Top 10 Best Smallest ATX Cases in 2024 – Reviews & Buying Guide

Because you can mount components directly on your table, computer cases are not required for any build. Although it can protect your device from liquids, insects, and bugs, it can cause you some unnecessary pain. These Best Smallest ATX Cases are also equipped with dust filters and cable management systems so they offer optimal airflow throughout the PC. So, you might conclude it’s imperative to have a strong case for yourself. From 2024 onwards, compact builds will be a common trend for streamers and office workers, who will use small form factor side-computers and dual-PC setup.

Typically, computer cases can be categorized based on the size of the case. You can get the same features and options with a small ATX case that takes up less space on your desk. PC cases come in many sizes, styles, and opportunities, and can be found on the market in a wide range of colors and looks. The choice of a gaming case involves many factors, and, of course, you cannot try every case. In order to help you choose the best smallest PC case for your next build, we reviewed some of the Best Smallest ATX Cases currently available.

So, getting a small computer case has both advantages and disadvantages. It is sometimes more expensive to build a small form factor computer compared with a full tower ATX computer. Depending on the mini-ITX motherboard, you may not be able to install two graphics cards. Due to their compact size, they will become much hotter and noisier. In comparison, these cases take up less space and are best suited to dual PC setups. Due to their small size, small tower cases provide the same number of ports as full tower cases. Now, let’s move on to the first one of these small cases. check also Best Motherboard for Ryzen 7 1700

Some of the best smallest ATX cases available have all the features found in full tower ATX cases. They only differ from full-tower cases in that they offer less space and are compact enough for small form factor builds. I can’t wait to start building our first Cooler Master case.

Our Recommendations For Best Smallest ATX Cases

• Best Airflow Compact ATX Case – Corsair Carbide Air 540
• Best Budget Small ATX Case – Cooler Master MasterBox Q500L
• Best All-Rounder Small ATX Case – Cooler Master HAF XB EVO
• Best Small ATX Case – Fractal Design Meshify C
• Best for Minimalistic Builds – NZXT H510 CA-H510B-B1 –
• 2019 Red Dot Award Winner – Cooler Master MasterCase SL600M
• Best Budget Smallest ATX Case – Thermaltake Core G3 –
• Best Looking ATX Case – Cooler Master MasterCase H500P –
• Best Looking Small ATX Case – CORSAIR Crystal 460X RGB –
• Best Pocket-Friendly ATX Case – Cooler Master Masterbox 3.1 TG –

1. Corsair Carbide Air 540 – Best Airflow Compact ATX Case

This PC case is one of the Best Smallest ATX Cases that is designed with the highest quality casing technology for your perfect build. In addition to allowing for excellent cooling potential, you can place any components you need without any traction. A fast, clean, and more aesthetic PC setup is no longer a pipe dream thanks to this PC case, which offers every possible solution to ease casing complications, regardless of the form factor.

Its dual-chamber design provides more fresh air to inner components like the CPU, motherboard, graphics cards, and other motherboard components without putting any restriction on airflow, which means it’s quieter with better airflow. A clean and compact build is assuredly achieved with this case. The liquid-cooling system is also amazing because of its innovative cable routing system.

You can also switch your cooling system based on your needs without compromising on aesthetics or replacements, since it is built-in to support both cooling systems. Storage and PCIe cards can be installed without tools, and PC cases are easy to upgrade. Furthermore, your ATX build can be quickly switched to Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX. As a result, you get exactly what you paid for and what you expected from your smart build case.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Desktop Case | Motherboard Support: ATX | Card Length Supported: 320mm | Storage Support: 6 SSD & 2 HDD/SSD | Included Fans: 3

2. Cooler Master MasterBox Q500L – Best Budget Small ATX Case

Because Cooler Master is a smart manufacturer, it understands users’ needs and requirements better. One of Cooler Master’s powerful products, the MasterBox Q500L, is ideal for your micro-ATX building needs. These days, Micro-ATX systems are ideal for anyone who needs a massive system. The smartest users build rigs that take up a reasonable amount of table space. A micro-ATX is a popular choice since quality and performance are not defined by its size.

Micro-ATX cases cannot fit motherboards smaller than 386 x 381mm. Multiple fan configurations can be used to keep your system cool via fully perforated top, front, and bottom panels. Furthermore, its dual position option allows you to set both a horizontal and vertical style with easy I/O access. Six different locations can be selected for the PSU bracket and movable I/O panel. Also, the frame can be placed in different positions to optimize internal space based on your preferences and form factors.

You may also love to read: Best Horizontal PC Cases

A reasonable price range and a horizontal atx case solution make this Best Smallest ATX Case a value for money. Featuring excellent fans, powerful radiators, and cable management, it is a superb case with some excellent specifications. fications. In addition to ATX, MicroATX, and Mini-ITX, the motherboard supports. Mini-ITX. It meets and exceeds all your expectations.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Mini-Tower | Motherboard Support: ATX | Material: Acrylic | Weight: 3.83 Kilograms | Cooling Method: Air

3. Cooler Master HAF XB EVO – Best All-Rounder Small ATX Case

Power supplies and computer casings from Cooler Master are among the best. With the HAF XB EVO, Cooler Master now offers the Best Smallest ATX Cases available. These casings are constructed from steel, polymer, and mesh front bezels. 

Gamers love the black color of this console. The dimensions of the Cooler Master HAF XB EVO are 13 inches in height, 17.4 inches in width, and 16.7 inches in depth. You can install or remove components easily in this casing because it features removable top and side panels.

You may also love to read: Best RGB PC Cases

Installing and removing the Motherboard is easy thanks to a removable tray. Multiple graphics cards can be installed on it and it can be used with ATX, Micro-ATX, and mini-ITX motherboards. You can use any CPU cooler with this casing because it has a large cut on the top. The X-Dock bays can easily be swapped out or in to install hard drives. A 180mm cooler can be fitted into this computer case, and a 334mm graphics card can be installed inside. Case features include a carrying handle, holes for liquid coolers, mesh front and top panels, and dust removing filters.

Although the construction of this casing is good enough, the plastic stabs in front may be easily broken. With its small size and side handle, this case is perfect for LAN gamers; however, it weighs 18 lbs, which is a bit heavier than other lightest cases available on the market. Unlike any other case on the market, this one has a cube shape.

I think this casing is good for its price and gives you all the features you will need to build your computer, though there are a few other options as well. It can be used as an all-purpose computer case if you need something lightweight and low-cost.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: ATX Desktop | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro ATX, Mini ITX | Card Length Supported: 334mm | Storage Support: 4 HDDs or SSDs | Included Fans: 2

4. Fractal Design Meshify C – Best Small ATX Case

Although Fractal Design is not that well-known, it has gained a good reputation among its customers by providing quality products at an affordable price. Meshify C is the line of casings available from Meshify, and it comes in different colors and sizes. There is no side tempered glass on Meshify C. Despite the lack of tempered glass, the design won’t make your PC look fancy. Innovation is also straightforward. Despite their cheapness, Fractal Design shocked the industry by producing these lightweight cases.

With its full-tower design, the Fractal Design Meshify C supports motherboards with ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX standards. This device is designed to accommodate seven fans, 3 on the front panel, 3 on top, and 1 on the rear. In addition to the pre-installed fans, there are two additional fans located on the back of the case. Three 2.5-inch and two 3.5-inch hard drives are supported. Most common graphics cards and CPU coolers are fully compatible with this motherboard, as are many CPU coolers.

There is a lot of space inside this case, which allows air to flow freely through the component to keep it cool. This case is suitable for ATX motherboards. A downside of this case is that it is large enough but cannot accommodate large enthusiast-sized motherboards. It might be necessary to remove the bay drives cage if you have to install three fan radiators. Furthermore, the tempered glass version costs a few dollars more but lacks its side tempered glass.

The bottom line is this case comes with great features at an affordable price, so it has everything you are looking for. This Best Smallest ATX Case, in my opinion, is an ideal option for any budget or mid-range build, but keep in mind that tempered glass is not included.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: ATX Mid Tower | Motherboard Support: ATX, mATX, ITX | Card Length Supported: 315mm | Storage Support: 5 SSD | Included Fans: 2

5. NZXT H510 CA-H510B-B1 – Best for Minimalistic Builds

The PC cases from NZXT are extremely popular with gamers because of their attractive design. The airflow of some cases has not been satisfactory, however, according to some users. 

There are three color schemes available for the NZXT H510 CA-H510B-B1. Since these color schemes match most of the latest motherboards, you can select the one that matches your preferences. As one of the company’s most popular lineups, this case provides excellent thermal and acoustic performance.

With better cable management, the case provides compatibility with ATX motherboards. Throughout this case’s body, you will find matte black color with steel on the right side as well as tempered glass on the left side. Besides the two fans on the front panel, it also has one fan at the top and one at the rear. The front panel also includes two Aer F120mm fans. You can add water cooling systems and custom loops if you are highly obsessed with overclocking and temperatures.

Also read: Best Alternatives to the Dancase A4-SFX & Louqe Ghost S1

Early NZXT cases limit the amount of airflow in the case, as I mentioned above. In the case of metal fronts and glass sides, airflow may be restricted, but using static pressure fans on the front of the unit will help ensure that the best airflow is achieved. In the case of mounting a 140mm fan on top of the Motherboard, you might block the 8-pin connector. There are also outdated mounting screws for the GPU in this Best Smallest ATX Case.

This case will appeal to anyone who likes aesthetics and RGB, but the airflow isn’t the best. This case will be more than sufficient if it is made of mesh, since the metal front panel hurts.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: ATX Mid-tower | Motherboard Support: Micro ATX / ATX / Mini-ITX | Card Length Supported: 352mm | Storage Support: 3 SSD 3 HDD | Included Fans: 2

6. Cooler Master MasterCase SL600M – 2019 Red Dot Award Winner

It gives me pleasure to introduce you to another Cooler Master case, which looks beautiful and is the Best Smallest ATX Cases. 

A high-quality aluminum case designed for the enthusiast PC, the Cooler Master MasterCase SL600M has all the premium features you expect. It has a silver color scheme with a black interior, giving it an attractive appearance. This case has a powerful airflow system that can effectively cool down high-end CPUs. In addition, you won’t hear any fan noise even under full load since the fans are set up as to make as little noise as possible.

There are nine expansion slots in the MasterCase SL600M, which can support every type of motherboard from mini-ITX to extended ATX. There are no fan mounting places on this motherboard’s front or back panels; instead, it has two top and bottom mounting holes. The top and bottom can be fitted with two 140mm fans and one 200mm fan, respectively. All your components will be cooled down if you use this fan arrangement. Up to eight 2.5 inch hard drives can be installed on it, as well as two 3.5 inch hard drives. Besides having enough room for graphics cards, this chassis can also hold CPU coolers that are up to 191mm in height.

If your PC is usually under high load, or if you do not like noisy fans, this chassis is perfect for you. Several high-speed USB ports are located on its front panel as well as one USB 3.1 Type-C port. Also, there is a proximity sensor that illuminates the USB ports in the dark so that USB cables can be attached in the dark, but the sensor is too sensitive. Unlike other chassis, this casing’s rear side lacks a PSU remote switch and mounting space for a rear fan. A total of seven expansion slots are horizontally arranged and two are vertically arranged. As a smaller form factor computer, it’s the best choice, but not for LAN gamers. Other options are available if you want fancy hardware. You can use it at home, at work, or for gaming. If you’re looking for a subtle look, this would be a good option.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Desktop | Material: Aluminium | Cooling Method: Air | Total USB Ports: 2 | Motherboard Compatibility: Extended ATX

7. Thermaltake Core G3 – Best Budget Smallest ATX Case

Another reputable brand is Thermaltake, providing high quality products for many years. Both their products and Cooler Master’s are known for their style points and their usability. The Thermaltake Core G3 ATX is an ideal slim tower case for small form factors. Besides being black on the outside and inside, this case is also made from steel. You might find this strange if you have never used slim cases before, since its front and back sides are different from mid-tower cases we are accustomed to.

A pair of 120mm Turbo fans are mounted on the Core G3’s front panel. Within the case, two bays are available for bay drives; you can install either two 3.5-inch or two 2.5-inch drives. Dual-slot graphics cards can be installed into the chassis’ expansion slots, but you can’t install more than one graphics card or use PCIe x1. AIn this slim case, large power supplies and coolers aren’t allowed since they will interfere with the right panel. The top of the case has room to fit a fan, and the graphics card can be cooled by a 120mm fan.

With Core G3, you can use any motherboard as long as your GPU is mounted vertically with e-raiser cables. If you plan on using a liquid cooler, you can install a 240mm radiator on the front panel in addition to multiple fans. LAN gaming is made easy with its lightweight and portability. Cable management is totally up to you, in this case not so great. A slim or SFF build is best with this casing and it weighs about 1.5 pounds. In addition to being the Best Smallest ATX Cases on this list, it is also the cheapest. NZXT H510 is a cooling and aesthetic motherboard that might be of interest to you if you are looking for something powerful.

Motherboard Compatability: ATX | Dimensions: 17.9 x 14.6 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 9.3 pounds | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0 Ports | Material: Alloy Steel

8. Cooler Master MasterCase H500P – Best Looking ATX Case

The Cooler Master line has continued with another smallest full atx case at a premium price. Although the launch price was high, the MSRP has dropped, and you can buy it for a much lower price these days. Other than the mesh front that can be removed, the H510 has a full-size light gray tinted tempered glass that provides excellent airflow and a stylish appearance. There are cable covers, CPU cutout covers, and a PSU shroud. Both the front and top of the case can support 360mm radiators.

Almost all motherboards are supported, including E-ATX, which is typically used in enthusiast builds, and the cable management is excellent. The case comes with two preinstalled 200mm fans, and it can accommodate five fans, two on top and one on the back. Utilizing the e-raiser cables, it can be mounted vertically and can support graphics cards up to 412mm. 3.5-inch bay drives are accommodated in two slots, 2.5-inch drives in two, and tension drives in nine. An RGB controller is built into the case, so RGB lights can be controlled with ease.

Cooler Master’s MasterCase H500P is one of the Best Smallest ATX Cases, but it is quite costly and doesn’t offer the greatest value. The case does have all the features you need; however, it does not have a USB 3.1 Type-C port, which you will typically find on gaming cases. Additionally, it features a cable management system with the best longevity, a RGB controller with a built-in fan, and an efficient cooling system. 

While it does not come with premium features or for enthusiast builds, it is still priced to be a premium case. My recommendation is this case if you’re looking for the best air cooling and aesthetics.

Motherboard Compatability: Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 21.42 x 9.53 x 21.34 inches | Weight: 11.06 Kilograms | Total USB Ports: 2 Ports | Material: Tempered Glass

9. CORSAIR Crystal 460X RGB – Best Looking Small ATX Case

It’s no secret that Corsair is one of the leading brands of gaming peripherals, and that’s why they have so much success. On the front panel of the Crystal Series 460X RGB you will find two panels of tempered glass as well as three RGB SP120 fans. SP stands for “Special Performance”. There are two models of Corsair fans: the Airflow model is known as AF, and the static pressure model is called SP, and both are highly efficient and quiet. Featuring steel and tempered glass, this casing is available in a black color. Airflow and aesthetics go hand in hand in this case. Your components fit together perfectly because it is well engineered.

On the Crystal 460X RGB, there are seven expansion slots. ATX, microATX, and mini-ITX motherboards are all compatible with this board. On the front panel of the case are three pre-installed fans. On the rear side there is one 120mm fans space and on the top there are two 140mm fan mounting screws. This case has a maximum cooling capacity. The enclosure can accommodate two 3.5-inch hard drives and three 2.5-inch SSDs or laptop-grade HDDs. GPUs are up to 370mm in length and 170mm in height.

The main advantage of this Best Smallest ATX Case is its tempered glass two sides and RGB fans preinstalled; however, the RGB controller does not have an off feature. Limited cables management space is available due to its small size. The front of the computer cannot hold three 120mm fans, nor can it hold long power supplies. Additionally, it cannot hold three 120mm radiators. It does not have enough bays for enthusiast builds, but it is fine for everyday builds. Overall, if you want an excellent cooling solution and great aesthetics, this micro atx case is the right choice for you. Corsair’s case is not pricey, but it has many features in common with premium cases. In any case, this case cannot be carried since it is not designed for such a purpose.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: ATX Mid-tower | Motherboard Support: Micro ATX / ATX / Mini-ITX | Card Length Supported: 370mm | Storage Support: 3 SSD 2 HDD | Included Fans: 3

10. Cooler Master Masterbox 3.1 TG – Best Pocket-Friendly ATX Case

Cases in the Masterbox series are renowned for their price and features that other cases can’t match. This Cooler Master case fits into a budget and can be used for compact builds, despite comparing it with some more expensive and exceptional cases on this list. list. The motherboard can be matched with three different color trims.erboard. The Cooler Master Masterbox 3.1 TG’s interior and exterior are black. The front panel features a dark mirror, while the sides have acrylic panels, which allow you to see the RGB lights and other components within the case.

A cable management system is included, as well as support for micro-ATX and mini-ITX motherboards. The front of the machine has two fans, which intake air, and the rear side has one fan, which creates good airflow. flow. Four expansion slots and a 3.5-inch bay are available for bay drives, a 2.5-inch bay is available for 2.5-inch drives, and a 3.5-inch bay is available for bay drives.available. 158 mm CPU coolers and 380 mm graphics cards can be accommodated. Integrated cable management is provided in the case by a cable rounding tray behind the motherboard.

On the right side of this case, there is a large glass window that has an appealing design. YouLarge GPUs can also be accommodated int. Besides this case, there are some other affordable options available, which offer the same features. You can get a similar model for a few more bucks if this one doesn’t support ATX motherboards.

Cooler Master MasterBox Lite 3.1 is the best Micro-ITX or Mini-ITX case on the market for those who are on a budget. While it may not be the cheapest case on the market, it offers great value for its price.

SPECIFICATIONS

Motherboard Compatability: Micro-ATX | Dimensions: 17.62 x 7.5 x 15 inches | Weight: 8.7 Pounds | Total Fan Count: 3 | Material: Acrylic

Buying Guide of Best Smallest ATX Cases

Form Factors: 

In addition to the case’s size, we also need to consider the motherboard form factor. Basically, there are four types of ATX: Extended ATX, ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX. You should pay attention to the form factor. If you are buying or planning on buying a case, make sure that the motherboard will fit inside. If you want to find out which motherboard form factor the chance supports, check the spec sheet.

Quality of the case build: 

The quality of the case you buy for your PC is undoubtedly the most important factor to consider. PC cases made of low-quality materials will have dents and scratches all over, not to mention thin plates, and will become worn out very quickly. High-quality ones have thicker and more shiny frames that are completely free of bends and dents. Low-quality cases may be appealing, but not all that glitters is gold, so choose your PC case wisely.

Management of cable: 

Computer wires should be neat and not cluttered. Organizing them will prevent them from being snarled together. The appearance of a PC might be affected by less organized cables, but they don’t affect performance. To make sure your PC is organized, you need a good case. Because this guide is about the Best Smallest ATX Cases, you should keep this option in mind.

Airflow And CPU Cooling: 

The PC already has a cooler inside it to prevent overheating, but the case you chose will severely reduce its performance. Keeping the air flowing and the CPU cool is crucial. Installing coolers is a must. Which cooler suits your PC depends on your case. Choose a PC case with panels and the capability of accommodating multiple fans. In some cases, liquid cooling radiators and CPU coolers will not fit.

Also read: Should I Overclock My CPU?

Conclusion

Building a compact game is useful when you don’t have much room in your room or on your table. There are numerous Best Smallest ATX Cases available these days that offer excellent value for their price, making them excellent choices for your next build. Cooler Master offers the best value for money, despite their cases being more expensive than other brands. In addition to NZXT and Fractal Design, some other brands might also be in the same category but lack some premium attributes. Cooler Master did not sponsor this post; we gathered some of the best smallest ATX cases, reviewed them, and told you about our experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions