Best Pc Cases of March 2024: Expert Comparisons, Reports & Reviews
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The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
The scores from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How we Score
Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
The pc case is one of the most overlooked pieces of hardware despite its crucial role. It determines the size and type of components that you can choose, affecting how these parts perform. The best PC cases will nicely house all your present and future features and provide good airflow. Picking out a suitable PC case, just like picking out any components, is a kind of fun.
Choosing the best PC cases for your need is not just a matter of picking what looks good at first glance. Sure, appearance is essential, but there are a lot of serious considerations you need to take, too. Here’s what you need to look out for when choosing the best pc cases:
1. Form Factor
Form factor matters when it comes to pc cases. The reason for that is you need the motherboard to fit into the issues of your choice. Similar to issues, motherboards come in all sizes and shapes. Unfortunately, not all motherboards are compatible with every PC case form factor. So you have to make sure the dimensions of the case and motherboard match up. Here’s how to find out:
Motherboard / Form factor |
E-ATX (12″ × 13″) |
ATX |
Micro-ATX (9.6″ x 9.6″) |
Mini-ITX (6.7″ x 6.7″) |
Max PCI slots |
Full tower |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
11 |
Mid-tower |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
7 |
|
Mini tower |
✓ |
✓ |
3 |
||
Small Form Factor (SFF) |
✓ |
2 |
As you can see, the entire tower is the most significant case option out there. You can house any of the four common motherboard form factors. In addition, they provide the most room for installing components or water coolers for better circulation. However, most people won’t go for this case when building a standard pc since it’s expensive. Full tower cases like Corsair Obsidian 1000D are the best pc cases for the most extreme pc builds.
The mid-tower is the most popular form factor. Most PC cases you find in the wild such as NZXT H710i, are of this size. They offer a comfortable fit for all, but the most monstrous pc builds. These are excellent starters for those new to custom pc building or eyeing up an upgrade.
Mini tower and SSF cases are limited in sizes and the type of motherboard they can house. However, being small, these cases don’t take up much space and thus are portable. A Mini-ITX case like Cooler Master NR200 is for a compact pc build. Such a small size is ideal for moving around or a desk with little space. Most people would use these cases for housing a home media system. For example, a small pc tucked away under the TV.
So, the critical thing in choosing the best PC cases is taking motherboard form-factor and dimensions into consideration. You need to make sure that you can fit the motherboard (and other components) into the case of your choice nicely.
2. Cooling
Heating is the enemy of any computer. While an average user may overlook this matter, an experienced user or builder knows well that cooling is essential. While you’re gaming or working, the internal components generate heat. The best PC cases will ensure your machine stays cool all day long. Thus, you will bump performance and prolonged components life cycle.
In short, a case with high airflow is necessary for any computer to build. Most issues, such as Phanteks Eclipse P300A, have pre-installed fans. Some like Cooler Master MasterBox TD500 even have RGB LEDs. Therefore, choosing a case that allows you to install at least two case fans is recommended. The least you can do is get one intake and one exhaust fan. Ideally, three or more fans are desired, especially for a high-powered pc build.
If you want to use water cooling, you also need to watch the case clearance. It means that you need to make sure the case has enough room to house the radiators and pumps of a water-cooling system. Cooler Master MasterCase H500M offers an array of valuable features to those who intend to use a cooling water system.
3. Soundproofing
This feature is another often overlooked aspect when choosing a case. The best pc cases won’t make you put on your headphones every time the computer turns on. Some instances are louder than others. The quieter pc cases often feature noise damping materials. For example, this Corsair CC-9011077-WW has sound-damping side panels which help block component noise. Unfortunately, most silent pc cases don’t have glass side panels as you can’t put noise-reducing foam on them.
Another factor contributing to the noise level is the fans. Generally, more giant fans tend to make less noise as their blades don’t have to spin as much as small fans. Therefore, the best pc cases often support 140mm fans which are generally quieter than 120mm fans. This Phanteks Eclipse P600S comes with 3 140mm fans and gives you all the peace in its silent mode.
4. Aesthetics
When you speak of an ordinary pc case, you often think of a basic box without many physical features. That’s not a bad thing, especially if you prefer the minimalist style. For instance, this CORSAIR CARBIDE 400C Compact sports a clean look with an all-steel exterior. However, if you prefer something flashier and bolder, the best pc case for you would be one with a unique design.
To make your pc build a head-turner, you have various options. The most common way people decorate their PCs is by RGB lightning. A full LED RGB effects case will go hand in hand with your RGB keyboard or fan setup.
Another popular choice is a tempered glass case which you can find at about $70. However, it is advisable to choose those at the $100 price range, such as Segotep Black Typhon, for better quality. If you want, you can even select a multiple of these design options. For instance, this Thermaltake Core P3 has an open viewing design with RGB and tempered glass.
You will be looking at your whole system for a long time. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the best PC cases that are aesthetically pleasing to you. It all boils down to personal preference, after all.
1. Can I use a computer without pc cases?
Sure, you can keep the computer running without any cases. However, it is not recommended, especially in the long run. If you lay your internal components bare, various things could harm them. The case protects your parts from external dangers such as dust, liquid splits, moister, pet hair, etc. In addition, you don’t want an accidental coffee split or drop of water to make your whole system malfunction.
The best pc cases also add a nice touch to your whole build. Would you prefer looking at internal parts popping out or a sleek case? When all components are in a close place designed for housing them, things will stay excellent for an extended duration. Another reason is that a pc case helps with noise reduction. You don’t want the hard drive or fan noise to bother you all day.
2. Are there any other features I should look for in a case?
Yes, there are. Although we’ve covered the key factors in the buying guide, there’s still more to it. Here are some of the additional features you need to keep an eye on:
-
Tool-Free Design: This allows you to access the internal parts without screws or a screwdriver.
-
Drive Bays: If you want to add more hard drives, look for 3.5’’ or 2.5’’ drive bays. Most SSDs use 2.5-inch bays to install.
-
Front panel connectivity: The best pc cases will have USB ports, headphone jack, card readers, etc., within arm-length reach and accessible.
-
PSU Shrouds: These help you hide cables and keep the PSU in a neat, closed space.
3. How do I improve the cooling of a pc case?
Aside from choosing high-airflow pc cases, here are some actions you could take to ensure your rig stay cool:
-
Invest in additional fans: As mentioned above in the buying guide, fans help reduce the heat in your computer. Make sure your case has enough fan mounts for adding more fans later.
-
PC placement: Make sure there’s room around the pc cases. Removing any obstacles at any side of the computer helps with the cooling.
-
Clean the rig regularly: Dust makes your fans slow down and eventually stop working. So you should open the case and clean your fans regularly.
-
Manage the cables: Keeping your lines tidy will create more space for the air flowing inside your cases.
4. How many fans do the best PC cases have?
Some cases ship with more fans than others. At the very least, you should aim for an issue with two fans: one for drawing cool air in while another pushes hot air out. Ideally, a three-fans setup is preferred. Therefore, you should buy cases with slots for adding more fans down the line.
The ideal fan setup is as follow:
-
One intake fan mounts on the front.
-
One exhaust fan mounts at the rear.
-
One exhaust fan mounts at the top.
5. Are tempered glass cases prone to breaking?
No. As the name implies, “tempered” glass is a kind of enhanced glass made stronger through heat and chemicals. If they were fragile, there would have been some severe disclaimers about the products for clumsy people. Although tempered glass cases are certified to be safe for use, don’t smash them with a hammer or apply too much force.
Compared to acrylic, tempered glass is much more resistant to scratching. Plus, you can clean it quickly. Just use window cleaners or dry microfiber cloth. Another thing about tempered glass is that they break into small pieces rather than large shards if they ever break. This feature helps reduce the risk of cuts and wounds to the user.
One of the best pc cases you can find is Corsair iCUE 4000X. This mid-tower ATX case spots an elegant look with customizable RGB lighting and tempered glass side and front panels. It comes with three 120mm RGB fans which you can customize to your liking. In addition, the 4000x features a RapidRoute cable management system and an easy slide on or offside panel. This machine is genuinely the best PC case made by Corsair.
If you prefer the mini-ITX case, you can't go wrong with NZXT H210i, the updated version of H200i. Despite its compact form factor, this case offers everything builders love. It has a clean and modern design with a tempered glass side panel and built-in strip lighting. But unfortunately, everything from the material port connections to the cooling option means you get a severe ITX case.
The best PC cases are the ones that fit your needs and are aesthetically appealing to you. You can check the online reviews or our suggestion lists to find the right one. Generally, you should go for mid-tower cases if you're a first-time buyer. They have adequate room to accommodate future upgrades and are easier to tinker with.