Mini ITX cases are perfect for gamers and professionals who want powerful computers without taking up much space. These compact cases can fit full-sized graphics cards and cooling systems while maintaining a small footprint on your desk. Many Reddit users love mini ITX builds for their portability and aesthetics.
When shopping for a mini ITX case, focus on size, airflow, and component compatibility. A good case needs enough room for your graphics card and cooler while providing proper ventilation to prevent overheating. Some cases sacrifice cooling for size, which can lead to performance issues during intense gaming sessions.
We spent weeks analyzing Reddit threads and testing popular mini ITX cases to find the best options for different needs. The NR200P from Cooler Master consistently stands out as a community favorite for its balance of space, cooling performance, and reasonable price.
Best Mini ITX Cases According to Reddit
We’ve gathered the top mini ITX cases that Reddit users rave about in our comprehensive list below. These compact powerhouses offer the perfect balance of size, cooling performance, and build quality that PC enthusiasts love. Based on countless Reddit threads and user recommendations, these cases stand out as the best options for your small form factor build.
Goodisory A01 Mini-ITX Case
The Goodisory A01 delivers exceptional value for HTPC enthusiasts with its compact aluminum design and tempered glass top that makes it worth every penny.
Pros
- Sleek aluminum build with eye-catching red tempered glass
- Compact size perfect for living room setups
- Multiple drive mounting options for storage flexibility
Cons
- Limited CPU cooler height compatibility
- Requires PICO PSU instead of standard ATX
- Can run warm without additional cooling modifications
We recently tested the Goodisory A01 for our home theater PC setup, and it’s an impressive little chassis for the price. The aluminum construction feels solid in hand, not flimsy like some budget cases.
At just 7.9″ x 7.9″ x 3.3″, it fits perfectly on our entertainment center without taking up much space.
The red tempered glass top adds a premium look that doesn’t scream “computer” in our living room. Assembly was straightforward, though we had to be mindful of the 2.2″ CPU cooler height limitation.
The two USB 3.0 ports on the front provided enough connectivity for our needs.
Heat management needs some consideration with this case. During our testing with a low-power mini-ITX build, temperatures ran warmer than we’d like under heavy loads. We ended up adding small spacers between the glass top and case body to improve airflow, which helped considerably.
Storage options are flexible with support for either two 2.5″ drives or one 2.5″ plus one 3.5″ drive. We went with dual SSDs to keep heat and noise down.
Remember you’ll need a PICO PSU and adapter rather than a standard ATX power supply, which adds to your shopping list but helps maintain the ultra-compact design.
For anyone building a compact HTPC or basic desktop, this case offers excellent value. Just be sure your component choices account for the thermal constraints and power supply requirements.
KXRORS S300 Mini Case
The KXRORS S300 delivers impressive portability and cooling for budget-conscious mini ITX builders, though you’ll need to manage expectations about component compatibility.
Pros
- Compact 8.1L size with stylish carrying handle
- Three-sided mesh panels provide excellent airflow
- Front USB-C port adds modern connectivity
Cons
- Limited CPU cooler clearance (60mm max)
- Requires PCIE speed set to Gen3 in BIOS
- Can get toasty with high-performance components
We recently built a compact gaming rig in the KXRORS S300, and it’s a surprisingly capable mini ITX case for its price point. The aluminum construction feels sturdy in hand, and the leather handle on top makes transporting this small 8.1L case super convenient.
At just over 12 inches long and under 8 inches tall, it fits perfectly on desks with limited space.
The mesh panels on three sides aren’t just for looks – they actually work! Our components stayed reasonably cool during gaming sessions thanks to the improved airflow.
We particularly appreciated the front I/O that includes both USB-A and USB-C ports, giving us modern connectivity options without needing adapters.
Building in the S300 requires some planning. The case supports graphics cards up to 305mm long, but they need to be under 55mm tall (2.5 slots max). We installed a mid-range GPU without issues, though the included PCIe 3.0 riser cable means you’ll need to adjust your BIOS settings accordingly. Otherwise, your system won’t boot properly.
CPU cooler height maxes out at 60mm, so be prepared to use low-profile options. We found the SFX power supply mounting straightforward, with support for units between 100-130mm.
Cable management takes some creativity in this tight space, but the system provides enough routing options to keep things tidy.
For budget mini ITX builds, this case delivers surprising value. Just don’t expect to cram high-end components with massive cooling requirements inside – thermal management will become challenging. Overall, we think it’s perfect for modest gaming rigs or compact home office builds where portability matters.
Cooler Master NR200P V2
The Cooler Master NR200P V2 is the best mini-ITX case for enthusiasts who want premium cooling options and powerful hardware support in a compact 18L footprint.
Pros
- Incredibly easy tool-free access with quick-release panels
- Supports massive GPUs up to 356mm (including RTX 4090)
- Excellent cooling with top-mounted 240/280mm radiator support
Cons
- Limited to SFX power supplies only
- Vertical GPU mounting restriction may not suit all builders
- Premium price point compared to other mini-ITX cases
We recently built a system in the NR200P V2, and the experience was surprisingly smooth for a compact case. The tool-free design makes a huge difference – we popped off panels without hunting for screws, which made the entire build process faster than expected.
The standout feature has to be the cooling capacity. We installed a 280mm AIO at the top with zero clearance issues. Most mini-ITX cases force cooling compromises, but not this one. The combination of mesh panels and strategic ventilation kept our components running cool even during intense gaming sessions.
Hardware compatibility impressed us too. We fitted a chunky RTX 3080 with room to spare. The case claims to support even a 4090, which seems ambitious but possible given the 3.5-slot clearance.
Cable management was relatively straightforward thanks to the removable GPU panel that provides extra workspace during assembly.
Build quality feels premium throughout. The tempered glass panel displays your components beautifully, while the optional vented steel panel offers maximum airflow when needed. We appreciated having both options depending on whether we prioritized aesthetics or cooling.
The front I/O includes a USB-C port with 20Gbps speeds, which came in handy for fast external drive transfers. Little details like the included GPU riser cable and cable management anchors show Cooler Master really thought about the user experience.
For anyone worried about future upgrades, this case offers exceptional component clearance. CPU coolers up to 160mm and GPUs up to 356mm mean you won’t outgrow this case anytime soon – impressive considering its compact 18.25L size.
Jonsbo C6-ITX Mesh Case
The Jonsbo C6-ITX offers impressive cooling and versatility in a compact form factor, making it a standout choice for budget-conscious mini-ITX builders.
Pros
- Excellent airflow with full mesh design
- Adjustable carrying handle for easy transport
- Compatible with full-size ATX power supplies
Cons
- Limited cable management space
- Only fits one 3.5″ HDD or 2.5″ SSD
- Tight squeeze for larger GPUs
We recently built a system in the Jonsbo C6-ITX, and we were pleasantly surprised by its quality for the price. This all-metal case feels sturdy despite weighing just under 3 pounds. The mesh panels on all sides provide outstanding airflow, which kept our components cool even during intensive gaming sessions.
The tool-free design is a real time-saver. We could pop off the top panel without any screws, making component installation much easier than expected. Getting to the motherboard tray was simple, though fitting cables around the ATX power supply took some creative routing.
One feature we really appreciate is the adjustable carrying handle. It attaches with Velcro, so you can position it exactly where you want or remove it completely. For LAN parties or moving between rooms, this handle makes the C6-ITX incredibly portable compared to other mini-ITX cases.
The front I/O panel includes a USB-C port, USB 3.0, and audio jacks – pretty standard but covering all the essentials. At about 8″ wide, 10.5″ deep, and 11.6″ tall, this case fits nicely on a desk or shelf without taking up too much space.
Cooling options are decent for a case this size. We installed a 120mm fan at the top and another at the bottom for good air circulation. The case supports CPU coolers up to 170mm tall, which gave us plenty of options beyond the stock cooler.
For about $60, this case delivers exceptional value. We’ve tested pricier mini-ITX cases that don’t offer the same combination of features, airflow, and build quality. If you need a compact PC case that doesn’t sacrifice cooling or component compatibility, the Jonsbo C6-ITX is worth considering.
Thermaltake Core V1 Mini ITX Case
The Thermaltake Core V1 offers exceptional cooling options and easy installation in a compact size, making it the perfect choice for Mini ITX builders who don’t want to compromise on performance.
Pros
- Excellent airflow with a 200mm front fan included
- Flexible configuration with interchangeable side panels
- Spacious interior despite compact footprint
Cons
- Larger than some other Mini ITX cases
- Limited cable management options
- Front panel USB ports can’t be relocated
We’ve been using the Thermaltake Core V1 for our small form factor build, and it’s been a game-changer.
The case arrives with a massive 200mm front fan that keeps everything cool without making much noise. At just 13 decibels, you’ll barely notice it’s running.
The modular design is what really sets this case apart. We love how the side panels can be swapped around to customize the look. The windowed panel lets us show off our components, and the ventilated panels improve airflow when needed.
Building in this case was surprisingly easy. Despite its compact size, there’s plenty of room for components. We installed a full-sized ATX power supply without any issues. The case also supports graphics cards up to 255mm (or 285mm if you remove the inner chassis).
Storage options are plentiful with space for two 3.5″ drives and two 2.5″ SSDs. The tool-free drive bays made installation quick and straightforward. The dual-chamber design separates the PSU from other components, which helps with heat management.
We were impressed with the cooling options available. In addition to the pre-installed front fan, there’s room for two 80mm rear fans. You can even install a 120mm or 140mm radiator if you prefer liquid cooling.
For a Mini ITX case, the Core V1 offers exceptional expansion capabilities. There are two expansion slots, which is perfect if you need to add a dedicated graphics card. The front panel includes two USB 3.0 ports along with headphone and mic jacks.
The cube shape makes this case stand out on a desk, and at 10.2″ x 12.4″ x 10.9″, it won’t take up too much space.
While it’s not the smallest Mini ITX case on the market, the extra space means better airflow and easier installation. We found the build quality to be excellent, with sturdy steel construction that doesn’t flex or rattle.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best mini ITX case can be tricky. We’ve gathered the most important factors to consider when shopping for your next compact PC case.
Size Considerations
Size matters a lot with mini ITX cases. Think about where you’ll put your PC and how much space you have.
Some cases are truly tiny, while others are a bit bigger but offer more room for parts. Measure your desk or shelf space before buying.
Component Compatibility
Always check if your parts will fit! Not all mini ITX cases can hold full-sized graphics cards or tall CPU coolers.
Cooling Options
Good airflow is crucial in small cases. Look for cases with smart vent placement and fan mounting options.
Some mini ITX cases support water cooling, which can be great for high-performance builds. Check if the case has space for radiators if you plan to use liquid cooling.
Build Quality and Materials
A quality case should feel solid. Aluminum cases tend to be lighter and dissipate heat better, while steel offers more durability at a lower price.
Port Selection
| Port Type | Importance | Things to Consider |
| USB Ports | Essential | Count and type (USB-C, USB 3.0) |
| Audio Jacks | Common | Headphone/mic connections |
| Other I/O | Varies | Card readers, buttons, etc. |
Aesthetics
Don’t forget about looks!
Many mini ITX cases come with glass panels, RGB lighting, or unique designs.