For those looking for the smallest Mini ITX case, maximum size savings are extremely important. They can have a clean setup on their desks or simply a sleek HTPC to match their home entertainment system.
When compared to an ATX or micro ATX case size, the Mini ITX cases offer a much more compact option for hosting all your computer components. The benefits of this include customizing your workspace with ease since you don’t have extra room taken up by a larger case.
While there are many small Mini ITX cases on the market today, our roundup review highlights the features and considerations to keep in mind when selecting the right one to meet your needs.
Whether it’s affordability and efficiency when building a computer or wanting to take full advantage of what the smallest Mini ITX case has to offer, our selection should serve as a great starting point in your search.
Our Top Picks: Best Smallest Mini ITX Cases
- Best Overall: NZXT H210i
- Budget Choice: Thermaltake Core V1
- Best Airflow: Cooler Master Elite 130
- Best Premium: Razer Tomahawk Mini-ITX
- Best Smallest for Gaming: Silverstone SG13B
What is Mini ITX Case?
The size of the PC case is always determined by the size of the motherboard. Mini ITX cases are the smallest in size and house a Mini ITX motherboard, which can be used for a Home Theater PC (HTPC) or gaming and other basic computing tasks.
In terms of form factor, the Mini ITX case is also known as the Small Form Factor (SFF) PC case. They can also be referred to as Mini-ITX Tower or Tiny Form Factor.
Due to the different architectural designs, these Mini ITX cases will not be capable of housing a full-size ATX motherboard. As a result, if you want to build a gaming PC with a dedicated graphics card and numerous storage devices, you would require an ATX Mid-Tower or larger case.
The decision of which PC case to use ultimately comes down to how you intend to use your system. So, before you commit, do some research and make sure the motherboard will fit in your desired chassis.
Before Buying The Smallest Mini ATX Cases
What to look for when buying a mini ITX case?
When considering a Mini ITX case, size is an important factor. Look for the smallest Mini ITX case that will fit your needs – consider both its dimensions as well as its internal layout.
Consider the type of ports and connectors you’ll need access to, as this should determine the location of those front panel components. You’ll also want to evaluate airflow. Look for a mini ITX case with enough ventilation for your planned build, but don’t forget to weigh noise levels when making decisions about fans and other cooling components.
Finally, check the construction of the case. Make sure it is constructed out of durable materials with precision engineering. Finding an affordable and reliable mini ITX case should be manageable when these points are taken into consideration.
What to keep in mind before building a Mini ITX case?
When building the smallest Mini ITX case, it is essential to keep in mind the tight space inside the case and take extra care when installing components. Parts such as graphics cards, power supplies, and cooling systems all need to fit inside the small possible footprint.
It is important to ensure that each component is compatible with your PC case before assembly, or else you may face difficulty during building. Make sure to check carefully the size of major components so they can fit inside your Mini ITX case and save time and resources during your build.
Can you use a Mini ITX case for gaming?
Yes, Mini ITX cases are definitely an enticing solution for gamers. They offer the smallest and most efficient form factor, so you can take your gaming PC with you or put them almost anywhere.
Plus, these PC cases have enough capacity for powerful hardware for a hardcore gaming experience. With powerful GPU options recently becoming available in mini ITX cases, you’re guaranteed a blazing-fast and incredibly detailed gaming adventure.
Portability is no issue either as the smallest of these cases can be easily taken with you wherever you may roam. And it’s the perfect answer for the modern gamer who needs a PC that packs performance, convenience, and style.
The benefits of having a Mini ITX case
Building a computer using the smallest Mini ITX cases has several advantages that you can’t find with other builds. Not only are these builds significantly more compact and lighter in weight, but they are also notably more affordable.
This means that users don’t need to forgo features or performance to adjust for size and cost considerations. Whether you’re looking for a gaming rig, office PC, or video editing station, mini-ITX is increasingly becoming the go-to option thanks to its combination of power, agility, and good value.
5 Best Smallest Mini ATX Cases
1. NZXT H210i
The Best Overall
Specs
PROS
CONS
NZXT H210i has a robust design from SGCC steel and luxurious tempered glass side panels to let your hardware show off. On top of that, it comes with a built-in Smart Device V2 with two RGB LED strips so you can make your build even more striking.
Plus, the front I/O is located on the top of the case featuring 1x USB 3.1 and 1x USB-C – perfect for gamers who need quick and easy access. The right compartment includes built-in channels and straps for tidy wiring for smart and efficient cable management inside.
This case comes pre-installed with two 120mm fans to give your PC some extra cooling power and it also supports liquid cooling with radiators up to 240mm in size as well. NZXT H210i also supports one 3.5″ HDD on the bottom of the case along with three 2.5″ SSD, providing all your storage needs in one great package – leaving nothing more to ask for.
With a sleek design, powerful gaming capabilities, and GPU sizes up to 325mm, this is undoubtedly the best Mini ITX case available.
2. Thermaltake Core V1
The Budget Choice
Specs
PROS
CONS
The Thermaltake Core V1 is a great budget option for the smallest Mini ITX case available.
This Mini ITX case is compact at around 22.7 liters and has two main compartments, one for your motherboard and cooling system on top and the other for your PSU with cable management down below. Its well-thought-out design includes detachable 2.5″/3.5″ drive racks in the right compartment and a powerful pre-installed 200mm fan in the front for optimal cooling and ventilation.
This smallest Mini ITX is also great for liquid cooling enthusiasts with support for radiators of either 120mm or 140mm sizes. Clearance for GPU is up to 285mm while CPU coolers max out at 140mm in height.
Rounding off the list of conveniences, it has a front I/O panel with two USB 3.0 ports and an HD audio jack. With simple mounting features, ample internal space, efficient airflow, and a reasonable price, this is undoubtedly the tiny case that will impress you when using it.
3. Cooler Master Elite 130
The Best Airflow
Specs
PROS
CONS
Small but powerful, that is what Cooler Master Elite 130, the smallest Mini ITX case impresses you with. Boasting a sleek black design with a full mesh front panel and perforated side panels for superior ventilation, this case provides some functionality of a larger tower without taking up more space. With its modern aesthetic and functional design, the Cooler Master Elite 130 makes an excellent choice for any build.
This is the smallest Mini ITX case with an incredibly clever airflow design. Air intake is optimized with vents on the front, side, and top of the case, allowing for improved cooling performance and extra system fans for added cooling potential. The hot air is then pushed out to the rear of the case, ensuring that critical components stay cool even during prolonged use. This efficient design ensures that your system stays at optimal temperature and runs quietly even under load.
This smallest Mini ITX case is a space-saving solution that doesn’t skimp on power. Despite its small 19.8 liters capacity, it is designed to fit a powerful GPU up to 343mm in length and a 120mm radiator in the front.
The Cooler Master Elite 130 allows you to experience full-sized systems within an impressively compact unit, enabling you to build the PC of your dreams without sacrificing portability.
4. Razer Tomahawk Mini-ITX
The Best Premium
Specs
PROS
CONS
The Razer Tomahawk Mini-ITX is the smallest of its kind, boasting a sleek and stylish design. The delicate black paint provides a professional aesthetic while the two tempered glass side panels with swivel hinges expose the case’s brilliant interior components. A truly remarkable piece of engineering, the Razer Tomahawk Mini-ITX allows gamers to customize their dream desktop rigs in an efficient yet eye-catching manner.
This smallest Mini ITX case features a powerful ventilation system with air intakes from the front and bottom. Hot air is directed out of the rear and roof for improved cooling. Unfortunately, this airflow design does not include a dust filter below, which can end up affecting your PC’s performance if excessive dust accumulates.
The Razer Tomahawk Mini-ITX has made quite a name for itself, delivering full-sized power in the smallest of packages. Measuring just 24.3 liters, this case is the smallest Mini ITX on the market today and yet it still supports full-sized GPU installations up to 320mm in length and radiators up to 240mm.
Allowing you to customize without compromising on either performance or size, it’s clear why the Razer Tomahawk Mini-ITX has become such an attractive choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts alike.
5. Silverstone SG13B
The Best Smallest for Gaming
Specs
PROS
CONS
Simple and unmistakable design, the Silverstone SG13B is certainly making an impact in the Mini ITX case market. Featuring a black steel frame encased with a mesh front panel, complemented by discrete ventilation holes, it’s not just an aesthetic wonder.
With its small footprint, 11.5 liters, the SG13B is one of the smallest Mini ITX cases on the market today yet still manages to fit a powerful graphic card and storage drives – proving great things come in small packages.
A great choice for those wanting a maximized desktop experience in minimal space!
The Silverstone SG13B is designed to house powerful components while remaining lightweight and small in size. It supports GPUs with a maximum length of up to 270mm, allowing users to make use of some of the powerful graphics cards available on the market today. Additionally, its thoughtful design allows for radiator mounting on the front panel with either 120mm or 140mm size.
For those looking for power without sacrificing portability and size, the Silverstone SG13B has it all. With all of these features, it’s easy to see why the SG13B is so popular among gamers looking for the best smallest case.
Final Thought
In conclusion, the NZXT H210i is a great choice for those looking to build an aesthetically pleasing system with plenty of features and customization options. It also has good airflow and supports full-size GPUs up to 320mm in length.
However, if you’re on a tight budget then the Thermaltake Core V1 is worth considering as it’s reasonably priced yet still offers decent performance. Whichever case you decide upon, make sure that your components fit properly and that your setup will provide adequate cooling for long-term use.
With all these factors taken into consideration, we hope this article has helped guide you toward choosing the right mini ITX case for your gaming needs.
