Tag: PC Hardware

If you’re an aspiring streamer looking to create gaming console content, or you just want to share your amazing gameplay when you play games, then you need a capture card. There are capture cards meant for PC gaming, while there are capture cards meant for consoles. Apart from helping you stream footage, you can use some capture cards to build your overall stream overlay. You can link your stream capture software, audio mixer software (if you have any), high-end webcam or DSLR, and a stream deck to a capture card to stream or capture HDR footage without compromising video quality.

The best gaming capture cards in the market today have impressive features. The high end cards allow for recording gameplay at 4K/60Hz and HD recording. Now, to take advantage of a capture card’s power, your streaming computer needs to be just as powerful. The newest Nvidia and AMD graphics cards can get you all the power you need to capture epic gaming moments at the highest resolution and frame rate possible.

What’s a Capture Card?

But first, what is a capture card? A capture card is a piece of hardware used together with a third party software to capture on-screen content and encode it for playback through livestream or high-quality recording.

Capture cards are compatible with PC and consoles as long as they have an HDMI cable. You can also find portable capture cards that you can bring along when you travel. PC gamers and console gamers both enjoy the use of a capture card for streaming or for capturing gameplay.

How Do You Use a Capture Card?

How do you capture gameplay footage using a capture card? Well, you need to know what systems are compatible with a capture card first.

Most capture cards are compatible with the following devices:

1. Current generation consoles: Nintendo Switch (or Switch OLED), Playstation 5, Xbox One
2. Personal Computers
3. Macbooks (check for capture cards’ hardware requirements first)
4. DSLR Cameras, or any digital camera, with HDMI output

To use a capture card, you need the following:

1. HDMI output with HDMI cable
2. TV or monitor
3. Personal computer (gaming hardware recommended) for storing or recording footage
4. Capture software (i.e. Streamlabs OBS, Bandicam, etc.)

Top 3 Best Capture Cards For Streaming

Now that we know what a capture card is and how you can use it to record gameplay, it’s time to reveal the top 3 capture cards for streaming and recording gameplay footage.

Best External Capture Card: Elgato HD60 X

A brand that needs no introduction. Elgato is one of the leading manufacturers for all recording and streaming hardware. From microphones to stream decks to capture cards, it comes as no surprise that Elgato is on this list.

The best capture card in the market right now is the Elgato HD60 X. What’s really impressive about this capture card is the 4K passthrough and makes use of G-Sync or FreeSync technologies. The latter was made possible with the latest updates on the Elgato HD60 X.

This capture card will cost you about $200, and comes with three key capture resolutions:

• 4k at 30FPS
• 1440p at 60FPS
• 1080p at 60FPS

Resolution and frame rate capabilities in a capture card such as Elgato HD60 X is just remarkable and makes it the best value capture card for streaming or recording. To help you save bandwidth, the encoding is set at 4:2:0 by default. You can set it to 4:2:2 via non-default codecs and will work at 1080p/60FPS or 1440p/30FPS recording, but don’t expect that feature out of the box.

You get 4:4:4 passthrough functionality, or in this case, you get uncompressed recording. This kind of capture device allows you to record high quality videos without losing a lot of that information.

All in all, this is an external capture card that’s worth investing on if you’re a serious video game content creator or streamer. I use the Elgato Game Capture HD60 S myself and my console captures have never been as crisp and clear. If you’re due for an upgrade, get the HD60 S or the HD 60 X when budget permits.

Best Budget Capture Card (External) – EVGA XR1 Lite

Those looking for a capture card but on a tight budget should go for the EVGA XR1 Lite. Do not underestimate this beast just because it’s affordable.

The EVGA XR1 Lite provides you with 4K/60FPS pass-through, which makes it perfect for the next-gen consoles (PS5 or Xbox One). You can record gameplay at 1080p/60FPS without lag or compression as well. This capture device is also simple to use. All you need is HDMI ports and cables to connect to PC or console and a USB Type C cable. You can also connect it to a DSLR camera for the best quality webcam footage.

The EVGA XR1 Lite is housed in a sleek yet durable plastic chassis. You also get lighting indicators that lets you know if the card is idle, active, updating, or not working. It’s also certified to use with OBS software, and makes it one of the best plug-and-play capture cards in the market right now. If you have a gaming PC with decent specs, then the EVGA XR1 might be a solid pick amongst the other cards.

Best High-End Capture Card – Elgato Game Capture 4K60 S+

Second to the HD60, the Elgato Game Capture 4K60 S+ makes it to the top three best capture cards for streaming for a number of reasons. This is also a personal review of sorts given that this is the capture card that I am currently using right now.

While most capture cards need to be linked to a gaming PC or console to record in-game footage, you only need an SD card for the Elgato Game Capture 4K60 S+ so you can record footage and store it on the card itself. Plug the capture card in, press Record, and you’re all set! All you really need to do from there is to keep on purchasing another SD card when the previous one is filled.

This is one of the few capture cards in the market right now with their own separate storage to capture game footage. It’s also versatile because you’re recording gameplay footage at 4K/60FPS and in HDR at the same time. Truly one of the best capture cards in the market, and if you can’t get the HD60 X, the Elgato Game Capture 4K60 S+ is a decent second choice.

Honorable Mentions For Best Capture Cards For Streaming

The next list will contain what we think are honorable mentions for the best capture cards in the market right now. Most of them are external capture cards, but there are a couple on here that are internal capture cards.

The list below is not arranged in a particular order, so feel free to check out which one is the best capture card for you.

Genki Shadowcast (Wireless)

If you want to run a streaming software that doesn’t have you installing an external or internal capture card, you might want to consider an wireless capture card. And the best capture card in that category is the Genki Shadowcast.

The Genki Shadowcast plugs in directly to your streaming video source via an HDMI cable without requiring an extra HDMI cable. You can simply plug it into a free HDMI slot on your consoles (Playstation 5 or Xbox series) or PC to receive the video feed.

Once the Genki Shadowcast is tied to a source device, you connect to it using a single USB-C cable on your laptop or PC that you’ll use as the capturing device. For those with minimal desk space or those who want to run a compact setup for recording gameplay, or streaming gameplay, then you’ll want to consider the Genki Shadowcast.

For about $50, this makes the Genki Shadowcast the most affordable capture card for streaming without compromising video quality.

Asus TUF CU4K30 (External USB-C)

The Asus TUF CU4K30 is the best capture card for those who don’t have an available PCIe slot or USB-A port but have a USB-C port instead. In simpler terms, if you’re using a third party software for streaming on a thin gaming laptop, chances are you won’t have those two mentioned slots/ports.

But the Asus TUF CU4K30 comes to the rescue for that one PC gamer who just games on a thin laptop. The Asus TUF CU4K30 supports a 4K/30FPS recording, or you can drop it to 2K resolution at 60FPS, or even better at 1080p/120FPS streaming/capture. The card can also pass video signals from your game system or gaming hardware through your TV or monitor at 4K/60Hz with HDR or 2K at 144Hz or 1080p at 240Hz. The Asus TUF CU4K30 comes in a sleek aluminum chassis with RGB lighting that serves as status indicators.

AVerMedia Live Gamer Duo (Internal)

Avermedia’s Live Gamer Duo is probably one of the best internal capture cards out here. As the name implies, you can juggle two video capture tasks simultaneously. Avermedia Live Gamer Duo is equipped with two HDMI inputs (ports) which will let you handle both consoles (Playstation, Nintendo Switch, or Xbox Series) or gaming PC capture and hooking up an HDMI video feed using a DSLR or digital camera.

Not only is your desktop PC recording and streaming at 1080p/60FPS, but you’re also showing on-screen appearance at the same video quality.

This internal card captures 1080p/60FPS video game content using its own software, while handling two different video input sources. You’re streaming and recording (lag free pass through) at 4k at 60Hz with Full HD, 1080p at 240Hz, or 1440p at 144Hz video quality. This is the best capture card if you’re serious about creating video game content.

AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K (Internal)

AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K is the cheapest internal capture card in the market right now that allows for capturing gameplay at 4K/60FPS footage in HD resolution. Unfortunately, you can’t broadcast at that quality, even with third party software. If that’s not a big letdown for you, the AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K has more to offer.

AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K lets you record footage at 1080p at 240FPS, which is huge! If you’re the type of PC gamer who likes RGB lighting, then you might enjoy the RGB lighting from the AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K, as it can add more flair to inside your PC.

Elgato Game Capture HD60 Pro (Internal)

4K videos take up a lot of bandwidth when you upload them, and uploading them to your YouTube channel might reduce the quality a bit but not as what you’d anticipate. Your viewers will still have to sit through a few more seconds of buffering longer than what they’re accustomed to.

If you want to dump your external capture card for an internal one, look no further. The Elgato Game Capture HD60 Pro should be on your radar. This is also probably the only budget capture card from Elgato, so that’s another bonus for bagging the Elgato Game Capture HD60 Pro.

This internal capture card captures game footage at 60FPS and Full HD. It’ll take up half the PCIe slots that its 4K counterpart consumes and costs you $100 less too. Apart from broadcasting in full HD, you can also record and store footage to your hard drive at 1080p at 60FPS in H.264 codec at a max of 60Mbps bitrate. This internal card also provides you complete support for streaming on your YouTube channel and Twitch.

With the help of Game Capture HD, OBS Studio, or XSplit, broadcasting at 1080p is flawless even for something as budget-friendly as this capture card.

Elgato Game Capture 4K60 Pro Mk. 2 (Internal)

Probably one of the priciest capture cards on this list, the Elgato Game Capture 4K60 Pro Mk. 2 is a PCIe internal capture card that allows you to capture 4K resolution footage at a max of 140Mbps bitrate without sweating. This kind of video capture power shouldn’t even be made possible, but here we are with the Elgato Game Capture 4K60 Pro Mk. 2.

The Elgato Game Capture 4K60 Pro Mk. 2 comes with Multi App Access, which lets you network multiple streaming and recording apps to access your capture card simultaneously. You’re able to stream, broadcast, and record gameplay footage at 4K HDR at standard dynamic range.

AVerMedia Live Gamer Bolt (External)

If you’re a PC gamer looking for the best capture card for streaming, but can’t afford the Elgato brand, the AVerMedia Live Gamer Bolt is your next best option. Out of all the capture cards we’ve seen and tested, the AVerMedia Live Gamer Bolt delivers the lowest latency of added latency. This makes it the perfect partner for recording games that require fast reflexes.

The AVerMedia Live Gamer Bolt delivers 4K/60FPS HD Recording or 1080p/240FPS resolution. The only downside here is that you need a Thunderbolt 3 Port, which you can only find in certain motherboards or gaming laptops.

Frequently Asked Questions About Capture Cards

Why Do You Need a Capture Card If You Can Record Using Third Party Software?

OBS and other third-party broadcasting software are great and all, but they have certain limitations. These limitations include the capture quality from your gaming PC or console.

For example, let’s say you have an Xbox series console and you want to run an HDMI camera instead of your typical USB web camera. The easiest way for you to get both of these to work on your PC is to hook them up to a capture card.

OBS and other third-party software are reliant on your system’s resources. Your CPU and GPU will affect capture quality greatly, so you can imagine the strain it will put on low-end hardware. Modern CPUs have gotten quite better at handling multitasking for recording and streaming, but a capture card reduces a lot of that load on your system.

If you have a console and a gaming PC, a capture card allows you to record gameplay footage or broadcast gameplay from your console using the stream outlay that you use for PC game footage.

Will Capture Cards Reduce Video Quality and Flashback Recording Quality?

A good dedicated capture card allows you to increase the quality of your stream or video game recording. As mentioned above, the card reduces CPU and GPU strain from recording and streaming.

Simply put, you can run on a midrange gaming PC while capturing high resolution and framerate footages from consoles or PC using a capture card.

This is made possible with something called Chroma Subsampling. This reduces bandwidth requirements, which affect the quality of the final output. Bear in mind that when you upload your content to sites such as YouTube, then the quality might drop even further. But you reduce the quality drop greatly when you use a capture card.

Do I Need To Use A Built In Audio Mixer To Record Audio?

You don’t need a separate or built in audio mixer to capture in-game audio. Your capture card will be recording or broadcasting audio as crisp as it records or broadcasts videos.

With the help of OBS, or any streaming software for that matter, you can use the software’s built in audio mixer to help you generate the best audio quality for recording and broadcasting.

Of course, you can’t edit your audio when you’re broadcasting but you can always enhance audio for your recordings during post-production.

Will Price Matter?

Elgato and AVermedia brands are two of the most expensive brands for capture cards in the market right now, but it doesn’t mean they’re making it less accessible to the public. They have budget-friendly options for gamers who’re getting into streaming or recording but don’t want to invest a lot of money just yet.

Granted, you can’t expect the same kind of features for their budget-friendly counterparts that you’ll find on the ones that are on this list. As for the other brands, you’ll probably be able to find capture cards that have the same specs as the ones on this list but at a lesser price tag.

To put it simply, you’re getting what you’re paying for.

What’s Our Verdict?

Regardless of your streaming setup, here’s our own verdict for the best capture card (both internal and external):

External Capture Card: Elgato HD60 X

There’s no question here that the best external capture card is the HD60 X. It’s got everything you need to record and broadcast gameplay footage, regardless of the capture device. Imagine recording video game content from a game console that matches the video quality of a high-end gaming PC.

Streaming software is negligible at this point because you can make use of Elgato’s own app to help you improve video input quality and audio quality. But if you can’t afford the Elgato HD60 X, the HD 60 S+ is the second best option for you if you want external capture card.

Internal Capture Card: Avermedia Live Gamer Duo

We’re torn between the Avermedia Live Gamer Duo and Elgato Game Capture 4K60 Pro Mk. 2 for this category, simply because you can’t go wrong with choosing either.

Internal capture cards are meant for people who don’t want to deal with hardware that occupies desk space beside their desktop computer. Unfortunately, current generation game console such as an Xbox series or Playstation 5 can’t install an internal capture card so they’ll have to make do with a wireless card or an external capture card.

The Mini ITX case is proof that size does not matter at all for PC gamers. In fact, we’ve seen a lot of custom PC builds making use of the mini ITX together with a mini ITX motherboard. No one’s making multi-GPU SLIs or Crossfire gaming rigs anymore. Most of the PC components such as audio cards, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet that we’ve relied on for years are now embedded on to the motherboard. M.2 SSDs are roughly the size of a finger and cloud services are taking care of mass data storage. No one really needs all that bulk from full tower PC cases.

With all that being said, we’re going to talk about the best mini ITX cases in the market right now and why you shouldn’t be ignoring them. Chances are, you’re reading this because you no longer need to rely on bigger PC cases to build a decent gaming PC.

What Are Mini ITX PC Cases?

A mini ITX, or ITX Case, is different from all the other PC cases in the market because it’s compact and smaller. They allow for more desktop space while still handling powerful PC components without being limited by compatibility. Majority of mini ITX cases right now are no bigger than the size of a laptop, which is a great choice for people adopting a minimalistic approach to workstation management or those who’re conscious about available table space.

What you are lacking in size doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to be lacking in the performance department. Mini ITX builds are just as powerful and efficient as a full tower PC, albeit you only have to deal with minimal compatibility issues.

The Top 10 Best Mini ITX Cases In The Market

We’ve curated the best mini ITX PC cases for you to choose from. We’ve done hours of research to come up with this top 10 list, along with an Honorable Mentions list right below. Note that the list is not arranged in any particular order.

Cooler Master NR200

Best Mini-ITX Case In The Market

When it comes to building a mini ITX PC, your biggest concern is the case’s ability to handle powerful components, which end up being bigger than most mini ITX cases. But with the Cooler Master NR200, you don’t have to worry about that. It can accommodate a graphics card up to 330mm in length, or to put it simply, can fit an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3090. There are two racks for 2.5 inch and 3.5 inch drives with enough room for NVM.e SSD. It can also accommodate a either a 240mm liquid or CPU cooler.

The fact that it can handle a 30XX series GPU and liquid cooling makes the Cooler Master NR200 the best mini ITX case in the market right now.

Razer Tomahawk

Best Mini ITX PC Case For RGB Enthusiasts

If you’re looking for a stylish mini ITX, the Razer Tomahawk will get you sorted out with all the RGB swag you need. The Razer Tomahawk can accommodate 240mm liquid cooling radiators with 3 slots for 2.5 inch drives, along with three more expansion slots.

The front panel of the Razer Tomahawk gives you access to different ports along with the Razer Chroma Lighting Effects found at the bottom of the case. The stylish underglow definitely makes the Razer Tomahawk a premium Mini ITX case in the market.

Lian Li Q58

High End Mini ITX Case

Second to the Cooler Master brand, we have Lian Li as one of the top brands who make the best mini ITX cases in the market. And on this list, we have the Lian Li Q58, a premium mini ITX case with a hefty price tag. The PC case is made from a mixture of steel, tempered glass, and aluminum, making the Lian Li Q58 a durable and versatile case. The Lian Li Q58 comes with a PCIe 4 Riser cable which allows you to install a RTX 3000 or RX 6000 series graphics card.

As for the thermal issues, Lian Li Q58 has a lot of mesh panels along with a mesh GPU intake. There’s a total of 3 fan supports to help keep your PC components cool even when running demanding games. You can even install a large 280mm radiator at the top of the chassis, beating out the Cooler Master NR200 and Razer Tomahawk above.

Thermaltake Tower 100

Mini ITX Case With More Compact Design

If you ever wanted to know what a vertically inclined console would look like, it would be a gaming PC built with a Thermaltake Tower 100. Make no mistake about this compact tower because it has enough room for both CPU coolers and full-sized graphic cards, albeit you’d be looking at somewhat of an odd motherboard I/O setup.

The Thermaltake Tower 100 comes with pre-installed routing channels that have cables coming out the back, but if you don’t use them, cables exit out the top behind the top filter. There are two USB 3.0 slots with a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C port in the front panel along with your headphone and microphone jacks.

The Thermaltake Tower 100 can also accommodate a standard ATX power supply, so you won’t have to spend extra on purchasing an SFX II power supply. Air flow won’t be an issue here since air is pulled from two directions (back and underside of the case) and exits at the top. You also get transparent side and front panels that let you showcase your RGB components and cable management swag.

BitFenix Prodigy M2 2022

Best Mini ITX Case with Cube Aesthetics

If cube is your aesthetics, then the BitFenix Prodigy M2 2022 model is the PC case for you. The design is sleek and first impressions are almost always positively guaranteed. This mini ITX PC case measures at about 250x310x340mm and comes with two easy-to-grab handles so you can easily lug this around.

The side panels comes with two USB 3.0 ports with HD audio jacks. The case supports GPUs up to 310mm long (as long as you remove the HDD cage). If you have a modular power supply design, the cage might come in handy too. As for storage, the BitFenix Prodigy M2 2022 can equip up to five 2.5″ SSDs or 3.5″ HDDs. Your choice.

Heating is not an issue here. There are vents located underneath and on the side, along with two 1000RPM/120mm fans that’s built in within the case. It can also accommodate a 240mm radiator for those who want to do some liquid cooling instead.

At a glance, you might think that this is a large ATX tower and makes a great choice for those who want a compact mini ITX PC case without losing customization and expandability.

Lian Li TU150

A Portable Mini ITX Case For The Minimalist

There’s so much to talk about with the Lian Li TU150 mini ITX PC case. It has enough space for a triple-slot GPU, SFX power supply, four fans, and not to mention areas to route cables located at the back of the motherboard tray and roof. It may not be the most portable case on this list simply because of what it can accommodate, even though it’s a tad bigger than some of the cases on this list.

Fractal Design Node 202

A Console-Style Mini ITX Case

If you want a mini ITX case that looks like a console, the Fractal Design Node 202 is the case for you. The Fractal Design Node 202 dons the classic rectangular Xbox vibes and looks just as sleek as the console itself.

There are two versions: one with power supply and one without. You get up to 10L of storage space, but you need smaller components for cooling. You’ll need at least two low profile 120mm fans, and that’s the best possible choice of fans you can have. You can pick up a liquid cooler for the CPU as well, but even with this tight of a space, heating is never going to be an issue. There are ventilation slots located right around the CPU and GPU mounts.

Thermaltake Core V1

Overall Best Budget Mini ITX Case

Whoever said Thermaltake mini ITX PC cases are expensive might be lying because there is one entry from Thermaltake here that lets you take the budget route. Introducing the Thermaltake Core V1.

The Thermaltake Core V1 accommodates up to 285mm graphics card with room for standard ATX PSU and CPU coolers for up to 140mm. All of which are extremely affordable PC components, by the way. When it comes to budget compact cases, the Thermaltake Core V1 is the KING!

The front of the Thermaltake Core V1 case allows you to mount 200mm fan with room for two 80mm fans at the back, so the case actually has direct airflow through it. The motherboard is horizontally inclined, which means your graphics card and other components are vertically aligned.

Phanteks Eclipse P200A

Impressive Mini ITX Tower Case

The Phanteks Eclipse P200A may be a mini ITX, but it doesn’t adhere to mini ITX builds. At most, the Phanteks Eclipse P200A will resemble closer to that of a standard ATX build due to the fact that it looks like a full tower case.

It’s larger than most mini ITX cases, so it can accommodate standard PC hardware. You’re looking at 3-slotted graphic cards up to 355mm long and ATX power supply installed into the Phanteks Eclipse P200A. You have enough clearance for 165mm CPU coolers as well as clearance for multiple 240mm radiators if you’re just into liquid cooling. You can expand further into one 280mm cooler through the front slot. The Phanteks Eclipse P200A comes with an integrated front dust filter and extra fan mounts so you get plenty of air flow through the case.

Lian Li PC-O11D Mini

A Larger Than Usual Mini ITX Case

We’re not playing favorites here. It just so happens there are three entries from Lian Li on this list because they’re just so good at what they do. The third mini ITX case from Lian Li is the PC-011D Mini.

If you want something that’s a mix of a standard case and a really small mini ITX PCs, then the Lian Li PC-O11D Mini is the one for you. The Lian Li PC-O11D Mini requires a SFX L Power Supply or SFX, which might be more expensive than standard ATX PSUS, but hey, the good news here is that the PSU is individually mounted and has its own section. You get enough room for your other components.

The Lian Li PC-O11D Mini accommodates both mini ITX boards and ATX motherboards, which gives you a lot of freedom for your build. You have enough room for four HDDs, with two of them being 3.5″ removable racks.

Honorable Mentions

We got our top 10 out of the way, and we’re moving on to our honorable mentions. These are just as good as the other mini ITX cases mentioned above.

Phanteks Evolv Shift 2

Best Slim Design Mini ITX

If you want a slim mini ITX case, the Phanteks Evolv Shift 2 is worth considering. It’s on this list for several reasons, on top of its incredible slim aesthetics.

The Phanteks Evolv Shift 2 accommodates a full-sized graphics card up to 335mm long, which is basically any other graphics card out there. Because of the slim case, you’re going to end up using a SFX power supply, but don’t even fret because everything about the Phanteks Evolv Shift 2 is worth it.

You get CPU coolers for up to 85mm tall, so either a low profile CPU cooler or a 140mm to 120mm AIO cooler should do the trick. You also get two color options for Phanteks Evolv Shift 2: black and grey. You get dual side tempered glass panels and the case can accommodate a single 3.5″ HDD or up to three 2.5″ drives.

Thermaltake Suppressor F1

Cube Aesthetics Mini ITX PC Case

Looking like something out of a sci-fi film, the Thermaltake SUPPRESSOR F1 is a budget-friendly mini ITX case with minimalism at its core. The core comes with dual 2.5″ and 3.5″ drive bays, so you can set up four storage devices using the modular device racks, which is a great feature for the price you’re paying. You also get dual expansion slot that can accommodate cards up to 285mm.

As you can see from the image alone, the Thermaltake SUPPRESSOR F1 was built with ventilation in mind. It comes with a 200mm intake fan preinstalled in front with two 80mm fans in the rear, so you get direct air flow through the case. You also get enough space for liquid cooling for radiators up to 140mm.

Cooler Master Elite 110

Cooler Master Brand On a Budget

If you’ve been told that you can get a Cooler Master case at an affordable price tag, they were probably referring to the Cooler Master Elite 110. Don’t be fooled by the $50 price tag because there’s a reason why the Cooler Master Elite 110 is on this list, and it’s not the price tag.

The Cooler Master Elite 110 comes with mesh front panel design that allows for front and back air flow, while accommodating a 120mm radiator. It weighs about 6lbs or less so it’s lightweight and portable.

You can use GPUs up to 210mm long and CPU cooler up to 76mm tall. The Cooler Master Elite 110 can accommodate multiple storage devices with four 2.5″ device bays and three 3.5 inch device bays. Of course, to adhere to its budget-friendliness, the Cooler Master Elite 110 accommodates a standard ATX PSU up to 180mm long.

NZXT H210i

Best Performing Overall Mini ITX Case

One of the best overall mini ITX case out there is the NZXT H210i, and it comes with a premium price tag too.

The NZXT H210i offers more clearance than any other mini ITX chassis listed on here, so it’s no surprise that the case is dubbed as one of the top mini ITX cases for custom PC builders.

NZXT H210i can accommodate graphics cards up to 325mm long and CPU coolers up to 165mm tall. Sure, there are other mini ITX systems on here that can house longer GPUs but the reality is that you don’t need anything longer than 325mm. An RTX 3090 is under 325mm long, so the NZXT H210i would be the perfect mini ITX chassis for such a GPU.

If you want to build a high-end gaming mini ITX system, the NZXT H210i should be your only choice.

Thermaltake Core P1

Best Open Air Mini ITX Chassis

We talked about the Core V1, but now let’s talk about the Thermaltake Core P1. And yes, that’s exactly how it looks like. It’s an open air mini ITX case with a sleek tempered glass design. It comes with two 2.5″ external drive bays with one 3.5″ and one 2.5″ internal drive bay. It also comes with five expansion slots.

As for clearance, the Thermaltake Core P1 can accommodate CPU cooler height up to 170mm with GPU length up to 380mm with 240mm AIO clearance on the left side. Did we mention that this is a budget friendly case and comes in at a price tag of less than $100?

Is Mini-ITX Bad For Gaming?

Regardless of the best mini ITX case you’ve chosen from the list and the mini ITX form factor, the biggest concern for any mini ITX case is its dust management and cooling features. Insufficient cooling might put more strain on your gaming rig, whether you have a full tower or the best mini ITX case. Dust filtration and prevention can also kill your system faster than you can say “HARDCORE”.

But when it comes to components, some of the best mini ITX cases we’ve listed here can house even the most powerful of GPUs (e.g. RTX 3090) and cooling won’t be an issue for some because they have enough clearance for liquid cooling systems and added internal fans.

What Are Some Limitations Of A Mini ITX PC?

Space is the biggest limitation from any mini ITX case because it’s a compact case all throughout, and this is also common among small form factor builds and micro ATX builds. But there are other limitations as well:

Expansion Might Be A Challenge

Mini ITX motherboards might give you a challenge for expansion, especially when it comes to RAM. You’ll probably be limited to 16GB or 32GB dual channel RAMs with limited frequency too. You’ll only get one PCIe slot, but then again, no one’s building multiple SLI GPUs or Crossfire builds anymore.

For expansion slots, you’ll find that most of the ones we listed here have two expansion slots while there are a few with three expansion slots. Other than that, expansion is only a primary concern for PC builders who want to make the most out of their mini ITX motherboards and the case itself.

Larger GPUs Might Not Fit All Mini ITX PC Cases

Not all large GPUs will fit inside mini ITX cases, but as we mentioned earlier, the RTX 3000 series don’t exactly take up much space either. Manufacturers of GPUs will provide the necessary details so you’ll be able to determine whether or not a GPU will fit inside your compact case.

Overheating Might Be A Problem

One of the biggest worries for using mini ITX cases is overheating due to the compact nature of the space. But more often than not, this is a minor misconception. From what we’ve listed on here, the best mini ITX case can accommodate liquid cooler and CPU cooler systems without any difficulty. Some cases even have better air flow than mid tower cases.

Unless you’re planning on overclocking your components, then there’s no real issue for overheating here.

What Do You Want From A Mini ITX?

The compact design of the best mini ITX PC might is one of the biggest aesthetic features that draw in a lot of PC builders to use the case. When you’re building a powerhouse of a workstation, you might consider a mid tower case or a full tower case, but there are builders out there that will use a mini ITX chassis.

Limitations aside, your options for a mini ITX case are endless. This article alone gave out 15 of the best mini ITX cases in the market right now. All you have to do is secure the other components and you’re on your way to building a high-end gaming rig that’s compact and doesn’t take up a lot of desk space.

When it comes to building your PC for the first time, you need to decide whether you are opting for a single stick of RAM or two sticks of RAM with the same capacity as one stick.

It’s a choice that leaves many first-time builders and gamers scratching their heads, unsure what they should do and which is the better option. 

And there’s much debate about this. Most users will say two sticks of RAM is best, allowing you to utilize the benefits of dual channel memory, but are they right? And how does it relate to gaming? Are you going to notice a big difference in performance? And what on earth is quad channel configurations?

Are these just some of the questions that keep you up at night, wondering how you should approach your PC build?

Well, you aren’t alone! And we know just how hard these questions can be to answer, which is why we are here today to lend a helping hand! 

We took to the games, ran some tests, and here with results that can help you make your decision! Keep reading to find out all you need to know about single and dual channel memory to help make your decision today!

What does Single, Dual, and Quad Channel Mean?

For those new to the PC world or just a little unsure, let’s have a quick recap! If your PC has one stick of RAM, then it’s a single channel configuration.

Two stocks of RAM are dual-channel configurations, allowing you to double your RAM in some cases or split the capacity over two spaces.

Four sticks of memory is a quad channel configuration, depending on if your CPU and motherboard can support quad channel memory (you can check the product specification of your CPU and motherboard for this information). 

You can also run three sticks of memory, but it’s hard to come by a motherboard with a triple channel configuration.

In most cases, installing three RAM sticks allows you to utilize two of the sticks as a dual channel and the remaining stick as a single channel configuration. 

So what should you choose? Running two or four lower capacity memory sticks as dual or quad channel configurations (if your computer build supports this) offers the same capacity as a larger stick of RAM but doubles or quadruples the amount of memory bandwidth available. 

Adding a second or fourth stick of RAM provides you with a parallel channel that can be accessed simultaneously as the first stick of RAM.

Commonly, people think adding this and increasing the available memory bandwidth; your system will perform better. 

But is that true? Let’s find out! 

Single Channel vs. Dual Channel Memory 

To find out which configuration offered the best performance, we took two kits of DDR4 3200MHz RAM and tested them on a range of common memory configurations available.

One kit was a 4x4GB kit and the other 4x8GB, which we were able to test in the following configurations: 

1. 8GB Single Channel configuration
2. 8GB Dual Channel configuration
3. 16GB Dual Channel (two sticks) 
4. 16GB Dual Channel (four sticks)

We ran some of the most popular games, such as Grand Theft Auto V, Dirt 4, Middle Earth: Shadow of War, and Battlefront II. We used an i7 processor, a GTX 1060, and a 1920 x1200 monitor to run our tests too. Check out our results below! 

It’s worth noting that the i7 processor we used does not support quad-channel memory; instead, it only allows for dual channel configurations.

The slight error we made here means our results aren’t entirely accurate when comparing dual channel and quad channel memory. We know, we are just as annoyed as you are! 

But that doesn’t mean our results aren’t helpful. Instead, use them to look at single channel vs. dual channels performance and the differences between running four sticks of RAM as dual channel and two sticks of the same capacity as dual channel. 

The Test Results and Analysis 

So, what did we find? Well, across all games tested, there was no significant difference between single and dual channel memory and how they performed.

As we mentioned earlier, we made a slight boo-boo, meaning that the 16GB quad and 16GB dual results should make no difference.

There didn’t appear to be a performance boost when running four sticks of 4GB RAM compared to two sticks of 8GB of RAM. 

We saw that single channel memory configuration had a far higher CPU usage than dual channel configurations. In some tests, it was between 10-25% higher than dual channel configurations! Why does this happen?

We concluded that the extra memory bus available in dual and quad channel configurations takes some of the workloads and pressure from the CPU.

We might not be right, but from our results and assessing our PC, it’s the conclusion that we have come to. 

So if there is a little difference in performance, what does it mean for the budget-friendly PCs? There could be a noticeable performance drop when running a single channel compared to dual or quad channel configurations.

But we assume that the performance difference would be minimal, especially for first-time builders and gamers. 

What can we take from these results, then? It’s clear that there is little difference between single channel and dual channel configurations in terms of gaming performance.

There was a difference in CPU usage, which could put your PC under some pressure if you were to run high-performance games frequently.

When your CPU is under this kind of pressure, and its usage is upped, you might notice more noise or heat, and you should consider your cooling system and upgrading this where necessary to combat it. 

However, we would say that’s only essential for high-performance games or noticing that your PC is running louder and hotter than normal.

While there is slightly more performance from the dual channel and quad channel setups, it’s not entirely necessary; from our results and what others seem to say online, there’s little gaming performance difference between these RAM configurations. 

Should I stick with Single Channel Memory?

After those results, you might be wondering, should I not just stick with single channel memory? After all, if there is little performance difference, will you feel the benefits of dual or quad channel memory?

Well, in terms of gaming, you don’t necessarily need a dual or quad channel configuration. You can use a single stick of RAM and enjoy your games without any noticeable performance difference. 

But that doesn’t mean you should rule out dual channel configurations! There are some instances where it makes sense to opt for a dual channel configuration. Let’s look at some of those cases now to help you decide if a dual channel configuration is the best option for you. 

Dual kits can be cheaper. 

Sometimes, especially when shopping in the sales. Dual kits of RAM can be cheaper than a single stick! In these cases, it’s best to save yourself some money and have the dual kit of RAM!

It’s not often that we see dual kits cheaper than single kits, but when there are so many sales that run across the year, you never know when you are going to pick up a bargain. If you’re on a tight budget and still want to acquire monitors under $100, then go for dual kits.

It’s best to keep your eye out for any sales or offers and check them frequently to see if there’s an offer that interests you, especially if you are building your first PC or updating one.

When looking for RAM (or any PC component), always consider your budget, and remember to stick to it as best as possible. Different PC cases can also affect your decision on how big your RAM kits can be.

Along with your budget, consider how many slots your motherboard has to accommodate the RAM. You should also consider the size of the RAM when looking at your budget.

If you can only afford 8GB of RAM, for example, and your motherboard only has two memory slots, it might be best to opt for a single 8GB stick of RAm compared to two 4GB sticks of RAM.

Why? Well, when the time comes for you to upgrade your system to 16GB of RAM, all you need to do is grab another 8GB stick of RAM.

Had you opted for two 4GB sticks, then you would need to buy an entirely new set of RAM, costing you more money later down the line!

If you’re going to choose 4 sticks of RAM vs 2 sticks, then be ready to shell out a lot of money to upgrade.

What about aesthetic purposes? 

If the aesthetics and appearance of your PC are important to you, then you might want to grab a dual or quad kit instead of a single stick of RAM. A single stick of RAM on a motherboard with four DIMM slots won’t look as clean as two or four sticks of RAM. 

How your PC looks isn’t important to everyone, but if you can see your ports or have a PC case with a glass panel, then you might want a cleaner and more appealing look than you currently have. In these cases, if the price is right, a dual or quad kit could be a good option to consider. 

If the price is right or the difference between kits is minimal and offers the same capacity of RAM, then filling up your DIMM slots with RAM could be a good idea.

Remember, not everyone considers the appearance of their PC to be of importance, so don’t feel like you need to do this if it doesn’t matter to you. 

What about in professional settings? 

While we didn’t run those tests today, they are certain factors that should be considered! Other tests we have seen show a larger performance difference between single channel and dual channel memory when used in professional applications.

Design, editing, and tasks that use a great deal of CPU power will benefit from more RAM or dual channel configurations where possible. 

If your gaming PC is also using similar programs, you might want to consider a multi-channel memory configuration. It should give you the boost in performance that you need, without causing too much trouble for your CPU and its performance! 

Final Thoughts 

And just like that, we have come to the end of our memory journey today! As you can see, there is little difference between single channel and dual channel RAM configurations.

While a dual channel configuration can boost your performance, the slight boost doesn’t always mean that it’s worth the higher cost or taking up additional slots on your PC. 

If your PC is just for gaming, then you are unlikely to notice a difference between a single and dual channel configuration, and we recommend that you go for the one that’s best for your budget.

Remember that your CPU usage might be a little higher, and you should consider any implications of this before making your decision. 

There are, of course, other reasons to choose dual or quad channel RAM, as we mentioned earlier, and it’s worth considering these too before making your final decision.

Weigh up all your options and the factors we have mentioned today before making your final decision. 

Remember to set your budget and stick to it where possible to find the best RAM configuration for you! Before you go today, be sure to check our FAQ section out below to get any remaining questions answered! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Get your last-minute queries answered here!

Are there more memory channels than 4? 

Yes! You can have six or eight memory channels available, depending on the PC build, offering you plenty of space to add as much RAM as you need!

However, these setups aren’t very common.You usually can’t just purchase them, and they need to be specifically ordered for use. In most cases, you won’t need the extra memory channels unless you need a lot of RAM to run certain programs. 

It’s best to strongly consider all your options before specially ordering these extra memory channels, as they can be expensive! 

What does RAM do? 

RAM refers to memory and the amount of data that can be quickly accessed when your PC is being used. It’s different from the storage space on your computer, where files, photos, and programs are stored. So what’s the difference? 

Your RAM’s job is to take care of data that needs to be accessed quickly. Think about playing an online game like World of Warcraft.

There’s a rapid interchange of data when you play between your computer and the game’s server. Your RAM takes care of this, storing the data that needs to be accessed quickly and allows you to play the game with no hiccups. 

RAM also aids your computer outside of gaming too. It helps keep several programs running at the same time and multiple applications!

A bigger RAM will allow you to do this with ease, making your PC run smoothly and should prevent any lagging or crashes.

If your PC is struggling to run multiple programs, or you find that it crashes a lot, you might not have enough RAM to support your PC and its needs. 

How much RAM do I need?

The short answer is: it depends. In most cases, 8GB of RAM will suffice and offer plenty of space and power for gaming.

However, light gamers or first-time PC builders might be able to get away with 4GB of RAM. You might find that 4GB is more than enough initially, especially if you are on a budget and it’s all you can afford. 

Remember that RAM isn’t responsible for everything, and the power of your CPU and motherboard will also determine the performance of your PC.

For more serious gamers or those looking to run more powerful programs and applications, you might want to consider 16GB of RAM. This doesn’t need to be done initially if your budget doesn’t allow it. 

We recommend starting with a single stick of 8GB of RAM, leaving you with space to double your RAM easily if need be, or your budget allows for an upgrade! 

If you are the kind of person who spends a lot of time on the computer, then chances are you have probably experienced your PC crashing or overheating.

Sometimes computers can’t meet your high demands, which can make the overall process stressful and time-consuming. But luckily, there are now processors such as those produced by AMD to help combat these issues. 

In recent years, AMD’s Ryzen processors have worked to completely transform the PC hardware industry, with a large part of their success being due to how powerful and efficient their processors are.

Currently, the Ryzen 5 3600 CPU is arguably one of the best processors on the market, especially when you take into consideration its affordable price and overall efficiency. 

This central processor features 6 cores and 12 threads and it is ideal for gaming and high-end CPU-intensive applications, making it a popular choice among tech enthusiasts and dedicated PC gamers.

However, because Ryzen 5 3600 is compatible with various chipsets, it can be difficult to find a motherboard that perfectly pairs with this innovative piece of technology. 

Of course, there are currently hundreds of compatible motherboards available for online purchase, with each one offering a unique and layered performance.

So to aid you in your search, we have compiled a selection of the 7 best motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600 currently available on the market. 

So if you are looking for a motherboard for your Ryzen processor, then why not take a look at our picks and see which one fits your needs! 

What Is A Motherboard?

A motherboard, otherwise known as a main board or logic board, is a printed circuit board that provides connectivity between the hardware components of your computer, such as the processor (CPU), memory (RAM) and hard drive.

Currently, there are numerous types of motherboards available on the market, with each one being designed to fit different computers and processors. 

Because each motherboard is designed for specific processors and memory, they don’t work with every other processor.

However, most hard drives are universal and will work with the majority of motherboards, regardless of their type or manufacturer.

If you ever need to locate your computer’s motherboard, they can usually be found inside the computer case, where the computer peripherals are connected. 

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7 Best Motherboards For Ryzen 5 3600

Now let’s take a look at our picks for the 7 best motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600!

ASUS Prime X570-P

If you are the kind of person who often overclocks your Ryzen 5 3600, then you could be at risk of overheating and damaging your computer.

So to combat this issue, there are two products that you can purchase to ensure your PC’s well-being. One is a higher-end CPU cooler and the other is a motherboard capable of handling superior overclocking. 

Currently, one of the best products for overclocking your Ryzen third-generation processor is this motherboard by ASUS Prime, which is known for its durable performance and X570 chipset.

Unlike other motherboards on the market, X570 chipsets are considered very expensive, especially compared to lower-priced motherboards, such as those that operate by using B550 chipsets. 

However, the ASUS Prime X570-P is now available for an affordable price and can be found on various online platforms. But if the price still concerns you, you need to consider the number of special features that this motherboard can provide.

Overall, the motherboard has an attractive design, standard-ATX form-factor, and supports up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM. 

Beyond this, the motherboard also comes with RGB lighting features, USB 3.2 technology and PCle 4.0.

In conclusion, this motherboard provides excellent support for overclocking and is available for a moderate price. So if you intend to use your Ryzen 5 3600 to its fullest potential, then this is the motherboard you need. 

Notable Features

• X570 Chipset
• Standard-ATX
• PCle 4.0
• 128GB DDR4 RAM

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ASRock B550 PRO4

If you are not interested in subjecting your Ryzen third-generation processor to extreme overclocking, then you should consider purchasing this B550 PRO4 motherboard by ASRock.

Although the B550 PRO4 won’t provide the same overclocking potential as the ASUS Prime X570-P, the motherboard does come with the same special features and high performance. 

Capable of supporting up to 128GB of DDR4 memory, this motherboard also features PCle 4.0, standard-ATX form-factor and USB 3.2 support.

However, because the B550 PRO4 is only slightly cheaper than the ASUS Prime X570-P, there is no reason why you should choose the former over the latter.

Because if you do find yourself overclocking your processor in the future, then you will be in a better position with the X570. 

However, this does not mean that the B550 PRO4 is incapable of supporting excessive overclocking, as the motherboard can provide this service when it is paired with a decent CPU cooler.

Overall, this is a motherboard that we would highly recommend, even though the ASUS Prime X570-P is the better product and will provide your PC with a more varied performance. 

Notable Features

• B550 Chipset
• Standard-ATX
• PCle 4.0
• 128GB DDR4 RAM

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ASRock B550M-ITX

If you are looking for a semi-affordable way to construct your own mini gaming PC, then you should consider investing in this B550M-ITX by ASRock.

Currently, there aren’t many affordable mini-ITX AM4 socket motherboards available on the market. However, when it comes to affordable mini-ITX AMD motherboards, the ASRock B550M-ITX is one of the cheapest. 

Capable of supporting up to 64GB of DDR4 memory, this mini motherboard can reach memory clock speeds of up to 4733MHz and has the potential to support some decent overclocking.

The ASRock B550M-ITX also comes complete with a single PCle 4.0 lane and is arguably the best mini-ITX form-factor system for your Ryzen 5 3600 processor. 

Notable Features

• B550 Chipset
• Mini-ITX
• PCle 4.0
• 64GB DDR4 RAM

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MSI B450M PRO-M2 MAX

When the Ryzen 5 3600 was first released to the public, many tech enthusiasts noticed that the processor did not have any affordable motherboard options, for the B550 had not yet been invented and the B450 was not always compatible with the processor.

So the only option was to spend a large sum of money on a premium motherboard. 

However, with the invention of the B550 chipset and with older B450 chipset motherboards becoming compatible with BIOS technology, purchasing affordable motherboards became far easier and more convenient.

So if you are looking for a cheap motherboard that is compatible with your Ryzen 5 3600, then we have the perfect product for you. 

Currently, one of the cheapest motherboards for your Ryzen processor is the MSI B450M Pro-M2 Max.

Although this particular motherboard is not considered a high-end product, it is still considered the perfect option for budget-conscious gamers, especially those looking for an efficient motherboard for their computer. 

Distinguished by its small size, the MSI B450M Pro-M2 Max is capable of supporting up to 64GB of DDR4 memory and comes complete with PCle 3.0 technology and overclocking support.

Overall, we would recommend this motherboard as one of the most affordable options on our list and as the perfect motherboard for any gamer looking to build a gaming PC with their Ryzen 5 3600 processor. 

Notable Features

• B450 Chipset
• Micro-ATX
• PCle 3.0
• 64GB DDR4 RAM

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GIGABYTE B550 AORUS Elite

Beyond the motherboards we have already outlined, we have some honourable mentions that we think you should consider whenever it comes to using your Ryzen 5 3600 processor.

Our first pick is this B550 AORUS Elite By Gigabyte, which although may be more expensive than the ASUS Prime X570-P, does not offer the same overclocking support.

However, the motherboard does feature a more attractive design and is perfect for any aesthetically conscious gamers who do not intend to overclock their PC. 

Sporting a standard-ATX form-factor, this motherboard is also capable of supporting up to 128GB of DDR4 memory and comes complete with RGB lighting features, PCle 4.0 and USB 3.2 technology.

Overall, we consider this motherboard to be an efficient product, although it would be more beneficial in the long term to purchase the cheaper ASUS Prime X570-P instead. 

Notable Features

• B550 Chipset
• Standard-ATX
• PCle 4.0
• 128GB DDR4 RAM

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MSI MPG B550I

If you are interested in what other mini-ITX motherboards are available for your Ryzen 5 3600, then we recommend checking out this MPG B550I motherboard by MSI.

Although the overall product is more expensive than the ASRock mini-ITX motherboard we discussed above, the motherboard does come with a sleeker design and more special features.

Sporting a pre-installed I/O shield, this motherboard also comes with an M.2 fan and extended heatsinks for a better cooling performance. 

Unfortunately, because of the motherboard’s expensive price, it may not be the most feasible choice for some PC users and is probably better suited to those people who have no budget and are capable of affording an upgraded Ryzen CPU, such as the Ryzen 3700X. 

Notable Features

• B550 Chipset
• Mini-ITX
• PCle 4.0
• 64GB DDR4 RAM

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MSI B450-A PRO MAX

For our final entry, we have chosen a Ryzen 5 3600 compatible motherboard that is very similar to the MSI B450M PRO-M2 Max. Although the motherboard does differ in terms of its price and form factor.

The MSI B450-A Pro Max is the standard ATX version of the Pro-M2 Max and is available for a slightly higher price than its micro-ATX counterpart. 

However, when it comes to using an ATX motherboard to construct your gaming PC, this particular product is the more affordable option that is compatible with the Ryzen 5 3600 processor.

So if you prefer using smaller motherboards and saving money, then this motherboard is the ideal choice for your needs and preferences. 

Notable Features

• B450 Chipset
• Standard-ATX
• PCle 3.0
• 64GB DDR4 RAM

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What Motherboard Is The Best One For You?

As you can see, there are numerous motherboard options available that are compatible with the Ryzen 5 3600 processor, so which one you choose does depend on the budget you are working with and your personal preferences. 

For example, if you know that you will be subjecting your Ryzen processor to heavy overclocking, then you should consider purchasing a motherboard that utilizes an X570 chipset, as these motherboards are known to be more durable and capable of withstanding overclocking.

On the other hand, if you are the kind of gamer who prefers to save their money, then you will want to invest in a motherboard that features a B450 chipset, as these are considered the most cost-effective option.

However, you do need to make sure that your B450 motherboard is compatible with your Ryzen 5 3600 processor. 

If you are interested in constructing your mini gaming PC, then you will want to consider any of the mini-ITX AM4 motherboards we have suggested, or any others you may encounter as long as they support third-generation Ryzen CPUs. 

If you’re building a PC it’s really important to invest your budget wisely. Despite the importance of a good PC case to an overall build, this is often a place that custom builders opt to save some money to be able to invest in a better CPU, GPU or other important components that deliver better performance or features.

That being said, there are some very well specced and quality PC cases that are still very much on the budget side of the scale, and these often come in a range of sizes and aesthetics with some features that put them in fierce competition with more expensive and premium PC cases and designs.

To help you find a quality budget PC case, we’ve compiled a list of 7 of the very best available, taking into account their various features as well as their price and size to make sure no matter what your requirements are, you’re able to find a case that suits your budget and specifications, while looking good at the same time.

We’ve also included a small FAQ and buyers guide to give a little extra information and direction for newer builders and to help even experienced builders get a few reminders of what to look for in a quality PC case.

But first, let’s take a look at the cases themselves and what they have to offer.

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Best Budget PC Cases Under $50 for 2021

Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L

Cooler Master is one of the most popular brands in the PC world, and their case designs in particular are both innovative and well thought out with many excellent features.

The MasterBox in particular is a very popular Micro ATX case that offers excellent space saving size and good portability, while still allowing you to accommodate a range of the best internal components available including space for a full ATX size power supply. It’s also one of the most popular choices when it comes to building a gaming PC on a budget.

The case has a large window to view your completed internals and a very sleek aesthetic that will suit almost any environment.

The finishing is high quality and there are plenty of other excellent features such as a great magnetic dust cover, decent cable management behind the motherboard standoffs, and a well positioned I/O panel that can be adjusted to suit your needs.

It isn’t a particularly heavy or large case, and it has decent airflow however being a smaller size case, it doesn’t offer quite the same amount of airflow or cable management as you’d get from a larger Mid-tower or ATX sized case, and of course, this will limit your options a little in terms of componentry and cooling options.

It is a very good case however especially for those who don’t have a lot of space for a larger PC or for those who want to place their PC on carpets.

Pros

• Large Window
• Well-positioned I/O Panel
• Micro ATX Size capable of fitting a full ATX power supply
• Good cable management
• Good dust cover

Cons

• Relatively small

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MSI MAG Series FORGE

MSI is another household name in the PC industry, and their recent foray into case design with the MAG Series FORCE is a great start, thanks to a range of excellent features including a tempered glass side panel, excellent airflow, good cooling options, and a larger mid-tower profile that can accommodate a range of components and accessories.

There are large standoffs on the base to help with lower airflow, and there are mounts for liquid cooling that allow the installation of a 240mm radiator which could provide astonishing cooling performance in such a reasonably sized PC case.

The tempered glass side panel is a real highlight as most side panels at this price point are acrylic or plastic, and this shows how high performance this case is despite its price.

The cable management is very good with a shrouded PSU slot that can also house most of the cables and keeps the core components such as the GPU and CPU free of dust and blockages that may be caused by cables being open in the base compartment of the case.

The design is asymmetrical and this may not be to everyone’s taste, but this case is one of the very best-specced at this price and offers excellent all-around performance for its size also. Fun fact, the fans can be controlled via fan control software.

Pros

• Tempered glass window
• Good airflow
• Great cable management
• Good standoffs
• Included case fan

Cons

• Asymmetric design may not suit everyone

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DEEPCOOL MATREXX 50 Mid-Tower

The Deepcool MATREXX is another mid tower solution with a range of great features and excellent cable management, however, the cooling may leave a little to be desired.

The case features a tempered glass window which is very nice and a 210mm compartment that can fit most mainstream components with plenty of space to spare.

There are decently sized intakes at the front edges of the case, and a magnetic dust proof mesh at the top and bottom of the case to prevent dust ingress while the fans work.

The cable management on this system is again superb with a shrouded lower and rerouted PSU cabling for improved GPU accessibility.

Pros

• Glass Window
• Great cable management
• Good dust proofing
• Sleek aesthetic

Cons

• Cooling could be better at the front

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AeroCool Cylon RGB Mid Tower

This option from AeroCool has some nice features at a competitive price, including RGB front panel lighting and a very sleek and good looking matte finish.

The side window is acrylic which is a small letdown compared to some other glass designs, and this may make it more prone to scratching and smudging compared to glass.

The cable management is excellent however and the cooling is also fair, with the ability for the case to mount a 240mm liquid cooling radiator and several 120mm fans around the case.

The RGB front panel and LED lights are a very nice touch and are easy to control, with several lighting options depending on the mood you want to create.

The floor standoffs are sturdy and provide good clearance, and the i/o panel is well located.

As a mid tower the case can accommodate most components quite comfortably, and offers an excellent compromise between internal size and the space it takes up in the room. From a personal experience, I transitioned to an AeroCool Cylon Mid Tower after upgrading my stock prebuilt gaming PC‘s case.

Pros

• RGB lighting
• Side window
• Nice matte finish
• Good cable management
• Decent cooling

Cons

• Side window is plastic and may be prone to scratching

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Zalman S4 ATX Mid

Zalman have made some excellent cases in recent years, and the S series are some of the most popular, particularly the S4 with its very reasonable price and minimalist aesthetic that suits more professional and nondescript builders who aren’t keen on the RGB craze or asymmetric designs many brands are currently obsessed with.

The S4 has some excellent features including a side window, good floor standoffs, and pretty good air cooling and flow.

The cable management is great thanks to the shroud system that covers the PSU and lower area of the case internals, however, there is also plenty of space for large components such as graphics cards and CPU coolers, as well as liquid cooling systems.

The only downside is the plastic window which is prone to scratching.

Pros

• Side window
• Good standoffs
• Minimalist design
• Good air cooling
• Great management

Cons

• Less eye-catching than some designs

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ROSEWILL Micro ATX

If space is the main concern for you, the ROSEWILL Micro ATX case may be a good option for you as it’s very small and portable but still offers you capacity for some decent components and offers ok cable management despite its small size.

Air flow is a bit of a concern, however, there are some other great features including a side window and an included case fan.

The case may not be as refined or attractive as some others, but it will fit almost anywhere and has decent performance at a very good price.

Pros

• Micro ATX Case
• Ok cable management
• Light
• Portable
• Side window

Cons

• Poor airflow
• Can’t accommodate larger components

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Raidmax Blazar ATX

The Raidmax Blazar ATX is another great option featuring burnished metal panels and a smoked plastic side window, as well as RGB lighting on the front panel.

The cable management is fairly good thanks to the lower shroud and routing arrangement, while the cooling is ok despite a sealed front panel.

The main drawback is the plastic side window which may be prone to scratching and is smoked which obscures some of the internal views of the case.

Pros

• Burnished metal effect
• Smoked plastic side window
• RGB Front panel
• Good cable management
• Decent airflow

Cons

• Side window is plastic and prone to damage and scratches

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Buyers Guide

In this buyer’s guide, we’re going to look at some of the most important features to consider when looking for a good PC case if it’s a budget option or a more premium choice.

Cable Management

Good cable management is key to a decent case, as you need somewhere to keep your system’s various wires and connectors organized and out of the way of the main componentry.

Disorganized cabling can cause a host of issues, causing your computer to run hotter, blocking airflow, causing dust build-up, and making it more difficult to maintain and preserve your PC in the long term.

Airflow

Good airflow is essential to keep your PC healthy, and even the most rudimentary cases should have openings for pressure management and options to mount case fans, particularly if you’re planning to use your PC for gaming or other intensive uses.

Aesthetics

While this may not be important to everyone, good aesthetic choices can make even budget cases look presentable and neat.

While many of the best features will be the reserve of premium cases it is possible to find some entry-level or budget cases that offer a range of good features from windows to RGB lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you use a budget PC case?

Budget PC cases can be a great way to save money for the cash strapped builder, and if the budget is tight this is one of the best ways to find a few extra dollars to invest in more important components such as the CPU, graphics card, or even other things such as peripherals.

Budget PC cases may lack some of the flagship features of more advanced and expensive designs, and lack nice touches such as windows, tempered glass or even plastic versions, as well as in case lighting, fans, and quality construction.

Budget cases will also have simpler, more basic cable management making your build a little less ‘pretty’. If you’re going for a budget gaming PC, then you’ll have to settle for a budget PC case.

However, budget cases are great at one thing, getting your build put together for a great price, and offering a platform on which you can start putting together a build.

There are also some admirably specced budget cases nowadays, meaning you can actually get some nice features if you know where to look.

If looks aren’t important to you, or you need to scrape as many dollars together as possible then a budget case is a great option for you, and they can always be swapped out at a later date.

If however, you do want a rig that looks visually stunning and offers the latest innovations in airflow design, cable management and features, a more expensive case may be the option for you and will make it much easier for you to use your PC over the long term.

What size case should you use?

When building a PC, the PC case is one of the most important components, after all it’s what will house your expensive and sensitive computer parts and keep them safe, as well as help to keep them organized and cool.

There is a range of PC case sizes, from mini-ITX cases to full towers and everything in between.

If you’re short on space, the smaller cases will naturally be a good choice for you, however, this will severely limit the amount of space you will have inside the case and have a bad effect on the airflow of the case and what components you can fit inside of it. You can also consider these mini-ITX builds if you’re ever planning to use these small cases.

While there are many great small form factor components and admirable performance is possible, full towers offer the very best in cooling potential and the biggest most powerful components.

Naturally, these come at a cost in space, and these machines can be quite large and require plenty of room for the tower, the peripheral and to allow proper airflow around the case which many people simply can’t squeeze into their office or home.

You’ll need to weigh up all these needs and try to find the best version for you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35p7bM3m0vI

When building a PC, it is important to choose the correct components. One of the most important components is the motherboard.  As there are a handful of motherboards to choose from, it can be difficult to know which is the best option for you. 

In this article, we will be chatting you through these options, focusing on factors such as cost, size, and specifications.

Motherboard Size Comparison

When choosing a motherboard, its size is important. 

If you choose a motherboard too small for your build, you will not be able to connect all the components needed. If you are creating a smaller PC, you do not need an overly large motherboard.

Here are the sizes of each motherboard:

ATX – 12 inches x 9.6 inches
Micro-ATX – 9.6 inches x 9.6 inches
Mini-ITX – 6.7 inches x 6.7 inches

When comparing the sizes of the motherboards, there is a significant difference, especially when comparing the Standard ATX to the Mini-ATX. As the Micro-ATX has the same width dimensions, it is quite similar to the ATX. However, its smaller height means it can fit into smaller builds. 

When looking at standard builds, the vast majority feature a standard ATX motherboard. It is a popular choice given its size, and it has enough sockets, and PCIe connections, which is important for a gaming PC. 

Even though the Mini-ATX is significantly smaller, it is still a great option if you are looking for a small form factor PC. It allows the tower to be more compact, and while it features fewer sockets and PCIe lanes, this is not a dealbreaker for some people.

The main reason why you need to look at the size of the motherboard is to ensure that the motherboard can fit into your PC case. PC cases are available in a number of different sizes, and you will want to choose a motherboard with the correct height and width. 

The larger the PC case is, the more you will be able to customize the components and the build. Larger cases allow you to use all the components you want, without worrying that there will not be enough room.

However, larger PC cases are not always the best option as they can be quite heavy, and will take up a lot of space. Some people prefer to have a smaller form factor, which is understandable. 

We would recommend researching the type of PC you are looking to purchase, along with the types of components you need. This will then give you a better idea of the type of motherboard that is the best option for you. 

Motherboard Cost Comparison

In addition to the size, you will want to ensure that the motherboard you are purchasing fits within your budget. While there are different motherboards in each form factor that suit different budgets, the prices do vary between the form factors. 

Budget Friendly

If you are looking for a budget friendly option, we would recommend the Micro-ATX. While the Mini-ATX is a fairly inexpensive option, the Micro-ATX form factor is the best value for the money overall. 

The Micro-ATX is great because it will fit into smaller PC cases, which tend to be less expensive. In addition to this, because it features fewer sockets and PCIe channels, it is not as expensive as the Standard ATX motherboards. 

If you are someone looking to build their first PC on a budget, this is the best option to choose. It will allow you to connect the essential components (GPU, CPU, and RAM), but does limit other connections, which can be an issue if you want to go all out. 

High End

If you have enough room in your PC case, and are not worried about shopping on a budget, the Standard ATX is by far the best option for you. It does not limit you with the amount of connection you can have, and there is plenty of space to upgrade and change your build in the future. 

These are the most popular types of motherboard, and as a result, they do tend to have better specifications. Though you can purchase ATX motherboards on a budget too, there are more options available on the whole. 

The Pros of Each Motherboard

ATX 

As we have already discussed, this is by far, the most popular type of motherboard. Given this it is going to have the most models available to purchase. In addition to this, it is the best when you take into consideration the connections and PCIe lanes that are available. It is also great to look at aesthetically too.

When it comes to performance, it is not uncommon for gamers to overclock their motherboards. This will improve the performance, and this motherboard is particularly great for this. 

Finally, the ATX motherboards will allow you to have more RAM in your build overall. This can be a dealbreaker if you are looking for a motherboard that has the highest specs for gaming. 

Micro-ATX

Being the middle size of the three motherboards, this option is the best of both worlds in some respects. As it is still a reasonable size, it is a great option if you want more connections than the Mini-ATX. 

As it is a good size, the amount of RAM it can hold is a great amount. It is enough for gaming, and will help with the overall performance. In addition to this, it is not overly expensive to purchase, and is typically cheaper than the Standard ATX motherboards. 

If you are looking to only use one graphics card, it is the perfect size, and it can fit a good amount of PC cases, giving you plenty of options to choose from. 

Mini-ATX 

While this is the smallest motherboard, this is not necessarily a bad thing. It is great if you are on a budget, or you are looking to create a PC with a smaller form factor.

The cases that are purchased for Mini-ATX cases are cheaper on the whole, and will take up less space. When you look at the cases and the RGB lighting, this is far better for Mini-ATX motherboards in comparison to the other sizes. 

The Cons of Each Motherboard

Where there are pros, there are also cons, and each motherboard does have its own set of drawbacks. While these may not be enough to stop you purchasing a certain form factor, it may help to decide which is the better option for you.

ATX

ATX motherboards are the most expensive option, which can be off putting for those looking to build a PC on a budget. In addition to this, they also need larger PC cases, which in general are bulkier and more expensive too. 

Micro-ATX

As this is a smaller motherboard, only one GPU can be connected, and these motherboards are not the best when it comes to overclocking. When it comes to the aesthetics of these motherboards, they often do leave something to be desired. 

Mini-ATX

Even though they are the smallest motherboard, they are more expensive in comparison to the Micro-ATX. As they are so small, you will want to purchase a smaller PC case, as they are too small for the larger options.

Just like with the Micro-ATX you cannot connect more than one GPU, and there are a limited number of connections available. These motherboards cannot be heavily overclocked, and have a limited amount of RAM slots available.

Summary

To summarize, it depends on the individual as to which motherboard they purchase. You will want to assess the options closely to figure out which is the better option for your individual needs. They all have their positives and drawbacks, but are ultimately great choices in their own right. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp4GWn1-j8Y

Building a small form factor gaming computer means you need a smaller form case to hold all of your components. One of the best reasons to opt for this type of gaming PC build is because it is more budget friendly. There are plenty of motherboards to choose from as well as small form factor cases.

One of the best affordable small form factor cases is the micro-ATX. These cases tend to be slightly smaller than most traditional ATX mid tower cases. They are also slightly larger than some of the more popular mini-ITX cases.

But the factor that makes micro-ATX cases and motherboards stand apart from these competitive cases is how they are much more affordable.

For most gamers trying to stick to a budget, mini-ITX cases and motherboards are out of their price bracket. So this makes micro-ATX cases and motherboards the better choice because of their lower price point.

However, there are still lots of micro-ATX cases to choose from. To help you find the best micro-ATX case for your needs, we’ve put together a helpful buyer’s guide. We’re going to show you 11 of the best micro-ATX PC cases that are suitable for use with building a new budget friendly high end gaming PC.

Best Micro-ATX cases

Short on time? We’ve highlighted all 11 of our products in the helpful graph below. We’ve highlighted our clear winners, as well as what the other micro-ATX cases on our list will be best for.

Name	Specs	Price
Best overall: NZXT H400i	Suitable for GPUs up to 16.2” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 6.5” tall Can hold up to 5 fans max4 different colors to choose from	Check Price on Amazon
Best runner-up: Phanteks EVOLV mATX	Suitable for GPUs up to 12.5” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 7.6” tall Can hold up to 6 fans max3 different colors to choose from	Check Price on Amazon
Best cube style: Thermaltake Level 20 VT	Suitable for GPUs up to 13.8” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 7.3” tall Can hold up to 9 fans max2 different colors to choose from	Check Price on Amazon
Best value pick: Antec P6	Suitable for GPUs up to 15.4” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 6.3” tall Can hold up to 6 fans max Comes in all black	Check Price on Amazon
Best budget pick: Thermaltake Versa H15	Suitable for GPUs up to 12.4” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 6.1” tall Can hold up to 5 fans max Comes in all black	Check Price on Amazon
Best cube style runner-up: Fractal Design Node 804	Suitable for GPUs up to 12.6” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 6.3” tall Can hold up to 9 fans max Comes in all black	Check Price on Amazon
Best color choice: BitFenix Prodigy M	Suitable for GPUs up to 12.6” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 6.3” tall Can hold up to 5 fans max 5 different colors to choose from	Check Price on Amazon
Best aesthetics: Corsair Crystal 280X	Suitable for GPUs up to 11.8” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 5.9” tall Can hold up to 6 fans max 4 different colors to choose from	Check Price on Amazon
Best cube style with interior space: Thermaltake Core X2	Suitable for GPUs up to 18.9” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 9” tall Can hold up to 15 fans max Comes in all black	Check Price on Amazon
Best cheaper cube style: Thermaltake Core V21	Suitable for GPUs up to 13.8” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 7.3” tall Can hold up to 11 fans max Comes in all black	Check Price on Amazon
Best for space management: MasterBox Lite 3.1	Suitable for GPUs up to 14.9” long Can fit CPU coolers up to 6.2” tall Can hold up to 4 fans max Comes in all black	Check Price on Amazon

NZXT H400i

The most recent H series from NZXT has been highly praised for its RGB control features, PSU shroud, unique design, and its tempered glass side panel.

The H400i in particular is one of the best choices as it gives you a fair amount of room for all of your components. This particular micro-ATX case is one of the most spacious on our list. It’s capable of holding graphics cards up to 6.5” in height and 16.2” in length.

What’s really great about this particular micro-ATX case is that it can hold up to 5 different fans. It can also hold a smaller AIO cooler on either the front or the rear case. As long as this AIO cooler is either 120mm or 140mm, it should be the perfect fit.

The H400i case also features an Adaptive Noise Reduction design. So no matter what components you pack into it, it should be capable of much quieter operation.

The H400i is pretty similar to the Phanteks EVOLV micro-ATX case we’ve reviewed in more detail below. However, this particular micro-ATX case gives you more internal room for your components. It’s also available in more color schemes.

On the whole the NZXT H400i micro-ATX case easily earns the top spot on our list. This is even one of the best small form factor cases on the whole market, and not just out of all the micro-ATX cases available! If you have the budget to accommodate it, we’d definitely recommend going for this particular case.

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Phanteks EVOLV mATX

The Phanteks EVOLV micro-ATX case is just as impressive as our top pick, the NZXT H400i. What’s really interesting about this micro-ATX case in particular is that it comes with a PSU shroud and a tempered side glass panel. 

It’s worth bearing in mind that the Phanteks EVOLV mATX doesn’t come with as much clearance for graphics cards as our top ranked model, which makes it our runner-up out of the two. The Phanteks EVOLV micro-ATX can only hold cards which are up to 12.5” long.

However, 12.5” gives you more than enough room to choose some of the best GPUs on the market. There are even models such as the RTX 2080 and RTX 2080 Ti that come in at under 12.5” in length.

So even though it doesn’t have as much internal clearance as the H400i, you should still have plenty of room for your preferred components.

One of the benefits of the Phanteks EVOLV micro-ATX is that it comes in slightly cheaper than the H400i. So if you’re unsure which case to opt for out of the two, that may influence your decision. It can help you save more towards the other components of your gaming PC build!

Otherwise, the difference in features between the H400i and the EVOLV is pretty minimal. If you prefer the H400i’s style, then we’d suggest going with that model instead.

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Thermaltake Level 20 VT

There are plenty of cube style micro-ATX cases to choose from. However, we think the Thermaltake Level 20 VT easily comes out on top.

This particular case is a newer release, and has received lots of praise for its innovative design. It features 4 tempered glass panels on its sides, top, and front. What’s really interesting about these is that 3 of them are removable.

The Thermaltake Level 20 VT gives you plenty of room to play with in terms of space for graphics cards and CPU coolers. It can accommodate components which are up to 13.8” long and 7.3” tall. This should give you more than enough clearance for all of your preferred models.

There’s also plenty of support for liquid cooling, and there’s even room for radiators up to 280mm in length. You could fit dual 240mm radiators on the top of the case if you wanted to as well.

Sounds too good to be true? The only catch with the Thermaltake Level 20 VT is that it comes with a hefty price tag compared to competitive cube styles on our list. This particular cube style also isn’t able to offer as much airflow as some of the other cube styles we’ve highlighted.

It is worth bearing in mind that the Thermaltake Level 20 VT can hold up to 9 fans. There is also plenty of support for liquid cooling to help you make up for this lower level of airflow.

Looking for better out-of-the-box cooling? Then the Corsair Carbide Air 240, Thermaltake Core V21, or the Thermaltake Core X2 is the way to go. We’ve reviewed these in more detail below.

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Antec P6

Looking for the best value for your money? Then the Antec P6 should easily be your go-to pick. This is because the Antec P6 comes with a range of great features to suit a variety of gamers, no matter what they’re looking for in a micro-ATX case.

It comes with the much coveted PSU shroud as well as a tempered glass side panel. It features a sleek all black design which isn’t too plain or too ostentatious.

This particular micro-ATX case also comes with a generous amount of internal clearance so that it can fit graphics cards of up to 15.4” in length. This should be more than enough room for the vast majority of graphics cards on the market. It can accommodate CPU coolers of up to 6.3” in height. 

The Antec P6 also gives you room for radiators up to 240mm in length, providing your fans and radiator aren’t more than 55mm thick. This means that liquid cooling is also an option with this particular case.

The best part of the Antec P6 is that it’s available at a competitive price. So if you’re searching for an attractive micro-ATX case which will still give you plenty of room for all of your favorite components, then the Antec P6 is definitely worth a look.

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Thermaltake Versa H15

One of the cheapest options on our list is the Thermaltake Versa H15. This makes it a great budget choice for those who aren’t wanting to spend a small fortune.

The only thing to bear in mind is that only 1 fan comes pre-installed. However, you do also have the option of adding more of these over time should you wish to.

Another great feature of this micro-ATX case is how minimalistic the design is. There’s a fully perforated front panel to give you an impressive amount of dust-free airflow as well as air intake.

A vented top also gives you more room for air circulation. This will be great for those who are particularly worried about their components overheating while they’re gaming.

But what really sets this Thermaltake Versa H15 apart from competitive budget micro-ATX is its internal clearance for your components.

This particular micro-ATX can fit graphics cards that are up to 12.4” in length and CPU coolers which are up to 6.1” in height. This should allow you to fit some of the best components into your new Thermaltake Versa H15 micro-ATX case.

When you consider that this case comes in at a highly competitive price, this makes it the perfect choice for gamers working on a budget. It should mean that you won’t have to compromise on the more expensive parts that you’re after.

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Fractal Design Node 804

If you have your heart set on a cube style case, then the Fractal Design Node 804 is another fantastic choice. This particular case gives you a sleek, all black design that makes it the ideal selection for those who don’t want a case that’s too flashy. The Fractal Design Node 804 will give you the minimalistic design that you’re after.

You’ll get plenty of clearance in the Node 804 for your preferred components. This particular micro-ATX case is capable of supporting graphics cards of up to 12.6” in length, and CPU coolers of up to 6.3” in height.

There’s also the option of fitting liquid coolers to the case, too. Providing that they are up to 280mm in length, you should be able to fit a high-end AIO cooler or custom liquid cooler in your new gaming PC build.

The only negative to the Fractal Design Node 804 is its price point. When you compare it to some of the other cube style micro-ATX cases that we’ve included on our list, it comes out on the more expensive end.

However, some gamers may feel that the price difference is worth the investment. If you’re on the more budget-sensitive side of the spectrum, then it may be best to opt for one of the other cube styles that we’ve reviewed in more detail.

BitFenix Prodigy M

Are you a fan of the signature BitFenix Prodigy design? Then the BitFenix Prodigy M is the best pick for you. This particular case features a slightly larger format than its smaller mini-ITX cousin.

It’s also available in a variety of colors so you can choose the best for your desired setup. The case itself features helpful handles which you can use to move the gaming PC around once you’ve put it all together.

The BitFenix Prodigy M is one of the more compact cases on our list. So this makes it a great fit for those who want to build a small form factor gaming PC.

In terms of clearance, you’ll be able to fit graphics cards up to 12.6” long and CPU coolers up to 6.3” in height. This particular case can also hold up to 5 fans. There’s even room for a 120mm or 140mm radiator should you wish to add one of these to your build. 

Overall the BitFenix comes with the best range of color choices out of all the cases on our list. It’s also a great pick for those who like the BitFenix Prodigy design but want to opt for something at a more competitive price.

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Corsair Crystal 280X

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to cube styles. The Corsair Crystal 280X is another fantastic option for those of you who prefer the cube style micro-ATX case.

This particular micro-ATX case comes with three tempered glass panels as well as an all black color scheme. So it won’t be too flashy for those who would prefer a more minimalistic style.

The Corsair Crystal 280X comes with a reasonable amount of space for you to add all of your desired components. It has enough clearance to fit graphics cards up to 11.8” long as well as CPU coolers that are up to 5.9” in height.

If you’re particularly concerned about cooling, there’s space for liquid cooling radiators which are up to 240mm on the bottom, front, or top of the case.

This particular case also comes in a variety of styles. You can choose between the standard version or the RGB edition. The RGB edition comes with tempered glass. The standard edition also comes with tempered glass, but it is available in either black or white.

If you’re not that fussed about a case which has tempered glass, you can opt for the Corsair Carbide Air 240. This is basically the same case but without the tempered glass panels.

So if you prefer the cube style micro-ATX cases, the Corsair Crystal 280X is probably one of the better choices. While you’ll have to pay a bit more for the RGB style, the standard style is available for a fair price.

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Thermaltake Core X2

Want to pass on the cube styles that we’ve reviewed so far? Then the Thermaltake Core X2 may be the cube style micro-ATX case for you.

This particular case gives you more internal room for your components than some of the other styles we’ve reviewed. It also gives you more support for fans if those are important to your preferred method of building.

You may be impressed to learn that the Thermaltake Core X2 can actually fit larger graphics cards, CPU coolers, as well as more fans and radiators than any of the micro-ATX cases we’ve reviewed on our list.

This particular case can hold up to a very impressive 15 fans. It can even hold radiators that are up to 360mm long as well as these! So you arguably could run up to 6 different radiators in the Thermaltake Core X2.

In terms of clearance, the Thermaltake Core X2 can hold graphics cards up to 18.9” in length and CPU coolers up to 9” in height.

The great news is that these measurements are larger than any existing CPU coolers and graphics cards, so you’ll have plenty of room for adding any of the components you want to without having to worry about space.

So if you’re wanting a cube style micro-ATX case that comes with the best amount of space for your needs, the Thermaltake Core X2 is the best choice for you.

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Thermaltake Core V21

The range of Thermaltake cases is impressive. It’s worth mentioning another of their micro-ATX cases, the Thermaltake Core V21. This particular case won’t be as spacious as the Core X2 and can’t support as many different radiators. However, it’s available at a much more competitive price, making it worth a mention.

There’s also a generous amount of clearance in this particular case. It can support graphics cards up to 13.8” long as well as CPU coolers up to 7.3” tall.

It can also support radiators which are up to 280mm long and house up to 11 fans. So even though it can’t support as much as the Core X2, it still gives you a generous amount of room.

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MasterBox Lite 3.1

Rounding off our list is the MasterBox Lite 3.1. This particular micro-ATX case makes use of a modular design so that you can fit more components into your case. Weighing in at 9 pounds, it’s also one of the lightest and most compact cases on the market.

The MasterBox Lite 3.1 case is able to hold graphics cards up to 14.9” in length and CPU coolers of up to 6.2” in height. So you’ll be able to build one of the best high-end machines but in a more budget friendly case!

You can even show off your new build thanks to the transparent side panel included with the micro-ATX case.

All in all, you get an impressive amount of space for the price. So if you’re looking to build a small form factor gaming PC but at a budget price, the MasterBox Lite 3.1 is the case for you. You can also grow into the space provided as you upgrade certain components in your new gaming PC build.

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In Summary

No matter what you’re looking for in a micro-ATX case, our list should have you covered.

We’ve made sure to choose a good mix of micro-ATX cases so that you can find the perfect model for you. 

Peruse our reviews in more detail above to find the best micro-ATX case for your gaming needs.

PC case sizes. No one ever talks about them. They’re boring, they’re simple, and a lot of people they’re nothing more than just housing for all your PC hardware. A PC case is as insignificant as that protective case that you have on your phone.

But it’s far from the actual truth. PC cases are just as complicated and just as crucial when it comes to building a powerful gaming PC. A PC case can make or break your entire build because not all cases are made equal. Believe us when we say that there’s a lot of terminologies to memorize and learn when it comes to understanding how PC cases play a role in building custom PCs.

If you’re reading this article, chances are you’re a first-time buyer or PC builder who needs a new PC case to upgrade their current custom PC build, or looking to get started with building.

What is a Computer or PC Case?

A Computer Case, or PC case, protects the internal hardware and provides structure for the computer. The sizes and form factor of the PC will determine what hardware goes inside.

That’s right. Your computer’s case size will tell you what hardware you can install and can’t install. When it comes to building a custom PC, knowing if you have enough space or not is crucial.

There are two important functions highlighted in any PC case:

• Ventilation and cooling support – Apart from managing air flow, your PC case can accommodate additional ventilation and cooling features such as bigger fans and liquid cooling systems. Even if you don’t have liquid cooling on your PC, air circulation is still important to keep your unit cool.
• Protection from external damages – A PC case, no matter what size you get, is rigid enough to withstand small bumps to prevent damage to the internal hardware. Worst case scenario, your entire rig falls off the table. Your PC case should be able to minimize damage to the hardware (i.e. CPU, GPU, fans, etc.), but there’s no guarantee that these components won’t be unscathed either.

What Are The Different PC Cases?

Size matters. At least for PC cases. PC cases should have enough space to accommodate and protect hardware such as GPU, HDD/SDD, CPUs, and so on. Without proper air circulation or if your case doesn’t have cooling fans, overheating will damage these components.

The size of your computer cases and the build of the computer itself should both be compatible with one another. This section should go over important aspects of computer case size comparison and what sizes are best for which functionality.

Full Tower Case

Motherboard Form Factor: Extended ATX (or E ATX) or Standard ATX

Most custom gaming PC enthusiasts would often go for a full tower case as their main choice for PC case size. Full tower computer cases can accommodate any E ATX or SSI CEB-sized motherboard and have a lot of expansion compatibility. There’s also improved thermal performance, but does not apply to all full tower cases in the market.

Apart from gamers, people who are building their own servers choose a full tower case with extended ATX because it can accommodate extra RAM and CPU . Then you also have those overclocking enthusiasts who need a lot of cooling to quickly dissipate heat when certain components such as CPU and GPU are pushed to the limits. To make this possible, they need to equip the PC with triple heat sinks, CPU cooler, water cooling, and big radiators. And these components aren’t exactly small and portable.

It’s also possible to install multiple GPUs using SLI and crossfire with a full tower case, or even install large GPUs thanks to vertical GPU mounting. An RTX 3090 Gaming PC would also use full tower cases just for the sheer size of the GPU.

Mid Tower Case

Motherboard Form Factor: ATX or Micro ATX

Mid towers offer the most flexibility for PC builders because they’re smaller and more compact, but capable of equipping standard ATX motherboards or micro ATX motherboards. The cases can also accommodate LED lighting and added cooling fans for those who want to show off some RGB swag.

Similar to full towers, mid tower computer cases are able to support two graphics cards. Some can even accommodate up to three graphics cards. But most builders won’t even add a second or third GPU because they just want to take advantage of the PCI-e slots for later expansions down the line. For example, installing a 2080Ti takes up a couple of PCIe slots on the motherboard. You could make it work with a mid tower, but if you want to add in a second GPU with your 2080Ti, then just go for the full tower case

It goes without saying that mid tower cases are smaller than full towers, so you get more desk space but you do get increased ambient temperatures when you’re running the rig. Mid towers can’t install as much CPU fans as a full tower, so there’s less air flow and reduced air circulation.

But air flow is just the tip of the iceberg for many mid tower cases. A mid tower offers lesser space for optimal cable management, less HDD support, and unable to equip large liquid-cooling configs. Overclocking is out of the question for a mid tower. But if that’s not your end goal for building a custom PC and just want something compact on your desk, then a Mid Tower might be worth considering.

Mini Tower

Motherboard Form Factor: Mini-ITX or Micro-ATX

Smaller cases accommodate small form factor motherboards, namely mini ITX or Micro ATX. Mini tower cases have risen in popularity for their unique tempered glass design, affordability, and ability to accommodate other small form factor components. We’re talking about using a low profile GPU with subtle cooling configs.

But not all mini tower cases are equal. Sure, they can accommodate smaller micro ATX motherboards, but that’s not really a big deciding factor. You have less spaces for HDD and less expansion slots, and you might not be able to accommodate large GPUs because of clearance issues.

Smaller Form Factor

Motherboard Form Factor: Mini-ITX

The smallest computer case of them all, the small form factor case is not to be underestimated. Despite its size, there are computer builders out there who’re pumping out high-end builds with just a mini ITX motherboard.

The smaller form factor cases are great for people who just want a minimalistic gaming station or workstation.

What Features Do You Want When Shopping for Computer Cases?

Now that we’ve gotten the computer case size comparison out of the way, it’s time to talk about PC case features. Size affects what features you’re getting on a case, such as a bigger motherboard tray, custom loop support, case fans, drive bays, and so on.

Here’s what you need to know about features that are affected by computer case sizes:

Drive Mounting – Drive mounting is an important factor to consider because you’re looking at hard drive space. Your new PC case should have enough room for 2.5″ HDD or 3.5″ HDD, or even 5.25″ HDD drives that you’re using.

There are cases in the market that have the right mounting space directly on the motherboard tray’s sheet metal. You’ll want to look for four holes where you can screw the drive in. There are also other cases that have a removable caddy that will allow you to access all your installed drives easily. Think of it as a plug-and-play feature, but on your PC case.

Water-cooling features – Custom loop water cooling will always be the best option for PC cooling, no matter what people say. To make this possible, you need a radiator. But this isn’t going to fit into a mini ITX case or a smaller form factor case. You need a PC case that can accommodate hardware of this size, and that’s going to be a full tower case. You’ll be lucky to find a mid tower case that can fit a radiator or custom loops too, but they’re not that uncommon.

Cable Management – Mini ITX cases and smaller form factor cases might not have the best options for cable management because there’s not enough space. How much space you have on your PC case will determine your ability to manage cables. If you’re particular about how your cabling should look like, a full tower case is the best option.

Toolless design – High end PC cases often have a toolless design, which is a modern design aspect done by case manufacturers. These are features that make your life easier as a PC user. You just remove one screw from a clip-on drive bay and you can easily access your hardware. Other toolless design features are motherboard cut-out covers, removable PSU shrouds, and hard drive caddies.

Motherboards Are Linked To Computer Case Sizing

PC building is more than just knowing what size of PC case to use. You also need to consider the size of the motherboard that could fit into the PC case you want to use.

Motherboards come with different sizes or form factors. Smaller motherboards go well with smaller cases, and larger motherboards go with large cases.

There are three main form factors:

• Mini ITX
• Micro ATX
• ATX

Full tower cases can accommodate E ATX and Micro ATX motherboards (largest and smallest form factor motherboards respectively). Mid towers can handle standard ATX and Micro ATX motherboards. Mini towers can accommodate Micro ATX and Mini ITX. Smaller Form Factors can only accommodate Mini ITX motherboards.

Size doesn’t really matter in terms of performance because you’ll find that each form factor has the best motherboards. Smaller motherboards will have fewer PCIe slots, storage expansion ports, and RAM slots. Opting for a smaller motherboard means you’re willing to sacrifice your ability for upgrade or expansion.

What’s The Best Cast Size for Hardcore Gamers?

We’ll consider three factors when it comes to choosing the best case size for hardcore gaming.

If You Want to Build a Small Size PC

If you want something small on your desktop, the Phanteks Evolv Shift 2 is the best mini ITX case that offers flexibility and extreme versatility. This is great for gamers who want to go to LAN parties a lot.

Ideally, you want a small case that can support micro ATX motherboards because of the slots available. But if you really want the smallest size possible, you could work with an SFF (Smaller Form FactorS) case. You’ll end up spending more money because a mini ITX motherboard is expensive but with fewer capabilities. You’re also going for small form factor cooling hardware and PSU.

If possible, stretch your budget so you can purchase mini ITX cases. At least you’re getting some value out of the size. With a case like this, your gaming PC would probably be put together for less than $1000.

For Those Who Don’t Care About Size

If you don’t really mind looking at a humungous piece of PC in your room, go for be quiet!’s Dark Base Pro 900, a full tower case with a lot of potential room for upgrades. You want to get this case because there’s a lot of room for hardware, more RAM, PCI-e card expansion slots, and storage expansion.

You also get to enjoy larger cooling solutions and better air circulation thanks to the added fans you can install.

An ATX motherboard in a full tower case gives you all the flexibility you need for upgrading in the future. But if a budget PC is what you’re aiming for, consider a micro ATX board to go with a full tower case.

If You’re Fine With Spending A Lot of Money

You want to go all out with this one, so E ATX motherboards are definitely the way to go with a full tower case. You might even go for an Ultra Tower with E ATX motherboard. A good option to go here would be the Thermal Take Core P8, a huge lunk of a case with great EATX mobo support. Prebuilt gaming PCs would often use cases that accommodate E ATX motherboards (we’re looking at you, Alienware).

Size of the case and price of the case won’t even be part of the equation anymore because you just want a PC case to give you a lot of options for upgrade and expansion. And an E ATX motherboard can give you that.

If you do decide to go with an ultra tower case, know that these cases are very heavy and large. You might not be able to move them easily too. But if you want to bring along your expensive PC, just go for a full tower with regular ATX mobo.

Best Bang for Your Buck

If you want the best bang for your buck, consider the micro-ATX Lian Li 205M. This is the best option for those working on a tight budget. You could also consider a micro ATX motherboard to go with a mid tower.

Micro ATX motherboards may have a couple of PCI-e slots with x16 lanes, which is more than enough for most gamers. They also have four RAM slots with NVMe storage capability. Upgrading and expanding is not really a challenge here with a micro ATX motherboard. You might be able to use this for $600 gaming PC budget builds too.

Mid tower cases can also get you enough space to host large cooling solutions with enough cable management options.

Closing

Now you know everything there is to know about different sizes for computer cases. You know what most common form factor motherboards should go with whatever the size of computer case you want to purchase.

Ultimately, it will boil down to what you’re willing to spend on, and what your aesthetic tastes will be like in deciding which size of computer cases will be right for you.