The 5 best micro-ATX cases of 2022

NZXT H400i – Image via NZXT

Phanteks EVOLV mATX – Image via Phanteks

Corsair Carbide Series Spec-M2 MicroATX Gaming Case – Image via Thermaltake – Image via Corsair

Fractal Design Node 804 -Image via Fractal Design

Antec P6 – Image via Antec

Most competitive gaming PCs come in full-sized towers, which allow for better airflow. Though a certain level of space is needed between your components to avoid overheating, a full-sized tower can drastically increase your PC’s overall weight. If you travel a lot or want your rig to take up less space under your desk, it doesn’t get any better than micro-ATX cases.

Micro-ATX cases are the sweet spot between towers and mini-ATXs. They’re significantly smaller than any kind of tower case, but they still have enough room to provide a decent airflow—one of the weaknesses of mini-ITX cases.

Looks are important while choosing a micro-ATX case, but there are some particular aspects that you should consider. Some cases may come pre-equipped with their own cooling solutions, but making sure that they support liquid cooling can future proof your setup. If you’re planning to go for a more traditional cooling route, looking for the available fan mounts in the case of your choice and checking if it comes with air filters will make sure that you’ll have fans blowing at full speed with the least amount of dust.

Picking the best micro-ATX case through the sea of options can take a lot of time. We’ve gathered the best micro-ATX cases on the market so you can save time on research and start building your dream PC right away.

Thermaltake Core V21

Image via ThermaltakeImage via Thermaltake

Thermaltake Core V21 is a decent all-rounder case that can house up to six fans. This micro-ATX case can support 11 fans and most adjustments around the case can be performed without the help of any tools.

This modular-looking case comes with a 200mm stock fan, but it lacks in the noise absorption department. Its practical shape allows users to install their hardware in various positions, a handy trait if you’re looking to continue customizing your rig frequently.

NZXT H400i – Image via NZXTNZXT H400i – Image via NZXT

No matter the size of the case, NZXT offers excellent quality and aesthetics.

NZXT H400i offers a bit more room than your average micro-ATX case and features two RGB LEDs, which you can adjust. The case also features Adaptive Noise Reduction technology, making it an exceptional choice for anyone who wants to build a quiet rig.

NZXT H400i can house up to five case fans and a smaller liquid cooling solution. The case arrives with three Aer F 120-millimeter fans already, leaving you with two more to install if you decide to go for full-force airflow. You can easily mount GPUs up to 16.2 inches, and the case comes in six different colors.

The case is compatible with micro-ATX and mini-ATX motherboards and includes quality-of-life features like a digital fan controller, in addition to its sound reduction technology. Its pre-installed channels and straps make cable management a seamless process and should guide you through building a less crowded PC.

Fractal Design Node 804 -Image via Fractal DesignFractal Design Node 804 -Image via Fractal Design

Regardless of their type, PC cases have a standard aesthetic look that resembles a rectangle. While there’s nothing wrong with that, stepping outside the design boundaries of a rectangle can also make way for more futuristic-looking cases.

Fractal Design’s Node 804 is a cube case with a minimalistic black body, making it look like a gigantic speaker placed under your desk. Despite the height loss, Node 804 can hold graphics cards up to 12.6 inches tall and case fans up to 6.3 inches. The support for liquid cooling solutions is also there, and you can easily fit in a liquid cooler that’s smaller than 11 inches.

The main reason it’s more expensive than other cube-style cases on the market is its sturdy build quality. Fractal Design’s Node 804 is built from aluminum and steel. Like most micro-ATX cases, it supports micro-ATX and mini-ITX motherboard types. Another factor that bumps up its price is its internal storage bay. It can store up to eight 3.5-inch and four 2.5-inch storage devices or 10 3.5-inch and two 2.5-inch storage devices.

Corsair Carbide Series Spec-M2

Corsair Carbide Series Spec-M2 MicroATX Gaming Case – Image via Thermaltake – Image via CorsairCorsair Carbide Series Spec-M2 MicroATX Gaming Case – Image via Thermaltake – Image via Corsair

Though it looks like a tiny electric radiator, Corsair Carbide Series Spec-M2 features one of the best airflow optimizations in a micro-ATX case.

Corsair’s Spec-M2 can house up to five fans but only comes with one pre-installed 120-millimeter LED fan. The included fan is placed in the front panel. The case also supports liquid cooling solutions. It features a transparent side panel that allows RGB fans to showcase their style, too.

It has a modest front panel with a USB 3.0 input and headphone jacks. While it doesn’t have the most prominent storage space, the tool-free installation process makes it super easy to plug in a 2.5-inch, 3.5-inch, or 5.25-inch hard drive or SSD in a matter of minutes. The cutouts inside the case should also help you manage your cables while setting up your PC.

Phanteks EVOLV mATX – Image via PhanteksPhanteks EVOLV mATX – Image via Phanteks

As far as high-quality micro-ATX cases go, Phanteks EVOLV mATX is more of a budget option. It comes with a tempered glass side and panel, and you can fit CPU coolers that are 7.6 inches tall inside.

The inclusion of a PSU shroud ensures a less crowded look inside. The case can house graphics cards that are no longer than 12.5 inches. While this may look like a negative compared to its rivals, you can easily find sub-12.5-inch versions of the top graphics cards.

EVOLV mATX comes with removable dust filters, making it easier to clean. It’s also liquid-cooling ready. It supports radiators up to 11 inches on its top and 14 inches on its front panel. The case comes in three different styles and can house six fans.

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