages and downsides of joining the travel-sized PC club, as well as review five of our best tiny ATX cases currently on the market.
We’ll start this article with a quick overview of things to look for while buying a tiny ATX case. You can jump straight to our selections if you like.
Here’s a quick overview of the compact Cases we like best. To find out why we like these the most – read on.
| Case Name | Weight | Dimension |
|---|---|---|
| Corsair Carbide Air 540 | 16.3 pounds | 16.3 x 13.1 x 18 inches |
| Cooler Master Q500L | 8.4 pounds | 15.2 x 9.1 x 15 inches |
| Lian Li O11-Dynamic-Mini | 18.73 pounds | 16.5 x 10.6 x 14.96 inches |
| Cooler Master HAF XB EVO | 18.1 pounds | 17.4 x 13 x 16.7 inches |
| NZXT H510 | 17.6 pounds | 16.85 x 8.27 x 18.11 inches |
| SilverStone Grandia GD09 | 9. 26 pounds |
17.32 x 14.09 x 6.69 inches |
| Corsair Carbide Series 175R | 13.45 pounds | 16.46 x 8.27 x 17.72 inches |
| Thermaltake Core G3 | 9.3 pounds | 17.9 x 14.6 x 5.5 inches |
| Fractal Design Meshify C | 14.33 pounds | 8.35 x 17.32 x 15.55 inches |
| Rosewill Challenger S | 11.24 pounds | 17.52 x 8.26 x 16.06 inches |
| Corsair iCue 220T | 14.33 pounds | 15.55 x 8.27 x 17.72 inches |
What Does ATX Mean, Anyway?
ATX stands for “Advanced Technology eXtended,” which is a really ambiguous and unhelpful acronym. It’s a motherboard standard (also known as a “form factor”) that dates back to the mid-1990s and is still the most common type of motherboard in consumer Computers today.
The ATX designation indicates the size and general architecture of the motherboard, which gives a rough indication of the number and kind of ports and expansion slots.
For instance, some ATX boards may have four RAM slots, whereas others may have six or eight.
Build Your Dream PC with These Top Picks
1. Corsair Carbide Air 540
Corsair is known for creating high-quality PC products, and the Carbide Air 540 is one of their finest cases designed for compact builds.
The case features a cube design with a dual-chamber layout that separates the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and memory from the drives and PSU.
This configuration ensures direct airflow to the main components, resulting in efficient cooling that is ideal for those who want to push their system to its limits through overclocking.
Key Features:
- Supports E-ATX, ATX, mATX, and Mini-ITX.
- Up to 6 x 120mm or 5 x 140mm case fans.
- Features 4 x 2.5”, 2 x 3.
5”, and 2 x 5.25” drive bays. - 3 pre-installed 140mm Corsair Air Series AF140L intake and exhaust fans.
- Maximum: GPU length 320mm, CPU cooler height 170mm, and standard ATX PSU length 250mm.
- Comes with a front dust filter to keep the build clean.
- An edge-to-edge tinted flush-mount side window (Acrylic).
- 8 PCI-E slots.
- Front I/O with USB 3.0 x 2 and Audio In/Out ports.
This case provides enough of space for you to enhance your system with high-performance cooling. A 360mm liquid cooler or a 280mm top radiator can be installed on the front panel.
Pros
- Runs quiet
- Spacious steel-made cube design
- Outstanding cooling capabilities
- Tool-free PCI-E and storage drive installation
- Easy cable management with routing channels
Cons
- A little bit pricey for budget PC builders
- Only comes pre-equipped with the front dust filter
2.
Cooler Master Q500L
The Cooler Master Q500L is the follow-up to last year’s Q300L, a fantastic Micro ATX case. The Q500L is only a little larger, yet it supports ATX motherboards!
This is undoubtedly one of our top recommendations for the smallest ATX case, thanks to the airflow-optimized front and top panels, the large side panel window, and lots of fan mounts.
Key Features:
- Supports ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX.
- Made of high-quality steel and polymer with a mesh front bezel.
- Maximum: GPU length 334mm, CPU cooler height 180mm, and PSU length 180mm.
- Packs 2 x 3.5”/2.5” internal drive bay plus 2 x 3.5”/2.5” and 2 x 5.25” external drive bays.
- Supports up to 4 fans: a 200mm at the top, 2 x 120mm in the front, and a 120mm rear fan.
- 7 PCI-E for expansion.
- Front I/O with USB 3.0 x 2 and Audio In/Out.
- Two Top-Panel designs: windowed for showing off or meshed for superior cooling.
The case comes with two pre-installed durable XtraFlo fans in the front. It can also support a 240mm radiator for powerful airflow to keep your system running cool.
Pros
- Fairly cheap
- ATX motherboard support on what used to be an mATX case
- Detachable dust filters
- Strong airflow
- Adjustable side panel I/O.
Cons
- Only one fan included.
3. Lian Li O11-Dynamic-Mini – Latest Small ATX Case
The Lian Li O11 Dynamic Mini is a lovely tiny form factor chassis that is a miniature version of the original PC-O11 Dynamic. And Lian Li didn’t skimp on making the O11-Dynamic Mini smaller. In fact, an ATX board may fit within the O11-D Mini.
The O11-D Mini also boasts superb cable management and temperature regulation for such a compact case.
You may attach up to nine 120mm fans or six 140mm fans and even slightly modify the casing to accommodate water cooling.
There aren’t many things that may turn builders away from the O11-D Mini. One such thing is the lack of support for a typical ATX PSU. This is understandable given the SFF of the chassis.
Key Features:
- Supports E-ATX (under 280mm width), ATX, mATX, and Mini-ITX
- Up to 3 x 120mm or 2 x 140mm case fans on top, 2 x 120mm or 2 x140mm fans on the side, 3 x 120mm or 2 x 140mm fans at the bottom and 1 x 120mm fan in the rear.
- Supports 2 x 2.5”/3.5” SSD/HDD (back), and 2 x 2.5” SSD (Right).
- Maximum: GPU length 395mm, CPU cooler height 172mm, and SFX or SFX-L PSU.
- Comes with four dust filters (1 x Top, 1 x Bottom and 2 x Side) to keep the build clean.
- Supports 7 horizontal PCI expansions.
- I/O Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C, 1 x HD Audio.
Pros
- A small form factor Computer Case that is perfect for ITX, but also supports ATX
- Gives the builder plenty of room to play around creatively
- Shows an overall good thermal performance
- Supports water cooling
- Cable management is great
- Price is reasonable
Cons
- Front I/O panel is a bit slow
- Does not come with any built-in fans
- Bottom air filter is ugly
- For something with ‘Mini’ in its name, it isn’t exactly petite
4. Cooler Master HAF XB EVO – Best for LAN Party
The Cooler Master HAF XB EVO, as the name implies, is great at managing the thermal levels of any high-end PC.
The HAF XB provides great airflow capability, with support for multiple fans, a 240mm radiator in the front and a 120mm radiator in the back. It even comes with two 120mm XtraFlo fans pre-installed.
You can increase airflow by removing the side panels.
There are four dust panels to help prevent dust gathering. This greatly simplifies maintenance.
The removable motherboard tray is one of the HAF XB EVO’s most appealing features. This is great for enthusiasts who want to put their rigs through their paces. The hard drive trays, too, are tool-free and removable. This increases the HAF XB’s versatility. It also comes with rigid side handles that make it a very portable pc case.
With this case, builders will be paying for a top-class case. Thermal regulation is suitable for any high-end PC and there’s plenty of room for customization. But assembling it can be a bit tiresome and it isn’t the most compact PC case.
Key Features:
- Supports ATX, mATX, and Mini-ITX.
- Supports 1 x 200mm fan on Top, 2 x 120mm or 2 x 140mm fans at the front and 1 x 120mm or 2 x 80mm fans in the rear.
- Comes with two 120mm XtraFlo fans pre-installed at the front.
- Features 4 x 2.5”/3.5” and 2 x 5.25” bays.
- Maximum: GPU length 334mm, CPU cooler height 180mm, and standard ATX PSU length 180mm.
- Comes with four dust filters (1 x Top, 1 x Bottom and 2 x Side) to keep the build clean.
- Has 7 PCI expansion slots.
- Front I/O Panel: 2 x USB 3.0, HD Audio In & Out.
Pros
- Extraordinary airflow with ventilation from all sides
- Has a removable motherboard tray
- Sturdy design that promises durability
- Has plenty of room for creative customization and large hardware
- Drive trays are tool-less and easy to insert
Cons
- Can be difficult to assemble
- Top only supports a 200mm fan (and does not support standard 120/140mm fans)
- Can take quite a bit of space and Is a bit on the expensive side
5. NZXT H510
The NZXT H510 (and its i-series counterpart) is the successor to the last-gen NZXT H500 chassis.
Like before, it has utterly stellar build quality, cable management, and minimalist aesthetics.
Key Features:
- Motherboard Support: Up to ATX
- GPU Length: Up to 381 mm
- CPU Cooler Height: Up to 165 mm
- Fans Preinstalled: 2 120mm fans included for intake and exhaust
- Fan Slots Available: 2 120/140 mm slots on front, 1 120/140 mm slot on top, 1 120mm slot on rear
- Side Panel Window: Tempered Glass
- PSU Size Support: Standard ATX PSU
- I/O Ports: 1 USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port, 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A
- Extras: Extra color options, RGB lighting with -i version
Pretty much everything you need is here. If you’re wanting for more the -i version adds RGB to the mix.
Pros
- Compact size for a full ATX chassis
- Support for custom loop liquid cooling
- Updated I/O ports with USB Type-C
- PSU basement for cable management
Cons
- High price- especially if you opt for the -i Series version
6.
SilverStone Grandia GD09 – Best for ATX HTPC Builds
The SilverStone Grandia GD09 is built for the ultimate Home Theater PC (HTPC) experience, and its form factor shows it.
Key Features:
- Motherboard Support: SCI-CEB, Micro ATX, and ATX
- GPU Length: Up to 309 mm
- CPU Cooler Height: Up to 138 mm
- Fans Preinstalled: 1 120 mm intake fan on the right
- Fan Slots Available: Up to 3 120 mm fans
- Side Panel Window: N/A
- PSU Size Support: Up to 140 mm (standard ATX)
- I/O Ports: 2 USB 3.0, 1 Audio
- Extras: Supports Kensington lock and rack mounting
As long as you can keep your CPU cooler in check, you have plenty of room for expansion with this one.
Pros
- Compact, intelligent form factor
- Rack mounting and Kensington support
- Adaptable drive cages, no external adapters needed
Cons
- High price
- Only one included fan
7.
Corsair Carbide Series 175R – Best RGB ATX Mid-Tower Gaming Case
The Corsair Carbide 175R is the most recent addition to the Corsair Carbide Series, offering a good basic design at a low price.
Obviously, we could go on and on about the 175R’s shortcomings and where it could have been improved. Yet the truth is that this is a low-cost chassis. And you won’t find anything better at this pricing.
The case includes a tinted tempered glass side panel and a 120mm back fan with RGB lighting.
Because this case accommodates up to six 120mm or four 140mm fans, airflow is great. There’s also enough for a 350mm cooling radiator, providing the 175R good thermal performance for its budget.
There is also enough room for a full-sized ATX board and extra clearance for optimum wire management.
If you want a basic budget computer case, the 175R is the appropriate choice.
If you need something strong to support a heavy construction, you might want to look elsewhere. The Corsair Carbide 275R is an excellent Carbide series replacement that offers somewhat greater features for a slightly higher price.
Key Features:
- Supports mATX, ATX and mini-ITX.
- Supports up to 3x 120mm or 2x 140mm fans at the front, 2x 120mm or 2 x 140mm fans on the top and 1x 120mm fan in the rear.
- Comes with one pre-installed programmable RGB fan.
- Features 2 x 3.5” and 2 x 2.5” bays.
- Maximum: GPU length 330mm, CPU cooler height 160mm, and standard ATX PSU length 180mm.
- Has 7 PCI expansion slots.
- Features programmable RGB Lighting.
- Front I/O Panel: 2 x USB 3.0 and Audio In & Out.
Pros
- Comes with cool RGB lighting
- Cable management is great
- Comes with good water-cooling support
- Has a tempered glass side panel to showcase your build
- Is very affordable
Cons
- Pre-installed RGB fan isn’t very good
- The side panel isn’t very sturdy
8.
Thermaltake Core G3 – Best for Slim ATX Builds
Thermaltake Core G3 is a high-quality small pc case that embraces a slim design. It is designed to fit on your desk or a tight living room.
The spacious compartment allows you to build a powerful rig for 4K VR gaming.
Key Features:
- Supports 12” x 9.6” (ATX), 9.6” x 9.6” (Micro ATX), and 6.7” x 6.7” (Mini ITX).
- Supports 2 x 2.5” or 2 x 3.5” storage drives with HDD cage.
- Supports 2 x 120mm fans or a 240mm radiator in the front and a 120mm top fan.
- Maximum: GPU length 310mm, CPU cooler height 110mm, and SFX PSU length 130mm.
- Handy Top-Front I/O with USB 2.0 x 2, USB 3.0 x 2, and HD Audio jacks.
- Compatible with up to NVIDIA Geforce GTX 1080/1070.
- Two expansion slots.
Core G3 features a nice transparent acrylic side window panel to show off your build. It has been equipped with a custom GPU mount for a floating GPU design.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Lightweight design.
- Can orient vertically or horizontally.
- Comes with 2 pre-installed 120mm fans.
- Very compact ATX case made of high-quality SPCC.
Cons
- Doesn’t support the standard PSU.
- Cable management can get tough.
9. Fractal Design Meshify C – Compact Case With Water-Cooling Support
At first glance, the Fractal Design Meshify C appears to be identical to its more expensive sister, the Define C. It is, however, distinct in terms of both pricing and features.
The Meshify C is an excellent mid-range PC case with a reasonable price that matches its characteristics. Because the front panel does not reflect the noise from the internal components back into the case, it is slightly noisier than in other cases.
Key Features:
- Supports ATX, mATX, and Mini-ITX.
- Supports 2 x 120/140mm fans on top, 3 x 120mm or 2 x 140mm fans at the front, 1 x 120mm fan in the rear and 1 x 120mm fan at the bottom.
- Comes with two Dynamic X2 GP-12 fans pre-installed (one at the front and one in the rear)
- Radiators: Front 120/240/360mm and 140/280mm + Top 120/240mm + Rear 120mm
- Features 2 x 2.5”/3.5” and 3 x 2.5” (dedicated) bays.
- Maximum: GPU length 315mm, CPU cooler height 170mm, and standard ATX PSU length 175mm.
- Dust filters: Bottom Fan + PSU, Front Fans and Top Fans.
- Has 7 PCI expansion slots.
- Front I/O Panel: 2 x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out.
This Meshify C offers optimal airflow, with support for up to seven 120mm fans.
It even comes with two pre-installed retail-grade Dynamic X2 GP-12 fans. This case however wasn’t designed with liquid cooling in mind.
If you’re in the market for a mid-range chassis with a sturdy build, the Meshify C is the right choice for you. If you’re not a fan of noisy cases or plan on installing a liquid cooler, you might want to consider some other options.
Pros
- Supports multiple water-cooling radiators
- Airflow is good
- Cable management is excellent
- Comes with two excellent 120mm fans Is easy to assemble
- Has plenty of dust filters
- Build is sturdy
Cons
- Can be slightly noisy
- Front I/O panel isn’t that great
- Spacing is quite compact and does not support oversized ATX boards or longer PSUs
10. Rosewill Challenger S – Best Budget Small ATX Case
The Rosewill Challenger S is our budget pick, but it’s still packed with features.
Key Features:
- Motherboard Support: Micro ATX and ATX
- GPU Length: Up to 360 mm
- CPU Cooler Height: Up to 170 mm
- Fans Preinstalled: 2 120 mm intake fans, 1 120 mm exhaust fan
- Fan Slots Available: Up to 5 120 mm fans
- Side Panel Window: N/A
- PSU Size Support: Standard ATX
- I/O Ports: 1 USB 3.
0, 2 USB 2.0, and 1 Audio Port - Extras: LED intake fans
The included dual blue LED intake fans are a pleasant extra, as is the 120 mm intake fan. If you’re a budget user, this case is especially appealing, since it has a fully-functional airflow setup out-of-the-box, without any extra tweaking needed from you.
Pros
- The 3 included fans
- The low price
- Decent support for GPUs and air coolers, despite its size
Cons
- Only 1 USB 3.0 port
11. Corsair iCue 220T – Best Tempered Class Smart ATX Case
The Corsair iCue 220T is part of Corsair’s new iCue case series, focused on providing the best experience with their RGB product lineup.
Key Features:
- Motherboard Support: Up to ATX
- GPU Length: Up to 300 mm
- CPU Cooler Height: Up to 160 mm
- Fans Preinstalled: 3 120 mm RGB fans
- Fan Slots Available: Up to 6 120 mm fans
- Side Panel Window: Tempered Glass
- PSU Size Support: Up to 180 mm
- I/O Ports: 2 USB 3.
0, 1 Audio Port - Extras: RGB intake fans, removable dust filters
The included RGB fans, great intake design, and not-too-small design make this a great choice for any user.
Pros
- 3 included RGB fans
- Fairly solid build quality and building experience
- All-around great support for CPU coolers, GPUs, and PSUs
Cons
- Fairly high price
- No included exhaust fan- though this can be fixed by moving one of the three included fans to the back
Helpful Tips!
The fact that it is a tiny form factor ATX case does not preclude it from housing normal ATX components. When shopping for compact cases, keep the following in mind:
- Build components: Make sure the case is spacious enough to fit your CPU, GPU, and PSU without causing a tight fit that may make building challenging.
- Case build quality: Choose cases made of durable materials such as all steel or aluminum to ensure your case can withstand regular use.
- Expandability: Look for cases with multiple drive bays and PCIe slots to easily add components in the future and improve your system’s performance.
- Airflow: In addition to the spacious design, ensure the case has good airflow options. Many compact ATX cases have poorly placed fans or fewer than two 120mm fan options, so it’s essential to choose a case with proper airflow to prevent overheating.
- Cable management: Opt for cases with cut-out spaces and cable routing channels to make cable management easy and avoid clutter.
How to Choose an Ideal Small ATX Case for a Compact PC
In order to get the best value for your money’s worth, you need to understand the specific set of features that make a great ATX case. In the section below, we have listed some of the most important features to look for when making this purchase.
Form Factors
Before diving into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand the concept of form factors.
Form factors refer to the physical dimensions and standards of components like the motherboard and case. ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended) is a common form factor for both motherboards and PC cases. Small ATX cases are designed to accommodate ATX motherboards but in a more compact format than regular ATX cases, optimizing space without sacrificing component compatibility.
Considerations for Space and Component Fit
The first consideration in choosing a small ATX case is ensuring that it has adequate space for all your components. You must account for the dimensions of your motherboard, power supply, graphics card, and cooling solutions (like fans and heatsinks), ensuring they all fit within the constraints of the case.
Pay special attention to the GPU and CPU cooler dimensions, as these components often take up the most space. Keep in mind that good cable management can optimize internal space and improve airflow, leading to better system cooling.
Airflow and Cooling System Compatibility
The next key factor is airflow.
High-performance components can generate a lot of heat, and it’s essential that your case has an effective cooling solution. Look for a small ATX case that can support the number and size of fans you plan to use. Some cases also support liquid cooling solutions for more efficient heat dissipation. The case design, including the number and placement of vents and filters, also affects airflow and dust accumulation.
Expandability and Future-Proofing
Another crucial aspect to consider is future upgrades. If you plan to upgrade your components in the future, choose a case that allows for expandability. Check the number of drive bays and expansion slots. If you think you might add more storage drives or expansion cards in the future, make sure your chosen case can accommodate them.
Aesthetics and Personal Preferences
Finally, while practical considerations are certainly important, aesthetics and personal preference also play a role in choosing a case. The case is the most visible part of your computer, so you might want it to match your style.
Cases come in various colors and finishes, and some have transparent panels to showcase your components. Some cases also include RGB lighting for a more personalized look.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should I consider a small ATX case for my compact PC build?
Because these cases provide an excellent balance between size and compatibility. They can house powerful components typically compatible with standard ATX motherboards but in a more compact form factor, making them ideal for space-conscious setups, such as a home office or a living room entertainment center.
2. Does a smaller ATX case mean overheating issues?
Not necessarily. While smaller cases have less space for airflow, many are cleverly designed to optimize cooling. Choosing a case that supports adequate cooling solutions (such as multiple fans or liquid cooling systems), coupled with efficient cable management, can prevent overheating even in compact cases.