Choosing a graphics card and CPU is often the priority when building a new gaming rig, but the case is the most visible component sitting on desks. As RGB lighting has become an integral part of stylish gaming PCs, cases have adapted to better showcase illuminated fans and LED strips. While today's PC cases focus on appearance, they also must accommodate large GPUs and an array of SSDs and storage. When shopping for a case, the list of contenders is longer than ever, with a wide range of form factors and prices that vary from budget-friendly to high-end.

The best PC cases include mini-ITX, mid-tower, and full-tower options, but the choices are not as straightforward as they may seem. Some smaller cases hold a surprisingly large number of parts, while others prioritize looks over storage capacity. Also, with gamers constantly pushing the limits of CPUs and GPUs, cooling the temperatures inside a case is more critical than ever. The top-performing PC cases promote constant airflow reaching all sections of their chassis and offer flexible installation points for additional fans and liquid coolers.

Factors to Consider When Shopping for the Best PC Case

The following should be the top considerations when shopping for the best PC cases in 2024:

• Compatibility/Form Factor: The best PC cases should be compatible with a particular motherboard. This vital component dictates purchasing a full-tower, mid-tower, or mini-tower case. Before purchasing a PC case, one must consider whether they have an E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, or Mini-ITX motherboard. Mid-tower cases are ideal for ATX parts, but some can hold any of these motherboard sizes. Still, E-ATX motherboards are usually found in larger cases, while Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX systems are more compact.
• Cooling and Airflow: PC cases feature different types of cooling options. For instance, some systems feature up to ten cooling fans spread throughout the chassis. Others make the installation of more efficient AIO liquid coolers possible. Gamers must consider the available cooling choices, especially if high-end CPUs and GPUs send temperatures soaring.
• Build Quality: Will a case stand up to the test of time? Budget cases typically consist of mostly plastic, while higher-end enclosures are built with more durable metal parts.
• Overall Aesthetics: Does a case fit the overall style of the rest of a setup? Clear tempered glass and RGB lighting are popular themes for modern cases that appeal to gamers. However, now, cases come in various colors, like white and pink.

Game Rant's Picks for the Top PC Cases in 2024

Gamers often have differing needs concerning PC cases, with some prioritizing quiet performance above all else. Even though the Fractal Design Torrent is one of the highest airflow enclosures, it remarkably keeps its noise levels to a minimum. The Torrent should be the first choice for a cool, quiet case that also turns heads with its styling.

The secret to the stealthy nature of the Torrent is its default fan setup. Builders will find three larger-than-average 180 mm fans near its front panel and slightly smaller fans on its bottom. Fractal Design has constructed these fans to generate as much airflow as possible while conserving power. Most cases rely on smaller fans, which, in comparison, produce more noise relative to the cooling power that they produce.

Another reason the Fractal Design Torrent works so quietly is the unconventional placement of its PSU shroud. With the Torrent, power supplies are installed in the top rear section of the case, in a shroud partially hidden underneath the top panel. Since nearly the entire top of the Torrent pops off, system builders have easy access to the chassis and route cables from the PSU. Another benefit of this unique design choice is that airflow near the bottom of the case is largely unobstructed. Gamers can have as many as seven total fans in the Torrent, depending on the size of each fan. Unfortunately, while the other case panels are more accommodating, installing fans or liquid cooling radiators at the chassis is not an option.

Although, in most circumstances, the fans that ship with the Torrent will push air without creating a ruckus, a proper fan curve can keep them from unnecessarily blowing at full blast. Buyers may need to adjust their PC's BIOS or use other software to manage the speed of the case's fans.

The Torrent also impresses visually, thanks to a modern, sleek front grill and tempered glass that gives a full view of the case's interior. Whether a buyer is after a case that can elevate the look of a setup or can quietly cool components, the Torrent is the best PC case available.

The Gamdias Aura GC2 is one of the best PC cases for 2024 and targets budget shoppers looking for a premium-looking enclosure. It proudly displays a tempered glass casing through which users can view all the components inside. Besides enabling builders to view their rig, this case boasts plenty of RGB lighting with a compatible motherboard.

The Aura GC2 has four built-in 120mm ARGB fans, which help cool down the PC while working hard during gaming sessions. The four fans are visible through the front mesh panel of this mid-tower case. Their RGB lighting adds to the special effects that spice up gaming sessions.

Unlike other PC cases that require tools during installation, this Gamdias case is completely tool-free. Users can install virtually anything in the two 3.5-inch (or one 2.5-inch and one 3.5-inch HDD cage). It features one USB 3.0, two USB 2.0, one LED control, and one HD audio port. It also has seven PCIe slots and supports ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ATX.

For buyers with limited funds and experience, the easy-to-modify Gamdias Aura GC2 is the perfect gateway into the world of PC building.

Phanteks had a tough act to follow with the popular Eclipse P500A, but the G500A is an excellent mid-tower case that's a step up from budget options. What stands out most about the Eclipse G500A is how it maximizes its space to enhance airflow and storage capacity. Phantek's spacious mid-tower case is a premium enclosure at a modest mid-range price.

With the G500A, Phanteks made several improvements on its predecessor, including a larger front mesh panel. The manufacturer can promote more air coming in and out of the case by eliminating some metal parts used to attach to fans. Since the mesh on the panel is so fine, there is no need for a dust filter behind it. While the case is available in a fanless version, the RGB-enhanced varieties ship with three 140 mm PWM case fans. Larger and more efficient than the 120 mm fans in many mid-tower cases, Phantek's blowers especially excel at higher loads, where the G500A ranks as one of the quietest enclosures.

There are elements of a high-end case scattered throughout the Phanteks G500A. Like the far more expensive MSI MEG Prospect 700R, the G500A has side panels that swing open on hinges. Although this ends up taking more space on a gaming desk, the panels can be completely removed. Phanteks also goes the extra mile with cable management, including cable covers behind motherboards that slide to obscure wires regardless of their path.

The G500A benefits from an integrated DRGB controller and a pair of LED strips that run along its PSU cover and the top of the front panel. Buyers can toggle the lighting effects with a button on the front I/O panel or connect the case's lighting to an appropriate motherboard header. Combined with a large tempered glass left panel and a trio of illuminated fans, the G500A is an impressive display.

Considering the G500A is spacious enough for seven fans and even a 420 mm liquid cooling radiator on its front, it's well worth upgrading from a budget case. Not only does the Phanteks G500A look impressive with ample lighting, but it also makes building a custom PC as painless as possible.

If a gamer wants a high-end PC case that complements a top-tier rig, the Corsair iCUE 7000X RGB checks all the boxes for premium construction and nearly unlimited expandability. The 7000X is a full-tower case that stands almost two feet tall with a depth of 21.65 inches, so buyers will need quite a bit of space on or underneath their desks to accommodate it. Of course, the advantage of a case this large is that a PC builder has nearly unlimited options for storage and cooling. Looking beyond the massive interior of the case, the 7000X is also a beautiful behemoth, with three tempered glass panels and four RGB fans pre-installed.

A full-tower PC case like the Corsair iCUE 7000X RGB needs strong airflow to reach all corners of the chassis. With the possibility of adding up to twelve fans, PC builders can have a field day experimenting with different cooling setups. If air cooling isn't sufficient for high-end CPUs and graphics cards, the 7000X is perfect for adding the most sophisticated liquid cooling systems available. Builders will encounter places for large radiators on the roof side panels and front. As far as the most critical components, the 7000X can hold six full-sized hard drives and four SSDs, as well as multiple graphics cards.

The Corsair iCUE 7000X RGB includes a fan and lighting controller that integrates various RGB-enabled fans and components into the popular iCUE software. The swing-out side panels on the PC case make it more convenient to access the interior of a rig. This should please gamers constantly tinkering with their systems.

Even with a substantial asking price, the Corsair iCUE 7000X RGB is a premium full-tower case with enough added perks to rank it as one of the premier PC cases.

Many small form factor PC cases typically can't keep up with the ever-increasing cooling needs that PC components demand. Fortunately, with the Fractal Design Terra mini-ITX case, this isn't as much of a concern. With 10.4 liters of space, this tiny case can support most modern GPUs. The central wall separating the GPU and a compact motherboard can be moved by 30 mm to create the perfect balance between CPU cooler clearance and enough room to fit a powerful GPU. The Terra stands out in a sea of black PC cases, offering multiple non-traditional color choices. With a solid chunk of walnut on its base, this is easily one of the prettiest PC cases out there.

Not to mention, the Terra is a joy to build in. The top left and right panels all fully come off to give users easy access to their components. PC builders with big hands who have worked in a small form factor case know how valuable easily removable panels can be. The intelligent design of the Fractal Design Terra solves that issue.

The mini-ITX standard is an increasingly popular way to build small, power-efficient builds. However, the micro ATX form factor often forces fewer compromises, with cases like the Fractal Design Pop Mini Air roomy enough for larger components. The Pop Mini Air is essentially a downsized version of the prototypical mid-tower case, but it has plenty of defining characteristics as well.

Mesh front panels have become so commonplace that it can be difficult to tell cases apart. Fractal Design's answer to this dilemma was to create a honeycomb pattern on the front of the Pop Mini Air. The material also doubles as a mesh filter, preserving more room in the case's already spacious chassis. Fractal Design includes three 120 mm ARGB fans that look striking through the tempered glass left panel.

The Pop Mini Air dominates other compact cases with storage options, allowing builders to install as many as six hard drives or gaming SSDs. More unique is the bottom storage drawer meant to house optical drives. Still, considering how rare these disc drives are now in PCs, enterprising builders can surely find other uses for the compartment. The Pop Mini Air is somewhat more limiting in fan space, with the trio of included fans occupying most of the five installation points.

Powerful graphics cards will fit in the Pop Mini Air thanks to its generous maximum 365 mm GPU rating. Unfortunately, some of these longer cards will substantially shift the airflow in the case, resulting in rising CPU temperatures. Regardless, the Pop Mini Air is far more accommodating to high-end configurations than nearly any other micro ATX or mini ITX enclosure.

Fractal Design's usual build quality and generous cable management solutions are found in the Pop Mini Air. As a result, it's one of the more enticing values in the manufacturer's lineup of highly-rated cases.

The mid-tower class is the most competitive segment of the PC case marketplace. Even so, there is considerable variation in how large or small a mid-tower ATX can be. Game Rant's review found that the MSI MPG Gungnir 300R offers the most reasonable balance between size, cost, and expansion potential.

Not taking too many chances, the MPG Gungnir 300R is an average-sized mid-tower case that features a tempered glass left panel. Behind the front panel sits three pre-installed illuminated fans connected to a controller box. However, system builders will find that the left side of the case is surprisingly easy to remove with just one thumbscrew yet feels secure when slotted into the chassis. The MPG Gungnir 300R appeals to gamers who don't have enough ARGB fans since it also includes another single rear fan. Buyers can control the case's lighting with a push button on its top I/O panel or through software that recognizes a motherboard's ARGB header. The MPG Gungnir 300R also welcomes AIO liquid cooling solutions, like the affordable MSI MAG CoreLiquid E360, with many options for radiator placement.

What's more notable about the MPG Gungnir 300R is its adjustable GPU holder, which also lights up. In what's a main selling point for the case, this stand has clamps and can slide in several directions to secure the largest GPUs, like the RTX 4090. MSI also includes a PCIe riser cable, so gamers have everything to mount a graphics card vertically. However, depending on the exact GPU in question, finding the correct rear slot cover position and location for the stand can take some effort.

If buyers have no interest in the included GPU stand, the MPG Gungnir 300R will struggle to compete with other mid-tower cases in value. Otherwise, it promotes impressive airflow with its default cooling layout and is easily dissembled to simplify modifying its configuration.

For builders who desire to build in a case with room for any possible upgrade or even a whole other system inside, the Corsair 1000D is the way to go. This monster of a case measures 27.3 inches tall and can accommodate up to 18 fans. While this might be overkill for most gamers, this amount of space makes it incredibly easy to build in. There's no squeezing into tight spots to plug in the CPU cable or worrying if all the drives will fit.

This PC case can also support up to a 480 mm radiator for those planning to use a water-cooling solution or AIO. The tray the radiator is mounted to is telescoping, so it can be easily slid out, mounted, and then slid back in. This not only makes installation incredibly easy but also makes maintenance a breeze.

For streamers with a separate streaming PC in a second case, the 1000D removes that need. This super-tower case has enough room for one PC built around a powerful E-ATX motherboard and another with a mini-ITX motherboard.

Buyers searching for a well-built, full-sized case that can accommodate nearly any configuration should look further than the Corsair 1000D.

The running theme of this guide is cases that keep PCs running quietly and cool. For air cooling fans, there is no better case to do that with than the Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact. Thanks to the full mesh front panel and room to mount up to seven case fans, the Meshify 2 Compact can provide even the most power-hungry components with the necessary cooling. Even with its fairly compact footprint, this case can fit a GPU up to 470 mm and has generous storage capabilities.

Fans of RGB lighting can pick up this PC case with an RGB controller included. For gamers who want a more understated-looking case, the Meshify 2 Compact can be had with no RGB for a classy look. In this case, building inside is an absolute breeze; there is plenty of room for cable management to help with cooling, and all the dust filters can easily be removed for regular cleaning.

Game Rant ranks the Meshify 2 Compact as one of the top cases for airflow because of its flexible cooling configurations and clever use of mesh fabric and vents.

The Lian Li O11 PC case is so popular that the company has created numerous variations, including the most recent full-tower Dynamic Evo XL. Looking at the case for the first time, it's obvious that Lian Li is targeting PC builders who can't get enough of peeking inside their rigs. The Dynamic Evo XL has two tempered glass windows that bolt securely to the steel sides of the case. Since the case uses so much glass and ships with no fans, it's a strong candidate for a nearly completely silent build.

As a full tower case, the Dynamic Evo XL has almost unlimited options for adding fans and AIO liquid coolers. In addition to 11 fans, there is enough room for three 420 mm radiators on the top, bottom, and side of the case. While its thick thermal glass isn't ideal for airflow, there are some mesh panels and openings on the top and sides of the Dynamic Evo XL. Noise levels will depend on what cooling builders add to the case, but the outstanding build quality and thick panels limit how much noise escapes the case.

Compared to smaller Lian Li O11 cases, the Dynamic Evo XL makes the most of its added space. With no fans included, the case is aimed at custom PC builders, and it's possible to move a motherboard's installation point or reverse the position of most components entirely. Its modular characteristics don't end there, since buyers can also reposition its front I/O panel in different locations.

With an ARGB light strip on the front of the Dynamic Evo XL, the case boasts a clearly visible RGB configuration to pair with RGB keyboards and mice. Still, the case is just as much about function as form, and buyers can place a full array of 3.5 and 2.5-inch hard drives around its interior.

Thermal performance is somewhat of a weak point of the Dynamic Evo XL, with much of the case sealed off. Regardless, it's perfect for builders seeking an attractive and quiet modular full-tower case.

As impressive looking a case as the Lian Li O11 Dynamic Evo XL is, it's relatively barebones as far as included RGB components. On the other hand, the MSI MEG Prospect 700R ships to buyers chock full of illumination, including four ARGB fans and a controller with ports for more fans and light strips. Some observers may think that the MEG Prospect 700R is a full tower case, but it's actually a large mid-tower enclosure. Stretching the limits of this form factor, its chassis has ample room for additional illuminated cooling.

One of the more unique aspects of the MEG Prospect 700R is the LCD screen mounted towards the top of its front panel. Besides adding more luxury to the high-end case, the display can control a system's RGB lighting and display vital information like chassis temperatures. However, thermal performance probably won't be an issue for most builders, thanks to large but efficient fans and a metal front panel with openings to promote airflow. The MEG Prospect 700R is also an excellent destination for the most powerful AIO liquid coolers with space for two 360 mm radiators.

The MEG Prospect 700R invites the most customized builds, allowing users to swap the plate near its front fans to accommodate an E-ATX motherboard or additional cooling. Unfortunately, buyers who have a slew of 2.5 and 3.5-inch hard drives may be disappointed to find a rather limited hard drive bay in the case.

Ultimately, the MEG Prospect 700R makes a strong impression on any desktop with a combination of large ARGB fans and LCD. It's a well-built case that justifies its price tag with extras like an advanced lighting/fan controller that other manufacturers frustratingly omit.

The NZXT H7 Flow doesn't exactly stand out from mid-tower contenders, with an ordinary-looking front panel and lack of RGB lighting. Nevertheless, its simple and clean appearance appeals to many buyers, aided by effective cable management. Unless a buyer opts for a prebuilt PC, there is no way around needing some planning and finesse to keep wires from looking unsightly. The H7 Flow eases the burden of assembling a PC with numerous wide cable channels that keep cables hidden behind motherboards.

Intelligent cable management is far from the only advantage of the H7 Flow case. This enclosure produces substantial airflow to cool CPUs and GPUs, benefiting from front and top panels with large openings. At the same time, it's also one of the most silent cases with NZXT's own F Series 120 mm fans that barely make a whisper.

If the many channels, hooks, and straps in the H7 Flow aren't enough, builders may find more cable routing options after disassembling the case. The top of the H7 Flow easily snaps off, and the front and side panels are removed without a struggle. Even though it's an average-sized mid-tower case, the H7 Flow still has room for 360 mm liquid cooling radiators on its top and bottom.

An RGB version of the H7 Flow exists if gamers find this version of the case a bit too basic. Also, every version's front I/O panel only has a handful of USB ports to avoid too many unsightly adapters and cables. While some buyers will gravitate toward a flashier and more complex option, the H7 Flow appeals to anyone who builds a PC with a theme of simplicity.

White cases have increased in popularity in recent years, as gamers search for more ways to create distinctive setups. As one of the best white PC cases today, the GOPIE X07 full-tower supports most mainstream hardware for ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ATX, and ITX. It also features seven PCIe slots and supports a top-mounted liquid cooler and 240mm PSU.

The case utilizes two pieces of tempered glass through which users can view PC components. Thus, builders can separate the PSU, storage, and cables from the other parts for a clean view and maximum airflow. They can install up to ten 120mm cooling fans with two magnetic dust filters. For gamers looking for simple DIY assembly, this is one of the best PC cases they can find anywhere. They can quickly get a fully functional computer by slotting the internal components into the right compartments.

How To Pick The Best PC Case

Choosing a case is often an overlooked part of building a PC because the case itself is not directly responsible for gaming performance. However, a suitable PC case is essential for a good build and will ultimately determine the PC's appearance. There are four main factors that buyers should consider when selecting a case:

Compatibility/Form Factor

Compatibility and form factor are essential to the PC building process. This is where buyers should make sure that all the other PC components picked out will actually fit in the case. Typical case sizes include full tower, mid-tower, micro-ATX, and mini ITX. While there are no standard measurements for these case sizes, typically, one will see them line up with motherboard form factors.

Anyone using an ATX motherboard (the most common form factor) will probably want to look at a mid-tower case like the MSI MPG Gungnir 300R Airflow. A prototypical case among mid-towers, this enclosure features enough space for nearly any cooling configuration while not having an excessive footprint. If a gamer needs an even larger enclosure for a stack of hard drives, a full-tower case similar to the Corsair Obsidian Series 1000D is an option.

For buyers building with an ITX motherboard, a mini ITX or small form factor case like the Fractal Design Terra would probably make the most sense. That being said, smaller motherboards can fit in bigger cases (but not the other way around), so keep that in mind when choosing a case size.

Besides motherboard sizes, buyers must also determine if the rest of their components will fit the case. The biggest culprit (no pun intended) is typically the GPU. In particular, the latest generation of NVIDIA cards takes up a lot of space. The specs of a PC case will usually list the maximum graphics card length. Just make sure it's bigger than the length of the GPU, and the rig should be good to go with. In that same vein, ensure the CPU cooler fits inside the case.

Try to give the GPU a couple of inches of extra space so that it can get a good amount of airflow and not rub up against any other components in the case.

Cooling and Airflow

PC cases are crucial in how well components are cooled and how much airflow they get. One thing to keep an eye out for is that the case should have the locations for multiple fans on the front, top, and back of the case. This will allow cool air to enter the case and come across the various components, then expel the warm air out of the PC so that it doesn't get too warm. The Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact is a smaller mid-tower case that benefits from larger but more efficient fans and a top-mounted PSU shroud that keeps more of its chassis open.

Mesh materials are an effective way to allow air in and out of a case, but not all buyers appreciate their appearance. With the Pop Mini Air, Fractal Design gave a different spin on the generic mesh look with a honeycomb-patterned front panel. Tempered glass panels have modern styling, but if every panel of the case is glass or metal, there will be no clear path for airflow.

Build Quality

While not the only factor to consider, a case's build quality is still important. More affordable cases, including the Gamdias Aura GC2, are often built with lower-quality materials. This is not inherently bad, but they might not have the same creature comforts that a higher-end case offers. Moving up another tier, the mid-range Phanteks Eclipse G500A is a spectacular RGB case with premium features like panels that open on hinges.

The Corsair iCUE 7000X is an example of a higher-end case constructed with a generous amount of metal rather than plastic parts. These cases can better withstand the rigors of existing in a crowded gaming setup and are less prone to having smaller parts breaking.

Overall Aesthetics

The aesthetics of a PC case might be the first thing one thinks of when looking for a new case. Gamers want their rigs to stand out from the masses, and a case is the first thing people will see, so buyers might as well choose a trendy-looking one. RGB fans and other components are the most popular way to elevate a case above an ordinary-looking enclosure. Although expensive, the MSI MEG Prospect 700R takes the hassle out of finding compatible RGB parts by supplying buyers with four illuminated fans and multiple ways to control its lighting.

Tempered glass allows builders to show off their methodically planned PCs to the world. The Lian LI O11 Dynamic EVO XL takes this concept to the extreme with thick glass panels on its front and top panels. This full-tower case is also an excellent option for silent builds since it keeps as much of its chassis sealed off as possible.

Considering all it offers, Game Rant settled on the Fractal Design Torrent as its best overall PC case. The Torrent often wins over the harshest critics with high airflow fans that quietly cool the most cutting-edge components. Its front grill also adds some futuristic styling to one of the top-selling cases of recent years.

FAQ

Q: What size PC case should I buy?

Whether you should purchase a mini-ITX, mid-tower, or full-tower case depends on which motherboard/CPU combo you select for a PC build. However, most medium-sized and large cases accommodate a wide range of motherboard sizes, so the choice also depends on available desk space, storage requirements, and budget.

Q: Will my components fit in a PC case?

Even smaller PC cases are designed to accommodate the most common components in a condensed area. Still, it's best to check the specs of a case to ensure that long graphics cards will fit and that storage bays will hold a suitable number of hard drives.

Q: Can a PC case improve the performance of my gaming rig?

While a PC case can't make a CPU or graphics card run faster, it can promote better cooling to allow for overclocking or more efficient performance.