Computers are the most versatile devices on the planet, and they also take up quite a bit of real estate wherever they are; whether at our gaming desks, next to our gaming TVs, or elsewhere. While what we need from our computers may vary wildly, the vast majority of PC builds have tons of excess, empty space that isn’t being utilized. So why not get rid of it?
A thoughtful build can bring the most powerful gaming PC components to bear with Mini ITX cases, meaning you’ll get an incredibly potent computer that takes up roughly the same space as a video game console. With the right processers and graphics cards, and the small size of the most advanced storage and cooling options nowadays, you can build a tiny titan of a machine, and we’ll show you the cases you need to make it happen - and click here to see them in the UK.
Motherboard Size: ITX, DTX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 155mm | GPU Clearance: 330mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120mm (top), 2 x 120mm (bottom), 2 x 120/140mm (side), 1 x 92mm (rear) | PSU Clearance: 130mm SFX | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 3.5mm Headset, Power Button | Size: 14.17" x 7.28" x 10.78" | Weight: 10.1 pounds
One of the biggest concerns people have when building Mini-ITX PCs is being able to accommodate the most powerful hardware, which tends to run a bit big. You don’t need to worry with the Cooler Master NR200. It may be only 18.25 liters in volume, it has enough room for a 330mm-long graphics card, which is even longer than the powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 3090 FE.
It also has racks for two 2.5-inch drives and a 3.5-inch drive, and there is space for an NVMe SSD, which should be your game (and high-intensity program) drive. Make sure everything stays cool with an CPU cooler or 240mm liquid CPU cooler, and you’ll be good to go.
Motherboard Size: ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 140mm | GPU Clearance: 255-285mm | Fan Mounts: 1 x 120/140/200mm front; 2 x 80mm rear | PSU Clearance: 200mm | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, Headphone, Microphone, Power Button, Reset Button | Size: 10.90" x 10.20" x 12.40" | Weight: 8.8 pounds
If you are looking to save both space AND cash, this Thermaltake case is the way to go. It has a unique aesthetic and sports transparent panels. It has room for graphics cards up to 285mm, CPU coolers up to 140mm, and room for a standard ATX power supply (which are incredibly affordable).
The front of the case has mounts for a 200mm fan and the back has room for two 80mm fans, meaning you’ll have direct airflow through the case, and the top and sides are removable, meaning your build (and any subsequent adjustments) will be easier. The motherboard on this case lays horizontally, meaning your graphics cards and other components will be vertically aligned.
Motherboard Size: ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 56mm | GPU Clearance: 310mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120mm | PSU Clearance: 130mm SFX | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, Headphone, Microphone, Power Button | Size: 3.46" x 14.84" x 13.07" | Weight: 7.72 pounds
If you REALLY want to embrace the “console” vibe, this is the one for you. Channeling the classic Xbox rectangular, sleek look, this case will help your PC fit right at home next to your TV, and it’s also incredibly easy to grab and go.
It comes in two versions; one with a power supply and one without. It also has 10 liters of storage space, and although it looks sleek, you will need to get smaller components, at least when it comes to cooling. You’ll need to get two, low-profile 120mm fans to mount in the case, which is the extent of the fan mounting options you’ll have. We’d also recommend picking up a smaller liquid-cooler for the CPU. There is still ventilation in the case around the CPU and GPU mounts, which include dust filters, so overheating won’t be an issue.
Motherboard Size: Mini-ITX, Micro ATX, ATX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 73mm | GPU Clearance: 336mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120/140mm front; 1 x 120mm top | PSU Clearance: 170mm | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C | Size: 9.72" x 6.57" x 14.25" | Weight: 8.1 pounds
SSUPD takes “mini” to another level with its Meshroom S case thanks to its tiny form factor. Given the case’s small footprint, you’re probably worried about heat dissipation, but every panel is mesh for optimal airflow and easily removable to add extra cooling. There’s even space for a 280mm radiator or two 240mm radiators, and you also get support for up to 73mm air coolers and space for some fans.
Meshroom S is ready to house all your other components, as it can fit a full-sized graphics card and a variety of motherboard types. It also has room for a standard ATX power supply, meaning you won’t need to fork over extra cash for a pricey SFX one. The only flaws with this case are its slightly high price and lack of cable management support, but if those aren’t deal breakers, it’s the best compact option.
Motherboard Size: ATX, mATX, ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 172mm | GPU Clearance: 395mm | Fan Mounts: 3 x 120mm / 2 x 140mm top; 3 x 120mm / 2 x 140mm bottom; 2 x 120/140mm side; 1 x 120mm rear | PSU Clearance: SFX, SFX-L | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB-C 3.1, 1 x TRRS Audio, Power Button | Size: 14.96" x 10.61" x 16.54" | Weight: 13.22 pounds
If you want a midway point between a standard case and a super small Mini ITX case, this is the one. It still requires a SFX or SFX-L power supply, which are more expensive than traditional power supplies. The good news is the PSU is mounted in its own, separate section, leaving you plenty of room for your other components.
This also means you don’t have to worry about your graphics card size, or the size of your other components. In fact, this case will hold mATX and ATX motherboards, not just ITX, giving you lots more freedom with your build. There is room for four hard drives, two of which are 3.5-inch removable racks.
Motherboard Size: ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 165mm | GPU Clearance: 320mm | Fan Mounts: 1 x 120mm front; 1 x 120mm rear; 2 x 120mm bottom | PSU Clearance: 180mm | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB-C 3.1, Headphone, Microphone, Power Button, Reset Button | Size: 14.76" x 8" x 12.28" | Weight: 7.8 pounds
With enough space for a triple-slot graphics card, four fans, an SFX power supply, and great cable routing areas behind the motherboard tray and in the roof of the case, this Lian Li case still has lots of room.
It also has a retractable carrying handle, to make moving it even easier. It clinchs the spot as the most portable case on our list, even if it is a bit larger than some of the other cases we’ve highlighted.
Motherboard Size: Mini-ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 67mm | GPU Clearance: 320mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120mm or 140mm top; 1 x 120mm bottom | PSU Clearance: SFX, SFX-L, ATX | Front I/O: 1 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C, 1 x HD Audio, Power Button | Size: 13.5" x 6.7" x 9.8" | Weight: 8.8 pounds
Lian Li makes some killer cases, big and small. One of our favorite mini-ITX options the company offers is the Q58. Though it might be one of our pricier picks, we think it’s worth the little splurge. You get an insanely versatile case with a top-notch build quality mixing steel, aluminum, and tempered glass. It’s also easy to build in thanks to a roomy design and swappable hinged panels. And, the model we’ve chosen comes with a PCIe 4 riser cable, so you can slide in the latest RTX 3000 or RX 6000 graphics card.
If you’re worried about the thermals in the Lian Li Q58, don’t be. It's tuned for maximum cooling with mesh panels as well as a mesh GPU intake. In total, you get support for up to three fans to ensure all your tightly packed components keep cool. Plus, you can even squeeze in a surprisingly large 280mm radiator on top of the chassis.
Motherboard Size: ITX, DTX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 165mm | GPU Clearance: 320mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120mm (top), 1 x 120mm (front), 1 x 120mm (rear) | PSU Clearance: SFX, SFX-L | Front I/O: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 3.5mm Headset Combo Port, 1 x 3.5mm Mic, Power Button, Reset Button | Size: 12.66" x 8.12" x 14.46" | Weight: 12.8 pounds
While this stylish case only supports up to 320mm graphics cards, it does support those that need three expansion slots. It has room for lots of different CPU coolers, and even 240mm radiators for liquid cooling, as well as three 2.5-inch drives.
The front panel gives access to a wide variety of ports, and Razer's Chroma RGB lighting effects on the bottom of the case, giving it a stylish underglow.
Motherboard Size: ITX, DTX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 165mm | GPU Clearance: 355mm, 3-slot | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120/140mm front; 2 x 120mm side; 2 x 120mm bottom; 1 x 120mm rear | PSU Clearance: 205mm (180mm recommended) | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, Headphone/Microphone, Power Button, LED Mode Button, LED Color Button | Size: 8.1" x 14.4" x 15.7" | Weight: 12 pounds
The Phanteks Eclipse P200A enables ITX builds that are closer to standard, which is why this one looks so much like a traditional PC tower. Because it is a bit larger than other mini ITX cases, you can use more standard components. Bring your ATX power supply, and use up to 3-slot graphics cards that are up to 355mm long.
For cooling, there is 165mm of clearance for CPU coolers, and you can fit multiple 240mm radiators (if you love water cooling as much as we do). That expands to a 280mm cooler if you use the front slot. All those fan mounts (and integrated front dust filters) means you’ll have plenty of clean air flow to keep this rig cool. The front panel I/O also allows you to control the lighting of the two included 120mm D-RGB PWM fans.
Motherboard Size: mATX, ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 190mm | GPU Clearance: 339mm | Fan Mounts: 1 x 120mm front; 2 x 120/140mm top; 1 x 120mm rear, 1 x 120mm bottom | PSU Clearance: 220mm | Front I/O: 1 x USB-C 3.1 Gen 2, 2 x USB 3.0, Headphone, Microphone, Power Button, Reset Button | Size: 9.8" x 15.9" x 14.1" | Weight: 13.4 pounds
This cube-like case allows you to be a bit more flexible with part selection. By enabling ITX and even Micro ATX builds, you can choose from a greater array of standard components, including graphics cards, coolers, and power supplies. This should all help make building your modern gaming rig significantly less expensive too.
In addition to ventilation throughout the case’s side panels, there are fan slots in the front, top, and back. Use 120mm fans in any of these locations, or up to 140mm on the top, where you can also opt for a 240mm radiator.
Mini ITX cases are beloved because they allow you to build a much smaller gaming PC. Since lots of the bigger cases have so much empty space (which enables for build variety), this is a much more ‘optimal’ way to build.
Unfortunately, this also means that building a Mini ITX PC is more challenging, requiring you to account for the size of each component. Even simple upgrades can be complicated by the restricted space, so always keep this in mind before you jump in or make another purchase.
Pre-plan your PC build before you start buying parts to avoid running into issues. As carpenters say; “measure twice, cut once.” Measure the GPU and main compartment twice to ensure you can actually fit your desired CPU cooler or graphics card inside the case.
Considering how small these PC cases can be, you should also get a handle on cable management. When you’re working with so little space, the less clutter you have means you can more freely work your other components in and ultimately ensure good airflow when the system is up and running.
When you have everything you need and are ready to build, do a dress rehearsal. Put everything in its place BEFORE fastening it down. You don’t want to finish the 10th step only to realize a mistake makes Step 11 impossible.
Look at Mini ITX builds as puzzles and you should find the same sense of satisfaction we do when finishing your PC.
Brian Barnett writes reviews, wiki guides, deals posts, features, and more for IGN. You can get your fix of his antics on Twitter (@Ribnax) or check out his show on Twitch (The Platformers).
Danielle Abraham is a freelance writer and unpaid music historian.
Continue reading...
A thoughtful build can bring the most powerful gaming PC components to bear with Mini ITX cases, meaning you’ll get an incredibly potent computer that takes up roughly the same space as a video game console. With the right processers and graphics cards, and the small size of the most advanced storage and cooling options nowadays, you can build a tiny titan of a machine, and we’ll show you the cases you need to make it happen - and click here to see them in the UK.
TL;DR – These are the Best Mini ITX Cases:
- Cooler Master NR200
- Thermaltake Core V1
- Fractal Design Node 202
- SSUPD Meshroom S
- Lian Li PC-O11D Mini
- Lian Li TU150
- Lian Li Q58
- Razer Tomahawk
- Phanteks Eclipse P200A
- BitFenix Prodigy M2 2022
Cooler Master NR200
Best Mini-ITX Case
Motherboard Size: ITX, DTX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 155mm | GPU Clearance: 330mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120mm (top), 2 x 120mm (bottom), 2 x 120/140mm (side), 1 x 92mm (rear) | PSU Clearance: 130mm SFX | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 3.5mm Headset, Power Button | Size: 14.17" x 7.28" x 10.78" | Weight: 10.1 pounds
One of the biggest concerns people have when building Mini-ITX PCs is being able to accommodate the most powerful hardware, which tends to run a bit big. You don’t need to worry with the Cooler Master NR200. It may be only 18.25 liters in volume, it has enough room for a 330mm-long graphics card, which is even longer than the powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 3090 FE.
It also has racks for two 2.5-inch drives and a 3.5-inch drive, and there is space for an NVMe SSD, which should be your game (and high-intensity program) drive. Make sure everything stays cool with an CPU cooler or 240mm liquid CPU cooler, and you’ll be good to go.
Thermaltake Core V1
Best Budget Mini ITX Case
Motherboard Size: ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 140mm | GPU Clearance: 255-285mm | Fan Mounts: 1 x 120/140/200mm front; 2 x 80mm rear | PSU Clearance: 200mm | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, Headphone, Microphone, Power Button, Reset Button | Size: 10.90" x 10.20" x 12.40" | Weight: 8.8 pounds
If you are looking to save both space AND cash, this Thermaltake case is the way to go. It has a unique aesthetic and sports transparent panels. It has room for graphics cards up to 285mm, CPU coolers up to 140mm, and room for a standard ATX power supply (which are incredibly affordable).
The front of the case has mounts for a 200mm fan and the back has room for two 80mm fans, meaning you’ll have direct airflow through the case, and the top and sides are removable, meaning your build (and any subsequent adjustments) will be easier. The motherboard on this case lays horizontally, meaning your graphics cards and other components will be vertically aligned.
Fractal Design Node 202
Best Console-Style Mini ITX Case
Motherboard Size: ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 56mm | GPU Clearance: 310mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120mm | PSU Clearance: 130mm SFX | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, Headphone, Microphone, Power Button | Size: 3.46" x 14.84" x 13.07" | Weight: 7.72 pounds
If you REALLY want to embrace the “console” vibe, this is the one for you. Channeling the classic Xbox rectangular, sleek look, this case will help your PC fit right at home next to your TV, and it’s also incredibly easy to grab and go.
It comes in two versions; one with a power supply and one without. It also has 10 liters of storage space, and although it looks sleek, you will need to get smaller components, at least when it comes to cooling. You’ll need to get two, low-profile 120mm fans to mount in the case, which is the extent of the fan mounting options you’ll have. We’d also recommend picking up a smaller liquid-cooler for the CPU. There is still ventilation in the case around the CPU and GPU mounts, which include dust filters, so overheating won’t be an issue.
SSUPD Meshroom S
Best Compact Mini ITX Case
Motherboard Size: Mini-ITX, Micro ATX, ATX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 73mm | GPU Clearance: 336mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120/140mm front; 1 x 120mm top | PSU Clearance: 170mm | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C | Size: 9.72" x 6.57" x 14.25" | Weight: 8.1 pounds
SSUPD takes “mini” to another level with its Meshroom S case thanks to its tiny form factor. Given the case’s small footprint, you’re probably worried about heat dissipation, but every panel is mesh for optimal airflow and easily removable to add extra cooling. There’s even space for a 280mm radiator or two 240mm radiators, and you also get support for up to 73mm air coolers and space for some fans.
Meshroom S is ready to house all your other components, as it can fit a full-sized graphics card and a variety of motherboard types. It also has room for a standard ATX power supply, meaning you won’t need to fork over extra cash for a pricey SFX one. The only flaws with this case are its slightly high price and lack of cable management support, but if those aren’t deal breakers, it’s the best compact option.
Lian Li PC-O11D Mini
Best Big Mini ITX Case
Motherboard Size: ATX, mATX, ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 172mm | GPU Clearance: 395mm | Fan Mounts: 3 x 120mm / 2 x 140mm top; 3 x 120mm / 2 x 140mm bottom; 2 x 120/140mm side; 1 x 120mm rear | PSU Clearance: SFX, SFX-L | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB-C 3.1, 1 x TRRS Audio, Power Button | Size: 14.96" x 10.61" x 16.54" | Weight: 13.22 pounds
If you want a midway point between a standard case and a super small Mini ITX case, this is the one. It still requires a SFX or SFX-L power supply, which are more expensive than traditional power supplies. The good news is the PSU is mounted in its own, separate section, leaving you plenty of room for your other components.
This also means you don’t have to worry about your graphics card size, or the size of your other components. In fact, this case will hold mATX and ATX motherboards, not just ITX, giving you lots more freedom with your build. There is room for four hard drives, two of which are 3.5-inch removable racks.
Lian Li TU150
Best Portable Mini ITX Case
Motherboard Size: ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 165mm | GPU Clearance: 320mm | Fan Mounts: 1 x 120mm front; 1 x 120mm rear; 2 x 120mm bottom | PSU Clearance: 180mm | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB-C 3.1, Headphone, Microphone, Power Button, Reset Button | Size: 14.76" x 8" x 12.28" | Weight: 7.8 pounds
With enough space for a triple-slot graphics card, four fans, an SFX power supply, and great cable routing areas behind the motherboard tray and in the roof of the case, this Lian Li case still has lots of room.
It also has a retractable carrying handle, to make moving it even easier. It clinchs the spot as the most portable case on our list, even if it is a bit larger than some of the other cases we’ve highlighted.
Lian Li Q58
Best High-End Mini ITX Case
Motherboard Size: Mini-ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 67mm | GPU Clearance: 320mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120mm or 140mm top; 1 x 120mm bottom | PSU Clearance: SFX, SFX-L, ATX | Front I/O: 1 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C, 1 x HD Audio, Power Button | Size: 13.5" x 6.7" x 9.8" | Weight: 8.8 pounds
Lian Li makes some killer cases, big and small. One of our favorite mini-ITX options the company offers is the Q58. Though it might be one of our pricier picks, we think it’s worth the little splurge. You get an insanely versatile case with a top-notch build quality mixing steel, aluminum, and tempered glass. It’s also easy to build in thanks to a roomy design and swappable hinged panels. And, the model we’ve chosen comes with a PCIe 4 riser cable, so you can slide in the latest RTX 3000 or RX 6000 graphics card.
If you’re worried about the thermals in the Lian Li Q58, don’t be. It's tuned for maximum cooling with mesh panels as well as a mesh GPU intake. In total, you get support for up to three fans to ensure all your tightly packed components keep cool. Plus, you can even squeeze in a surprisingly large 280mm radiator on top of the chassis.
Razer Tomahawk
Best RGB Mini-ITX PC Case
Motherboard Size: ITX, DTX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 165mm | GPU Clearance: 320mm | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120mm (top), 1 x 120mm (front), 1 x 120mm (rear) | PSU Clearance: SFX, SFX-L | Front I/O: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 3.5mm Headset Combo Port, 1 x 3.5mm Mic, Power Button, Reset Button | Size: 12.66" x 8.12" x 14.46" | Weight: 12.8 pounds
While this stylish case only supports up to 320mm graphics cards, it does support those that need three expansion slots. It has room for lots of different CPU coolers, and even 240mm radiators for liquid cooling, as well as three 2.5-inch drives.
The front panel gives access to a wide variety of ports, and Razer's Chroma RGB lighting effects on the bottom of the case, giving it a stylish underglow.
Phanteks Eclipse P200A
Best Mini-ITX Tower Case
Motherboard Size: ITX, DTX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 165mm | GPU Clearance: 355mm, 3-slot | Fan Mounts: 2 x 120/140mm front; 2 x 120mm side; 2 x 120mm bottom; 1 x 120mm rear | PSU Clearance: 205mm (180mm recommended) | Front I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, Headphone/Microphone, Power Button, LED Mode Button, LED Color Button | Size: 8.1" x 14.4" x 15.7" | Weight: 12 pounds
The Phanteks Eclipse P200A enables ITX builds that are closer to standard, which is why this one looks so much like a traditional PC tower. Because it is a bit larger than other mini ITX cases, you can use more standard components. Bring your ATX power supply, and use up to 3-slot graphics cards that are up to 355mm long.
For cooling, there is 165mm of clearance for CPU coolers, and you can fit multiple 240mm radiators (if you love water cooling as much as we do). That expands to a 280mm cooler if you use the front slot. All those fan mounts (and integrated front dust filters) means you’ll have plenty of clean air flow to keep this rig cool. The front panel I/O also allows you to control the lighting of the two included 120mm D-RGB PWM fans.
BitFenix Prodigy M2 2022
Best Mini ITX Cube Case
Motherboard Size: mATX, ITX | CPU Cooler Clearance: 190mm | GPU Clearance: 339mm | Fan Mounts: 1 x 120mm front; 2 x 120/140mm top; 1 x 120mm rear, 1 x 120mm bottom | PSU Clearance: 220mm | Front I/O: 1 x USB-C 3.1 Gen 2, 2 x USB 3.0, Headphone, Microphone, Power Button, Reset Button | Size: 9.8" x 15.9" x 14.1" | Weight: 13.4 pounds
This cube-like case allows you to be a bit more flexible with part selection. By enabling ITX and even Micro ATX builds, you can choose from a greater array of standard components, including graphics cards, coolers, and power supplies. This should all help make building your modern gaming rig significantly less expensive too.
In addition to ventilation throughout the case’s side panels, there are fan slots in the front, top, and back. Use 120mm fans in any of these locations, or up to 140mm on the top, where you can also opt for a 240mm radiator.
Where to Get the Best ITX Case in the UK
What to Know Before Building a Mini ITX Case
Mini ITX cases are beloved because they allow you to build a much smaller gaming PC. Since lots of the bigger cases have so much empty space (which enables for build variety), this is a much more ‘optimal’ way to build.
Unfortunately, this also means that building a Mini ITX PC is more challenging, requiring you to account for the size of each component. Even simple upgrades can be complicated by the restricted space, so always keep this in mind before you jump in or make another purchase.
Pre-plan your PC build before you start buying parts to avoid running into issues. As carpenters say; “measure twice, cut once.” Measure the GPU and main compartment twice to ensure you can actually fit your desired CPU cooler or graphics card inside the case.
Considering how small these PC cases can be, you should also get a handle on cable management. When you’re working with so little space, the less clutter you have means you can more freely work your other components in and ultimately ensure good airflow when the system is up and running.
When you have everything you need and are ready to build, do a dress rehearsal. Put everything in its place BEFORE fastening it down. You don’t want to finish the 10th step only to realize a mistake makes Step 11 impossible.
Look at Mini ITX builds as puzzles and you should find the same sense of satisfaction we do when finishing your PC.
Brian Barnett writes reviews, wiki guides, deals posts, features, and more for IGN. You can get your fix of his antics on Twitter (@Ribnax) or check out his show on Twitch (The Platformers).
Danielle Abraham is a freelance writer and unpaid music historian.
Continue reading...
