The best PC cases say a lot about who you are. Some like to go big and flashy, while others prefer a more minimalist approach. Of course, you can buy a prebuilt gaming PC if you want, but most people will tell you it’s not the same as putting your own blood, sweat, and tears into building your PC in the case that best represents you.
Picking the best PC case for you comes down to your specific needs. How big is the motherboard you want to use? How much storage do you have in mind? How big is your graphics card? A full-size PC case supports the giant E-ATX boards. Small form factor cases like the NZXT H200i can accommodate Mini-ITX boards. Mid-tower PC cases are a much more common choice that supports all ATX and a handful of E-ATX boards. Size does indeed matter after all.
Once you know what size case you need, next comes the fun stuff. There are tons of other details to consider, such as I/O ports, cooling configurations, windows, airflow, lighting, and so, so much more. It’s a decision that you shouldn’t take lightly as your case is the exterior of your gaming PC you’re likely to see every single day. Lucky for you, we’ve collected some of the best PC cases to choose from in a variety of shapes, sizes, and budgets.
1. Cooler Master Cosmos C700P
The best full tower PC case in 2020
Form Factor: Full-tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX, Micro-ATX, ATX, E-ATX (Support 12″ x 11″) | Dimensions: 639 x 306 x 651mm | Weight: 22.2 kg | Radiator Support: 120mm; 140mm; 240mm; 280mm | I/O Ports: 1 x Audio/Mic, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, 4 x USB 3.0 | Drive Bays: 2.5”: 2, 3.5”: 8
Integrated RGB lighting system
Adjustable motherboard layout
May require PSU extension cables
Lots of plastic
Much like the original Cooler Master Cosmos, the C700P is a hefty beast with a similarly large price-tag. However, we’d argue that it’s worth the expense. A beautiful handlebar design, curved glass panel, and sleek color-scheme are matched by features that’ll support even the most high-end components (including E-ATX motherboards and oversized GPUs).
A larger footprint means that you won’t be pushed for space either. What’s more, the RGB lighting is subtle enough that it won’t distract you while you game. Yes, this is a lot to spend on an enclosure. However, those who are willing to go all out on a build will get a case with everything they need to create a stunning PC.
Want more full tower recommendations? See our guide to the best full tower case.
2. NZXT H710i
The best mid-tower PC case
Form Factor: Mid-tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX, MicroATX, ATX and EATX(Up to 272mm or 10.7-inches) | Dimensions: W: 230mm H: 516mm D: 494mm | Weight: 12.3 kg | Radiator Support: Front: 2 x 140mm or 3 x 120mm with Push/Pull, Top: 2 x 140mm or 3 x 120mm, Rear: 1 x 120mm or 1 x 140mm | I/O Ports: 2 x USB 3.1 Type-A Gen 1, 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C Gen 2, 1 x Audio/Mic | Drive Bays: 2.5”: 7, 3.5”: 2+2
Integrated addressable LED lighting
CAM powered “smart device”
Vertical GPU mount
Cramped HDD space
This latest iteration of NZXT’s “smart” case brings a couple of new features to help modernize your build. This ultra-clean and uncomplicated mid-tower from NZXT emphasizes convenience above all. This case Includes many of the same trappings of its predecessor, but costs a little bit more and has just a couple of neat changes. The NZXT H710i now features a front panel USB-C port and the ability to vertical mount your GPU with a separate PCIe riser.
The H710i features integrated RGB lighting around the tempered glass side panel, controlled by the NZXT CAM software and a built-in LED lighting hub that allows for easy control of RGB lighting and fan speeds as well. To keep things fresh, the H710i features ventilation gutters that run the perimeter of each side of the case, aided by the four 120mm fans included with the case.
Cable routing is where the H710i shines. The large aluminum slat allows for routing your cables into the integrated cable channels on the back of the case. Keeps everything clean and clutter-free, and the velcro straps built into the back help hold everything down. This case is an excellent and easy alternative to the rubber gasket solution found on some of the best mid-towers.
3. Corsair Carbide 275R
Form Factor: Mid-tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX, Micro-ATX, ATX | Dimensions: 460mm x 211mm x 455mm | Weight: 10.14 kg | Radiator Support: 120mm; 140mm; 240mm; 280mm; 360mm | I/O Ports: 1 x Audio/Mic, 2 x USB 3.0 | Drive Bays: 2.5”: 3 3.5”: 2
Minimal branding
Full-length dust filters
Great cooling support
Lacking cable management space
One of Corsair’s newest cases, the Carbide 275R, might just be the ultimate minimalist’s case. Aside from a small “sail” logo on the front panel, the 275R ditches additional branding for the sake of a clean design for the style-obsessed. While the design may be minimal, the functionality isn’t.
Unlike NZXT’s minimal S340, the Carbide 275R can support a 360mm radiator in the front and up to six 120mm fans. With a modest $80 price tag, the 275R is a good case for beginners as well as advanced users looking to create a sleek custom loop.
4. Phanteks Evolv X
The best mid-tower case to build two systems in
Form factor: Mid-tower | Motherboard Support: EATX, ATX, M-ATX, mini-ITX | Dimensions: 240mm x 520mm x 510 | Weight: 15kg | Radiator Support: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm, 420mm | I/O Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, 1x headphone, 1x microphone | Drive bays: 2.5″: 6 3.5″: 4
Supports dual-system builds
Spacious well-designed interior
Great cable management
Fairly expensive
Phanteks has made some incredible cases over the years, but the Evolv X stands out as an awesome chassis for anyone looking for a mid-tower case with a little something extra. That extra being the ability to slide two systems into its pleasing form—there’s room for an ITX system in the top to go above the main ATX system. It’s a bit of a squeeze for sure, but it is possible.
If your demands aren’t quite so crazy, then you’ll find it roomy to build in and there are enough neat little touches and funky design choices to cover almost any build you have in mind. There’s space for all-in-one liquid coolers in the top (up to 360mm) and front (up to 420mm), it comes with a universal fan hub, ships with three Phanteks Premium 120mm fans, and has cable-hiding flaps in the rear so that it looks good whichever side you look at. You can slide a frankly ridiculous amount of storage into it as well.
It does have a covered front panel, with a dust filter behind it, which affects airflow, so those looking to build custom loops may want to look for a mesh fronted system instead, but otherwise there’s so much to love here. You don’t need to build two systems in it to feel like it’s money well spent either, and it really isn’t that much money given how capable it is, and how good it looks.
