I get it. You crave desktop power to fuel work and play. But bulging beige boxes collect dust under desks—if they even fit. What if you could pack potent processing and slick style into a portable package? Good news: compact ATX cases let you build your exceptional PC on a small scale.
In this expert guide, we’ll unveil:
- What to expect from tiny modern ATX cases
- How to shop for the best compact ATX case
- In-depth reviews of 5 smallest ATX case contenders
- Steps for constructing your own petite powerhouse
- Answers to frequently asked questions
Let’s get you on the road to computing convenience!
What Makes Today‘s Small ATX Cases Mighty?
Since ATX’s 1995 debut, the form factor shrank from titanic towers to petite cubes under 15 inches per edge. Don’t let their slim statures fool you! Modern manufacturing miracles let small ATX cases pack flagship-level power.
They mount beefy full-length graphics cards, liquid cooling radiators, multiple storage drives and standard ATX power supplies…while weighing under 10 pounds! Premium materials like steel and smoked tempered glass add durability too.
You can credit computer hardware’s ever-increasing efficiency. Cooler-running, smaller motherboards, GPUs and CPUs generate less heat and require less active airflow. Clever case designs utilize every internal inch while enhancing natural convection. Removeable dust filters also keep thermals in check.
Most importantly, tiny ATX models cater to user choice. Build a living room console or battlestation with customizable RGB bling. Construct a sleek home theater PC to tuck quietly under your 4K TV. Mini cases even travel easily for compact gaming on the go!
Let‘s compare what to expect from these 5 smallest ATX case options:
| Case | Dimensions | Construction | Lighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corsair 220T RGB | 401 x 210 x 400mm | Steel, glass | ✅ RGB fans |
| Cooler Master Q300L | 379 x 260 x 381mm | Steel, plastic | ❌ None |
| NZXT H210i | 210 x 349 x 372mm | Steel, glass | ✅ Integrated |
| Thermaltake Core V21 | 368 x 328 x 424mm | Steel | ❌ None |
| Cougar MG120 | 362 x 178 x 362mm | Steel, plastic, glass | ❌ None |
Now that you know what today’s tiny titans can do, let’s explore what to consider when choosing your mini machine’s home.
Choosing the Best Small ATX Case for Your Powerful Compact Build
Their versatility makes small form factor (SFF) cases enticing for first-timers and veterans alike. But limitations loom within confined spaces if components don’t jive. Let’s review key criteria for picking ideal housing for your hardware.
Cooling capacity should match horsepower – High-performance gear generates heat which requires dissipation. Case fans and liquid cooling radiators depend on room to breathe. Ensure enough mounts and ventilation for your hardware.
Dimensions limit component choices – Those snazzy new RTX 4090 graphics cards stretch 13 inches long! Carefully measure clearances before buying hardware. Also confirm rear motherboard tray depth accommodates cooler backplates and cables.
Keep cable management accessible – Clean wiring separation preserves airflow. Can you easily route cables behind the tray? Are tie-down points and grommets provided? Filters and panels should come off without dismantling everything too.
Quality materials withstand abuse – Tiny cases cram complex, expensive gear in snugly. Durability matters greatly. Cold rolled steel survives bumps which shatter acrylic. Tempered glass adds rigidity and transparency without sharp edges.
Armed with that knowledge, let’s peek inside 5 smallest ATX case options spanning budgets and features.
Smallest ATX Case Reviews: 5 Mini Models to Consider
🥇 Corsair iCUE 220T RGB Airflow: Flagship Features for $100
Sliding into the slimmest slot at just under 16 inches per side, the 220T RGB Airflow punches heavyweight. Dual tempered glass doors showcase components which the thoughtful interior supports extensively.
The 220T welcomes extended ATX (E-ATX), ATX and micro ATX motherboards. Three included 120mm fans glow customizable RGBs through the removable mesh top, front and floor. Add three more fans or dual 360mm/280mm radiators up top and front too.
Rear cable grommets and 20mm routing channels behind the tray tidy wiring for your USB 3.1 Gen 1 front ports. This case’s versatile hosting possibilities and mid-market price secure its leadership status.
Dimensions: 401 x 210 x 400mm (15.8” x 8.3” x 15.8”)
Construction: Steel, Smoked Glass
Lighting: 3x RGB Fans
Radiator Support: 360mm (Front and Top)
💨 Cooler Master Q300L: Ventilation for Any Configuration Under $60
Maximum airflow. Maximum adaptability. And a minimum footprint. How does the Q300L pack so much into such little space? Mesh takes center stage, from the hexagonal front panel down to its perforated body and top surface. Six cooling fan mounts discourage dust and discomfort.
Two preinstalled 120mm fans rev at the rear partition containing the motherboard tray and twin 2.5" drive sleds. Adjust the side-mounted I/O to any workspace. Seven expansion slots make room for legacy components in this 2018 design. For $50-$60, it empowers experimental setups.
Dimensions: 379 x 260 x 381mm (14.9” x 10.2” x 15)
Construction: Plastic, Steel Mesh
Cooling: 6x 120mm Fan Mounts
Filters: Removable Front & Bottom
[See the Cooler Master Q300L on Amazon]💎 NZXT H210i: Durable Style Statement for $100+
Sometimes you want show-worthy shine from top to bottom. That‘s why the stunning all-steel H210i flaunts tempered glass across its smooth front facade and down the GPU side. Framing provides a touch of refinement.
Don‘t let luxury lull you. This case corrals complexity into its concluding 14 inches. Integrated RGBs generate soft glows over hardware. Included cooling units and fan controls eliminate additional costs too.
Catch every angle through the tinted glass side. Direct attention rearwards with thematics using the vertical bracket. Installation takes just minutes too thanks to an intuitive cable bar and straps. When built to impress, the H201 makes a strong statement.
Dimensions: 210 x 349 x 372mm (8.3” x 13.7” x 14.6”)
Construction: Steel, Tempered Glass
Cooling: 2x Aer 120mm Fans Included
Expansion: 7 PCI Slots
🟦 Thermaltake Core V21: SPCC Steel Cube Design
Separate inner from outer with the compartmentalized Core V21. Thermaltake divides its 14.5in square-ish footprint into dual zones. The solid steel exterior shell insulates the fully-vented SPCC steel core cage.
Horizontal layout permits tall CPU coolers up to 180mm. Despite its cubesque shape, the V21 readily accepts 200mm large fans plus standard ATX power supplies. Installation takes moments with a truly tool-less setup.
Entry-level pricing makes the Core V21 accessible too. Opt for the black, white or black & white variant to match decor both budget and business. With a bit of modding magic, this foundation frames futuristic project builds.
Dimensions: 368 x 328 x 424mm (14.5” x 12.9” x 16.7”)
Construction: Steel Shell & Interior Cage
Included Fans: None
Filters: Bottom Mounted
🏆 Cougar MG120: Glass, Steel & Mesh Mix Under $60
Cost-conscious crafters can’t pass up the component flexibility and cooling competence of Cougar’s aptly named MG120-G gaming chassis. Despite its micro price, expanded metal mesh merges with steel framing and a tempered glass panel.
Rugged looks ready for LAN lounge life. rubber grips anchor transport. A tinted window surveys GPU sag. Above the PSU basement, three SSD trays always keep primary data drives linked.
Behind the mainboard, a 20mm wide passage hides harnesses well. Seven expansion slots make room for legacy hardware in this adventurous case. Seeking maximum value? The MG120-G delivers.
Dimensions: 362 x 178 x 362mm (14.3” x 7” x 14.3”)
Construction: Steel, Plastic, Tempered Glass
Cooling: 1x Rear 120mm Fan
Filters: Magnetic Front & Top
Constructing Your Tiny Titan: Build Tips for Small ATX Cases
Once you’ve selected the perfect petite PC enclosure, the fun really starts. But don‘t flip the switch just yet! Taking your time pays off tremendously within confined spaces.
Let‘s review smart steps for putting together an award-worthy tiny titan:
- Study your case‘s clearance specs and interior layout first
- Gather all components and tools needed for the entire build
- Attach the power supply, drives and any lighting components first
- Build outside the case to confirm hardware compatibility if concerned
- Carefully route cables through back panel openings before mounting the board
- Check fan and card clearances as you insert major components
- Cleanup cable management after full assembly by bundling wires tightly
- Redo thermal paste, reseat connections or reconfigure parts if temps spike
Patience prevents problems. With cautious construction, your creation keeps computing stably for years. Have more build questions? Ask away below!
FAQs: Key Questions about Compact ATX Cases
How much smaller are compact ATX cases versus mid or full towers?
Standard ATX mid-towers measure about 18-22 inches tall by 8-9 inches wide. Compact ATX models are under 16 inches in either dimension. Some cube models are equally deep, wide and tall.
Can I install 3.5” and 2.5” HDD/SSDs in small ATX cases?
Most compact ATX cases support two to three combined 3.5” and 2.5” drive bays, sometimes fewer. Liquid cooling focused designs may only have 2.5” SSD capacity too.
Which CPU coolers fit best in tiny ATX cases?
Low profile air coolers under 155mm or smaller 120-240mm AIO liquid coolers are your best bets. Measure case clearance for coolers carefully before purchasing.
Do small motherboards like Mini-ITX work in compact ATX cases?
Yes! Nearly all compact ATX cases support Mini-ITX. Many also handle micro ATX and standard ATX motherboards too. Just ensure rear cable management depth allows CPU backplates to mount.
I hope this guide helps you discover amazing new abilities with compact ATX cases! Constructing your own petite powerhouse takes planning but pays dividends. Please ping me with any other questions in the comments below. Happy building!
