Small form factor computers are becoming the go-to gaming rigs for casual and hardcore gamers alike. After all, who doesn’t love a PC that has a tiny footprint and still packs stellar performance? Fortunately, the best Mini-ITX case steps in to serve as the perfect chassis for your new build. That said, how much can you truly expect from these small cases? Can you still pack in enough powerful components to run the latest games at max settings?
It’s true — the best Mini-ITX cases take up significantly less space than their Micro-ATX counterparts, and half the room of standard ATX cases. However, the best Mini-ITX cases in most cases can still be loaded with the newest hardware and system components for exceptional performance and a maximum gaming advantage. You can expect sturdy case builds that are outfitted to provide lightning-quick system speeds, large on-board storage capacities, and great ergonomics (not to mention unrivaled style). So if you’re building a Mini-ITX gaming PC and want it to remain viable for years to come, this article is here to guide you through the top options on the market.
Zoom Out: Comparison Table of the 10 Best Mini-ITX Cases
Below, you’ll find our top 10 mini-itx case picks sorted by price-ascending.
Image | Case | Form Factor | Dimensions (w x h x d) | Weight | I/O Ports | Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Morex 557 Universal Mini-ITX Case | Mini-ITX | 7.5" x 2.4" x 7.7" (191 x 61 x 196mm) | 2.7lbs (1.2kg) | 2x USB 2.0 | ||
Cooler Master RC-130 Elite Mini-ITX Computer Case | Mini-ITX | 15.7" x 9.4" x 8.2" (208 x 399 x 239mm) | 7.0lbs (3.2kg) | 2x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, 1x Audio/Mic | ||
Thermaltake Core V1 Mini-ITX Cube | Mini-ITX | 10.2" x 10.9" x 12.4" (259 x 277 x 315mm) | 7.1lbs (3.2kg) | 2x USB 3.0, 1x Audio, 1x Mic | ||
Rosewill Mini-ITX Tower | Mini-ITX | 8.7" x 5.1" x 13" (221 x 130 x 330mm) | 7.0lbs (3.2kg) | 2x USB 2.0, 2x Audio/Mic | ||
In-Win Mini-ITX Slim Computer Case | Mini-ITX | 8.9" x 7.6" x 3" (226 x 193 x 76mm) | 4.6lbs (2.1kg) | 2x USB 3.0, 1x Audio/Mic | ||
Antec ISK 300-150 Mini-ITX Desktop Computer Case | Mini-ITX | 12.9" x 8.7" x 3.8" (221 x 97 x 328mm) | 5.5lbs (2.5kg) | 2x USB 3.0, 1x eSATA, 1x Audio/Mic | ||
SilverStone Technology Raven Z Mini-ITX Gaming Case | Mini-ITX & Mini-DTX | 13.8" x 4.1" x 15.0" (351 x 104 x 381mm) | 9.0lbs (4.1kg) | 2x USB 3.0, 1x Audio, 1x Mic | ||
NZXT Mini-ITX PC Gaming Case | Mini-ITX | 8.3" x 13.7" x 14.6" (210 x 349 x 372mm) | 13.2lbs (6.0kg) | 2x SUB 3.1, 1x Audio/Mic | ||
Corsair Crystal 280X Case | Mini-ITX & Micro-ATX | 10.9" x 13.8" x 15.7" (277 x 351 x 399mm) | 15.7lbs (7.1kg) | 2x USB 3.1 | ||
Cougar Conquer Gaming Case | Mini-ITX, Micro-ATX, ATX | 27" x 23" x 10" (686 x 584 x 254mm) | 30.9lbs (14.0kg) | 2x USB 3.0, 1x Audio, 1x Mic |
Zoom In: A Closer Look at The 10 Best Mini-ITX Cases
Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 best Mini-ITX form factor cases to help you find the perfect choice for your next build.
1. NZXT Mini-ITX PC Gaming Case
Our pick for best Mini-ITX PC case
Looking for a cool Mini-ITX case that’s utilized by top gamers around the world? Well, the NZXT H200i is the perfect choice. This white Mini-ITX case is made of premium steel and tempered glass, and it delivers a design that’s as functional as it is attractive. It’s loaded with cutting-edge features like integrated Aer fans, water cooling compatibility, and a cable management system that leaves the interior clean and ready for display. A fantastic unit overall.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
- Features 5 drive bays & 2 expansion slots
- Does not include a power supply; includes 2 Aer F120mm fans
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 3.1, 1x audio/mic
2. Thermaltake Core V1 Mini-ITX Cube
Our pick for best Mini-ITX cube case
Cube cases offer a number of unique benefits ranging from superior modularity to convenient placement options. And, the Thermaltake Core V1 fits the mold entirely. In fact, this Mini-ITX case boasts an adjustable I/O panel, chamber cooling, and late-gen USB 3.0 connectivity. As for reliability? Near-perfect consumer ratings backed by a 3 year warranty guarantee its longevity and your peace of mind.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
- Features 2 drive bays & 2 expansion slots
- Does not include a power supply; includes a 200mm fan
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 3.0, 1x audio, 1x mic
3. Antec ISK 300-150 Mini-ITX Desktop Computer Case
Our pick for best Mini-ITX case with power supply
The Antec ISK Mini-ITX Case is ready to go out of the box thanks to the included 150-watt power supply and 80mm TriCool fan. And that’s not to mention the reasonable price point and top-notch features! In fact, it’s equipped with 3 drive bays, an expansion slot, and a packed I/O panel for all your gaming needs. It’s also got great customer ratings and the slim design is both sleek and reliable.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
- Features 3 drive bays & 1 expansion slot
- Includes a 150-watt power supply & 80mm TriCool fan
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 3.0, 1x eSATA, 1x audio/mic
4. Cooler Master RC-130 Elite Mini-ITX Computer Case
Our pick for best Cooler Master Mini-ITX case
This new and improved design replaced the original Cooler Master RC aluminum Mini-ITX case with a mesh front panel that provides superior airflow and higher performance. Moreover, the updated RC-130 boasts multiple drive bays and expansion slots, as well as a loaded I/O panel that delivers late-gen tech with yesterday’s top technology. What does this mean for you? This highly adaptable case provides everything you need for top-tier gaming while maintaining a reasonable price point.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
- Features 4 drive bays & 2 expansion slots
- Does not include a power supply; includes an 80mm & 120mm fan
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, 1x audio/mic
5. SilverStone Technology Raven Z Mini-ITX Gaming Case
Our pick for best Mini-ITX tower
SilverStone Technology is a top contender in the computer case market, and the Raven Z Mini-ITX case continues the trend. This highly versatile case is perfect for Mini-ITX and Mini-DTX motherboards, and it’s equipped with 4 drive bays and 1 expansion slot out of the box. It can be placed in a vertical or horizontal position, and the proprietary SilverStone PCI-E riser ensures compatibility with every major graphics card on the market. Overall, a stellar Mini-ITX tower that’s capable of pro gaming.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX & Mini-DTX
- Features 4 drive bays & 1 expansion slot
- Does not include a power supply; includes 2 120mm fans
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 3.0, 1x audio, 1x mic
6. Morex 557 Universal Mini-ITX Case
Our pick for one of the best portable Mini-ITX cases
If you’re looking for the smallest Mini-ITX case that’s perfect for toting around to LAN parties or events, the Morex 557 is just the ticket! Its convenient size allows for the installation of 2 SSD or HDD drives as well as a PicoPSU power supply — plenty of storage and power for basic computing and light gaming. And while it’s not a Mini-ITX case with a handle, it’s only slightly larger than a half-foot in length. What’s this mean for you? Tuck it in a backpack and carry it with you wherever you go.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
- Features 2 drive bays
- Does not include a power supply; does not include fans
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 2.0
7. Corsair Crystal 280X Case
Our pick for best glass Mini-ITX case
Glass displays allow you and your friends to see the inside of the computer chassis and enjoy the beautiful hardware and interior design. And few do this better than the Corsair Crystal 280X. It’s loaded with 3 stunning tempered glass panels and a dual-chamber layout that makes installation a breeze. And that’s not to mention its performance features. You’re sure to enjoy PSU filtering, powerful integrated Corsair cooling fans, and loads more. The perfect Mini-ITX cases for style-conscious gamers.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX & Micro-ATX
- Features 5 drive bays & 4 expansion slots
- Does not include a power supply; includes 2 120mm Corsair fans
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 3.1
8. Rosewill Mini-ITX Tower
Our pick for best fanless Mini-ITX case
This Rosewill tower is perhaps the best ITX case for Mini-ITX motherboards when considering its features and price. What makes it so special? Well, the powerful 250-watt power supply (included) acts as an exhaust fan to ensure that your PC stays cool and ready for action. As for its performance specs? 3 drive bays, an expansion slot, and a convenient I/O panel offer everything you need to hop in the game.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
- Features 3 drive bays & 1 expansion slot
- Includes a 250-watt power supply; does not include a fan
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 2.0, 2x audio/mic
9. In-Win Mini-ITX Slim Computer Case
Our pick for best thin Mini-ITX case
The In-Win Mini-ITX Slim Computer Case boasts a convenient form factor for smaller spaces, and it doesn’t sacrifice on features. In fact, it ships with a 150-watt power supply and a cutting-edge I/O panel that delivers lightning-quick USB 3.0 technology and easy HD audio integration. Plus, the ultra small form factor delivers 2 drive bays and 1 expansion slot for added customization and adaptability.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
- Features 2 drive bays & 1 expansion slot
- Includes a 150-watt power supply; does not include a fan
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 3.0, 1x audio/mic
10. Cougar Conquer Gaming Case
Our pick for best Mini-ITX gaming case
Named after the ferocious feline, the Cougar Conquer Gaming Case boasts a streamlined design that’s both sexy and functional. 7 drive bays and 7 expansion slots ensure the highest range of component compatibility, and it’s loaded with an I/O panel that features USB 3.0 technology. Cooling-wise, this unit ships with 3 Cougar CFD 120mm LED fans to light up your gaming space and accent the sleek tempered glass side panels. Plus, this mid-tower case works alongside Mini-ITX and other ATX motherboards for superior adaptability.
Snapshot:
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX, Micro-ATX, ATX
- Features 7 drive bays & 7 expansion slots
- Does not include a power supply; includes 3 Cougar CFD 120mm LED fans
- I/O Panel: 2x USB 3.0, 1x audio, 1x mic
What is a Mini-ITX Case?
A Mini-ITX case is a computer chassis that’s specifically designed to house a Mini-ITX motherboard (short for Information Technology Extended) and its corresponding components. What does this mean exactly? Let’s break things down.
Closeup of a Mini-ITX Motherboard
A Mini-ITX motherboard is a printed circuit board that serves as the foundation of your PC. Furthermore, at only 7 inches across, the Mini-ITX’s dimensions are among the smallest on the market. But don’t let the small form factor fool you. The best Mini-ITX builds are loaded with cutting-edge hardware that can perform with larger sized PCs. And, the best Mini-ITX cases serve as the perfect enclosure for PC builders looking for a great system unit that doesn’t take up much space.
In fact, the best Mini-ITX cases start at under a foot in diameter, and they feature some seriously innovative designs. Moreover, the top options on the market are packed with powerful components like integrated power supplies, cooling options, and flexible I/O ports, so you don’t have to make any sacrifices on ergonomics or performance.
Benefits of Mini-ITX Cases
There are a number of benefits to choosing a Mini-ITX case for your gaming or standard PC build. The best Mini-ITX cases are:
- Space savers. Starting at well under a foot in diameter, Mini-ITX cases are the perfect size for smaller setups, entertainment systems, and portable gaming. Moreover, many cases feature modular drive bays for extreme adaptability.
- High performance. Since Mini-ITX cases are so small, they’re designed to pack as much performance as possible right out of the box. In fact, they often come pre-loaded with fantastic power supplies, cooling systems, I/O ports, and more.
- Stylish yet affordable. You’ll find a number of attractive Mini-ITX case models on our top 10 list. Some of the top cases feature sleek color options, tempered glass windows, and cable management systems.
- Future-proof. As technology advances at such a rapid pace, PC hardware is becoming more powerful and shrinking in size. A Mini-ITX build allows you to keep up with industry trends while leaving plenty of room for upgrades in the future.
In addition to these top benefits, you’ll find a wide range of other neat features depending on the brand and model you choose.
Image Credit: thermaltake.com
Choosing the Best Mini-ITX Case
There are a number of things to consider when choosing the best Mini-ITX case for your PC build:
- Compatibility
- Size and form factor
- Customization possibilities
- Cooling options
- I/O panel & features
- Price
First you’ll need to be sure that the case works with your particular board and overall build. Fortunately, the options on our list are all optimized to perform alongside Mini-ITX motherboards, but consult your motherboard’s specs to make sure the size and form factor are up to snuff. From there, check that the case can handle your components, including drives, memory, cooling equipment, and more. You can find more information on these critical components in our buyer guide section.
In addition, check for nice-to-have features like pre-built I/O panels, cable management systems, and sleek designs. You’ll have to factor price into the mix, but it’s well worth the cost if you want to build a stellar gaming rig.
How to Use a Mini-ITX Case
The right case plays a critical role in any serious Mini-ITX build. And once you’ve got your PC gaming components lined up, what’s the next step? That’s right — it’s time to build. However, the best PC builds can be difficult, even for seasoned technophiles. No worries. A visual guide is the perfect solution, and we’ve got just the video for you.
Bitwit over on YouTube walks you through the ins and outs of assembling a powerful Mini-ITX computer, and he even uses one of the cases featured in our top 10 list. Check the full video out below:
I can give an additional information to the ThermaTake Core v12.
Yes it has two drive bays, but each can be populated with a 3.5” Drive on the front side, plus a 2.5” drive on the backside.
So in total this tiny case can be populated with 4 drives in total.
The cable Management will be far from price-winning, but storage capacity probably will.
I’m really surprised the NZXT H1 didn’t make the list. It’s my personal favorite.
2 of these cases are NOT itx cases. You blew it Austin. You had one job. Chooses 2 micro atx cases. Good grief.
We sprinkled in a couple larger cases with ITX support for a rounded selection.
Thanks for your concern and comment, Landon!