The Greatest Mini-ITX PC Circumstances for 2024


Deeper Dive: Our High Examined Picks

Greatest Total Mini-ITX Case
Streacom DA2 V2

Professionals & Cons

Gorgeous, clear all-metal look

Wonderful flexibility for a mini-ITX chassis

Accepts ATX, SFX, or SFX-L energy provides

Able to mounting single- or dual-fan radiators for liquid cooling

Accepts lengthy video playing cards if used with an SFX PSU

Stylish tempered-glass window and vertical GPU mount kits out there

Dear when kitted out with its most engaging choices

Use of fiddly hex screws with some mounting rails

Why We Picked It

It is a tad dear, however we selected Streacom’s DA2 V2 to high our checklist for its distinctive steadiness of kind and performance. The case provides a modern, minimalist design, and the versatile inside area, primarily based on a singular configurable-rail system, helps a variety of {hardware} configurations. A selection of perforated steel (included) or glass (elective) aspect panels permits for the best cooling for highly effective elements, or a slick clear look. (It is your selection!) Plus, the premium aluminum construct high quality and ease of meeting contribute to its standout standing. The D2 V2 may even take a full-size ATX PSU in case you configure it in sure methods. Streacom additionally provides equipment similar to alternate front-panel-port kits and a vertical GPU mount.

Who It is For

The DA2 V2 is good for customers who prioritize each aesthetic enchantment and suppleness of their builds. When you get pleasure from customizing and rearranging the inside of your PC with out compromising on a clear, minimalist look, this case is for you. Fans who need high-end elements in a high-quality small kind issue chassis, step proper up.

Specs & Configurations

Motherboard Kind Components Supported

Mini-ITX, Mini-DTX

Exterior 5.25-Inch Bays

0

Inside 3.5-Inch Bays

3

Exterior 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Inside 2.5-Inch Bays

8

Entrance Panel Ports

USB 3.1 Kind C

Facet Window(s)?

Elective Accent

PCI Growth Slot Positions

1

120mm or 140mm Fan Positions

2

120mm to 200mm Followers Included

0

Most GPU Size

300 mm

Most CPU Cooler Top

145 mm

Energy Provide Most Size

190 mm

Energy Provide Kind Issue Supported

ATX, SFX, SFX-L

Energy Provide Mounting Location

Variable

Inside Chassis Lighting Coloration

None

Included Fan Lighting Coloration

None

Dimensions (HWD)

11.3 by 7.1 by 13.4 inches

Weight

8.6 lbs

Study Extra
Streacom DA2 V2 Evaluate

Greatest Finances Mini-ITX Case
SilverStone Sugo 14

Professionals & Cons

Compact measurement, however with room for giant graphics playing cards and many drives

Room for 240mm liquid-cooler radiator

Seldom-seen assist for five.25-inch drives

Requires measured strategy to PC constructing, and putting in elements in logical order

Why We Picked It

Need spectacular capability to accommodate high-performance elements in a compact, inexpensive chassis? The Sugo 14 can do all that: Collect up your full-size ATX energy provide, giant graphics card, and even as much as a 240mm liquid cooler. You may should plan out your meeting rigorously, particularly in case you’re a newbie PC builder. However the $109.99 MSRP (you might discover it even cheaper on sale) and the power to accommodate some full-size elements (which are typically cheaper) make this a powerful selection for constructing a strong system that is each compact and a rigorously constructed worth. It even has a seldom-seen 5.25-inch bay, in case you’re an optical-drive holdout.

Who It is For

Savers and savvy builders! When you’re somebody who values flexibility in your construct and desires a case that may accommodate high-end elements, this case is an superb selection. It is significantly well-suited for medium-experience and knowledgeable DIY-ers looking for to maximise energy and storage (and their cash!) inside a small kind issue.

Specs & Configurations

Motherboard Kind Components Supported

Mini-ITX

Exterior 5.25-Inch Bays

1

Inside 3.5-Inch Bays

2

Exterior 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Inside 2.5-Inch Bays

3

Entrance Panel Ports

USB 2.0, USB 3.0, headphone

Facet Window(s)?

No

PCI Growth Slot Positions

3

120mm or 140mm Fan Positions

3

120mm to 200mm Followers Included

1

Most GPU Size

330 mm

Most CPU Cooler Top

182 mm

Energy Provide Most Size

150 mm

Energy Provide Kind Issue Supported

ATX

Energy Provide Mounting Location

Backside

Inside Chassis Lighting Coloration

None

Included Fan Lighting Coloration

None

Dimensions (HWD)

9.72 by 8.46 by 14.49 inches

Weight

10.78 lbs

Study Extra
SilverStone Sugo 14 Evaluate

Greatest Gaming Mini-ITX Case
Fractal Design Torrent Nano

Professionals & Cons

Exceedingly simple to construct in for its measurement

Massive 180mm fan supplies wonderful airflow

Helps giant air coolers and graphics playing cards

Restricted assist for water coolers

A bit above traditional measurement for a Mini-ITX case

Why We Picked It

Why is the Torrent Nano our favourite decide for constructing a small gaming PC? As a result of it has good bones. It takes every part that made Fractal Design’s bigger, in style Torrent case nice and packs it right into a extra compact kind. It is barely bigger than many different Mini-ITX instances, but it surely excels in ease of meeting, delivers whizzy airflow with its giant 180mm fan, and swallows up high-performance elements like giant graphics playing cards and air coolers. This steadiness of measurement and efficiency potential units it aside within the gaming Mini-ITX class.

Who It is For

This case is ideal for avid gamers who desire a highly effective Mini-ITX construct with out compromising on efficiency or ease of constructing. (Fractal’s accent kits and directions are tops.) When you worth nice cooling and the power to suit high-end elements in a small, if not essentially the smallest, kind issue, the Torrent Nano is a perfect selection. When you’re aiming for the smallest doable construct, or liquid cooling is your factor, this may not be one of the best match. However, if in case you have the proper part combine, it is price making room for.

Specs & Configurations

Motherboard Kind Components Supported

Mini-ITX

Exterior 5.25-Inch Bays

0

Inside 3.5-Inch Bays

1

Exterior 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Inside 2.5-Inch Bays

2

Entrance Panel Ports

USB 3.1 Gen 2 Kind-C, USB 3.0 (2), headphone, mic

Facet Window(s)?

Sure (Tempered Glass)

PCI Growth Slot Positions

3

120mm or 140mm Fan Positions

5

120mm to 200mm Followers Included

1

Most GPU Size

335 mm

Most CPU Cooler Top

165 mm

Energy Provide Most Size

200 mm

Energy Provide Kind Issue Supported

ATX

Energy Provide Mounting Location

High

Inside Chassis Lighting Coloration

RGB

Included Fan Lighting Coloration

None

Dimensions (HWD)

16.42 by 8.74 by 14.72 inches

Weight

12.79 lbs

Study Extra
Fractal Design Torrent Nano Evaluate

Greatest Small-Footprint Mini-ITX Case
Corsair 2000D RGB Airflow

Professionals & Cons

Superior cooling for its measurement

Extremely-tight footprint

Appropriate with different iCUE units

Huge-GPU vertical set up with out a riser cable

Assist for very giant radiators

Slim RGB followers and an ARGB controller included

Full cooling efficiency at excessive noise underneath load

Cable administration is hard

Costly for its class

Why We Picked It

Received not a lot desk, however loads of airspace above it? Corsair’s 2000D RGB Airflow will get you distinctive cooling efficiency that matches on a super-compact patch. Regardless of that small footprint, it enables you to stuff in a big radiator and a giant GPU, all whereas protecting the elements cool underneath load. The considerate design, together with slim RGB followers, an ARGB controller, and a design that allows vertical GPU set up with out a riser cable, makes it a standout for high-performance, small-form-factor builds. (Plus, in case you’re into Corsair’s iCUE part ecosystem, an iCUE model of this case has bought you coated.)

Who It is For

This case is good for customers who need to construct a high-performance, compact PC with out compromising on cooling effectivity or aesthetics. It is good for lovers who worth superior cooling however simply do not have the area for a tower, and are keen to put money into a premium case with built-in RGB options. Notice: It is definitely worth the spend solely if in case you have the high-end elements to fill it, and also you recognize a trendy, RGB-lit setup. But when that is you, the 2000D RGB Airflow will gentle your fireplace.

Specs & Configurations

Motherboard Kind Components Supported

Mini-ITX, Mini-DTX

Exterior 5.25-Inch Bays

0

Inside 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Exterior 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Inside 2.5-Inch Bays

2

Entrance Panel Ports

USB 3.2 Gen 2 Kind-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Kind-A (2), HD Audio

Facet Window(s)?

No

PCI Growth Slot Positions

3

120mm or 140mm Fan Positions

8

120mm to 200mm Followers Included

3

Most GPU Size

355 mm

Most CPU Cooler Top

152 mm

Energy Provide Most Size

175 mm

Energy Provide Kind Issue Supported

SFX

Energy Provide Mounting Location

High

Inside Chassis Lighting Coloration

None

Included Fan Lighting Coloration

Addressable RGB

Dimensions (HWD)

18.0 by 7.9 by 10.7 Inches

Weight

9.2 lbs

Study Extra
Corsair 2000D RGB Airflow Evaluate

Greatest Flatpack Mini-ITX Case
InWin POC One

Professionals & Cons

Compact footprint

Can work in vertical or horizontal orientation

Additional-heavy aluminum panels

Configurable handles

Flatpack DIY design is a enjoyable venture in itself, past the PC construct

Dear

Troublesome to entry mainboard for servicing after the construct is finished

Vast-open top-panel I/O

Excessive GPU temperatures in our thermal testing

Why We Picked It

It is not low-cost, however you will not see one other PC case on the market something like InWin’s POC One. (Until you are trying on the firm’s authentic POC, in fact.) Its distinctive DIY meeting expertise, out of a pizza-style flat field, provides a enjoyable twist to constructing a PC. The case’s compact design permits for each vertical and horizontal orientation, and it contains heavy-duty aluminum panels for sturdiness, connected to the opposite parts by intelligent metalwork and versatile hinges. Whereas it might not be essentially the most sensible possibility for each construct, its progressive flatpack design and semi-industrial aesthetic set it aside in a market flooded with extra typical instances. It appears like nothing else.

Who It is For

The POC One is ideal for PC builders who recognize the method as a lot as the tip outcome. When you get pleasure from distinctive, hands-on tasks (or possibly need to flip your construct right into a enjoyable exercise to do with the children) and are drawn to instances with a particular look, this case is good. It is also well-suited for many who need their PC to double as a dialog piece, and who aren’t intimidated by some potential challenges with part fitment and thermal efficiency.

Specs & Configurations

Motherboard Kind Components Supported

Mini-ITX

Inside 2.5-Inch Bays

1

Entrance Panel Ports

USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Kind-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Kind-A (2), HD Audio

Facet Window(s)?

Sure (Plastic)

PCI Growth Slot Positions

3

120mm or 140mm Fan Positions

3

120mm to 200mm Followers Included

1

Most GPU Size

335 mm

Most CPU Cooler Top

140 mm

Energy Provide Most Size

200 mm

Energy Provide Kind Issue Supported

ATX

Energy Provide Mounting Location

Facet

Inside Chassis Lighting Coloration

None

Included Fan Lighting Coloration

Addressable RGB

Dimensions (HWD)

16.2 by 8.5 by 10.3 inches

Weight

9.6 lbs

Study Extra
InWin POC One Evaluate

Greatest Vertical Mini-ITX Showcase
Thermaltake The Tower 100

Professionals & Cons

Tempered glass on three sides

Pretty simple to construct in

Awkward “rear” (truly, high) I/O panel placement

No included RGB lighting in a case that screams for it

Included followers are unlit

Why We Picked It

Need to see your PC’s elements from (nearly) all sides? Thermaltake’s The Tower 100 stands out with its three tempered-glass panels and open-air design, making it a showcase piece in your elements. Its comparatively easy meeting course of and ample visibility for inside elements are the calling playing cards of Thermaltake’s The Tower sequence. Though The Tower 100 has some design quirks, such because the awkward “rear” I/O panel placement (it is on high, truly), its distinctive aesthetic and ease of construct justify its choice. Plus, it isn’t very costly for a Mini-ITX case (Mini-ITX every part tends to be dear), and the colour selections are a hoot.

Who It is For

The Tower 100 is good for customers who need their PC construct to be a visible centerpiece. Its design appeals to those that get pleasure from showcasing their elements with minimalistic but eye-catching aptitude. It is best fitted to PC builders who’ve a knack for including their very own RGB lighting and who’re snug with cable routing and hiding. When you’re in search of a case that blends kind and performance with a little bit of an artist’s problem, take into account a keep in The Tower.

Specs & Configurations

Motherboard Kind Components Supported

Mini-ITX

Exterior 5.25-Inch Bays

0

Inside 3.5-Inch Bays

2

Exterior 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Inside 2.5-Inch Bays

2

Entrance Panel Ports

USB 3.0 (2), headphone, mic, USB 3.2 Kind C

Facet Window(s)?

Sure (Tempered Glass)

PCI Growth Slot Positions

2

120mm or 140mm Fan Positions

2

120mm to 200mm Followers Included

2

Most GPU Size

330 mm

Most CPU Cooler Top

190 mm

Energy Provide Most Size

180 mm

Energy Provide Kind Issue Supported

ATX

Energy Provide Mounting Location

Backside

Inside Chassis Lighting Coloration

None

Included Fan Lighting Coloration

None

Dimensions (HWD)

18.2 by 10.5 by 10.5 inches

Weight

13.45 lbs

Study Extra
Thermaltake The Tower 100 Evaluate

Greatest Mini-ITX Case With Included PSU, Liquid Cooler
Cooler Grasp NCore 100 Max

Professionals & Cons

Ultracompact footprint of 6.1 by 8.3 inches

Consists of high-quality energy provide and CPU cooler

No area for bigger CPU coolers

Restricted drive mounting area

Entrance-panel connectors are a good attain

Why We Picked It

The NCore 100 Max is a uncommon chook of Mini-ITX instances: You get an influence provide and a CPU liquid cooler included and pre-installed on this skinny sliver of a tower. Distinctive compactness and a complete characteristic set are what you pay the premium for right here. Measuring simply 6.1 by 8.3 inches in your desktop, it effectively minimizes footprint whereas nonetheless accommodating high-performance elements, together with thick graphics playing cards. The inclusion of a high-quality SFX Gold 850 ATX 3.0 energy provide and a Cooler Grasp MasterLiquid 120L Core CPU cooler provides important worth. The considerate design and built-in elements make the NCore 100 Max a high decide in its class, and it’ll prevent part-selection and construct time

Who It is For

No desk area, no compromise, no downside! Seasoned builders and newcomers alike looking for a minimal desktop footprint from a PC with out sacrificing efficiency, get in line. The NCore is particularly well-suited for these new to Mini-ITX builds, because the included energy provide and CPU cooler simplify setup. Fans trying to match high-end {hardware} right into a compact area can even recognize its design, although it might not be your best option for these needing to accommodate bigger CPU coolers or numerous drives.

Specs & Configurations

Motherboard Kind Components Supported

Mini-ITX

Exterior 5.25-Inch Bays

0

Inside 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Exterior 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Inside 2.5-Inch Bays

1

Entrance Panel Ports

USB 3.2 Gen 2 Kind-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Kind-A (2), HD Audio

Facet Window(s)?

No

PCI Growth Slot Positions

3

120mm or 140mm Fan Positions

2

120mm to 200mm Followers Included

2

Most GPU Size

357 mm

Most CPU Cooler Top

48 mm

Energy Provide Most Size

130 mm

Energy Provide Kind Issue Supported

SFX

Energy Provide Mounting Location

High

Inside Chassis Lighting Coloration

None

Included Fan Lighting Coloration

None

Dimensions (HWD)

19.0 by 6.1 by 8.3 inches

Weight

13.8 lbs

Study Extra
Cooler Grasp NCore 100 Max Evaluate

Greatest Mini-ITX Case for Builds With no Graphics Card
In Win B1

Professionals & Cons

Cheap

Clear, enticing design with small footprint

Will be positioned vertically or mendacity flat

200-watt 80 Plus Gold energy provide included in value

Tinted-glass high hides wire muddle

No assist for PCI Categorical add-on playing cards

Cabling is a squeeze

Only one USB port on entrance panel

Why We Picked It

Received a Mini-ITX motherboard and imply to depend on the CPU’s built-in graphics? The B1 delivers distinctive worth and a singular, space-age design at a low value. Its compact, oval form and smoked-glass high not solely add distinctive visible enchantment but additionally cleverly cover the muddle inside. The inclusion of a 200-watt 80 Plus Gold energy provide additional enhances its worth, making it a beautiful possibility for budget-conscious builders. Regardless of that lack of area for any PCI Categorical add-on playing cards, the B1 stands out as a trendy, practical selection in case you do not want devoted graphics {hardware} and are constructing a low-wattage primary PC for productiveness work or media streaming.

Who It is For

The B1 is greatest fitted to customers trying to construct a minimalist, media-centric, compact PC that they will not need to cover. Its design makes it ultimate for many who prioritize aesthetics and intend to place this PC in a outstanding spot on a desk or on a shelf in a media cupboard. This case is ideal for these constructing a light-duty PC or a media heart the place built-in graphics will suffice, and who recognize a modern, fashionable have a look at an accessible value.

Specs & Configurations

Motherboard Kind Components Supported

Mini-ITX

Exterior 5.25-Inch Bays

0

Inside 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Exterior 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Inside 2.5-Inch Bays

2

Entrance Panel Ports

USB 3.0

Facet Window(s)?

Sure (Tempered Glass)

PCI Growth Slot Positions

0

120mm or 140mm Fan Positions

0

120mm to 200mm Followers Included

0

Most GPU Size

0 mm

Most CPU Cooler Top

60 mm

Energy Provide Most Size

0 mm

Energy Provide Kind Issue Supported

Proprietary (included)

Energy Provide Mounting Location

Backside

Inside Chassis Lighting Coloration

None

Included Fan Lighting Coloration

None

Dimensions (HWD)

4.3 by 11.9 by 9.4 inches

Weight

4.2 lbs

Study Extra
In Win B1 Evaluate

Greatest All-Glass Mini-ITX Case
SilverStone Lucid Collection LD03

Professionals & Cons

Three beautiful tempered-glass panels that detach simply.

Loads of entry for putting in {hardware}.

Two included followers.

Stylish design can cover or showcase your {hardware} relying on the latter’s lighting.

The PSU (and different) cords prolong from the highest of the case.

Fingerprint-prone.

Why We Picked It

A putting design and practical versatility make the Lucid LD03 our, ahem, clear decide for an all-glass chassis. Its three tempered-glass panels not solely present a chic, fashionable aesthetic, however additionally they enable for a customizable view of your {hardware}, whether or not you like to spotlight it (simply add gentle!) or conceal it (or do not). The case’s distinctive angular cuts and rounded edges contribute to its distinctive look whereas making certain easy accessibility for {hardware} set up and upkeep. Regardless of the Lucid’s compact footprint and the absence of built-in lighting or fan controllers, its superior construct high quality and design make it an interesting basis for a Mini-ITX construct.

Who It is For

The Lucid LD03 will enchantment to customers who worth each type and performance in a compact kind issue. It is a glassy canvas for many who need the pliability so as to add their very own lighting. This case can also be well-suited for tech lovers and system builders who recognize a high-quality construct however have extra vertical area than desk space to spare.

Specs & Configurations

Motherboard Kind Components Supported

Mini-ITX

Exterior 5.25-Inch Bays

0

Inside 3.5-Inch Bays

1

Exterior 3.5-Inch Bays

0

Inside 2.5-Inch Bays

2

Entrance Panel Ports

USB 3.0 (2), headphone, mic

Facet Window(s)?

Sure (Tempered Glass)

PCI Growth Slot Positions

2

120mm or 140mm Fan Positions

2

120mm to 200mm Followers Included

2

Most GPU Size

309 mm

Most CPU Cooler Top

190 mm

Energy Provide Most Size

130 mm

Energy Provide Kind Issue Supported

SFX

Energy Provide Mounting Location

Backside

Inside Chassis Lighting Coloration

None

Included Fan Lighting Coloration

None

Dimensions (HWD)

16.3 by 10.4 by 9.1 inches

Weight

11.8 lbs

Study Extra
SilverStone Lucid Collection LD03 Evaluate

Shopping for Information: The Greatest Mini-ITX PC Circumstances for 2024
What Is a Mini-ITX Case?The advantages of a Mini-ITX kind issue PC are easy. Mini-ITX instances are smaller than the remainder of the pack, and in some workspace or living-space eventualities, tiny is healthier by nature. Particularly, a Mini-ITX PC is usually the most suitable choice in places of work the place area is at a premium: say, as a laptop computer various for folks working at widespread tables, or in cramped cubicles. (The pandemic tamped down that latter want, for certain, however loads of us stay hybrid or residence employees and have residence places of work that we want had been far much less cluttered.) In contrast to chassis within the bigger MicroATX and ATX sizes, many Mini-ITX PC instances can sit comfortably on desks, in niches, on cabinets, or underneath a monitor with out being obtrusive. Some are even designed to mount behind displays or underneath desks to cover them from view. The Mini-ITX case isn’t certain by a strict measurement restrict; what makes a case Mini-ITX is its assist for the Mini-ITX motherboard kind issue, and none bigger. (Extra on that in a bit.)It could be unwise to guage the potential of Mini-ITX PCs and instances solely by their measurement, although. The quantity of processing energy they will host doesn’t scale up and down 1:1 with the cubic quantity. Certainly, a lot depends upon the person design. For instance, at present’s huge, legacy-style ATX towers have a tendency to permit loads of area for stacks of arduous drives or huge liquid coolers that the majority PC customers won’t ever set up. Most Mini-ITX techniques assist you to set up customary desktop motherboards and socketed desktop CPUs, and underneath the proper circumstances may be simply as highly effective as a kitted-out ATX tower.

Lian Li A4-H2 (Credit score: Molly Flores)

That’s to not say you will not discover limiting elements—physics nonetheless applies. The most important drawbacks to a Mini-ITX construct lie in two primary areas: the quantity of inside area, which may restrict what you’ll be able to match contained in the chassis, and the thermals and cooling, which embody the chassis air flow, any followers put in (or you could set up), and the CPU and GPU you select. Let’s begin with the area problem. Mini-ITX instances come in additional uncommon, one-off styles and sizes than different kinds of PC instances, however their one unifying facet is the category of the motherboard they settle for. As famous earlier, the Mini-ITX kind issue defines each a measurement class of motherboards, in addition to the instances that match these boards.

Raijintek Ophion Elite (Credit score: Molly Flores)

Mini-ITX motherboards measure 6.7 by 6.7 inches, with mounting holes in prescribed areas; Mini-ITX instances, then, are constructed round accommodating these board dimensions. That stated, some Mini-ITX instances are a lot larger than others by way of top or quantity. However by definition, a “true” Mini-ITX case gained’t accommodate any board larger than a Mini-ITX one, aside from just a few that additionally assist the marginally bigger (and unusual) Mini-DTX kind issue. Mini-DTX boards are barely taller than Mini-ITX boards, at 8 by 6.7 inches. (The following largest measurement class for motherboards, MicroATX, is 9.6 inches sq. and defines the next-largest class of PC instances.)The compact nature of Mini-ITX instances and their related motherboards normally doesn’t go away a lot room for different elements, numerous drives or followers, huge cooling gear, or different elements. Mini-ITX motherboards can home solely two RAM DIMMs and a single PCI Categorical x16 add-on card. Relying on the design of the case, the PCI Categorical card assist is perhaps restricted to a half-height, single-slot card, however many fashionable Mini-ITX instances can maintain full-height, beefy dual- or triple-slot graphics playing cards with none points. All of it depends upon the design, and that’s the reason it pays to scrutinize a case’s specs (and browse evaluations) earlier than shopping for.The Limits of Energy: Cooling Followers, PSUs, and Extra A complete host of different variables additionally restrict what you’ll be able to and may’t put inside a Mini-ITX system. A few of them don’t have anything to do with the Mini-ITX case itself. Take the Mini-ITX motherboard. Some are restricted in how a lot energy they will deal with, or cap the ability draw of the CPU you’ll be able to set up. Relying on the mobo, you might have a high allowable TDP score of, say, 65 watts, although that is removed from true for all Mini-ITX boards. Plus, to chill the CPU, relying on the chassis design, you might be pressured to make use of a low-profile fan cooler much like the small inventory coolers that AMD and Intel present with their mainstream desktop CPUs. In some instances, it is doable so as to add bigger air coolers, however once more, this varies from one chassis to a different.A couple of Mini-ITX designs even accommodate modest all-in-one (AIO) type liquid CPU coolers with a small (normally 120mm or 140mm) radiator, however these are the exception. You’ll need to study the case maker’s spec for the tallest CPU cooler the chassis can assist; many Mini-ITX fashions would not have the vertical clearance for tower-style coolers. Realizing this measure will be certain that certain your cooler will sit comfortably away from the case’s reverse aspect, and never intervene with different elements. (Particularly in Mini-ITX instances, you’ll be able to have conditions the place the ability provide or different elements overhang the CPU cooler’s mounting space and restrict the doable cooler top, and this might not be obvious from the skin.) 

Why tall CPU coolers will not work in most Mini-ITX instances (Credit score: Joshua Gulick)

Likewise, take note of the utmost size, width, and (doubtlessly) vertical top (full-height versus half-height) that the case permits for video playing cards. Relying on the cardboard you’ve gotten, or plan to get, that sizing could also be a deal-maker or deal-breaker. A few of the smallest instances do not assist a video card in any respect, and in case you intend to depend on your CPU’s built-in graphics, this is usually a actual area saver. (Know, although, that some chips, together with a few of AMD’s older mainstream Ryzen CPUs, and “F”-suffixed Intel chips, would not have an built-in graphics processor, and that your motherboard might want to have an applicable video output.)Then you’ve gotten the ability provide unit or PSU. Energy-supply assist can also be not common within the Mini-ITX kind issue. Compact small-form-factor energy provides (dubbed SFX, and provided by main majors similar to Corsair and SilverStone) are purpose-built for Mini-ITX instances, however not each Mini-ITX case accepts one. Some instances do squeeze in full ATX12V PSUs, that are larger-bodied. (The mounting face of an ATX PSU measures 5.9 by 3.4 inches, versus the 4.9 by 2.5 inches of an SFX one.) Some instances will as a substitute have room to mount a typical ATX energy provide, whereas a handful of fashions can use both sort, with the smaller SFX PSU set up dealt with by way of another adapter bracket or one other hunk of {hardware}.

Measurement comparability: SFX (left) and ATX (proper) energy provides aspect by aspect (Credit score: Joseph Maldonado)

You might also see assist in a given case for a variant of the SFX kind issue, referred to as SFX-L. That is an offshoot, a barely bigger model of an SFX energy provide with an extended physique. (An extraordinary SFX PSU measures 3.9 inches lengthy, versus 5.5 inches for SFX-L.) The additional physique measurement on an SFX-L provide permits for extra and bigger elements and cooling {hardware} inside, in flip permitting for larger wattages. Don’t assume, nonetheless, you could cram an SFX-L energy provide right into a case that solely helps SFX PSUs. Search for that particular assist.To avoid wasting area, an SFF energy provide could look like the most suitable choice for one among these techniques, however they usually value extra on a wattage-per-dollar foundation than customary ATX PSUs and have decrease energy limits. (Present fashions high out at 1,200 watts, although that’s means overkill for any cheap and even most over-ambitious Mini-ITX PC builds.) ATX PSUs are the precise reverse, and utilizing one among these as a substitute will usually make it doable so as to add extra power-hungry elements just like the highest-end GPUs (if they may match within the case to begin with, alongside a full-size PSU). Whether or not your Mini-ITX case can home and funky that additional {hardware} is one other matter. (Generally utilizing an ATX PSU blocks a part of the GPU area. Verify these specs.)

The physique of a modular energy provide from Corsair (Credit score: Joseph Maldonado)

One other consider a Mini-ITX case is its PSU cabling. The cramped confines of a Mini-ITX case imply it’s best to go for a modular or semi-modular PSU design. These sorts of PSUs assist you to plug in simply the power-cable “leads” you’ll use and go away the remainder again within the field. Extra unused cable is the enemy in a Mini-ITX construct—it blocks airflow and makes issues look cluttered, particularly in a case that may make use of simply the 2 primary motherboard energy feeds. (When you use onboard M.2 SSDs and no video card, these will be the solely inside energy cables you want!) A hard and fast-cabling PSU can saddle you with an enormous knot of energy leads you haven’t any place to cover or stash.Following that, airflow is usually a difficulty for Mini-ITX instances, resulting from their diminished measurement. Elements and cables stuffed right into a smaller area can extra readily block air from passing via the case with ease, and warmth tends to construct up extra, consequently. These instances may also be an train in endurance to work inside, as a result of care required in routing cables and putting in elements in a logical order given the area constraints. (That is one other level in favor of utilizing a modular PSU in any Mini-ITX case.)  However once more, like nearly every part else with Mini-ITX instances, this all varies extensively from one case to a different.The 4 Foremost Mini-ITX Case TypesAt this level, the wide selection of variations that may exist amongst a pool of Mini-ITX instances could seem daunting. You’re most likely beginning to surprise how this may even be a single kind issue in any respect. A kind issue implies that it must be standardized, however within the case of Mini-ITX PC chassis, it’s largely the motherboard measurement and form that retains this household a household.In brief, meaning a Mini-ITX case may be absolutely anything—and they’re. We’ve jokingly referred to as Mini-ITX the least-standardized customary in PC constructing. That’s as a result of these instances are available in myriad designs on the skin, and also you by no means fairly know what to anticipate till you begin to work on one on the within.To make trying over Mini-ITX instances extra manageable, we’ve organized them into 4 tough design varieties. Not all Mini-ITX instances will match into one, however most do, and this scheme offers you a stable thought of the choices on the market.Type 1: The Horizontal Console StyleThis flat design is what PC builders in years previous usually related to residence theater PC (HTPC) instances. Initially, most Mini-ITX instances used this design, however now it’s primarily used, the place you see it in any respect, by OEMs. Nonetheless, just a few fashions goal finish customers, just like the SilverStone Raven RVZ01-E, however as time has gone on, this design has fallen out of favor since many can’t host a full-size graphics card, and half-height graphics playing cards are a poor backwater for anybody needing graphics energy.

In Win B1 (Credit score: John Burek)

These instances are typically among the many most compact, with some designed to assist a monitor sitting on high. Additionally they are typically simpler than most to construct in, as opening one giant aspect of the enclosure grants easy accessibility to the entire inside {hardware}.The draw back? Additionally they have essentially the most {hardware} restrictions. Most mandate low-profile coolers, half-height add-on playing cards (if any playing cards in any respect), and SFX (and even smaller proprietary) energy provides. This makes them a poor match for avid gamers however a wonderful selection for a reasonable or light-duty work PC (or an HTPC) that depends on processor-integrated graphics.
Horizontal Type Mini-ITX Circumstances We have Examined

Type 2: The Pillar StyleThis second type of Mini-ITX case stands out for having the smallest footprints; many of the gear inside is mounted vertically. Pillar instances are designed to face up straight, obelisk-style, and never lie down. The inner structure modifications significantly, and in a few of these, you’ll be able to match a full-height graphics card standing on finish. 

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Corsair 2000D RGB Airflow (Credit score: Joseph Maldonado)

The inner structure varies from mannequin to mannequin. These instances additionally are typically essentially the most restrictive by way of parts-installation order, and a few use uncommon particular {hardware} similar to riser cables to make huge video playing cards match, or passthrough cables to place an influence provide in an uncommon spot. SFX PSUs are typically the norm in these tightly packed instances.
Pillar-Type Mini-ITX Circumstances We have Examined

Type 3: The Shoebox StyleNow, what in case you had been to put your pillar down? This third type makes use of a design that extra intently matches an extended, skinny field.

SilverStone Sugo 14: Shoebox dimensions (Credit score: Michael Justin Allen Sexton)

These instances aren’t all that tall and should look squarish from the entrance, however they are typically lengthy from entrance to again. Just like the pillars, the principle thought right here is to suit a full-length video card. 
Shoebox-Type Mini-ITX Circumstances We have Examined

Type 4: The Tiny-Tower StyleAt first, you might simply mistake one among these instances for a bigger MicroATX chassis. These are actually smaller, nonetheless, and may’t maintain a MicroATX board. This design isn’t as space-saving as most others, but it surely additionally means extra room inside for {hardware}. The constructing course of could also be simpler, too, given the additional inside.

Phanteks Eclipse P200A DRGB (Credit score: Michael Justin Allen Sexton)

For instance, Fractal Design’s curvy Period ITX can maintain ATX PSUs and standard-height graphics playing cards. It additionally has choices for including small AIO liquid coolers. And the Phanteks referenced beneath is actually a scaled-down little tower.
Small Tower Mini-ITX Circumstances We have Examined

Able to Purchase the Proper Mini-ITX Case for You?The straightforward reply to what one of the best Mini-ITX case is? It comes all the way down to the elements you plan to put in. For some buyers, the look of the case tops every part, and that’s tremendous. Simply be sure to consider some sensible issues, particularly in case you already personal a number of the elements.The most important one is whether or not you’ll (or will ever) set up a video card. Absolutely the smallest Mini-ITX instances assist no video card and assume your CPU’s built-in graphics will deal with video output and acceleration. That issue will remove (or suggest) an entire swath of instances. In any other case, look to the utmost video card size supported, in addition to the variety of lateral slots the cardboard can occupy, and store accordingly. Nvidia’s latest top-end RTX 40 Collection playing cards are big and a few occupy three slots throughout; Mini-ITX instances are typically not their pal.The second must be the quantity and form of drives you plan to put in. Most Mini-ITX instances assist at the very least two 2.5- or 3.5-inch SATA drives, however consider room for what you’ve gotten. This may not matter in case you go all-in on motherboard-mounted M.2 drives, however most cramped Mini-ITX boards have room for only one or two of these.The third is power-supply compatibility. In case you are bringing a PSU you already personal to the construct, be sure it matches the sort (ATX, SFX, or SFX-L) that the case helps and that it isn’t longer than the utmost rated size. Whereas with reference to measurements, be sure your CPU cooler and GPU will match, as effectively; case makers provide these most heights and lengths. And keep in mind that in some instances, a giant PSU can block area allotted for a giant GPU.And so, onward to our picks. The choice we have made right here isn’t a completely complete survey of each Mini-ITX case available on the market, however we’ve reviewed a good quantity and offered one of the best we have seen for the previous couple of years. We’ll add and swap in one of the best new ones as they move via PC Labs.

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