The smallest ATX cases are more fashionable because of their ultimate portability, sleek and intelligent designs. For those who want their gaming setups to look elegant, not a beast, it is the best choice on the market today. I have been working very closely with professional gamers, content creators, and designers, and most of them intend to go for the best smallest ATX cases. You can mount dual GPUs, and the close interaction of fans is suitable for cooling solutions.
I am very eager to let you know the facts hidden behind why you should go for the smallest ATX cases and what can be the reason to avoid them. I have put all the benefits, drawbacks, specs, features, and more about the smallest ATX cases, and I will also help you buy the finest one out of my five sincere findings. The experience of unboxing distinct cases for comparison is fun; I had it for weeks. But don’t worry; you need to invest a few minutes, and everything will be crystal clear with zero vagueness.
Top 6 Smallest ATX Computer Cases
- Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L
- Cooler Master MasterBox Lite 3.1
- Thermaltake Core V21
- Cooler Master NR200P
- Lian Li O11 AIR MINI Black
- NZXT H510 Smallest Gaming Case
- Comparison Amongst the Best Smallest PC Cases
- Buying Guide for the Best Smallest ATX Cases
You have already got familiar with the requirements for buying the best smallest ATX cases for your next build. But the problem stays there, especially for newbies who choose the right one from countless options available in the market.
We have tested the smallest ATX computer cases and evaluated them against specific criteria to facilitate your decision-making. In the end, we have chosen a small form factor ATX case that can fit everyone’s needs.
1) Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L Micro-ATX Tower
| Specifications | Tested Values |
|---|---|
| Motherboard compatibility | Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX |
| Case type | MiniTower |
| Material | Plastic, steel |
| Color | Black |
| Fan count | 3 |
| USB ports | 2 |
| Hard disk form factor | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 480 Grams |
| Cooling method | Air |
You can seek style and fashion with the Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L Micro-ATX tower case that can fill your cravings with many worldly features. When I opened the box, the pattern of dust filters attracted me at first instance. The I/O panel is set to different locations, and the mounting process is smooth. The spacious room for cooling setup takes things to another level. It also has some limitations but is not significant enough to worry about.
Magnetic Dust Filters and I/O Panel
Here I present the most reliable and smallest of cases with magnetic dust filters to avoid any disastrous episode. The pattern of the filter is so unique that it gives a new outlook to the chassis, and you cannot resist your eyes staring at it. Moreover, you can place the I/O panel in 6 different settings. It allows you to go for the I/O panel’s bottom, top, front, or back corners. I will also tell you what I found out more about this one of the best smallest PC cases.
Ultimate Clearance with Versatile Cooling Solutions
It offers versatile clearance facilities on top and front. You get an excellent liquid cooler up to 240mm that supports your gaming passion. You are good to use GPU up to 360mm, and power supplies switch the length of 160 mm. I also went for other settings and decreased the power supply cable length. It was so smooth, and no objections were there to restrain the changes I experienced.
Elegant Roomy Interior with Style
It keeps you going with updates, and nothing is there to stop you from getting more and more out of this case. It fully supports Mini ITX and Micro ATX motherboards smoothly. The case size is small but not the performance levels, giving an immense boost to your experiences. Routing space is excellent and thermal performance is on top with a front panel that supports unconditionally.
Excellent Thermal Design at A Small Price
The thermal design with transparent sides lets you observe what is happening inside your PC. You get an extra space behind the motherboard, which helps you keep the cable management unquestionably. Moreover, the practice tag of the case is so shocking, and it shocked me, too, when I saw it and got to know it for the first time. Don’t worry; it gives you shock with the bliss of saving. I tried to keep things simple and honest to get you the actual image of the case.
Positive
- It looks sturdy and tidy, and it looks amazing
- It offers multiple builds options
- The price range is super good and the best for beginners
- It keeps dust away from the case and it is how the life of the case extends for years
- Offers the best return for your money with industrial grade making
Negative
- The management of cables needs to be reviewed
2) Cooler Master MasterBox Lite 3.1 TG mATX Case
| Specifications | Tested Values |
|---|---|
| Motherboard compatibility | Micro-ATX |
| Case type | MicroTower |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Color | Mate Black |
| Fan count | 3 |
| USB ports | 2 |
| Hard disk form factor | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 8.8 pounds |
| Cooling method | Fan |
The Cooler Master MasterBox Lite 3.1 TG mATX Case has a substantial expansion, a dark mirror panel, and a spacious room for better air transfer. The cooling system has a significant impact on the performance of your PC. My teammates and I have used it, liked it with all our compassion, and found nothing meaningful to criticize. The GPU support is good enough to impress the user, and durability has a long way to go with your PC. It is indeed one of the best smallest PC cases.
Substantial Expansion with Dark Mirror Panel
There are substantial expansions you get with the Cooler Master MasterBox Lite 3.1 TG mATX Case. Moreover, dark mirrors give a new outlook to the whole case. On the other hand, it impressed me with its unique three colors, and you can choose whatever fits your needs and style best. It takes good care of your freedom that excels in the functionality of your PC to the fullest.
Spacious Interior with the Best Cooling System
I studied it a lot and then tested it myself. By God, it has blown my mind with its super generous and spacious interior that allows most components to work on board with the lowest temperature. The cooling of the pick is unbeatable, and you get multiple fans to contribute to the job.
It shows excellent liquid cooling with edge-to-edge tempered glass for the panoramic view. I have enjoyed unboxing and using it. The only thing I feel is lacking is the availability of multiple color options.
Ideal GPU Support and Customized Color Schemes
You can mount 2.5 to 3.5 drives easily, and the GPU support goes up to 380mm. The customized color scheme is excellent, and high-quality material for durability helps you get the desired outcomes within no time. It offers flexible options for the fit of the GPU, and you need not worry about it. You are suitable for large, small, or medium card lengths. I witnessed the courage and roomy interior of this one of the best smallest PC cases on the market today.
Positive
- It offers multiple sizes and shapes to give you an ultimate aid
- The air filtration system is unbeatable
- It is very much economical for all types of users
- It offers the ease of mounting components with zero complexity
Negative
- It has limitations regarding multiple colors
3) Thermaltake Core V21 SPCC Micro ATX Gaming Computer Case
| Specifications | Tested Values |
|---|---|
| Motherboard compatibility | Micro-ATX |
| Case type | MiniTower |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Color | Black |
| Fan count | 1 |
| USB ports | 2 |
| Hard disk form factor | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 4.4 pounds |
| Cooling method | Air |
When I first learned about the Thermaltake Core V21 SPCC Micro ATX Mini ITX Cube Gaming Computer Case, I was curious and went for hand testing. And believe me, it showed me the aesthetics with great marvel. The vertical and horizontal placement facility with optimized cable management is so palpable. Cooling and ventilation options help you keep your temperature down to unharmed limits. Let’s find out more about this one of the best smallest PC cases.
Vertical and Horizontal Placement Facility
The Thermaltake Core V21 SPCC Micro ATX Mini ITX Cube Gaming Computer Case allows you to use the motherboard vertically or horizontally. It reflects your personality and how you want to present it to others. It shapes the chassis in a way that helps your PC dominate the others. It gives a feeling of luxury now. The cooling performance is outstanding, and you get nothing except minor finishing whiffs.
Optimized Cable Management Room
The cable management room of the Thermaltake Core V21 SPCC Micro ATX, Mini ITX Cube Gaming Computer Case is so attractive and valuable. The design is stackable and ensures enthusiasts that mac supports the play. It adorns your room with colors, and you get no complexity while handling long cords. The space behind the motherboard tray is enough to hold them tightly.
Optional Cooling with Advanced Ventilation
The one thing that can annoy you is that you do not get pre-built cooling options, but you are open to making it up. The case seems good and well-built for the job, and I admire the commitment level of the manufacturer a lot. You can have advanced ventilation and an increased number of fans on board to withstand heating hazards. It returns the best for your spending, and the budget is wildly down to save your pocket.
Beautiful Aesthetics with A Durable Body
You get an easy-to-use option with a more accessible mounting facility. Still, when it comes to style and manner, you get the best aesthetics with no compromise on the durability and quality of the housing. Alloy steel housing makes it unrivalled in pressure and other anomalies. It is undoubtedly one of the best smallest PC cases with magnificence and vitality.
Positive
- It gives you a true sense of achievement while using it
- Gives you an entirely rewarding experience
- Boosts your usage style and elegance your creativity with comfort and solace
- It looks small but performs big things
- The budget lines are so easy to meet
Negative
- The finishing needs to be improved a bit more
4) Cooler Master NR200P SFF Small Form Factor Mini-ITX Case
| Specifications | Tested Values |
|---|---|
| Motherboard compatibility | Mini-ITX |
| Case type | MiniTower |
| Material | Tempered glass |
| Color | Black |
| Fan count | 7 |
| USB ports | 2 |
| Hard disk form factor | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 11.2 pounds |
| Cooling method | Air |
If you genuinely need one of the best smallest PC cases, the Cooler Master NR200P SFF Small Form Factor Mini-ITX Case is a reliable option. It is a beast in a bag and features tool-free access with easy-to-use options. The powerful cooling potential backup with premium quality making and long-lasting air filtration system makes things easier to manage. Overall, it has the potential to serve beyond your expectations.
Beast in Bag-Best Features in Small Size
Have you heard of the beast in Bags? If you have not, you can experience it yourself. The Cooler Master NR200P SFF Small Form Factor Mini-ITX Case is a true beast with no rough face but a spectacular body with decent color and powerful dust filters. I consider choosing it one of the best smallest PC cases, and I mean it with all my guts, knowledge, and experience with it.
Tool-Free Access and Easy to Use
Triple slots for GPUs are commendable in this case. You get tool-free access and easy-to-use options with no hurdle on the way. You can change the card size anytime, and the case will accommodate your needs. You also get a vertical mount option for style and elegance. Now it is up to you how you choose to use it for the job.
Powerful Cooling Potential Backup
The cooling potential is on top, and you can get around seven fans on board. You can increase or decrease the count needed in the given situation. Moreover, the premium quality for durability brings you the best return for your money. When you touch it for the first time after getting it out of the box, it makes you feel good because of its smooth, study, and stylish design.
Positive
- It is super easy to build in and the mounting of components is even easier
- Mesh and glass panels are so good to give a remarkable look and transparent view
- The aesthetics are so good, and the durability is unrivaled
- Price of the case is easy to afford for all types of users
Negative
- It is not so easy to transport from one place to another
5) Lian Li O11 AIR MINI Black Mini Tower Computer Case
| Specifications | Tested Values |
|---|---|
| Motherboard compatibility | ATX |
| Case type | MiniTower |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Color | Black |
| Fan count | 2 |
| USB ports | 2 |
| Hard disk form factor | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 9.8 kg |
| Cooling method | Air |
Unlike other picks, the Lian Li O11 AIR MINI Black SPCC PC case offers industrial-grade body-making for the ultimate builds. It has multiple fans for better cooling solutions and fully supports small and regular-size supply cables. The expansion slots are enough to accommodate the max storage, and the ample interior allows you to get most things on board. I found a genuine and one of the best smallest PC cases with no considerable variations.
Multiple Fans for Better Cooling Options
You get a pair of fans for a better cooling equation, and you can also include rear fans on board. The ventilation space with the airy environment looks suitable for the scenario. It creates an aroma around you, and you enjoy having a stable, reliable, and beautiful case for your gaming setup or workstation. You get all these features at a relatively small price.
Support Regular Size Supply Cables with Super Mesh Penal
It entirely supports regular-size ATX cables for optimum usage. Whether you get anything with variation can help the equation you choose. It comes with mesh front, side, and top panels. It allows you to view things with a transparent impression, and I bet it has the most power to deal with pressures and punishments.
Industrial Grade Material at A Small Price
Industrial-grade material is helpful for rough usage as it gives the confidence to aim for more. When I held it in my hands, it fell accidentally, and I was nervous to look down but guess what? Things were good, and nothing went wrong with the body, with no scratch, damage, or injury. Moreover, you get this super reliable case at a very nominal price.
Positive
- It provides the ultimate thermal design, and the quality of the build is super good
- The design is stunning and looks amazing
- Air filtration is good, and the ventilation setup is free of faults
- It has a durable body to withstand errors and pressures
Negative
- It is not a luxurious pick
- The portability is not so easy
6) NZXT H510 Smallest Gaming Case
| Specifications | Tested Values |
| Form Factor | Mid Tower |
| PSU Support | ATX |
| Motherboard Support | ATX, Micro ATX, Mini ITX |
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| Front I/O Ports | 2x USB 3.1 HD Audio In & Out |
| Fan Mounts | 1x 120mm, 1x 140mm (top) 2x 120mm, 2x 140mm (front) 1x 120mm (rear) |
| Drive Mounts | 3x Internal 3.5″ 3x Internal 2.5″ |
| Radiator Support | 2x 140mm (front) , 1x 120mm (rear) |
| Dimensions | 16.85 x 8.27 x 18.11 inches |
There are many best smallest ATX cases in the market, but NZXT H510 is the best choice that you can buy. It has several features that make it the best among the competition. The cable management, streamlined cooling, and simplified design add more to its value. It supports all the motherboards except E-ATX and allows the gamers to set their desired build without sacrificing the components.
Simplified Design
NZXT H510 is the most durable and sturdily built full ATX slim case available in the market. There are other sturdy cases available in the market, but no one is near the quality and finish we get in the NZXT case.
This Mid Tower Case is extraordinary with simple features such as it has a durable body, easy to set up, and has a good airflow ability. One of the most important things which makes it more prominent is the thick metal panel that makes the case sturdier and more durable.
Premium Build Material
NTXZ H510 case is as glossy as its ancestors, with a premium matte black and grainy finish similar to its predecessors. This color may attract dust and also cannot hide the scratches. However, it is better than other similar options and competitors.
The exclusive NZXT H510 case model comes equipped with transparent front tempered glass that shows the RGB fans. However, this smallest gaming case has a clean, minimalistic metal plate design that is not inferior to the glass model.
Airflow Components Support
The NZXT H510 comes with the best airflow system. These cases are equipped with two 120mm Aer fans, ensuring that the components don’t get overheated. When we look out the formation of the airflow, its design looks out of the box.
It is relatively easy to monitor the dust building up between the frames’ gaps, perfect for easy cleaning. Moreover, these frames have a removable bracket for radiators up to 280mm. These brackets help the process of installation of custom-loop or close-loop for the water-cooling system.
Removable Filters
When we talk about the best airflow, then we should expect dust to build up. The dust from the environment can build up inside removable dust filters. This makes the process simple and also makes the installation of the radiator easy. Furthermore, these filter ensures less maintenance for the internal components by blocking the dust.
Multiple Connectors
USB-C type connecter is standard in cases nowadays, and the NZTX is no exception. This USB connector resides on the front side of this case, making it easier to access and plug your USB device without much hassle. You can easily attach the USB, phone, or gaming headset to your computer without dragging the case from under your desk.
Cable Management
There are not any unwanted cutouts pieces like rubber grommets. Except for this, you will find a large cable that smartly connects with the NZTX cable bar. These cable bars not only perfectly conceal the cables but also act as additional space.
This kind of cable management can reserve space for a water cooler, and if you need more space in H510, you can remove these cable bars without any problem.
Mid-Tower Looks
NZTX H510 is a sturdy and solid case, just like its predecessors. It is reliable and uses robust materials for the manufacturing of the case. If you want to install some extra fans and AIO, it is the best choice to have an H510. Everything from water cooling to budget building looks great inside NZTX. it is a real mid-tower for all.
| Specs | CoolerMasterBox Q300L | CoolerMasterBox Lite 3.1 TG mATX | Thermaltake Core V21 SPCC | Cooler Master NR200P SFF | Lian Li O11 AIR MINI Black |
| Motherboard compatibility | Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX | Micro-ATX | Micro-ATX | Mini-ITX | ATX |
| Material | Plastic, steel | Alloy steel | Alloy steel | Tempered glass | Aluminum |
| Color | Black | MB Lite 3.1 TG | Black | Black | Black |
| Fan count | 3 | 3 | 1 | 7 | 2 |
| USB ports | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Hard disk form factor | 3.5 inches | 3.5 inches | 3.5 inches | 3.5 inches | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 480 Grams | 8.8 pounds | 4.4 pounds | 11.2 pounds | 9.8 kg |
| Cooling method | Air | Fan | Air | Air | Air |
Buying Guide for the Best Smallest ATX Cases
The Best Smallest ATX Cases are a more reliable and considerable choice for the users looking for compact cases. There are many extraordinary features in them, and they represent a stylish look while being lightweight and affordable
Before making a purchase, make sure about some critical factors of the portable ATX case. These vital considerations are following:
Small Size of Case
Size is the most important thing while buying a small computer case ATX for your computer. The size of the PC case depends on the size of the motherboard that can fit inside it. So, the first thing for consideration is the size of the case. It also decides how much the case is reliable and practical for future use.
If the size of your ATX case is small according to the size of the system’s components, it may cause trouble for expansion. If you want to avoid these problems in the future, then make sure that your case is compact and spacious to fulfill your requirements.
Material Quality
Build quality means that which material gets used for the manufacturing of the product. The durability of any product directly depends on the material. Make sure that the case which you want has good build quality.
Look for the best material case and never compromise on the quality. If you want to buy a durable case, then always go for the metallic material because it is good material and will last longer than any other regular plastic substitute available in the market.
Airflow Cooling System
The proper airflow is also an essential factor not to neglect. Airflow is a critical factor for any custom gaming computer. It is responsible for the cooling of the components and prevents overheating. If the airflow of a PC case is weak or does not have proper circulation, then the components inside the case can damage from overheating.
These factors may cause a problem for your device, and you need to lower the temperature for good performance. That’s why prefer the ATX case that offers good airflow in them. You may increase the ability of airflow by installing extra fans. This will help you to decrease the heat efficiently.
Motherboard Compatibility
Different PC cases are available in the market, but all cases are not compatible with every motherboard. It is important to know that different types of motherboards can support different types of cases. So, keep in mind that your smallest standard ATX case can house your desired motherboard.
Not only the motherboard but some other types of components are necessary to consider. For example, GPUs have up to 410mm in length, and if you want to go for the high-end card, the important thing is finding out the case that can house it.
Drive Bays
Drive bay is the place in the computer where your hard disk, floppy disk, or the other disk drives can accommodate. If we talk about the drive, they need the same protection as you protect the other components of the computer. You can only protect your drives if they have proper slots in the case.
That’s why it is essential to find out the case that has enough bays for your existing drives and the drives you want to install in the future. If you plan to add hard drives or solid-state drives, ensure that your case’s hard drive bays properly support the 3.5-inch & 2.5-inch HDD/SSD units.
Cooling Support Components
Liquid cooling PC cases are good to use if you need to use your computer for some of the extreme purposes, such as gaming. When you want to use your computer for gaming, then they also need protection from overheating. That’s why water cooling or liquid cooling cases are good choices. These cases are not only best to cool your PC components but also look stylish.
Make sure that your smallest micro ATX gaming case provides suitable airflow and cooling to the system. Most cases come equipped with a rear-mounted radiator to keep the power supply, CPU, and graphics card cool.
USB Ports
A USB port is a standard cable connection interface for personal computers and consumer electronics devices. If you want external connectivity for your devices, make sure that your mini-tower comes equipped with the essential USB ports on the front side of the case for easy access.
These ports connect external devices like the keyboard, mouse speakers, and other parts of the computer. Make sure that these USB ports are at least 7 to 10 in the case for this purpose.
PSU Support
There is a separate compartment for the power supply in the ATX cases. This will ensure that the computer parts remain protected from damage due to the liquid and dust in the environment. That’s why make sure about the separate PSU compartment in your case while purchasing. It is important to choose the case compatible with the power supply unit to support your build properly.
This guide tried to elaborate on all of the specifications about the top 5 best smallest ATX Cases. There are different options for you to buy a best case for your PC. First of all, consider all of the requirements you want to see in your case, then make a wise decision to purchase a PC case. However, while buying your case, make sure for some of the necessary things, such as good cooling options, high-quality build cases, and unique quality.
After searching and reviewing the products, we highly recommended Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L Micro-ATX Tower as the Best Smallest ATX Case. This case has good specifications, which can meet all of the needs you want to see in the small cases. It is equipped with a Front I/O USB Type C and holds hard-shelled sides. Moreover, it boosts the single screw installation along with pre-installed channels and motherboard supports.
TOP RECOMMENDED PRODUCT
All of the cases in the list are good in performance and compact in size. NZTX H510 is one of the best, according to the editor’s recommendation. It is compact and loaded with features that are not native to the best smallest ATX case.
Yes, spending on the best micro ATX case is worth spending because it has more than enough PCIe slots and space to accommodate the RAM that a gaming PC would need. These ATX cases are more affordable than the other options that you cannot feel a burden on your pocket.
The standard ATX has the largest length of 305 by 244mm. The Micro ATX is at second number with the largest at 244 by 244mm. Then the smallest one is the mini ITX which is 170 by 170mm. The smallest mini ATX case being the smallest of all the cases sizes, can house limited components and is not suitable for expansion.
Yes, you can fit Micro ATX in mini-tower cases. The mounting holes required for micro ATX are present on the board. But the number of these mounting holes may be less than the ATX due to the small size. However, you have no problem with the motherboard in that case.
No, there is not any difference in the performance between mATX or ATX cases except the size. The best smallest ATX cases can house both mATX and ATX motherboards, while mATX cases cannot house the large ATX motherboards. With a smaller footprint on mATX, you can expect less expansion and aesthetic options than ATX cases.
