Best ‘Small’ ATX Cases You Can Buy
In past years when people were looking to build their computers they only had two options when it comes to cases, full tower or mid tower. Fast forward a few years later, and we have computer cases small enough to carry like a suitcase making for easy travel you just couldn’t get with a full or mid tower option. With smaller cases does come smaller parts, so it’s important to make sure your other components will fit your smaller ATX case such as a micro ATX motherboard. Today though we are going to be focusing on the top 5 small ATX cases you can buy and why you should consider these for your next build.
Product Name |
Unique Features |
Specs |
Buy |
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Corsair Carbide 400C |
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 Read Reviews >> |
Cooler Master HAF XB II EVO |
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Read Reviews >> |
Riotoro CR1080 |
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Read Reviews >> |
Corsair Air 540 |
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Read Reviews >> |
Thermaltake Core G3 Slim ATX Case |
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Read Reviews >> |
1. Corsair Carbide 400C
This sleek jet black design is just as appealing outside as it is inside. The case comes with the features of a full-size case in a mid-size package. It can handle a full-size ATX motherboard along with multiple video cards for SLI and Crossfire configurations allowing for future upgrade compatibility. If you’re a person that likes to overclock your CPU or video cards don’t fret! This case even has room for radiators in the back, top, and front for liquid coolers so you can push your components to the limit for the best experience possible.The hard drive or drive cases have been placed so that airflow from the front is not obstructed allowing for cooler operation and a quieter system as fans aren’t ramping up to dissipate heat. Two case fans are included from Corsairs AF series both 140mm in size with room for additional fans if needed. If that’s not enough, it’s easy to clean with its easy to access filters on the bottom, top, and front keeping dust from killing your components. Last but not least while we don’t recommend you try to drop your PC, you can take comfort in knowing the Corsair Carbide 400C is made out of steel all the way around just in case your cat decides to clear off your desk!
2. Cooler Master HAF XB II EVO
If you’re an enthusiast or just looking for something a little more travel-friendly look no further. The Cooler Master HAF XB II EVO can support full-size CPU coolers 180mm in height along with full-size video cards 334mm in length. Two XtraFlo fans are included in the front (4 fans in total included) for cool and quiet operation with the ability to support 240mm water-cooled radiators for those looking to push the edge. If this small package didn’t already pack a big punch, you’d also find two USB 3.0 SuperSpeed ports along with X-Dock slots located in the front for easy plug-n-play for all your external hardware. The drive cages support up to four hard drives or solid state drives, with removable cages, the amount of flexibility in this tiny package is just remarkable. Theirs 7 expansion slots along with one microphone and audio out located on the front along with the two USB 3.0 slots mentioned earlier. If you’re looking for a mix of flexibility and features in a small travel-friendly package, the Cooler Master HAF XB II EVO is the case for you.
3. Riotoro CR1080
Riotoro may not be a name familiar with most PC builders, but this case is very much worth mentioning in our top 5 small ATX cases you can buy. While the case is small, it features full ATX support, water cooling capabilities, and 1 LED 120mm fan to add a little finesse to your build. Standard size power supply units are supported, and all full-size components can fit into this little but practical case. Motherboards from full-size ATX to micro ATX along with full-size CPU and GPU components are supported in this tiny beast. With seven expansion slots, 2 USB 3.0, a microphone, and headphone connectors, you won’t lack for features. The Riotoro CR1080 is a case worth looking into if you’re in the market for a new case in your build or just looking to upgrade your case to an existing build. Either way, it’s sure to impress you and your friends for years to come.
4. Corsair Air 540
The Corsair Carbide Air 540 is a cubed shaped, high airflow case that delivers like no other. Two features that make this unique case stand out from the rest is its airflow and excellent space saving design without compromising on room needed for your components. Many builders know how frustrating cable management can be and the Corsair Carbide Air 540 has you covered with its cable cutouts and rubber grommets making for a clean design and better airflow. If you like to look at your finished work or show off your build to your friends no problem Corsair has you covered with its clear, full size, side window. Add in some LED lights, and you got a build that’s sure to make your friends jealous. The interior and exterior are both black, and you’ll find a conveniently placed front filter for easy cleaning. Just like others mentioned you have plenty of room for water cooling and all the bells and whistle you’d expect to find only in a full-size tower.
5. Thermaltake Core G3 Slim ATX Case
The Corsair Carbide Air 540 is a cubed shaped, high airflow case that delivers like no other. Two features that make this unique case stand out from the rest is its airflow and excellent space saving design without compromising on room needed for your components. Many builders know how frustrating cable management can be and the Corsair Carbide Air 540 has you covered with its cable cutouts and rubber grommets making for a clean design and better airflow. If you like to look at your finished work or show off your build to your friends no problem Corsair has you covered with its clear, full size, side window. Add in some LED lights, and you got a build that’s sure to make your friends jealous. The interior and exterior are both black, and you’ll find a conveniently placed front filter for easy cleaning. Just like others mentioned you have plenty of room for water cooling and all the bells and whistle you’d expect to find only in a full-size tower.
While there are other cases, we would like to mention these are the best small ATX cases you can buy that can accommodate any build for any reason whether it be for gaming or general work. Many would argue the case is the most important piece of your build and they are right. The case you choose affects many different things from the airflow, cable management, hardware that can fit, and whether you can show off your build or not with a clear side panel. The case most people keep the longest, so it’s the one part of the build you don’t want to rush or cheap out on. With careful planning you’re sure to keep your case for years to come, this list should help you get started on your next ATX build – so what are you waiting for? Start building today!
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