Best Micro-ATX Cases of 2023 – Complete Buyer’s Guide

Austin
| Last Updated: January 14, 2023

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If you’re building or constructing your new gaming rig, then you need the right case for all the hardware to keep it protected.

You will find many options in the market to protect them, but the best one is a micro-ATX case.

In this article, you’ll find the best ones that you can get your hands on.

Comparison of the Best Micro-ATX Cases

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Side panel made of tempered glass
  • Smart airflow technology for optimal cooling
  • ATX and microATX support
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  • LED supports thirteen lighting modes
  • Compatible with both air and liquid cooling
  • Improved ventilation with dual chamber
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  • Best Budget Micro ATX Case
  • Comes with LED I/O display
  • Supports two radiators (at the front and rear)
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  • Smallest Micro ATX Case
  • Supports USB and audio I/O ports
  • Stylish design and sturdy construction
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  • Best Micro ATX Cube Case
  • Can be mounted with cooling radiator
  • Compact design for efficient space usage
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What is an ATX Case?

ATX stands for Advanced Technology eXtended, and it is a configuration specification for motherboards, which was developed by Intel in 1995. An ATX case is a protective case for your hardware so you can contain all the components of your computer in a safe enclosure.

They are usually designed to fit the ATX motherboard and all of its components so your computer can perform efficiently without being damaged. Most of the ATX-compatible cases accept Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX boards. A big ATX motherboard roughly measures 12”x 9”, which means there’s a lot of extra space available.

Micro-ATX vs. ATX Case - What’s the Difference?

There are two common form factors for desktop computers: Micro-ATX and ATX. Let’s go over the differences of these two before proceeding with the reviews:

Size

Micro-ATX, as the name suggests, is smaller than the ATX, and hence, has a smaller case. ATX measures 305 mm x 244 mm, whilst the micro-ATX is more square-shaped, which means that it keeps the width of 244 mm, but has a length of 61 mm.

ROSEWILL Micro ATX (FBM-01)

Expansion Ports

Micro-ATX has lesser expansion ports than the full-sized ATX motherboard. Micro-ATX boards have three expansion ports, with four at maximum, whilst ATX motherboards have five expansion slots. However, some manufacturers compensate for the lack of expansion ports with additional features such as sound, graphics, or network capabilities.

Drive Bays

a micro-ATX form factor has fewer drive bays than the full-sized ATX board. This is not a big deal if your computer has only one or two hard drives but can be a problem if you have a lot of optical drives on hand and want to implement RAID. If you want more room to accommodate any future expansions, a micro-ATX board is not a suitable option. Micro-ATX can fit inside the ATX case, but not vice versa.

How to Choose a Micro-ATX Case

Before choosing a micro-ATX case, here are a few main considerations to keep in your mind so you know exactly what you’re looking for:

Budget

Micro-ATX cases come in a lot of different designs, colors, and prices. You must decide the budget you are willing to spend on the case and rule out all of the options that come above the budget. If you’re willing to stretch the budget, depending on the model or features, then that is up to you, but cases can range anywhere between $50 and $150.

Aesthetics

You need to look for the kind of case that appeals to your aesthetics. The cases come in many different sizes, colors, materials, as well as designs. There are some cases that come with LED lights, while others are sleeker and simpler. You need to find the one that suits you.

Cable Cuts

Look for a case that comes with cut-outs in the tray of the motherboard, as this will allow you to fix your cabling from the back of the case. Some budget cases have simple cut-outs for the cables, while some mid-range or higher range cases come with rubber grommets so the setup looks tidier.

Review of the Best Micro-ATX Cases

Now that you’ve covered all the basics for the best Micro-ATX cases, let’s read through the reviews of the best ones we could find in the market.

Best Overall:
NZXT H510 CA-H510B-W1

PROS

  • Supports all forms of motherboards
  • Two Aer F 120 mm fans equipped for a streamlined cooling
  • Easy single screw installation for the glass, making it simple
  • Tempered glass on the side panel for aesthetics and protection
  • Patented cable routing kit with pre-installed straps, as well as channels

CONS

  • Hand-tightened screws are too tight
  • Front fans do not have enough intake space
  • Hard drive mounts could be designed more efficiently

What Recent Buyers Report

While some users faced issues with the pre-installed parts of the kit, most of them found it very convenient and quite aesthetically pleasing, with great build quality. The CAM software was widely appreciated, and the temperature monitoring feature was reported to be very impressive.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This beautiful and modern case is stunning protective gear for your computer. It comes with high-quality airflow, a removable mounting bracket for the radiator, multiple filters for the fan, a USB-C connector, and a tempered glass window with just a single-screw installation process.

Who Will Use This Most

The H510 comes with great features, splendid style, a wide variety of colors, and more. All of this makes it easy to recommend this case to anyone who wants to design a gaming rig. There is a lot of room for customization for any user who wants to change up the style of their micro-ATX case.

Bottom Line

This micro-ATX case can easily fulfill all your desires for an aesthetically pleasing and durable case. It looks good, protects the motherboard, and comes packed with a ton of features for you to explore. This is easily one of the best options in the market right now.

Runner-up:
AeroCool Cylon RGB Mid Tower

PROS

  • Supports SD and microSD memory card
  • Compatible with VGA fan bracket design
  • Supports liquid cooling, as well as air cooling
  • Backslash LED with 13 different lighting options
  • Dual-chamber construction for efficient ventilation

CONS

  • You cannot turn off the LED light on the front
  • The acrylic side panel is prone to debris and dust
  • While installing fans, the front case can bend or flex

What Recent Buyers Report

This is a lightweight and reasonably priced micro-ATX motherboard case that is very pretty to look at and has a lot of great features. However, it is not as durable as others and needs to be cleaned out regularly. There is ample space for hard drives, though, and a lot of PCI slots for gaming purposes, which users highly appreciate.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is a unique and beautiful case with a modern twist. It has 13 lighting modes on the front for a colorful and aesthetic look and comes with many ports and space for your hard drives. It also supports SD and microSD cards, and can also hold up high-end graphics cards.

Who Will Use This Most

This ATX case is most likely suitable for someone who wants to light up their computer setup by making it look colorful and bright. It is a good balance between aesthetics and performance and is very versatile for many different desktop forms. It also comes with a ton of exciting features.

Bottom Line

The AeroCool Cylon is an excellent choice for users looking for versatility, beauty, features, and performance, all wrapped up in a show-stopping case. With the unmatched price, tons of space and slots, and unrivaled functionality, this case is bound to leave you quite impressed.

Best for the Money:
InWin 301 Gaming Computer Case

PROS

  • Easy and simple cable management
  • Side steel panel fixated for ventilation
  • Tempered glass side panel that is detachable
  • Compact rig equipped to support the radiator
  • Beautiful and sleek design with LED I/O display

CONS

  • Assembling the case is a long process
  • Does not come with rubber grommets for the cables
  • SATA connectors are located sideways, which is an issue

What Recent Buyers Report

Apart from some layout issues, this sleek and stylish micro-ATX case is quite a run for your money. It is sophisticated, elegant, and comes with many different features that are very impressive. It comes with a graphics card bracket and has an excellent airflow/ventilation system for your computer.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This understated micro-ATX case definitely deserves a spot in the top list, not only because of its clean and modern design but also because of its high-quality features and efficiency. It has lovely cable storage, excellent airflow, and a tool-less side glass panel for changing out the parts.

Who Will Use This Most

If you are looking for a case that will suit your aesthetic appeal and contribute to providing good ventilation, then this is the best option for you. It is also a great case if you want to stay under budget but still desire some high-end features and a stylish design.

Bottom Line

This case is one of a kind and is a durable and sturdy option for budget-conscious people out there. It has a very clean and modern exterior, with stunning LED lights and a tool-less tempered side glass panel. The 301 is designed with high-quality steel for extra protection and durability.

Smallest Micro-ATX Case:
ROSEWILL Micro-ATX (FBM-01)

PROS

  • Ideal case for AMD and Intel users
  • Solid construction with a sturdy body
  • Affordable yet sleek and stylish design
  • Optimized ventilation system for all computers
  • Comes with 2 USB 2.0 ports and an I/O audio port

CONS

  • USB and LED cables are too long
  • Airflow is not that powerful for gaming
  • The metal is too thin and needs to be attended to carefully

What Recent Buyers Report

As per user reviews, this micro-ATX case is compact, stylish, and very sophisticated. It has a very quiet fan that doesn’t bother you when you’re gaming or working on your computer, and the cable management feature is also excellent. It also comes with a dust filter at the bottom of the case.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The finish of this case is stellar. It’s quite sleek and elegant to look at, and gives off a very luxurious and modern vibe without a heavy price tag. The air ventilation system is great; it has ample space for ports and cables and is made with high-quality, durable materials.

Who Will Use This Most

If you want a small, compact and elegant case that doesn’t look too big or bulky in your room, then this is the one you should opt for. It has great interior space, dual fans for better cooling, and is ideal for both Intel and AMD systems. Overall, this is an impressive and budget-friendly compact case.

Bottom Line

This case is designed for those users who prefer to have a smaller and cleaner case for their computer system and want all the hardware tucked away in a neat little package. It is reasonably priced, designed with high-quality steel and plastic, and is made to last a long period of time.

Best Micro-ATX Cube Case:
Thermaltake CA-1L2-00S1WN-00

PROS

  • Compact construction and design
  • Interchangeable panels to fit your customized need
  • Clean and clear view of the components with easy access
  • 2 USB 3.0 ports, 2 USB 2.0 ports, and 1 audio and I/O port
  • 1 out of the 4 tempered glass panels is designed for more airflow

CONS

  • Installation can be a bit difficult
  • Does not come with an RGB controller
  • Not suitable for those who dislike open cases

What Recent Buyers Report

This is an amazingly constructed case with high-quality materials and design. It regulates the temperature of the motherboard beautifully and has excellent airflow and ventilation. It is designed as a cube and can be slimmed down, but otherwise, it’s a unique, high-quality case.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This case is highly durable with tempered glass on all four sides to avoid dust or scratches. It also provides a clear view of all the components so you can keep an eye on them. It is also tool-less, which provides greater flexibility for larger components or a liquid cooling loop.

Who Will Use This Most

This case is an excellent choice for users who want tempered glass all around their case, and require plenty of space to build their computer system in. It provides high power in a smaller footprint, and the panels are interchangeable. If you are looking for a customizable option, then this is the one for you.

Bottom Line

This sleek and stylish cube has impressed many users and has gotten many positive testimonials. If you want something that comes with space, features, and a beautifully constructed high-quality design, then do not overlook this case, as it might be the right one for you to build your system in.

Best Micro-ATX Case With Handle:
Nanoxia Micro-ATX Case for Gaming

PROS

  • Anti-vibration rubber pads are included
  • Optimized space for mini or micro-ATX motherboards
  • Plenty of space for cables and components to be stored
  • Comes with 2 fan controllers and a magnetic PSU dust filter
  • Very easy to assemble and disassemble because of removable motherboard trays

CONS

  • Front cables should be longer
  • Lights are too bright and cannot be shut off
  • A portion of the fan’s intake is blocked by the case’s frame

What Recent Buyers Report

The finish of this case is truly spectacular, as the metal edges are folded, and the case sides and hard drive are locked and held tightly by thumbscrews. It comes with great airflow and ventilation and has a removable dust filter, which is an added bonus to keep your system clean.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Nanoxia Case is designed with attention to detail and intricate designing. It comes with a lot of features and huge storage space for all the cables and components of your computer. It also comes with one large, quiet fan for better airflow, and the functional ventilation can be easily accessed.

Who Will Use This Most

This is an excellent option if you’re looking to build a gaming rig system. It is stylish, powerful, and designed with the highest quality materials to provide superior protection for your components. It also comes with excellent ventilation, so you don’t have to worry about your system overheating.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for the ultimate gaming micro-ATX case, then you don’t need to go any further. This lovely case is designed to complete your computer system and comes in many attractive colors. There’s plenty of space for cables, expansion cards, and has improved airflow and liquid cooling solution.

What Do I Need to Know Before Buying?

Before you go out and purchase a micro-ATX case, here are a few things you must be mindful of so that you know what to look for when shopping:

USB Ports

Depending on the kind of computer system that you’re building, you need to determine how many USB ports you need. Some cases may not have enough ports or the type of ports you need. So, go over the requirements depending on the system that you’re building.

Graphics Card

This is one of the biggest considerations you should make before buying a case for all your hardware components. Some cases in the market do not have enough space for higher-end graphics cards. So, if you decide to construct a gaming computer system, make sure that the case has enough room for your graphics cards to fit in.

Airflow & Ventilation

If you are looking for a case that provides excellent airflow and ventilation, along with room for liquid cooling, then you need to rule out compact cases that do not provide this offer. Some cases do not have many fans, and ventilation is super-important for your components to work properly.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article was helpful in determining which case is best for your hardware components. It can be tricky to decide which case is best for your needs, but if you use this article as a guide, we’re sure you’ll find the right one for your computer system.

People Also Ask

In this part, you will get answers to all the concerns that you have in mind. If you still have some doubts, it would be a good idea to go over these frequently asked questions and answers, so that your queries and doubts are removed:

Can I Use a Micro-ATX Motherboard in an ATX Case?

The micro-ATX format was designed for backward compatibility with ATX. The points for mounting of the micro-ATX motherboards are a subcategory of those found on standard ATX boards, and the I/O panel is similar for both. Therefore, yes, micro-ATX motherboards can be used in full-size ATX cases.

How Big is a Micro-ATX Case?

Computer cases are manufactured in three different form factors, but these terminologies refer to the size of the motherboards that they can store. Micro-ATX measures up to 9.6 by 9.6 inches, while full-sized ATX boards measure 12 by 9.6 inches, and mini-ITX measures 6.7 inches square.

What Does ATX Case Mean?

ATX stands for Advanced Technology eXtended, and is a configuration specification for motherboards, which was developed by Intel back in 1995. The ATX case is a protective case for your hardware so you can contain all the components of your computer in a safe enclosure.

Is Micro-ATX Bigger Than Mini-ITX?

The typical ATX is the largest at 305 x 244 mm. Micro-ATX comes second at 244 x 244 mm. Finally, the smallest motherboard is the mini-ITX, which measures 170 x 170 mm. Hence, yes, the micro-ATX is much bigger than the mini-ITX motherboard.

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Austin

When the tech company I worked for restructured and I ended up jobless, I decided to put the wealth of knowledge and management skills to use somewhere new. I’d checked out a few buyer’s guides on the site in the past and reached out to the previous owner. A few months later, here we are. Now, I get to be behind the scenes, helping people find the best tech.