Looking for the best computer cases for gaming? As you may have noticed, there are a ton of options on the market. Unfortunately, this can make nailing down the right one more of a chore than a hobby. To make the process easier, the team here at High Ground has put together a list of the top 10 best PC cases around.
Interested? Read on to discover the best computer cases.
Zoom Out: Top 10 Best Computer Cases for Gaming Comparison Table
These PC cases are sorted by price ascending. For a closer look at each model, head to the Zoom In section below.
Image | Case | Form Factor | Colors | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Rosewill Nautilus | Mid Tower | 3 | ||
darkFlash Tower | Micro-ATX Tower | 5 | ||
APEVIA X-QPACK3 Cube | Micro-ATX Tower | 8 | ||
NZXT H510 | Mid Tower | 5 | ||
BitFenix Prodigy | Mini-ITX | 6 | ||
Phanteks Pro M | Mid Tower | 2 | ||
Corsair Carbide Spec-Omega | Mid Tower | 5 | ||
Corsair Icue 465X | Mid Tower | 2 | ||
Cooler Master Trooper SE | Full Tower | 1 | ||
Thermaltake Tower 900 | Super Tower | 2 |
Zoom In: Our Top 10 List of the Best Computer Cases for Gaming
As you scroll through this list of the best PC gaming cases, take a look at our summary and list of pros and cons. We’ve done all of the hard work for you, so carry forth and enjoy.
The Nautilus looks fantastic and performs well on the vast majority of AAA games. Not too big, not too small, this is the best ATX case for versatile use. And the price is just right.
👍 PROS
- 3 quiet and efficient pre-installed fans provide added value
- Multiple I/O ports for greater versatility and ease of access
- Lots of flexibility with large cooling, graphic, and expansion slots
👎 CONS
- Design is customizable but not modular
- Does not fit regular ATX motherboards; locked into Micro or Mini boards with less power
You generally get what you pay for… but that’s not always the case. Case in point? The darkFlash Tower. This sleek microATX tower includes the basic features you’d expect to find in an affordable case with some higher-end specs seen in the best mATX cases. It’s truly the best budget PC case around.
👍 PROS
- Several expansion slots for adaptability and customization
- Pre-installed fans for better cooling and processing
- USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports; does its best to maximize features while remaining affordable
👎 CONS
- Design is customizable but not modular
- Does not fit regular ATX motherboards; locked into Micro or Mini boards with less power
This microATX compatible case is both compact and cool. The cube shape is a breath of fresh air, and the size is perfect: just a little more than a foot in each direction. This definitely tops our list as the best microATX case for the space-conscious gamer.
👍 PROS
- Cube shape allows for easy interior access and less wasted space
- Loads of bays, ports, and expansion slots mean no features lost
- Supports microATX power supplies, LED fans, and powerful graphics cards
👎 CONS
- The case is noisy, so silent fans are recommended
- The case isn’t super sturdy, so assembly and building require a gentle touch
It’s safe to say this is the best mid-tower case for general computing on our list. And it’s beautiful! Taking minimalist design to a whole new level, this tower is clean, simple, and compact. Yet it still manages to remain a strong competitor with high-end specs and excellent features.
👍 PROS
- Beginner-friendly steel casing for added durability
- Large bay for optimized airflow and upgradability
- Huge acrylic window to show off your build means it’s one of the best-looking computer cases around
👎 CONS
- Included fans aren’t bad, but they leave room for improvement
- Structurally sound but prone to scratching and surface wear
Short and stout, the BitFenix Prodigy is our pick for the best ITX computer case. The overall look is mildly masculine and exceptionally modern (and handles are a great touch). Combine that with its small form factor, and you’ve got a portable machine that isn’t a pain in the butt to move.
👍 PROS
- Two handles on top and ultra-small form factor (14 inches tall)
- Removable drive trays; space for several drives if needed
- Offered in six different colors makes it one of the best looking ITX cases around
👎 CONS
- Plastic handles are a bit flimsy
- Very little room for cable management
The highest-rated tower on our list, this is one of the best computer cases for tinkerers. That’s because it combines affordability, upgrade potential, and a sleek, modern design. The Phanteks Pro M boasts lots of potential out of the box, but it really shines with personal upgrades and parts.
👍 PROS
- Brushed aluminum, acrylic windows, and thoughtful design
- Strong emphasis on airflow and cooling capabilities
- User-friendly organization features like Phantek’s cable management, hidden PSUs and HDDs, and pre-installed labeling
👎 CONS
- Prone to scratching and blemishes
- Will require many upgrades to reach its full potential
This is, without a doubt, one of the best PC cases under $100. The SPEC-Omega mid-tower case is bold. Featuring a pleasing two-tone design and accessible front panel, this case has excellent functionality while being easy on the wallet. Best of all, the build requires no assembly tools and is perfect for seasoned builders and novices alike.
👍 PROS
- Easy to build with a pleasant tool-free assembly
- Designed with speed and performance in mind
- Supports 7 expansion slots, SSDs, USB 3.0, and the latest cooling technology for modern gaming without compromise
👎 CONS
- The top of the case remains open, inviting spills and dust
- Lacks the customizability often seen in higher-end models
Coming in at a cool $150, we have the Corsair Icue 465X. This has got to be the best looking PC case ever. Seriously. It sports an exotic design with tempered glass and vibrant LEDs, and it appears to have come straight out of the Aliens movies. Oh yeah — and the features certainly pack an out-of-this-world punch.
👍 PROS
- Breathtaking design with (inter)stellar customer ratings
- Excellent performance capabilities with loads of room
- Supports 6 fans, cable routing, and full interior customization
👎 CONS
- It’ll set you back a whopping $150
- Only recommended for more experienced folks or those ready to take on a challenging build
This is one of the best PC gaming cases on the market, and it screams power. Simply looking at it makes me want to play some Battlefront. Plus, it comes with a travel handle for gaming on the go. Bring it to the next LAN party and be the envy of the group.
👍 PROS
- Huge interior bay with several expansion slots
- Sexy I/O panel with loads of ports and a fan controller
- Supports micro, ATX, and XL motherboards to satisfy every project
👎 CONS
- Can be tricky to build, and instructions are inadequate
- Hefty and awkward; ready for travel, but it won’t be a cakewalk
Arguably the best PC tower on our list, the Thermaltake Tower 900 is a full tower behemoth for hardcore techies. Sporting a sexy tempered glass design, a huge internal bay, and loads of features found only in high-end models, this case gets every job done. It tops our list as the best full tower case for gaming.
👍 PROS
- Will handle everything you throw at it with ease
- Ships fully assembled and ready to go
- Pre-configured with state of the art liquid cooling technology and a modular bay.
👎 CONS
- The most expensive case on our list
- Not recommended for inexperienced builders
Computer Case Guide Part I: The Technical Details of Computer Cases
Before we dive into the best computer cases, let’s take a quick look at what they actually are. Computer cases, also known as towers, units, or chassis, house all the different components of a computer. They’re composed of a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and glass.
A standard computer case includes the components we’re all familiar with, like the power button, ports, USB outlets, etc. Popular cases are also equipped to hold the motherboard, power supplies, drives, and more. Cases are infamous for coming in that all too iconic rectangular box shape.
A computer case is an enclosure that houses all the things that make a computer, well, a computer.
Many are pre-equipped with specific configurations for motherboards and general layout. The most popular is the ATX (advanced technology extended) configuration. We’ve included in our curation some of the best gaming PC cases that incorporate ATX, microATX, and xlATX technology.
Computer Case Guide Part II: Types of Computer Cases
There are several different types of computer cases on the market. Each major brand has its own lineup, and they generally include various sizes for all types of builds.
Let’s check out the most common computer cases to see what’s available:
Mini-ITX Tower
Built to house the mini-ITX motherboards and their associated components, the best mini-ITX towers are typically ultra-small and very affordable. This makes them lean, mean gaming machines that offer great portability and convenience.
MicroATX Tower
These towers are designed to house the microATX motherboards. Bigger than mini-ITX but smaller than mid-size, the best microATX cases strike an exceptional balance of power and efficiency.
Mid Tower
Mid-size towers are commonly used for microATX and ATX gaming rigs. They’re large enough to fit all your must-have components, but not as bulky as full towers. The best mid-tower cases are the most popular option for PC gamers seeking a capable rig.
Full Tower
The biggest of all are the best full tower cases. These can handle all the motherboards mentioned thus far, as well as E-ATX and XL-ATX boards. They provide ample cooling room and are perfect for overclocking and maximizing performance potential.
A variant of full tower cases is the super tower. These are even bigger and offer the most room possible.
Computer Case Guide Part III: How to Choose the Best Computer Case
Are you a hardcore gamer running the newest releases and graphically intensive programs? If so, you might want to go full tower for optimal performance. They’ll run you a bit more, but the added expense can prove a wonderful investment in quality. Having enough room to work in (as well as great airflow) truly makes all the difference.
With that said, 9 times out of 10, a mid-tower case is the best gaming tower for moderate play. They’re big enough for most ATX and microATX motherboards and feature all the expansion bays and other goodies you’re likely to need.
Unless, of course, you’re building a small gaming PC. Depending on just how small you plan to go, microATX or mini-ITX cases are likely to be much more efficient.
It can really be summed up like this: the best computer case for gaming is the one that best suits your needs. Get just the space you need, and if your budget is large enough, go one size up. And if you really want to splurge, consider choosing some of the fantastic features below:
- Tempered Glass
- Sound Proofing
- Lower Temperatures
- Spacious Interiors
- RGB Lights
- Water Cooling Support
- Sharp Aesthetics
- Cable Management
Computer Case Guide Part IV: Thermaltake Tower 900 Review
Interested in one of the very best computer cases on the market? You’ve gotta check out the Thermaltake Tower 900! Also referred to as ‘The Tower,’ this chassis is a true powerhouse and work of art.
For more info, check out the following video by HardwareCanucks over on Youtube:
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