Best Smallest MATX Cases

Best Smallest MATX Cases

Small size doesn’t mean small capabilities, and that is especially true for compact mATX cases. Despite their size, these cases can accommodate mid-tower PC components with ease, while also providing an aesthetically pleasing design and efficient cooling. The smaller size of these cases is not a limitation when it comes to fitting extra large GPUs or custom water-cooling blocks; instead, they are designed to maximize space usage and provide a compact structure that can house up to a single AIO radiator and a variety of gaming-grade cooling components in a restricted but practical space.

Image Product Details  
Thermaltake-V150-TG-ARGB PC Case Thermaltake V150 TG ARGB Check Price on Amazon
Cooler-Master-MasterBox-Q300L Multi Layout Case Horizontal and Vertical Mini Tower Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L Check Price on Amazon
Thermaltake Versa H18 Thermaltake Versa H18 Check Price on Amazon
Thermaltake Core V21 Thermaltake Core V21 Check Price on Amazon
ASUS Prime AP201 ASUS Prime AP201 Check Price on Amazon
BitFenix Prodigy M Portable Mid Tower BitFenix Prodigy M Portable Mid Tower Check Price on Amazon
Lian Li Lancool 205 Lian Li Lancool 205 Check Price on Amazon
Musetex MK7-GN5 Musetex MK7-GN5 Check Price on Amazon

We’ve scoured the web and handpicked the top-notch, pocket-friendly mATX enclosures that pack a punch! These cases are the perfect match for your micro ATX builds, offering an optimal balance of affordability, versatility, and performance. From robust frames to efficient airflow, these beauties offer everything a tech-savvy enthusiast could ask for, without burning a hole in their wallet. Whether you’re a pro or a casual PC builder, these best PC cases impress you with their sleek design and ample space for upgrades. So what are you waiting for? Upgrade your rig today with these impressive enclosures!

Most Valued Tiny Micro ATX PC Cases:

If you’re after a little more muscle from your machine, we’ve got just the thing for you, check out our top picks for the best smallest ATX cases. These pint-sized powerhouses pack a punch with a compact room for ATX motherboards, plus they come loaded with all the best features for hassle-free assembly.


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Best Smallest MATX Cases

At a Glance:

  1. Thermaltake V150 TG ARGB
  2. Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L
  3. Thermaltake Versa H18
  4. Thermaltake Core V21
  5. ASUS Prime AP201
  6. BitFenix Prodigy M Portable Mid Tower
  7. Lian Li Lancool 205
  8. Musetex MK7-GN5

Staff Pick
Thermaltake V150 TG ARGB
Thermaltake V150 TG ARGB (Image credit: pccores.com)

Thermaltake V150 TG ARGB

Best Budget Micro ATX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

Motherboard: Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 15.67 x 8.19 x 17.32 inches | Included Case Fans: 3x 120mm ARGB (1000RPM) | GPU Length: 350mm | CPU Cooler Height: 155mm | Liquid Cooling Support: 1x 280mm, 1x 120mm |

The Thermaltake V150 TG ARGB is an excellent choice for those on a tight budget looking for a tiny PC case that doesn’t sacrifice quality for affordability. At only $75, it encourages investing in superior components and peripherals while still offering excellent “V Series” quality and impressive features. This case comes with three preinstalled 120mm ARGB fans that provide a vibrant touch to your setup. Additionally, the top and bottom meshes have magnetic dust prevention, but a front mesh aperture dust filter would have been a nice addition.

Despite the affordable price, it feels premium, thanks to the 4mm thick tempered glass side panel that is scratch-resistant, making it perfect for long-term use. It’s a great choice for LAN parties as it is easy to build a compact gaming PC, and can accommodate a 280mm radiator up the front and another 120mm at the rear, providing ample cooling for your gear.

What sets it apart is its flawless build quality, unlike its sibling case, the H7. The IO ports function without issue, and it beautifully fits micro ATX motherboards, with a compact and elegant design that weighs only 5.55 kg (12.2 lbs). However, it lacks extravagant looks and has a modest design. Although, the cooling system is impressive, with pre-installed fans and a fan controller hub that adds incredible value for new builders. It has the space for a standard power supply and comes with a full-length PSU cover with space for an extra 140mm fan, which makes gamers and enthusiasts happy.

Budget Pick
Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L
Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L (Image credit: pccores.com)

Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L

Best Modular mATX Case under $50

SPECIFICATIONS

Motherboard: Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 15.39 x 9.06 x 15 inches | Included Case Fans: 1x 120mm | GPU Length: 360mm | CPU Cooler Height: 159mm | Liquid Cooling Support: 1x 240mm, 1x 120mm |

The Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L is an exceptional enclosure that excels in cooling, capacity, and capability, making it the perfect all-rounder for building a high-end system that looks stunning in both horizontal and vertical configurations. With its unique design, the Q300L sets itself apart from other small PC cases with an all-perforated pattern that is accentuated by magnetic patterned dust filters throughout the case, providing unparalleled ventilation.

For creative builders looking for a modular chassis to experiment with for their micro-projects, the MasterBox Q300L is an excellent choice that won’t break the bank. One of the standout features of the Q300L is its exceptional thermal performance, achieved through multiple airflow paths that are free from any restrictions. The case is perforated on the front, top, bottom, and rear, with solid panels on the sides, providing optimal visuals and minimizing noise.

The Q300L’s size allows for two positions for 240mm radiators, one in the front and the other on the roof, with an additional 120mm radiator at the back exhaust. This adaptability ensures that performance is never sacrificed. I personally like Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L and is a strong package for the modular build. Its twin chambers and unrestricted airflow provide greater flexibility for modders, perfect for both vertical and horizontal layout, and result in a clean and compact PC which is also good with cooling.

Moving or changing your gaming setup to a new location can be difficult with full towers, which makes the best portable PC cases a godsend gift. If that’s what you’re thinking, we recommend that you go with the best portable PC case, which not only saves space on your desk but also makes your life a lot easier.

Thermaltake Versa H18
Thermaltake Versa H18 (Image credit: pccores.com)

Thermaltake Versa H18

Best Small MicroATX PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

Motherboard: Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 15.4 x 8.1 x 15 inches | Included Case Fans: 1x 120mm | GPU Length: 350mm (13.78″) | CPU Cooler Height: 155mm | Liquid Cooling Support: 1x 280mm, 1x 120mm |

After Thermaltake attempted to mimic the famous Lian Li Meshify C with the Versa H15 edition, they realized they needed to create something new, unique, and different that would serve as a signature for the rest of the Versa line of PC cases. This ideology gave them the very different Thermaltake Versa H17, which carries a minimalist design but was unable to satisfy gamers due to a lack of air cooling. Now, in their third attempt, they have achieved a more robust cooling-centric design, with the new Thermaltake Versa H18, a jack of all trades and our recommended smallest MATX case for gaming.

You can build an office PC or a modern gaming PC with the confidence that it will not thermally throttle like previous generations, and the single RGB strip in the front doesn’t look bad in the overall black design. No aesthetic concerns are knowing it is the best budget small PC case that costs only $50. The front grill provides a front-to-back air path for components, as well as a thoughtful design, and is easy to build.

You’ll be able to fit a maximum size 280mm cooling radiator, either custom or all-in-one, as well as a full-length ATX power supply. It’s simply a great compact MATX case for the money, with space for three 5.25-inch drives and three 2.5-inch bays that are ideal for SSD drives. It also has three 3.5-inch bays. Minor issues include no fan controller and no raiser cables, but these are easily sorted out if you know what you want to build.

If you’re planning on building a workstation, whether it’s for gaming or creational work, you simply can’t ignore the benefits of liquid cooling. And if you’re thinking about future upgrades, a custom watercooling system is definitely worth considering. Not only does it provide ample space for fancy loops and multiple color reservoirs, but you can also design your own radiators to fit your chassis perfectly. We’ve handpicked the best PC cases for watercooling, so you can be sure your investment is well-spent.

Thermaltake Core V21
Thermaltake Core V21 (Image credit: pccores.com)

Thermaltake Core V21

Best Cube MATX Chassis

SPECIFICATIONS

Motherboard: Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 13.2 x 12.6 x 16.7 inch | Included Case Fans: 1x 200mm | GPU Length: 350mm (13.78″) | CPU Cooler Height: 185mm | Liquid Cooling Support: 1x 240mm front, 2x 280mm top and side |

When looking for smaller cases, low-height cube design cases are the preferred choice for most builders. In this regard, Thermaltake’s Core V21 is an extreme Micro ATX cube chassis that can deliver 45 Liter of deep space for components to breathe freely. It has multiple configurations for both air and liquid cooling setups, which could save you time building a tiny test bench with externally modular upgrades for enthusiasts to create cool systems.

The best thing about the Thermaltake Core V21 chassis is its ability to stack in multiple layouts; you can build it in either a vertical or horizontal orientation for a more customizable experience, but I recommend sticking with the standard layout to fit all of your beefy components easily.

During my time, I discovered that Thermaltake’s engineers design this chassis for serious builders, allowing for the easy installation of multiple radiators, with a choice of front and top for up to 280mm, while the left and right sides are extra generous, with room for an additional 280mm radiator, a long VGA of 350mm, and the highest CPU cooler space for 185mm. Having said that, it is an appropriate hardware cooling case for modern needs.

Did you know that the classic horizontal and cube-shaped PC cases are like the granddaddies of all computer cases? They’re sturdy and dependable, making them perfect for workstations where you don’t want to risk any accidental tip-overs and smash on the ground, and you can bet they will outlast any tower PC case. With such concerns, we recommend that you look at our up-to-date list of the best horizontal PC cases that will evolve and grow with you.

Best Pick
ASUS Prime AP201
ASUS Prime AP201 (Image credit: pccores.com)

ASUS Prime AP201

Best Compact PC Case for Editors

SPECIFICATIONS

Motherboard: Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 20.5 x 17 x 11.2 inches | Included Case Fans: 1x 120mm | GPU Length: 338mm | CPU Cooler Height: 170mm | Liquid Cooling Support: 1x 360mm top, 1x 120mm rear |

With 33-Liter space for realistic space-saving builds the Asus Prime AP201 is a compact MicroATX for modern days. This is all you need when you want a minimalist and super cool chassis that will keep you away from thermal throttle issues. I like how Asus made this look futuristic while also working perfectly with water cooling, which uplifts its looks and what I can say, a marvelous small cooling box for modern PC builders.

Since it has a front-mounted power supply cabinet, you will get more movement and even fit a single 5.25-inch ODD while the rest of the cabin space is compact and still powered by a large 360mm radiator on top and a tiny 120mm at the back, and saying that it is the only configuration that keeps it great with all the heavy-duty hardware and graphics card. And despite being the smallest cube case, it can squeeze in a long GPU of 338mm and a large ATX power supply. I find it sufficiently cool with surround Quasi-filter mesh, which is a big advantage for long-term performance without having to replace a case, and it’s a worthwhile investment if you trust Asus.

When it comes to compromises, the first thing you’ll notice is the $99 price tag, which is similar to NR200, but reasonable for its quality, however, there is no vertical mount and no space for cable management on the back. Though matching color allows you to blend in your cables, I’m not sure how RGB will light up, which could make it appear cluttered. The good thing about front panel connectivity is that it is future-proof. You’ll find the I/O USB 3.2 Gen2 Type C, as well as separate audio jacks, one headphone, and one microphone, plus a pair of USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and a rectangular power button in the center.

BitFenix Prodigy M Portable Mid Tower
BitFenix Prodigy M Portable Mid Tower (Image credit: pccores.com)

BitFenix Prodigy M Portable Mid Tower

Best SFF PC Case for LAN Parties

SPECIFICATIONS

Motherboard: Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 9.8 x 15.9 x 14.1inches | Included Case Fans: 1x 120mm, 1x 60mm | GPU Length: 338mm | CPU Cooler Height: 170mm | Liquid Cooling Support: 1x 360mm top, 1x 120mm rear |

The BitFenix Prodigy M is a stylish micro box for micro builds with a portable design that includes carrying handles and lifted legs for a chimney effect. It is one of our recommended PC cases for those who require distinctive looks and significant upgrades. It is an upgrade from the original Prodigy, and it can be a more powerful and beautiful HTPC. You can easily build a micro ATX system, which the original mini-ITX Prodigy case doesn’t.

The full front mesh panel serves as an airflow path while also accommodating an external 5.25 ODD for media use. If you have an old Blu-ray player, you can use that case to relive your childhood. Because it is lightweight and portable, with flexible handles and feet, it is an excellent choice for gaming and office builds.

Another advantage of this chassis is that it can accommodate a tall CPU cooler of 190mm(7.04 inches), which is useful with the long 339mm (13.3 inches) GFX. It also has space on top for a 280mm radiator, but there will only be one option for either the rad or the large GPU. Aside from that, a 120mm water cooler in the back would be preferable to the included 60mm fan.

If you want to look into more inverted layout chassis, see our list of the best inverted PC cases, which allow you to build left-handed setups with glass windows on the right side, give GPU positioning on the top section, and CPU positioning on the bottom to have direct airflow to all the components with no corner remaining hot!

Lian Li Lancool 205
Lian Li Lancool 205 (Image credit: pccores.com)

Lian Li Lancool 205

Best Silen PC Case in Small Form Factor

SPECIFICATIONS

Motherboard: Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 11.81 x 2.03 x 5 inches | Included Case Fans: 2x 120mm | GPU Length: 350mm | CPU Cooler Height: 160mm | Liquid Cooling Support: 2x 280mm top and front |

The Lian Li Lancool 205 boasts a sealed front panel design, providing a unique perspective compared to the Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh. We have chosen this as our best budget mATX case due to its impressive features, however, due to the current inflated stock prices, the price has increased from $50 to $100.

If you are willing to invest in a quality case, the Lian Li Lancool 205 is an excellent choice, particularly for those who appreciate minimalist aesthetics. Its simple yet elegant black design, complete with a reinforced glass panel, is perfect for professional setups. The case comes equipped with two 120mm pre-installed PWM fans, located in the front and back.

Beyond its standard features, the Lian Li Lancool 205 also allows for customization. For example, you can install two 140mm radiators at both the front and top of the case for exceptional airflow and cooling. Additionally, the case can accommodate two 280mm radiators, one at the top and one at the front, making it an ideal package for small yet minimalist builds.

Musetex MK7-GN5
Musetex MK7-GN5 (Image credit: pccores.com)

Musetex MK7-GN5

Cool Looking MicroATX Gaming PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

Motherboard: Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 16.54 x 9 x 15.35 inches | Included Case Fans: 5x 120mm ARGB | GPU Length: 340mm | CPU Cooler Height: 180mm | Liquid Cooling Support: 1x 280mm, 1x 240mm |

The Musetex MK7-GN5 is not only an underrated gem but also has a compact size measuring 16.54” x 9” x 15.35”. Despite its size, it packs a punch with all the features you could want in a powerful PC. On the positive side, it comes with 5x 120mm ARGB fans that add to its aesthetic appeal. Additionally, it has a wide front panel metal mesh that provides excellent cooling for all the computer accessories you install, ensuring peak performance.

Thanks to its smart design, the case has a magnetic latch glass door and can be easily equipped with 280mm at the top and 240mm at the back. Additionally, specific spots are ideal for huge 340mm GPUs. Moreover, the pre-installed 5V3Pin fan controller makes it an excellent value for the price of $89.99, which is lower than most chassis rated at $100.

Overall, the Musetex MK7-GN5 is perfect for gamers who require a powerful yet compact PC. Its clever design, magnetic latch glass door, and excellent cooling system make it an excellent choice. Moreover, the pre-installed 5V3Pin fan controller and specific spots for huge 340mm GPUs make it an excellent value for its price.

Buying Guide for Smallest MATX Cases

What is MITX’s size?

The Micro ITX or Mini ITX refers to the dimensions of Mini-ITX motherboards, which are 170 mm x 170 mm (6.75 inches x 6.75 inches). Mini-ITX is one of the smallest motherboard form factors available on the market, and they are designed for building the smallest form factor PCs, that look compact but work the same as MATX PC systems.

Does MITX fit in an ATX case?

Mini-ITX boards can often be used in cases designed for ATX, micro-ATX, and EATX PC cases. The reason is simple, Mini ITX motherboard size is the smallest, and it can fit inside large PC cases.

What is the maximum size of a micro ATX PC case?

A micro ATX PC case can have a maximum volume of 20 liters. However, if you require a larger PC case, standard mid-towers with ATX motherboard compatibility can assist you in making the right decision. MATX cases, on the other hand, are more portable and easier to transport than ATX cases, but they may limit the number and size of components that can be installed.

Is Micro ATX case good for gaming?

Yes, micro ATX cases are good for gaming. Despite their smaller form factor, they can fit high-performance GPUs and cooling components and offer similar features to regular ATX cases. The key considerations when selecting a micro ATX case for gaming are adequate cooling and sufficient room for components, such as larger graphics cards and power supplies.

Pros and Cons of Smallest MATX PC Cases

Are the smallest micro ATX PC cases quieter than larger cases?

The size of a PC case does not necessarily determine its noise level, as this can depend on element factors. However, smaller micro ATX cases may be more challenging to achieve low noise levels due to the limited space for airflow and cooling options. To achieve quiet operation in a small form factor PC, it’s important to use silent fans and coolers and consider using noise-dampening materials or soundproofing panels.

Are all micro ATX PC cases compatible with all micro ATX motherboards?

Yes, all micro ATX PC cases are compatible with all micro ATX motherboards. While there are two sizes of micro ATX motherboards available (standard and smaller), the size difference is minimal and most micro ATX cases are designed to accommodate a wide range of micro ATX motherboards. However, it’s important to check the specifications of both the case and motherboard to ensure compatibility with specific components and features, such as graphics card length and number of expansion slots.

Smallest MATX PC Cases Vs Smallest ATX PC Cases

Conclusion

When you want to save space and money, the best smallest mATX cases are well worth the investment, genuinely suited for tiny gaming setups that perform exceptionally, similar to their cute appearances. To make our research matter, we make sure that you can choose from the most reliable PC enclosures that explain themselves. We also ensure that your fantasy will not be hampered by a limited budget, and arrange our list for under $100 so that any builder creates a system that appears less like a tower PC and more like a console.

Adam Payne

Founder

Hi, I'm Adam Payne, a tech enthusiast and PC guru. I love evaluating the latest gadgets and sharing my honest reviews of hardware improvements and experiences with modern PCs from handheld to desktops. Whether you're looking to build a new workstation rig or just want some guidance on the best components to choose, I'm here to help. Join me on my journey as I explore the world of technology and all the amazing gadgets it has to offer.

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