Starting your first Gaming PC build? While the internet is packed with DIY tips and suggestions, a large portion of those focus on the components of your build, like GPUs, RAM, hard-drives, and other items. That’s all great, but once you have those items you need a PC case to place them in, and there is an equal amount of comments online from builders who’ve made a crucial mistake – purchasing the wrong case size for your custom gaming PC.
In this article, we’re breaking down the most common gaming PC case sizes and what you need to consider to fit your dream setup.
There are hundreds of desktop PC case brands, models, and options with unique dimensions. However, there are three major case sizes to choose from – full-tower, mid-tower, and micro-ITX.
Full-tower
Full-tower PC cases are typically the largest out there. They measure between 20 and 22 inches tall, leaving plenty of space for top of the line products and add-ons for a truly unique setup.
Things to consider:
- The larger case usually includes 7-10 slots for storage and other hardware. If you need massive amounts of empty space for game data, those slots are waiting for you.
- Once you’ve installed all of your hardware, there is enough empty space to allow your machine to stay cool and ventilated, even with high spec equipment.
- If your goal is to make the most effective machine possible, you’re likely planning on using a liquid cooling method. The full-tower case is the best model for the given space available.
- Decide where you’re going to place the tower when you’re finished building – don’t forget to measure. This case isn’t a friendly option for most pre-built desk nooks, or small areas.
Mid-tower
The mid-tower case is the most commonly used PC case for both gaming and professional or everyday use. A height of 17-18 inches, and about 8 inches wide means this case has an ample amount of room to build a powerful gaming setup without dedicating an entire desk to it.
Things to consider:
- The mid-tower case fits easily in most desk configurations and storage nooks. Perfect for minimalist gaming setups or when ambiance is just as important as the technical specs.
- Typically, this mid-sized case comes with 6 or more PCI-E slots, giving any level gamer the ability to maximize storage capacity.
- You’ll need to plan out your components well for a case this size. In some instances, you may even need to practice your Tetris skills to use the available space wisely.
- Mid-tower cases aren’t typically able to incorporate liquid cooling, which means you need to balance ventilation with GPUs, so your setup doesn’t become a space heater.
Micro-tower
Micro-tower cases have become increasingly popular due to the improving quality of micro-ATX motherboards. These much smaller cases are a great choice for gamers looking to go mobile.
Things to consider:
- The micro-tower won’t fit a standard ATX motherboard. In this case, smaller isn’t necessarily cheaper. So, if you’re looking for an affordable all-use PC, a mid-tower is likely a better choice.
- Again, liquid cooling isn’t going to be an option here. You’ll even need a low-profile CPU cooler.
- Custom configurations aren’t really possible in micro-towers. Your hardware will fit only as recommended by the manufacturer, which means the size and look of the case is where you’ll be able to customize your setup most in terms of aesthetics.
