Mini-ITX cases have grown in popularity for computer builders who want powerful systems in small packages. These compact cases save desk space while still allowing for decent hardware configurations.
The Fractal Design Node 304 stands out as the top choice in 2015, offering an excellent balance of size, quality construction, and cooling options.
When shopping for a mini-ITX case, size and internal layout are crucial considerations. A good case needs enough room for your components while maintaining a small footprint.
Cooling is another vital factor since smaller cases can trap heat more easily. You’ll also want to check compatibility with graphics cards and power supplies, as these can be limiting factors in compact builds.
We tested dozens of mini-ITX cases throughout 2015 to find the best options for different needs and budgets. Our tests focused on build quality, cooling performance, ease of installation, and noise levels to help you find the perfect small form factor case for your next PC build.
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Best Mini-ITX Cases 2015
We’ve researched and tested the top mini-ITX cases available in 2015 to help you find the perfect compact housing for your PC build. These small form factor cases offer great cooling options and component compatibility while taking up minimal desk space.
Our picks below represent the best balance of build quality, thermal performance, and value for mini-ITX enthusiasts.
Jonsbo C6-ITX Mini Case
The Jonsbo C6-ITX delivers impressive build quality and versatility in a compact form factor, making it an excellent choice for space-conscious PC builders who don’t want to sacrifice performance.
Pros
- All-metal construction with sturdy build quality
- Handle on top makes it portable and easy to move
- Tool-free access with quick-release mesh panels
Cons
- Limited space for cable management
- Only fits one 3.5″ HDD or one 2.5″ SSD
- Can get toasty without proper fan setup
We’ve been testing the Jonsbo C6-ITX for several weeks now, and it’s quickly become one of our favorite mini-ITX cases in this price range. The all-metal construction feels premium – much better than we expected for around $60.
The mesh design on all sides provides excellent airflow, which is crucial for small form factor builds.
The carrying handle is surprisingly useful. We’ve moved our test system between rooms several times, and the Velcro-adjustable handle makes it a breeze. This feature alone sets it apart from many competitors in the mini-ITX space.
Building in this case was straightforward. The tool-free top panel pops off easily, giving good access to the interior.
We installed a full-size ATX power supply without issues, though it did make cable management a bit trickier. Our 240mm graphics card fit with room to spare (it supports up to 255mm).
The front I/O includes a USB-C port, USB 3.0, and a combo audio jack – a solid selection for a case this size.
We particularly appreciate the versatility of being able to mount either a 120mm fan or a 3.5″ hard drive at the bottom of the case.
Cooling performance has been adequate for our Ryzen 5 build. We added a Noctua 120mm fan at the top to help with heat exhaust.
During gaming sessions, temperatures stayed reasonable, though we’d recommend quality fans for more demanding builds.
The compact dimensions (about 8″ × 10.5″ × 11.6″) make it perfect for desk setups with limited space. We’ve tucked ours into a bookshelf, and it looks clean and unobtrusive. The all-black mesh aesthetic might be simple, but it’s timeless and blends well with most setups.
KXRORS S300 Mini-ITX Case
The KXRORS S300 is a compact powerhouse that offers excellent portability and cooling for most mini-ITX gaming builds at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Three-sided mesh panels provide excellent airflow
- Compact 8.1L size with convenient top handle for portability
- Front USB-C port and modern connectivity options
Cons
- Limited CPU cooler height (60mm max)
- Requires setting PCIE to Gen3 in BIOS for compatibility
- Can run hot with high-performance components
We recently got our hands on the KXRORS S300 mini-ITX case, and we’re impressed with its sleek aluminum design. The brushed finish gives it a premium look that stands out on any desk.
At just 12.2 x 5.3 x 7.6 inches, this tiny 8.1L case doesn’t take up much space but packs surprising versatility.
The first thing we noticed was the small leather handle on top, making it easy to carry to LAN parties or between rooms. The front panel connectivity is modern with both USB-C and USB-A ports, which is great for connecting newer devices without adapters.
Building in the S300 was straightforward for a mini case. It supports standard ITX motherboards and can fit graphics cards up to 305mm long.
The included PCIe 3.0 riser cable works well, but remember to set your motherboard BIOS to Gen3 mode first – we learned this the hard way!
Temperature Tip: If you’re planning a high-performance build, consider low-profile cooling solutions and perhaps an extra slim case fan where possible.
Cooling is surprisingly effective thanks to the three-sided mesh panels. We could feel the air flowing through during gaming sessions. The case supports SFX power supplies between 100-130mm, giving you options for your power needs.
There are some limitations to be aware of. The 60mm CPU cooler height restriction means you’ll need to choose a low-profile option.
We found the Noctua NH-L9i works perfectly in this case. For graphics cards, you’re limited to 55mm height (2.5 slots) and 130mm width.
When gaming, we noticed temperatures stayed reasonable for most mid-range setups. However, with an i7 and RTX 3070 running at full load, things did get warm. Adding a small case fan helped manage this issue.
| Component | Clearance | Our Experience |
| CPU Cooler | 60mm max height | Tight but workable with low-profile coolers |
| GPU | 305mm length, 55mm height | Fits most modern cards but runs warm |
| PSU | SFX/SFX-L (100-130mm) | Easy installation, good options |
Build quality exceeded our expectations at this price point. The aluminum panels feel solid and the included hardware was complete. Cable management is tight but doable with some planning.
Cooler Master N200 Mini Tower
The Cooler Master N200 offers exceptional value for anyone building a compact PC with its smart design, ample cooling options, and surprising storage capacity.
Pros
- Excellent airflow with full mesh front panel
- Supports up to seven storage drives despite compact size
- Accommodates large graphics cards up to 14 inches
Cons
- Cable management can be challenging
- Side panel feels a bit thin
- Limited RGB options for modern builds
We recently used the Cooler Master N200 for a compact gaming build, and we were impressed by how much this little case offers.
Despite being a mini tower, it doesn’t feel cramped inside during assembly. The fully meshed front panel isn’t just for looks—it actually delivers excellent airflow that kept our components nice and cool.
One thing that surprised us was the storage options. Most mini cases skimp on drive bays, but the N200 supports up to three 3.5″ HDDs and four 2.5″ SSDs. We installed one HDD and two SSDs with plenty of room to spare. The tool-less drive installation made this part of the build quick and painless.
The case easily accommodated our 240mm radiator in the front, which is impressive for a case this size. We also appreciated the removable dust filter under the power supply area—it slides out easily for cleaning, which is a feature often missing from budget cases.
Cable management is the one area where we struggled a bit. The compact size means limited space behind the motherboard tray, so we had to get creative with our cable routing.
With some patience and zip ties, we achieved a clean-looking build, but it took more effort than with larger cases.
We found the front I/O placement very convenient for everyday use, with USB 3.0 providing fast connections for external drives. The case also accepted our 10.5-inch graphics card without any issues, giving us room to upgrade in the future if needed.
For a case that’s been around since 2013, the Cooler Master N200 has aged remarkably well. Its practical design focuses on functionality over flashy aesthetics, making it still relevant in 2025 for budget-conscious builders who need a compact case with good cooling.
Thermaltake Core V1 Snow
The Thermaltake Core V1 Snow Edition offers exceptional cooling capabilities and easy installation, making it one of the best mini-ITX cases for compact PC builds in 2015.
Pros
- Excellent airflow with pre-installed 200mm front fan
- Versatile modular design with interchangeable panels
- Spacious interior despite compact footprint
Cons
- Slightly bulkier than other mini-ITX options
- Limited radiator support options
- Cable management can be challenging
We recently got our hands on this eye-catching white cube case, and we’re impressed with how much Thermaltake packed into this mini-ITX design. The snow-white finish gives it a clean, modern look that stands out from typical black cases. Its cube shape makes it perfect for desktop placement, where it can show off your components through the windowed panel.
The cooling performance is outstanding for a case this size. That massive 200mm front fan moves a ton of air while staying whisper-quiet. We found temperatures stayed well below what we’d expect in a compact build, even when pushing our components. The dual-chamber design really works – keeping the PSU heat separate from your critical components.
Installation couldn’t be easier with this little powerhouse. The panels come off from all sides, giving us complete access during our build. We particularly liked the tool-free drive bays, which made swapping storage a breeze.
There’s ample room for graphics cards up to 285mm when removing the drive cage – we fitted a full-sized GPU with no problems.
For liquid cooling enthusiasts, the Core V1 offers decent options despite its size. We managed to fit a 120mm AIO cooler in the front with minimal fuss. The case’s modular nature lets you reconfigure the interior to accommodate different cooling setups. The removable drive racks give you flexibility to prioritize either cooling or storage.
Cable management requires some planning, but isn’t impossible. We found routing cables through the lower chamber kept things tidy in the main compartment. With some zip ties and patience, we achieved a clean look that’s visible through the window panel.
Professional-grade PC Case
InWin BQ656 Mini-ITX Case
The InWin BQ656 is the perfect space-saving solution for anyone needing a compact PC build with its included 200W 80+ Gold PSU and surprisingly versatile storage options.
Pros
- Ultra-compact design perfect for tight spaces
- Includes quality 200W 80+ Gold power supply
- Flexible storage options with 2.5″ drive bays
Cons
- Limited cooling options for high-performance parts
- Restrictive for future upgrades
- Tight internal working space
We’ve been testing the InWin BQ656 for several weeks now, and it’s quite impressive how much functionality they’ve packed into such a tiny footprint. At just 8.7 x 3.4 x 9.2 inches, this case sits unobtrusively on any desk while still providing enough room for a decent mini-ITX build.
The included 200W 80+ Gold power supply is a major selling point. Many small form factor cases require separate PSU purchases, but the BQ656 comes ready to go. During our testing, the power supply ran quiet and cool even under moderate loads, though you’ll want to stick with lower-power CPUs and avoid dedicated GPUs.
Build quality feels solid throughout, with the metal construction giving it a premium feel. The gold color option we tested adds a touch of class to what could otherwise be a plain office PC. Front USB 3.0 ports are conveniently placed and work reliably for quick connections.
Working inside the case requires some patience due to the tight spaces. We found removing the side panels gave good access, but cable management takes careful planning. The drive mounting system is clever once you figure it out – our 2.5″ SSD installed securely without issues.
Thermal performance surprised us. Despite the compact size, our test build with a moderate CPU stayed within reasonable temperature ranges during extended use. The key is choosing appropriate components that won’t generate excessive heat.
For office use, home servers, or media centers, this case hits a sweet spot of size, price, and functionality. We particularly appreciate having the option for either a slim optical drive or an extra 2.5″ drive depending on your needs.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a Mini-ITX case in 2015, there are several key factors to consider. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect compact case for your needs.
Size Matters
Mini-ITX cases come in different sizes despite all using the same motherboard standard. Some are ultra-compact for minimal setups, while others offer more room for components.
The smaller the case, the more challenging your build might be. We recommend measuring your available space before making a decision.
Component Compatibility
Always check what components your Mini-ITX case can fit before buying!
Make sure the case can accommodate your:
- Graphics card length
- CPU cooler height
- Power supply type (SFX vs ATX)
- Storage drives (2.5″ or 3.5″)
Cooling Options
Heat management is crucial in small cases. Look for cases with good airflow design and fan mounting options.
| Cooling Type | Pros | Cons |
| Air Cooling | Simple, affordable | Height restrictions |
| AIO Water Cooling | Better cooling, compact | Needs radiator space |
| Passive Cooling | Silent operation | Limited performance |
Build Quality
A good Mini-ITX case should be sturdy with quality materials. We recommend looking for aluminum or steel construction rather than plastic for better durability.
Port Access
Check that the case has sufficient front panel ports for your needs.
USB 3.0 ports were becoming standard in 2015, so make sure your case includes them.