Size & Type Size is one of the definitive traits of a small form factor case. As its name suggests, it should be small, but just how small is small enough? To qualify as small form factor, a case’s volume should technically not exceed 20 liters. How this volume is encapsulated depends on the format of the case. The most common formats are: Cube – one of the most popular designs for all-purpose builds. It is usually one of the most spacious SFF designs, and it is commonly chosen for builds that are not subject to tight installation places or mounting.

– one of the most popular designs for all-purpose builds. It is usually one of the most spacious SFF designs, and it is commonly chosen for builds that are not subject to tight installation places or mounting. Tower – this approach mimics the aesthetics of gaming consoles, and can be placed either vertically or horizontally. Depending on internal layouts and hardware configuration, a certain orientation might be recommended.

– this approach mimics the aesthetics of gaming consoles, and can be placed either vertically or horizontally. Depending on internal layouts and hardware configuration, a certain orientation might be recommended. Nettop – also known as bookshelf design, this is a highly miniaturized version of a tower PC, being among the smallest designs out there. The nettop format is a popular choice for business implementations, as it takes very little space and can be mounted on the back of a monitor. Nettop cases often come with a custom motherboard and power supply system, fitting more in the barebone computer segment, but more customizable options exist as well.

– also known as bookshelf design, this is a highly miniaturized version of a tower PC, being among the smallest designs out there. The nettop format is a popular choice for business implementations, as it takes very little space and can be mounted on the back of a monitor. Nettop cases often come with a custom motherboard and power supply system, fitting more in the barebone computer segment, but more customizable options exist as well. Home Theater Box – this design is most appropriate for HTPC builds, the case closely resembling the shape and orientation of a set top box. Some models include a display and remote control to further replicate the experience of a home theater unit. Motherboard Support The size and format of the case will dictate the motherboard format you can fit. Most models can fit a mini-ITX or micro-ATX motherboard comfortably, but smaller designs might only play well with nano-ITX, pico-ITX, or other exotic formats. Unless you’re really restricted to a very small design, your best bet is to go with a case that can house a mini-ITX or micro-ATX motherboard, as such cases are bound to have some space for additional components like as a discrete GPU, decent cooling and multiple storage options; most importantly, said models can fit a CPU of your choice. With nano-ITX or pico-ITX, what you see is what you get, as these boards usually come with embedded CPU, GPU and sometimes even RAM or storage.

GPU Support One of the key differences between modern SFF builds and legacy ones lies in the graphics department: while older models were very limited in terms of graphics horsepower, usually relying on integrated graphics, modern SFF builds can now fit a discrete GPU and provide desktop-grade performance. The exact specs of the supported graphics card vary from one case to another, most popular being support for two-slots graphics cards with lengths between 250-300mm. We’ve covered GPU support in SFF cases in more detail in our article on the smallest mini-ITX cases that can fit a full size GPU – check it out! Cooling System Support Cooling is a crucial aspect of any PC, so it’s not an overstatement to say that the best small form factor PC case is the one that can cram in the best cooling system. Because of the space limitations, cooling solutions are fairly limited. Tower coolers are not an option for this type of build, being replaced by C-style coolers. AIO solutions are highly desirable, but while they do not require much clearance in the CPU area, they do require a considerable amount of space for the radiator. A decent case should also feature space for at least one case fan. Although there is no room for a proper airflow in such cases, a high static pressure cooler can really make a difference.



Storage Options Most modern mini-ITX and micro-ATX motherboards come with one (or more) M.2 slot(s), which means you can get super-fast storage without sacrificing precious case space. However, most cases should provide space for at least one more 2.5” drive, with two or more bays not being uncommon. Some cases even go as far as offering support for 3.5” drives. If you’re building an HTPC, consider looking for a case that has support for an optical drive as well, so you can watch those Blu-rays without hassle.

PSU Support There are two main types of power supplies for small form factor builds: external and internal. External power supplies are typically used in smaller cases, where internal space is very limited. These power supplies consist of an internal DC to DC module fitted inside the case and an external power brick that’s similar to the one used by laptop chargers. Internal power supplies are scaled-down versions of power supplies found in regular PCs. These come in multiple formats such as SFX, SFX-L, TFX, and the popular ATX. It is important to have a clear idea of the hardware configuration you’ll be using to determine your power requirements, and thus the PSU format you need to go with. Some models such as TFX PSUs provide a lower power output (in the 300W range), so may not be fit for a high-end power-hungry system. Customizability Putting together an SFF build is in itself a challenge, but the end result is always a rewarding one. To smoothen the building process and broaden your hardware options a bit, consider looking for a case with a good design. Design may be mostly about aesthetics when it comes to regular PCs, but in the case of a small factor case, design can make it or break it. Not only does an SFF case need to look good, but it also needs to be functional and make use of every millimeter of available space. As such, a good design will blend good looks and functionality in a seamless way. Internally, a modular design will allow you to customize the internal layout a bit. Some cases allow you to remove or move the storage trays around to make room for lengthier GPUs, radiators or case coolers. On the outside, cutouts and grills need to be just in the right places to maximize the cooling potential. Consider opting for a case that has some decent connectivity options as well. Front USB and audio ports are not a luxury, but a necessity. Price & Availability The thriving popularity of the SFF trend led to a wide variety of cases flooding the market, so whether you’re on a tight budget or have no spending limit, you’re bound to find the best SFF case for your dream project. Prices range from around 50 bucks for models such as the Silverstone SG13, all the way up to several hundred dollars for more exquisite models such as the DAN Cases A4-SFX or the CaseLabs Bullet BH7.

Innovative small form factor case designs have seen a booming success on crowdfunding platforms, such as the Dr. Zaber Sentry ($222,388 raised on Indiegogo), DAN Cases A4 (€396,659 raised on Kickstarter) or the NCASE M1 ($152,722 raised on Indiegogo). An important aspect to keep in mind about crowd-funded projects is that, despite their crowdfunding success, their availability may be reduced or delayed as opposed to models coming from established manufacturers. What is the Best Mini-ITX Case? Now that you know what to look for in the best mini-ITX case for your build let’s see what your best options are.

Best Mini-ITX Cases – Our 14 Favorites

1. NCase M1 The NCase M1 is a great mini-ITX case for anyone looking to build a sleek, compact SFF PC. Plenty of enthusiasts are using the NCase M1 for their SFF builds, so there is plenty of support and guidance available on what you can do with this nifty, compact mini-ITX case. With a volume of only 12.6L, this all-aluminum mini-ITX case can house a full-size GPU of up to 317mm, with room to spare. Air cooling and heat management are not compromised due to its size either – the NCase M1 can handle most varieties of Mini-ITX motherboards, can accommodate both 120mm and 140mm case fans, as well as an additional dual 120mm fan bracket found on the side panel, allowing for more case fans to be installed or even a 240mm radiator to be installed internally. Yes, you heard it – the NCase M1 is compatible with dual-fan AIO water-cooling systems. PROS Great GPU clearance (317mm)

Support for 240mm AIO cooling systems

All-aluminum build CONS Difficult wire management

Pricey

Very limited availability

2. S4 Mini The S4 Mini is a highly raved-about SFF case, and it is quite obvious why: with a minuscule footprint of just 330x215x63 mm, this mini-ITX case can pack a lot of power into such a small size: it is possible to hook up a GTX 1080 mini into the S4 mini case. In terms of cooling the S4 Mini manages to impress once again: with a CPU cooler clearance of up to 45mm, you can fit numerous C-Style coolers into the S4 Mini. It’s pretty extraordinary that a PC case with a volume of just 330x215x63 mm can fit all these enthusiast, performance PC parts in there. It’s good-looking, too, so there’s really nothing to hold against this case. PROS Small size and footprint (330x215x63 mm & 4.3L)

Good GPU clearance (dual-slot & 203mm length) CONS Pico-PSU format (not included)

Expensive

Limited Availability

3. Cooler Master Elite 110 If you want to get into the SFF game but don’t want to shell out four hundred bucks on a DANCASE A4-SFX (which we totally get), the Cooler Master Elite 110 is one of the best SFF cases budget-wise. This SFF case is very compact, sports an understated matte black finish (that we love) and can fit dual slot GPUs of up to 210mm in length – so no GTX 1080s in here, unfortunately (unless some mini versions come out soon). Water-cooling is definitely possible to install within the Elite 110, as the case supports a 120mm radiator to be installed in the front. Along with USB 3.0 ports, a no-brainer price, as well as a large fan base that has nothing but love for this SFF case, the Cooler Master Elite 110 should be on your shortlist for your next small form factor PC build. PROS Exceptional value

Clean Design

ATX PSU support (up to 180mm) CONS Limited airflow – single 120mm front case fan for the intake

Cable management experience might not be ideal with this case (helps to have a modular unit)

4. Cooler Master Elite 130 The Elite 130 mini-ITX case is a great option for those who want to really customize the internals of their case to fit their needs. This is a really modular case, allowing flexibility on what it can do and support, backed up by a great build quality, making it feel like a hefty case that feels more like a case twice its size. Nifty features of this SFF PC case include a handy hard drive mounting bracket that allows customization in its positioning, so you can further optimize the internals for maximum space. With this case allowing space for long graphics cards of up to 343mm long, you will be able to install 99% of full size, dual-width GPUs out there, including flagship cards such as the GTX 1080Ti. While the Cooler Master Elite 130 does not exactly shine in the CPU cooler clearance department, given the overall dimensions of the case, with a maximum cooler height of only 65mm, the case makes up for it in the overall cooling options, with support for two intake cooling fans and one exhaust case fan, and the ability to install an additional 200mm fan at the top. For those LED fanboys, this case comes with red LEDs out of the box, but fear not that these can be easily replaced to suit your needs/preferences. PROS Spacious for a mini-ITX case

Modular design offers great flexibility

Great cooling options

Great GPU clearance (can fit up to 13.5”/343mm full size, dual-width GPUs) CONS Red LEDs may not suit all preferences / build color schemes

Window panel is prone to damage/scuffs

5. DAN Cases A4-SFX Just look at this thing. Right now, the DAN Cases A4-SFX is currently considered the holy-grail of SFF cases, with its compact 7.5L size, superb design, and build-quality, combined with premium quality components, as well as the ability to fit a full size, dual- slot GPU (295mm long) within this mini-ITX case. The only problem is, though, that everyone is trying to get their hands on one, with many people selling the DAN Cases A4-SFX for hundreds of dollars on eBay – no thanks. Although we think that the DAN Cases A4-SFX is probably the best small form factor PC case available right now. The v3 version of the case adds the ability to add a high-performance CPU cooler (maximum CPU cooler clearance is 92mm), as well as a water-cooling loop. PROS Breath-taking aesthetics

Decent GPU support (dual-slot & 295mm length)

Premium materials & build quality CONS Expensive

Hard to obtain

6. Fractal Node 304 What’s big, modular, comes with a plethora of options for cooling and storage, and runs for the “best mini ITX case” title? It’s the Fractal Node 304, of course! With a volume of 19.5 liters that places it close to the upper-limit of SFF cases, the Node 304 sure packs in a lot of features to show for it. For starters, the case can house a 310mm long GPU, which gives you a lot of freedom in choosing the card. Where the Fractal Node 304 really shines, though, is the cooling department: not only does this case support a full tower CPU cooler (up to an astonishing 165mm – you can even fit in a monstrous Noctua NH-D14 with a bit of tinkering!), but it also comes with three included case fans (two 92mm fans in the front and one 140mm fan in the rear), which means the case will remain cool no matter what you throw in it. On the storage side, the Fractal Node 304 is equally impressive, being able to house up to 6 storage drives, in modular bays that can be easily removed if not needed. Last but not least, the Node 304 supports ATX power supplies (PSUs shorter than 160mm are recommended when a long graphics card is in use). PROS Exceptional cooling options

Great storage options

Rich accessory pack (3 case fans, fan controller and dust filters included)

ATX PSU support CONS Not the smallest case out there

Pricey

7. Thermaltake Core V1 If you’re looking for an SFF case that stands out of the crowd, look no further than the Thermaltake Core V1. Coming with a cubic design, the Core V1 features a large grille that spreads across the entire front panel and stretches a bit onto the top panel as well, giving it a grandiose feel. The two side panels feature some vents as well to facilitate cooling, and the top panel comes with a window to allow you to show off your build. A distinctive feature of the Thermaltake Core V1, though, is the ability to interchange the top and side panels as needed, ensuring proper cooling and best visibility for your hardware. On the inside the Thermaltake Core V1 doesn’t disappoint either, coming with a two-chamber design that maximizes the available space to support graphics cards of up to 260mm, CPU coolers of up to 140mm, 4 drive bays (2 x 2.5” & 2 x 3.5”), 120mm and 140mm AIO radiator support and a standard ATX power supply. Also, did we mention that the case comes with a huge 200mm vent in the front to keep it cool? This combination of features, good looks and a price tag in the “around fifty dollars” ballpark make the Thermaltake Core V1 one of the best small form factor PC cases out there. PROS Modular design (both inside and out)

Decent storage options support

ATX power supply support

Great price CONS Can’t fit longer video cards (max. 260mm)

8. Fractal Design Node 202 Whether you’re building an HTPC, a small form factor office PC or an all-purpose rig, the Fractal Design Node 202 will be honored to house it in style. Featuring Fractal Design’s unique style, the Node 202 comes with a design that allows it to be placed either vertically or horizontally, depending on your needs or preferences, and it will look stunning either way. The Fractal Design Node 202 is not only about the looks, though – this small case (it has a volume of just 10.2 liters) can easily host the usual suspects: mini-ITX motherboard, two 2.5” storage drives, a GPU of up to 310mm and an SFX power supply. Speaking of power supplies – the case comes with one bundled, namely a Fractal Design Integra SFX 450W, custom adapted for the Node 202 case to provide optimum cable management. On the cooling side, the Node 202 fits CPU coolers of up to 56mm in height and also supports two 120mm case fans. Dust filters are also present to keep the interior of the case dust-free. PROS Integrated Power Supply

Flexible design for horizontal or vertical positioning

Dust filters included CONS No water-cooling support

9. BitFenix Portal If we are to describe the BitFenix Portal in one word, “unconventional” would be our first pick, with “gorgeous” coming in a close second. BitFenix went all-in with the Portal, and the result is purely spectacular – the Portal features the best mini-ITX case design we’ve seen in a long time. The BitFenix Portal is all about smooth curves, an angled design on the side panels and a curved window on the top side. Since the bottom of the case is curved as well, the case makes use of a stand to stay in an upright position. We could go about the aesthetics of the BitFenix Portal all day, and the what makes it the best looking Mini-ITX case, so let’s just conclude that the case is simply amazing. And it’s not just the outside that’s top-notch, as the inside has some nifty tricks of its own: the chassis features an upside-down design, so the motherboard will have its expansion slots towards the top of the case. This is no coincidence, though – remember we mentioned the window on the top panel? It will provide a great view of the graphics card’s cooling system, and since the Portal can accommodate cards of up to 300mm in length, the GPU in the spotlight will likely be a top-of-the-line one. The BitFenix Portal can also fit multiple 2.5” or 3.5” drives, as well as two case coolers, one of which can be replaced by a water-cooling radiator (120mm). PROS Jaw-dropping looks

Great GPU clearance

Has water-cooling support

Good airflow design CONS Pricey

Considerable outside dimensions (the stand makes its footprint quite large)

10. Silverstone SG05 It’s small (10.8 liters), it’s cheap (under $50) and it packs all the basics for a mid-range SFF build with no bling. We’re talking about the Silverstone SG05, of course – a case that provides exceptional value for its price tag. The design of the SG05 will not turn any heads, but it’s not meant to do so; rather, it’s meant to be efficient, and that’s exactly what it is thanks to the large grille of the front panel that hides an included 120mm high-pressure cooler, and the easily-accessible USB 3.0 and audio ports also present on the front panel. On the inside, the Silverstone SG05 SFF case comprises of the usual specs for an SFF case: bays for one 2.5” and one 3.5” drives, a 255mm GPU clearance and SFX power supply support. Last but not least, the Silverstone SG05 also includes a tray for an optical drive. PROS Excellent value

Decent feature set

Included 120mm case fan CONS Limited storage options

Unimpressive cable management options

11. Silverstone SG13 It’s bigger (11.5 liters), it’s cheaper (just under $40) and it’s a whole lot better than the SG05 – meet its big brother, the Silverstone SG13. Technically speaking, the SG13 is not the big brother, but rather the successor of the SG05, and the case aims to tick all the right boxes that its predecessor got wrong. For starters, the SG13 improved the storage options, the case now featuring a 1 x 2.5” + 2 x 2.5” or 1 x 2.5” + 1 x 3.5” configuration. GPU clearance was also increased to by 12mm, now totaling 267mm – not a very significant change, but since those millimeters were added and not removed, it’s still a positive change. The most notable upgrade comes in the cooling department, though – the Silverstone SG13 supports a 120mm/140mm water-cooling radiator, thus greatly improving the cooling options. One more change targets the power supply: unlike the SG05 and its SFX support, the SG13 features support for the more popular ATX power supply format. Drawing the line, it’s quite clear – if you’re looking for the best mini-ITX case for a tight budget, you just found it! PROS Exceptional Value

Water-cooling support

ATX power supply format CONS No window panel

12. Ghost S1 Originally designed and marketed on Kickstarter, this extremely compact case captured the similar type of reaction the DAN Cases A4-SFX made back when it launched its very successful Kickstarter campaign. The Ghost S1 is meant to be a direct competitor to the A4-SFX, as well as the S4 Mini, and we think it can do this. This SFF masterpiece is priced slightly more competitively than the DAN Cases A4-SFX, and also features slightly better cooling potential – something the A4-SFX struggled slightly with in terms of CPU cooling. Our favorite feature about this case, apart from the stunning unibody design and clean angles, is the ability to expand this case based on your personal requirements with ‘tophats’. This makes it possible to set up a water-cooling loop in this ever-so-small case. This is certainly an amazing SFF case for the money. PROS Superior customizability via tophats

Support for a wide variety of hardware combinations

Excellent water-cooling support CONS Fairly expensive

Long wait between versions

13. Silverstone RVZ01 We’ve had two entries from Silverstone in our top so far, so why not go for a third? We’re not doing it for the sake of doing it, nor are we paid to promote the brand – it’s just that their products are very good contenders for the title of best SFF case, and there’s no better example than the Silverstone RVZ01. While the previous models we’ve listed were targeted at budget buyers, the RVZ01 is for those that seek performance. Silverstone assembled a dedicated crew to work on their RAVEN lineup, and the RVZ01 is the first case to come out from said team, and it set a high bar for future models. With a volume of roughly 14 liters, the RVZ01 is not the biggest SFF case out there, but don’t let that fool you – the case offers some pretty impressive specs: 330mm GPU length support, multiple 2.5”/3.5” drive mounting bays, optical unit support, two included 120mm fans and, the cherry on top, support for 120mm or 240mm water-cooling radiators. In terms of design, the Silverstone RVZ01 closely resembles gaming consoles both in terms of size, as well as due to the fact that it can be placed vertically or horizontally. Since the case is mainly targeted at gamers, it’s safe to assume that said resemblance is not exactly a coincidence and is part of what makes this quite possibly our current choice for the best Mini-ITX gaming case. This case is ideal for a gaming PC Mini-ITX build. PROS Generous GPU clearance (330mm)

Superior cooling support

Excellent storage options CONS Subpar building materials – the RVZ01 uses a lot of plastic, which gives it a somewhat cheap feel