What makes a PC case truly great? It’s a blend of optimal performance, efficient cooling, and striking aesthetics. Selecting the ideal case for your gaming PC involves considering its size, form factor, internal component layout, and cooling capabilities. This guide will walk you through these crucial factors and present our top recommendations, ranging from compact mini-ITX designs to spacious E-ATX options, including several budget-friendly picks.
The best PC case overall is the Hyte Y70, which combines a stunning wraparound glass-panelled view into your system with fantastic cooling performance. A more affordable yet stylish option is the NZXT H7 Flow, while the microATX NZXT H3 Flow is great for compact budget builds. Check out the full list below, and browse our frequently asked questions section for all your PC case queries.
Best PC Case 2025:
- Hyte Y70 – best overall (large dual chamber)
- NZXT H6 Flow RGB – best small dual chamber
- HAVN HS 420 – best premium case
- NZXT H7 Flow RGB – best under $150
- Corsair 4000D Airflow – best under $110
- HZXT H3 Flow – best microATX
- Jonsbo D30 – best small microATX
- Fractal Design Terra – best mini-ITX
- Fractal Design Torrent – best out of the box cooling
Hyte Y70
Best PC case overall (dual chamber)
Hyte Y70 specifications:
- Case type: Dual-chamber
- Motherboard support: E-ATX, ATX, microATX
- Panels: 2 x glass panels, 1 x screen, 1 x metal panel
- Cooling: Room for 3 x 120mm/2 x 140mm side fan mounts, 3 x 120mm/2 x 140mm base fan mounts, 3 x 120mm/2 x 140mm rear fan mounts (no fans included)
- I/O: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x 40mm jack
- Dimensions: 470 x 320 x 470mm
Pros:
- Fantastic 4k touch screen
- Loads of room for large components
- Excellent water cooling potential
Cons:
- No fans included
- Takes up a lot of space
- Motherboard is difficult to access with GPU installed
The Hyte Y70 Touch is our top pick for the best PC case due to its striking design, incredible water cooling potential, and gorgeous interactive 4k screen. With a 60Hz refresh rate and 1,100 x 3840 resolution, this IPS touch screen is incredibly flashy. Beyond showing PC stats, it can even function as a secondary display, which is a neat trick.
Beyond the impressive screen, this is simply a stunning case with ample capacity for building a truly powerful PC. Even the standard Hyte Y70 (without the touch screen) is an excellent choice. Its dual-chamber design makes cable management a breeze, keeping unsightly wires hidden and allowing your exciting, RGB-filled components to shine. Vertical GPU mounting is also easy, enhancing both aesthetics and stability for heavy graphics cards.
While fairly expensive, a key consideration is that no fans are included. Unless you’re reusing existing fans, you’ll need to budget for new ones. Its clear view into the system also means that color matching all your fans and components is essential to achieve a cohesive look.
NZXT H6 Flow RGB
Best small dual chamber PC case
NZXT H6 Flow RGB specifications:
- Case type: Dual-chamber
- Motherboard support: ATX, microATX, mini-ITX
- Panels: 1 x tempered glass, 1 x steel panel
- Cooling: 3 x 120mm front fan mounts (fans included), 3 x 120/2 x 140mm roof fan mounts (fans not included), 1 x rear 120mm fan mount (fan not included), 2 x 140mm base fan mounts (fans not included)
- I/O: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
- Dimensions: 287 x 415 x 435mm
Pros:
- It is beautiful
- Excellent built-in cooling
- Plenty of room for cables
Cons:
- Roof cannot be removed
- Large footprint
- Short fan and RGB cables
Dual-chamber cases are highly popular for their ability to conceal power supplies and cables in a rear compartment, bringing your high-end, RGB-lit components to the forefront. They also improve airflow by directing cool air directly to the GPU from the bottom, and often feature two glass panels for an expansive view. The NZXT H6 Flow RGB stands out by offering these benefits in a more compact form factor.
This case is noticeably more compact than the wider Hyte Y70 or taller NZXT H7 Flow. Although it’s still wider than a standard ATX tower, NZXT intelligently positions the extra bulk at the back, using an angled panel in the corner. This design not only slims the case’s appearance but also adds an extra fan mounting area.
The result is some of the best overall case airflow we’ve seen in a case of its size. Unlike many dual-chamber cases that prioritize GPU cooling, the H6 Flow RGB provides fantastic cooling for both your CPU and GPU. Its clean, simple design (available in black or white), solid build quality, and straightforward build process make it a true winner, especially given its attractive price.
HAVN HS 420
Best premium case
HAVN HS 420 specifications:
- Case type: Tower
- Motherboard support: E-ATX, ATX, microATX, mini-ITX
- Panels: 1 x glass, 1 x perforated roof, 1 x perforated side, 1 x perforated side
- Cooling: 3 x 120mm/140mm roof mounts, 3 x 120mm/140mm top mounts, 3 x 140mm base mounts, 2 x 120mm/140mm rear mounts
- Front panel I/O: 1 x USB Type-C, 2 x USB Type-A, 1 x 3.5mm
- Dimensions: 260mm x 541mm 547mm (WxDxH)
Pros:
- Stunning minimalist design
- Massive single-piece, dual-side glass panel
- Good cooling
Cons:
- Very large
- No fans included
- Expensive
For those seeking the ultimate large, conventional tower PC case with an expansive glass panel view, the HAVN HS 420 is an exceptional choice. Its design features a unique single-piece curved glass front and side panel, along with an internal glass airflow baffle, creating a truly distinctive and striking aesthetic.
Beyond its looks, this case supports up to E-ATX motherboards and offers extensive room for fans, water cooling radiators, and AIO coolers. This allows for the integration of monstrously powerful gaming PC hardware without compromising on a tidy build or sufficient cooling performance.
The version we tested, the vertical GPU (VGPU) model, includes mounting hardware for vertically orienting your graphics card. This model also incorporates the internal glass baffle, strategically directing airflow from the angled lower fan mounts to ensure optimal cool air delivery to your GPU fans.
Our tests showed that it comfortably cooled an AMD Ryzen 8 9800X3D and RTX 5070 Ti, maintaining reasonable noise levels. However, the case performs best with many fans running at very slow speeds, as its open mesh sides can allow sound to escape quite readily. Additionally, purchasing enough fans to fill this case will add significantly to its already high cost, as no fans are included.
Despite these considerations and a premium price for the VGPU model (or the normal model), the HAVN HS 420 still offers excellent value. Its fantastic build quality, superb cable management options, outstanding cooling, and top-tier styling make it a compelling choice. Just be prepared that achieving a pristine PC build worthy of this case will likely take a dedicated weekend, not just a quick evening session.
NZXT H7 Flow RGB
Best PC case under $150
NZXT H7 Flow RGB specifications:
- Case type: Mid tower
- Motherboard support: E-ATX, ATX, microATX
- Panels: 1 x steel, 1 x glass
- Cooling: 3 x 120mm fans
- I/O: 2 x USB 3.0, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, headphone jack
- Dimensions: 244 x 468 x 544mm
Pros:
- Fantastic cable management
- Loads of room for air or water cooling
- It looks delightful
Cons:
- More fans can’t improve airflow
- Can be ugly without fans in the base
- Obscures fan frame lighting
The NZXT H7 Flow has been a presence in the market for some time, but its updated 2024 model represents a significant improvement. The most notable enhancement is the inclusion of a vertical PSU mount, which frees up more space for liquid cooling radiators, making it better suited for overclocking than its predecessor.
While the new mount adds versatility, the case’s airflow capabilities are somewhat limited. During our testing, it ran two degrees warmer than the NZXT H6 Flow RGB, and adding extra fans to the rear, roof, and base mounts only marginally improved temperatures by a single degree.
Nevertheless, where it might not excel in raw airflow, it shines in cable management. With a glass panel, a tidy setup is paramount, and the H7 Flow RGB delivers. It offers hidden stowage areas in front of the PSU, numerous velcro cable anchors, and a generous cable-stowing space under the fan mounts (though this could be better concealed).
For those prioritizing a quiet system, this is one of the less noisy models we’ve encountered. A very subtle high-pitched hum can be detected at full fan speed, but running fans at 75% renders it virtually silent. At 50%, which is adequate for most everyday tasks, it’s completely inaudible.
Naturally, the RGB lighting is a major selling point (and a factor in its price). If the illuminated aesthetic isn’t for you, a non-RGB version of the NZXT H7 Flow is available. However, we find it to be a rather stylish case, boasting fantastic build quality and premium materials that are evident upon touch. It will seamlessly integrate into any carefully designed gaming space.
Corsair 4000D Airflow
Best PC case under $110
Corsair 4000D Airflow specifications:
- Case type: Mid tower
- Motherboard support: ATX, microATX, mini-ITX
- Panels: 1 x glass panel, 1 x metal panel
- Cooling: 2 x 120mm fans included
- I/O: 1 x Type-A USB, 1 Type-C USB, 1 x 3.5mm jack
- Dimensions: 453 x 230 x 466mm
Pros:
- Offers amazing airflow
- Tempered glass side
- Affordable
Cons:
- Side panels hard to remove
- Has a few small spacing issues
- I/O selection not great
If you’re seeking a clean-looking, well-built PC case with a conventional layout—free from elaborate dual-chamber designs that demand dozens of fancy fans—the Corsair 4000D Airflow is an excellent choice. While it doesn’t quite slip under the $100 mark, it remains a fantastic mid-range option for those desiring a quality, traditional case.
Boasting extensive cooling options and a tidy, simple interior, it’s easy to build a system in this case that looks smart without being overly flashy. Many fan mounts are subtly hidden, allowing you to use affordable, non-RGB fans without compromising your system’s appearance. You receive two included fans, which is enough to get started, though adding more will help you maximize the case’s cooling potential—a common trait among cases in this guide.
Internally, there’s sufficient space for even the largest modern graphics cards, and vertical mounting is also an option. However, vertical mounting isn’t ideal in this particular case as it can restrict airflow in that configuration.
Ultimately, the Corsair 4000D Airflow doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it delivers a solid, dependable option for anyone building a powerful, no-nonsense gaming PC that looks great without unnecessary frills.
NZXT H3 Flow
Best microATX case
NZXT H3 Flow specifications:
- Case type: Tower
- Motherboard support: mATX, Mini-ITX
- Panels: 1 x glass, 1 x perforated front, 1 x perforated roof, 1 x perforated side
- Cooling: 2 x 120mm/2 x 140mm front mount, 2 x 120mm/2 x 140mm top mount, 2 x 120mm PSU cover mounts, 1 x 120mm rear mount (fan included)
- I/O: 1 x USB Type-C, 1 x USB Type-A
- Dimensions: 225 x 389 x 400mm (WxDxH)
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Good cooling out of the box
- Great price
- Asus BTF and MSI Project Zero support
Cons:
- Only one fan included as standard
- No front panel audio port, just one Type-A USB port
- Mesh panels allow sound to escape
The NZXT H3 Flow is an incredible bargain for a microATX case, offering both style and impressive cooling capabilities. Despite its relatively compact footprint, it comfortably accommodates large graphics cards, multiple AIO coolers, and boasts ample CPU cooler height.
Its success lies partly in its intelligent use of ventilation. The glass side panel extends only three-quarters of the way down, with the lower section providing crucial airflow to the power supply and the bottom of your PC, a benefit for certain GPU cooler designs. The front panel and entire top section are also perforated, ensuring excellent airflow even with just the single included 120mm rear fan.
While this extensive ventilation means more sound can escape compared to other cases, this can be easily mitigated by installing additional, slower-spinning, quieter fans. As an mATX case, it offers a more limited selection of high-end motherboards and isn’t the absolute smallest mATX option available. However, if you’re seeking a chassis that’s notably smaller than a full ATX model, it perfectly fits the bill.
At just $60, the NZXT H3 Flow represents outstanding value. While it might lack some premium touches like rubber grommets for cable routing, it remains a superb choice for builders looking to save money on a chassis without significant compromises.
Jonsbo D30
Best small microATX case
Jonsbo D30 specifications:
- Case type: Mini tower
- Motherboard support: microATX
- Panels: 1 x 3mm tempered glass panel, 1 x steel panel
- Cooling: 3 x 120mm side fan mounts (with fans), 3 x 120mm/2 x 140mm base fans mounts (fans not included), 3 x 120mm/2 x 140mm roof fan mounts (fans not included), 1 x 120mm rear fan mounts (120mm fan included)
- I/O: 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 2 x USB 3
- Dimensions: 290 x 466 x 495mm
Pros:
- Fantastic cooling
- Both air and water-cooling support
- Elegant design
Cons:
- Limited features and accessories
- Poor cable stowage
The Jonsbo D30 is our top recommendation for the best small microATX PC case. It boasts a very compact design and comes with multiple 120mm fans included, making it an excellent starting point for a truly tiny mATX PC without the need for additional fan purchases. It also offers superb mounting options for both air and water cooling, all at a respectable price.
The genius behind this case’s design is the relocation of the power supply from the typical bottom position to the top front of the case. This clever arrangement means that when the case is on your desk and you peer through its main window, your graphics card takes center stage at the bottom, rather than being obscured by a bulky power supply or shroud. Furthermore, this configuration provides clean, direct airflow to your graphics card from the ventilation grille that spans the entire length of the case’s bottom, which is ideal for GPUs with through-flow cooler designs.
A minor drawback of this case is the somewhat awkward power supply position, which can appear unsightly if not deliberately covered. Jonsbo’s promotional images often show 2.5-inch SSDs mounted in front of this section, but these drives are less common now. We suggest filling this space with a custom image or a colored panel for a cleaner look.
Due to its vertical airflow design, this case is best paired with a 240mm AIO CPU cooler rather than a traditional air cooler. Despite these small caveats, we highly appreciate the Jonsbo D30’s combination of style, cooling performance, and attractive price point.
Fractal Design Terra
Best mini-ITX case
Fractal Design Terra specifications:
- Case type: Mini-ITX
- Motherboard support: Mini-ITX
- Panels: 3 x aluminium mesh panels
- Cooling: 1 x 120mm fan mount (no fan included)
- I/O: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, 1 x USB 3
- Dimensions: 343 x 153 x 218mm
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Good cooling for its size
- Versatile layout
Cons:
- No ATX PSU support
- Tricky cable management
- No front audio port
The Fractal Design Terra achieves a perfect balance of compactness, style, and performance. This mini-ITX case boasts a stunning design, especially in its now-iconic jade green and walnut color combination. However, its appeal goes far beyond mere aesthetics.
This clever case minimizes the need for extensive dedicated case ventilation by incorporating ventilated panels on the top, bottom, and sides. Air is efficiently drawn in from the sides by the SFX power supply, CPU cooler, and graphics card fans, then vents out through the top and bottom. Building inside this case can be inherently challenging due to its compact nature, but Fractal simplifies the process by allowing the entire vertical motherboard mount to shift side-to-side, accommodating various CPU cooler and graphics card sizes.
Key limitations include its requirement for an SFX power supply, rather than a standard ATX unit, and the need for a low-profile CPU cooler. Additionally, it cannot be fitted with a window, so a flashy, visible interior is not an option. While it comes at a higher price, this is justified by its stunning build quality—featuring solid wood on the front—and excellent performance.
Fractal Design Torrent
Best case for out of the box cooling
Fractal Design Torrent specifications:
- Case type: Mid tower
- Motherboard support: E-ATX, ATX, microATX
- Panels: Closed panels (but highly ventilated)
- Cooling: 3 x 120/140, 2 x 180mm front fan mounts (multiple fans included), 1 x 120/140mm rear fan mount (fan not included), 3 x 120/140mm, 2 x 180mm base fan mounts (multiple fans included)
- I/O: 1 x USB-3, 1 x USB 3.2 Type-C, stereo, mic
- Dimensions: 242 x 544 x 530mm
Pros:
- Physically attractive
- Fantastic airflow
- Large but quiet fans
Cons:
- Hard to find
- No RGB lighting hub
- Needs more storage space
The Fractal Design Torrent boasts three compelling features. Firstly, its sleek design, with angular lines on the front ventilation grille and rounded corners, makes it stand out from the crowd in all the right ways.
Its second significant feature is an inverted layout. Similar to many dual-chamber cases, the Torrent dedicates the bottom of the case to ventilation, with the motherboard mounted lower to bring your graphics card closer to that crucial airflow. However, unlike dual-chamber designs, it cleverly positions the power supply at the top of the case, where it remains surprisingly well-hidden.
The final standout feature of this admittedly large case is the inclusion of two massive 180mm fans in its front panel, along with additional fans in the base. Due to their size, these fans can spin slower than smaller 120mm units while still delivering substantial airflow, resulting in a quiet yet impressively cool setup right out of the box.
While not perfectly optimized for extensive custom water cooling loops, the Torrent is an excellent choice for a standard air cooler or AIO cooler on your CPU paired with a conventional graphics card.
How to choose the best PC case
Not all PC cases are created equal, and often, the most visually appealing case might not perfectly align with your needs. To ensure you select a PC case that’s ideal for your chosen components, here are the key factors to consider:
Firstly, you must verify that your PC components, such as your graphics card and gaming CPU, will physically fit inside the case. The starting point for this is your chosen motherboard size. Motherboards come in four main sizes: mini-ITX, micro ATX (mATX), ATX, and E-ATX. Mini-ITX is the smallest at just 170 x 170mm, while E-ATX can be as large as 305 × 330mm.
PC cases are also categorized by the motherboard sizes they support, from mini-ITX up to E-ATX, giving you an immediate range of options. However, for a more precise selection, you’ll need to check additional measurements.
Once your motherboard is selected, assess how other current or potential parts of your build might influence your case choice, or vice versa. Key factors to check include the maximum graphics card length the case can accommodate, whether it requires a full-size ATX power supply or a smaller SFX unit, the maximum CPU cooler height it supports, and if the case necessitates a specific cooler type, such as a low-profile air cooler or an AIO liquid cooler.
Next, consider style. This factor actually ranks quite high, as a case’s look and shape can dictate many other aspects of your PC build. For a tiny mini-ITX system, you might choose a very tall, small-footprint case, or a more conventional compact style. Larger cases also offer various types: standard towers, wider ‘fish tank’-style cases with multiple glass panels, and many more. The aesthetic you desire could influence your component choices, or vice versa.
Following this is the case’s cooling potential. Larger cases typically offer ample space for numerous fans, making it easier to maintain a cool and quiet PC. However, with smaller cases, you’ll need to think more carefully about achieving sufficient cooling for your selected components. Some smaller cases might require an AIO CPU cooler, while others could struggle with cooling high-end graphics cards if they are compact, feature many glass panels, and have limited perforated areas for airflow. If optimal cooling is your priority, extensive glass panels might not be your friend.
The number of fans included with a case and the available slots for additional fans and radiators is another crucial consideration. Many high-end cases do not include fans, expecting customers to populate them with their preferred PC fans. However, more affordable cases often come with fans, which can be a great cost-saving measure if the fans are of decent quality. Keep in mind that cheaper cases can sometimes be smaller and more cramped, offering less room to add extra fans or larger radiators for AIO CPU coolers.
For a tidy PC build, sufficient space for cable management is essential. Look for rubber-grommeted cable routing holes near the motherboard tray and a cover for the PSU area (usually at the bottom in tower cases or behind the motherboard in dual-chamber designs). These features are invaluable for keeping cables out of sight. Some modern cases also allow you to route cables directly to the back of the motherboard if your hardware supports it. Look for compatibility with Asus BTF and MSI Project Zero if you’re interested in this advanced cable management solution.
PC case frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What size PC case is best?
For peak performance, choosing the largest case possible is the simplest way to ensure ample room for all components and extensive cooling. In this scenario, an extra-large E-ATX case might be ideal. However, for most gamers, a standard ATX case provides sufficient space for even the biggest graphics cards, large coolers, and numerous fans.
If desk space is a concern or you prefer the sleek look of a small PC, consider a micro-ATX or mini-ITX case. Micro-ATX cases typically resemble ATX cases but are slightly smaller. Mini-ITX cases, however, can be significantly more compact and come in various squashed or elongated designs. While these can offer stunning aesthetics, they may severely restrict your component and cooling options. Ultimately, the best size depends entirely on your priorities and available space.
What is PC cable management?
PC cable management refers to the ability of a case to facilitate the neat routing of cables, primarily from your power supply to other components, in a way that looks tidy and doesn’t impede airflow. Smaller cases generally offer less space to hide cables, and even many large, budget-friendly cases may lack robust cable routing options.
Larger, higher-quality cases often provide ample room behind the motherboard tray for cables, along with numerous grommeted holes through the internal structure for clean routing. Also, look for tie-down points that help secure cables, especially at the back of the case. This not only enhances aesthetics but also prevents cable clutter from hindering the closure of the back panel. Innovative case and motherboard standards now exist that allow you to connect cables directly to the back of the motherboard, eliminating the need to route them around the sides and over the top. However, these are not yet universal standards, with Asus and MSI offering their own competing versions of this concept.
Does PC case airflow matter?
Yes, absolutely. Especially if you plan to push your gaming PC to its performance limits. While a quality CPU cooler and graphics card can achieve a lot, a case with room to breathe and a decent number of fans maintaining air circulation will always contribute to better cooling and system stability.
Which PC case has the best airflow?
The absolute best cases for airflow are open-air designs, but for typical enclosed cases, many models claim to offer superior airflow. Generally, cases with the best airflow are larger, feature numerous fan mounts, and incorporate mesh panels rather than solid glass or metal. Of the cases we’ve rigorously tested and recommend in this guide, the NZXT H7 Flow and Corsair 4000D Airflow are top contenders for excellent airflow.
Key factors that contribute to optimal airflow (and subsequent cooling) in a case include its size, the quantity of fan mounts, and the presence of mesh outer panels. Many high-airflow cases often provide variants with mesh panels alongside more style-oriented options featuring glass panels.
Is a black or white PC case better?
Functionally, there is no difference between a black and a white PC case; it primarily comes down to aesthetic preference. However, there is one factor that distinguishes them beyond just looks: lighting. Black cases tend to dim the appearance of internal lighting, which can be ideal for creating a moody ambiance or cleverly concealing imperfect cable management. White cases, conversely, amplify lighting by reflecting light from RGB fans and LED light strips, creating a dazzling display. For this reason, white cases can be less forgiving, requiring meticulously routed cables and components that match as closely as possible to maintain a pristine aesthetic.
Which PC case brand is best?
There’s a long list of PC case brands we generally recommend and trust for solid build quality. These include Be Quiet, Cooler Master, Corsair, Fractal, Hyte, Lian Li, NZXT, Phanteks, and SilverStone. Additionally, brands like Antec, Deepcool, Sharkoon, and Thermaltake have also produced numerous quality cases.
One reason to consider a specific brand might be if your existing peripherals or components already integrate with their ecosystem, such as Corsair’s popular iCUE software and extensive range of devices. However, in general, we advise focusing on individual case models rather than brand loyalty. Even top brands can occasionally release less-than-ideal products. If a case offers the look and features you desire, meets your key specifications, and is sold by a trusted retailer (ensuring basic safety and quality), then consult expert reviews and user feedback on platforms like Reddit to identify any potential red flags before making your purchase.