5 Best ITX Case Reviews 2024 | Compact Gaming Rigs for Any Budget

Written by Branton

Last updated Jan 6, 2021

If my computer fan roars, it drives me insane. I also like to game in my dorm, where I don’t necessarily have a ton of space. That’s why an ITX case was a perfect choice for me, and why I keep using them. Because of the basically micro ITX cases I own, I’m able to put gaming systems in any room, which gives me tons of flexibility. Unlike the best NAS case, which aims for more storage and security, when you’re buying a good ITX PC case, you’re investing in a system that not only adds flair to your space, but protects your hardware. I’ve broken down what I look for in a great ITX case so you don’t have to make the same mistakes that I did.

Favorite ITX Case Comparison

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1. The InWin A1 Plus Black Mini-ITX Tower

Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

  • Personalizable rig adds flair
  • Easy installation
  • Powerful A1 Qi charging station

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2. The Thermaltake Core V1 SPCC Mini ITX Cube Gaming Computer Case Chassis

Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5

  • Optimal airflow
  • Easy assembly
  • Versatile side panels

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3. The Phanteks Enthoo Evolv ITX

Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5

  • Sleek and attractive
  • Great access to dust filter and fan
  • Reservoir mounts protect your hardware

What to Expect From an ITX Case

A great ITX case will optimize your gaming experience by providing you with the ability to load it up with the latest technology. They should be roomy, have ample IO additions, not overheat, and be portable. On top of being well-ventilated, they also need to be incredibly sturdy and should run cool and quiet. You can hope for the same features in affordable cases we also reviewed.

Best ITX Case Reviews

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1. The InWin A1 Plus Black Mini-ITX Tower

Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

Features:

  • A truly stylish setup created by lighting for a system that elevates your gaming space

  • A strong fan that keeps your system from overheating for longer gameplay 

  • A prebuilt PSU with cables that are already managed so you don’t have to configure or rearrange them

  • Powerful A1 Qi charging station so your tools are always ready when you need them.

This rig is awesome. It can be personalized with a fantastic lighting effect and comes with two complimentary Sirius loop ASL120 fans. The structure itself is matte black and has dual redressable RGB loops. Because of the placement of these loops, lighting is present no matter how you choose to set up the fan.

The InWin A1 also comes with a wireless charging station, which is very convenient and is now WPC Qi. 1 certified, as well. This bad boy emits 10W of power, which is enough to cover the tower as well as the mouse I use. In my opinion, this is the best ITX Case because it’s convenient and powerful, as well as really interesting to look at. It adds a technological flair to any setup.

The InWin A1 Plus Black Mini-ITX Tower Header
M/B Compatibility Mini-ITX
Expansion Slots PCI-E x 2
Maximum Capacity VGA Cord Length: 320 mm

CPU Heatsink Height: 160 mm

Internal Drive Bays 2 x 2.5”
Thermal Solution Capability 1 x 120mm Side Fan

1 x 120mm Rear Fan / 120mm Radiator

2 x 120mm Bottom Fan

Power Supply Compatibility InWin 650W PSU Included

In my experience, the power supply has always performed well, and because the ITX case is so compact, I was able to fit my entire setup in a pretty small dorm room. This was a major plus for me, and would also be very valuable for anyone who values portable ITX cases.

If you really want to showcase the inner workings of your PC case, this would be a great aesthetically pleasing ITX for you. It adds a clean but interesting look to any space.

Because of its rounded off square shape, installation is easy. The space to install powerful hardware is also there, which is crucial. There’s also space to support a CPU heatsink smaller than 160mm, and can take graphics cards up to 320mm in length as well. The front IO is also very complete for a small ITX case. These ITX cases can do it all, and are powerful and keep cool while doing it.

Pros

  • Powerful fans provide constant cooling for your build
  • Personalizable rig adds flair
  • Power supply performs with consistency
  • Easy installation

Cons

  • Can be slightly hard to reconfigure if you are not experienced with PC technology

Conclusion:

2. The Thermaltake Core V1 SPCC Mini ITX Cube Gaming Computer Case Chassis

Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5

Features:

  • Air and liquid cooling system allows you to keep gaming until you say you’re done

  • Interchangeable side panel allows you to make changes to your ITX pc case for fashion or function

  • The best mini ITX case for the job if you’re in a tight price range

  • Easy assembly allows you to get straight to gaming

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This Thermaltake Core V1 SPCC Mini ITX Cube is so easy to set up and maintain, and it’s easily the most value you’ll get for your money on this list. The cooling system is straightforward and easy, and I found that due to its air and liquid cooling setup, that I could keep playing no matter how hard the machines were working.

The Thermaltake Core V1 SPCC Mini ITX Cube Gaming Computer Case Chassis Header
Drive Bays 2 X 3.5”, 2 x 2.5”
Expansion Slots 2
Cooling System Front Intake System

200 x 200 x 30 mm fan, (800 rpm)

Clearance CPU Cooler Height Limitation: 140 mm

VGA Length Limitation: 255mm (inner chassis)

285mm (outer chassis)

PSU Height Limitation: 200mm

I don’t like spending too much time putting something together — I’d rather be playing. And with the Core V1’s tool-free drive bay design, I can get right to my games instead of wasting time or potentially making a mistake in putting it together. It’s simple to assemble, and works like a charm regardless of what tools you use. I also love the versatility. With optimized airflow and the ability to really configure my own build, I was really able to just put the ITX computer case together and go.

Another feature of this ITX pc case is its versatility due to its interchangeable side panels. Whether you’re making a switch for fashion or function, you can really customize this ITX gaming case.

There is also a ton of room for data in this mini-ITX. You can store up to two data storage devices in one small box, which is perfect for if you have a small area to game in or if you need more portability from a mini ITX.

In my opinion, this is one of the best ITX cases if you’re looking for a simple fix for an ITX computer system. You don’t have to over-invest, you don’t get too much computer for your money, and you simultaneously have a really powerful, well-designed system on your hands. If you’re looking for affordable without sacrificing your quality, this is a great choice.

Pros

  • Optimal airflow
  • Tons of room for data
  • Incredibly affordable
  • Easy assembly
  • Versatile side panels

Cons

  • Assemble hard drives first or you may find it is a little more difficult

Conclusion:

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3. The Phanteks Enthoo Evolv ITX

Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5

Features:

  • The panel removal allows you to clean your filtration system easily so you can get back to your game and still provide maintenance to your machine

  • The offset radiator bracket protects your memory so you don’t have to worry about too much heat on your hardware

  • The build is versatile and interesting, as well as easy to assemble

  • A few different additional ports, jacks, and panels can make this a truly custom build

The Phanteks Enthoo Evolv ITX is a beautiful piece of machinery. Sleek powder-coated steel protects your hardwire while simultaneously adding a bit of firm, protective class to your space. The tempered glass panels add another element to the design, creating a glossy look. The PSU and HDDs are hidden within the machine for a smooth, tapered look.

The Phanteks Enthoo Evolv ITX Header
Item Weight 12.6 pounds
Product Dimensions 15.6 x 14.8 x 9.1 inches
USB 2x USB 3.0
Compatibility Compatible with Phanteks RGB LED strips and RGB motherboards

If you’re looking for a build that provides great access to the fans or the dust filter, this is your guy. They’re simply behind a panel that you can pull away for cleaning, replacing, or altering. Phanteks’s velcro cables are also provided with this machine, meaning you have high-quality reinforcements where you need them.

Something I really think is special about this particular small ITX case is the offset radiator bracket. This allows for the radiator to perform without having any conflicts with the memory of your hardware, which is something I’ve been upset about in small cases in the past. The reservoir mounts in this particular case are great for protecting your hardware just because they’re spaced out intellectually. 

Fun additions to this mini ITX build include two USB 3.0 ports, a headphone jack placement, a mic, an RGB switch, and the SSD bracket that comes with this case. The removable HDD cages are a plus, for both fashion and function, and the magnetic dust filters make this one of the best mini ITX cases to clean. 

If you truly wanted to take this build to the next level, this case is compatible with Phanteks RGB LED strips and RGB motherboards. It’s a full-size PSU, meaning you can fit all forms of tools, data, or information into this build. The customization possibilities are endless, and it’s all within this sleek design. This is also far up on my list of easiest radiators to install, as well.

Pros

  • Reservoir mounts protect your hardware
  • Compatible with Phanteks RGB products
  • Great access to dust filter and fan
  • Sleek and attractive
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Cannot use normal self-threading fan screws in assembling the build

Conclusion:

4. Phanteks Evolv Shift Air (PH-ES217A_BK) Mini-ITX Case

Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5

Features:

  • High-quality cooling system keeps your case constantly functioning without overheating. Seriously.

  • Convertibility lets you run this build horizontally or vertically, saving space and giving you options

  • Easy access panel systems let you address problems without breaking out the tools, saving you time

  • Mesh fabric siding allows all of your critical systems to have direct exposure to cooling air

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This Phanteks Evolv is the smallest mini ITX case that produces the most air. Seriously. This thing is a silent wind machine in its own right. This is a high-performance airflow machine that uses its fabric mesh sides to optimize cooling with a direct airflow path to the CPU and GPU for insane levels of ventilation. Every critical system in this tower is directly cooled due to the innovative design of this case.

Phanteks Evolv Shift Air (PH-ES217A_BK) Mini-ITX Case Header
Product Dimensions 11 x 7 x 19 inches
Item Weight 13.37 pounds
Compatibility Expand and synchronize Phanteks D-RGB products or compatible motherboard with the integrated RGB Controller

Because of how compact this ITX case is, you can stack it horizontally or vertically, making it a great choice for locations that may not have the most available space. The dual AIO has a water-cooling solution and reversible GPU position, which makes it an incredibly practical machine that you can space, customize, and use without worrying that its location could cause it to overheat. 

If you wanted to remove a panel, it’s as simple as shifting it. You can get into this ITX case easily, which makes it more than convenient for hardware installation, customization, and movement. This is the ITX case that my brother used when he lived in a closet-sized apartment in New York City, and because of its size and versatility, it never overheated. 

If you wanted to expand or synchronize this build, you could do so with tons of additional Phanteks D-RGB products. The Phanteks line is basically an open door for customization, allowing you to create a build that caters exactly to your needs. The compatible motherboard is also very high quality, and has an integrated RGB controller as well.

Pros

  • Serious airflow
  • Convertible build
  • Customizable with Phanteks D-RGB products
  • Compatible motherboard is high quality

Cons

  • GPU may need to be turned around for certain builds

Conclusion:

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5. SilverStone Technology Ultra Compact Mini-ITX Computer Case with Mesh Front Panel

Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5

Features:

  • This mini ITX case fits more standard equipment than others, meaning you don’t have to make a large financial investment to change to a mini case

  • Its sleekness matches its practicality, while simultaneously providing top of the line cooling and processing

  • The build is highly convertible due to its additional space in the chassis

  • You can customize your build in four different ways

This is a convertible build. If you’re looking for additional space inside of the chassis to fit more data or to make more alterations in, this will be your ITX case fantasy. With two colors and two front panel types, you’re able to make a very specific choice about your look, then the impressive compatibility of the machinery will blow you away.

SilverStone Technology Ultra Compact Mini-ITX Computer Case with Mesh Front Panel Header
Motherboard Mini-DTX/Mini-ITX
Drive Bay Internal – 3.5 x 1” or 2.5 x 2”
Cooling System Sides and Top – Oversized Vents

Front – 1 x 120mm/140mm fan slot compatible with radiator

Expansion Slot 2
Front IO Port USB 3.0 x 2, Audio x 1, Mic x 1
Limitation of PSU 150mm*

If you have standard length expansion cords, you’ll be incredibly happy with this purchase. This, more than other mini ITX cases, fits more standard sizes across the board. The build also fits a single fan with all-in-one liquid cooler, and due to the mesh tops and sides, doesn’t overheat without the extra power. 

This build does its job well, and has a classic sleekness to it while simultaneously remaining cool and functional. It’s compatible with mini ITX motherboards as well as ATX PSU, and supports 2 5” and 3 5” hard drives, meaning you can pack a lot into this little case. This is a sturdy, reliable build case that allows you to pack in more than anticipated. 

It is the reliability alone that makes this particular build worth every penny. The ventilators aren’t extraneous, and it isn’t loud in your space, even when it runs for extended periods of time. Overall, I’d say that this case runs cool and quiet, which is everything you could ask for from a mini ITX.

Pros

  • Classic sleekness
  • Highly convertible
  • Holds lots of data
  • Fits standard conversions as well as mini ITX ones
  • Uses standard length cords

Cons

  • Some report the headphone jack has static

Conclusion:

Cooling

Cooling is a major source of woe for any gamer. If your systems get too hot, you’re done for. So when you’re working with an ITX build, the cooling system is incredibly important. Due to their small size, it can be hard to make a selection in which the fan is amply powerful, or there’s a truly worthwhile liquid cooling system.

Overheating slows down your machine by causing problems within the hardware itself. If you don’t take care of your cooling system, you won’t have a build, especially if you use a portable build. High-quality fans need to be present in any type of ITX build that may move around a lot, especially if you want to have quick gaming speeds and intense graphics.

Core

The power in your machine comes from its core. By choosing one with high frequencies and fully functional memory slots, you’re likely on your way to having a useful core. Tons of differences arise at this stage, and they can really affect price. What you’re looking for are cores that can create high-quality graphics and potentially multiple expansion slots.

Your core should be able to handle a large amount of GPU, and shouldn’t overheat easily. Dedicating your time to figuring out what level of core performance you need for your own gaming systems and goals will work out financially in the long run by preventing you from under-investing in your core.

GPU Size

The GPU is the graphics card, and the size of the GPU in some cases determines the quality of your graphics. If the card is too large, then you won’t have space within your ITX for efficient memory or cooling systems. However, if you don’t have a proper graphics card, then you lose a lot of the quality of the gameplay. It also determines the dedicated memory of your card. If your GPU is optimized, you will have a more enjoyable experience, especially if you use your build for competitive gaming.

Keep in mind that your riser cable needs to be close in quality to your GPU, because they tend to work in conjunction. Going all-in for a GPU but neglecting the riser cable may still leave you unsatisfied.

Riser Cable

Riser cables can mount and display or graphics cards, and are used for GPU solutions in order to enhance the quality of your game. A quality riser cable is easy to install, has minimal signal loss, and has precise contacts for securing it into your case. Slim designs are typically preferred, as are designs that can be vertically placed in order to really take advantage of the space within the build.

Case Airflow

Case airflow prevents overheating. It’s vital that enough air moves past your working parts in order to move heat away from the radiator and other parts of your hardware that can become overheated and damaged.

Something to take into consideration is whether you’d like to have fabric mesh on your case. This increases airflow and encourages the dispersal of heat, but also can lead to alternate forms of damage in any sort of spill or accident that may otherwise have been prevented from a harder exterior.

Case Fans

Case fans need to be durable in order to increase the amount of airflow moving through the exterior of the machine. They assist with the cooling process, and ensure that your machine continues to function at top capacity.

Another consideration to take when choosing a fan system for your ITX case is how easy it is to reach the fan. Fans get dirty, as do the filters within the builds, so being able to have access to clean and correct will not only save you money, but improve the speed and quality of your build.

If you expect to transport your build, you need to make sure that you’re investing in a quality fan. When your build moves, the fan may shake and move with it, which can cause damage to the fan or even the other parts of the build. Any damage is going to cause slower gameplay, decreased graphics, or even potentially overheating. A happy cooling system is a happy mini-ITX case, and if you want the best performance from your ITX size mini ITX case, you need to care for your cooling system.

What You Want From a Mini-ITX Case

You want your Mini-ITX case to perform. That’s it, at the end of the day. I’ve had mini-ITX cases that have overheated, lost the quality of their graphics, not contain enough space for the type of build I needed, and even lack the necessary IO requirements for connecting and playing.

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