Reviews and guides focused on building PCs tend to zero in on hardware like the central and graphics processors. While that’s an understandable choice, ISITRATED.com wants to provide you with detailed information on every aspect of building a PC, and that includes the case. Some users may be surprised about how many options there are to consider when shopping for a computer case. But with ISITRATED.com here to help, you won’t be confused by your options for long.
Our review guide covers 10 of the best PC cases 2022 has to offer. We’ll also help you understand why each spec is important when considering what case to buy and offer you some answers to the most frequently asked questions concerning PC cases.
- The 10 Best Computer Cases
- NZXT H710i ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case
- CORSAIR OBSIDIAN 1000D Super-Tower Case
- Corsair 5000D Airflow Tempered Glass Mid-Tower ATX PC Case
- NZXT H210i Mini-ITX PC Gaming Case
- Cooler Master MasterCase H500P Mesh
- Fractal Design Meshify 2 ATX Case
- Thermaltake Core V21 Micro ATX Cube PC Chassis
- Lian Li PC-O11DX 011 Case
- be quiet! Dark Base PRO 900 Case
- Phanteks Eclipse P360A Mid-Tower Case
- Computer Cases Buyer’s Guide
- Size Actually Matters
- Consider the Price
- Aesthetics Do Matter
- Accessories
- Frequently Asked Questions
The 10 Best Computer Cases
| Award | Design | Computing | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incredibly easy to assemble and manage, with a simple and pleasant aesthetic |  | Check Price | |
| An incredibly versatile piece of kit ideal for seasoned PC builders |  | Check Price | |
| A real showpiece of a case with a seriously customizable cooling system |  | Check Price | |
| A truly modern PC case with extensive customization options |  | Check Price | |
| Boastful aesthetics with a formidable cooling system |  | Check Price | |
 | Check Price | ||
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NZXT H710i ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case
Incredibly easy to assemble and manage, with a simple and pleasant aesthetic
If you are looking for a PC case that has a colorful, basic design, then you should definitely consider the NZXT H710i ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case. If you have a hard time following directions and building things from scratch, this PC case comes equipped with a basic screw installation. This device also has a much faster microprocessor than many other models on the market, giving you more control over lighting and fans. For those not experienced with wiring, this model comes with enhanced cable management so your wires won’t tangle or fray.
| Form Factor | Tower |
| Motherboard Compatibility | Mini-ITX, MicroATX, ATX, and EATX |
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| Drive Bays | 7x 2.5″, 2+2x 3.5″ |
| Dimensions | 19.45 x 9.06 x 20.31 inches |
Pros
- Easy assembly
- Top-notch cable organization
- Available in black and white
- Vertical GPU mounting capabilities
Cons
- Fans have somewhat limited intake space
CORSAIR OBSIDIAN 1000D Super-Tower Case
An incredibly versatile piece of kit ideal for seasoned PC builders
One of the best PC cases to top this list is the CORSAIR OBSIDIAN 1000D Super-Tower Case. This case is specifically made with seasoned PC builders in mind. It is designed to fit just about any custom PC components and comes equipped with RGB smart lighting and tempered glass doors which make its design seem unique but simplistic.
Another great feature this case offers is the fact that you can install both an E-ATX and Mini ITX at the same time, which is typically unheard of and especially great for gamers. You can also install up to 13 fans in this case, giving it a top-notch cooling system. Both USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 ports are built right in.
| Form Factor | Super Tower |
| Motherboard Compatibility | Dual motherboard support |
| Expansion Slots | 10 |
| Drive Bays | 6x 2.5″, 5x 3.5″ |
| Dimensions | 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches |
Pros
- Perfect for gamers
- Space for two motherboards
- USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 ports included
- RGB Lighting
Cons
- On the pricer side
Corsair 5000D Airflow Tempered Glass Mid-Tower ATX PC Case
A real showpiece of a case with a seriously customizable cooling system
This Mid-tower case is designed to make for a showpiece-worthy PC build without the need for excessive fuss. It’s incredibly easy to set up and provides some smart cable management solutions to give you a clean setup with ease. Ports include two USB 3.0, one USB 3.1 Type-C, and an audio input/output combo jack.
Thanks to its vented steel front panel and the two in-built 120mm fans, it’s a total breeze to keep your components cool even during heavy gaming sessions. If you’re looking to fully optimize your cooling setup, the spacious interior fits up to ten 120mm or four 140mm cooling fans, along with multiple radiators up to 360mm. The built-in fans also include a PWM fan repeater, giving you ultimate control over your cooling system.
| Form Factor | Mid-tower |
| Motherboard Compatibility | ATX |
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| Drive Bays | 2x 3.5″, 4x 2.5″ |
| Dimensions | 20.47 x 9.65 x 20.47 inches |
Pros
- Install up to 4 SSDs and 2 HDDs
- Simple installation
- Sleek and showy design
- Hugely customizable cooling system
Cons
- Dust filter is less than ideal
NZXT H210i Mini-ITX PC Gaming Case
A truly modern PC case with extensive customization options
One of the best computer casing options on this list is the NZXT H210i. This particular model is not only Amazon’s top-rated option, but it also has a tempered glass panel that only requires a single screw for assembly. NZXT even offers a proprietary app to let you control your RGB lighting.
The cooling system is also top-notch, making use of two AER F120mm fans that keep your motherboard from overheating. NZXT made this tower more modern in that it is equipped with a USB 3.1 Gen 2-compatible USB-C connector for multi-use. That makes it especially great for gaming.
| Form Factor | Mid-tower |
| Motherboard Compatibility | Mini-ITX |
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| Drive Bays | 7x 2.5”, 2+1x 3.5” |
| Dimensions | 14.65 x 8.27 x 13.74 inches |
Pros
- Great for gamers
- App-controlled RGB lighting
- Easy assembly
- Modern and sleek design
Cons
- Poor build quality
Cooler Master MasterCase H500P Mesh
Boastful aesthetics with a formidable cooling system
Simple PC cases are usually very basic in design, but if you are into designs that pop, the best option for you may be the Cooler Master MasterCase H500P Mesh. This model comes equipped with many amazing features such as the two pre-installed RGB fans that will circulate fresh air throughout use to prevent overheating.
The light gray tempered glass side panel is really something special, allowing you to see through your device and watch it work in front of your eyes. It also supports large GPUs and has two PCI slots for you to mount your gaming cards. This device also has a liquid cooling system that works overtime to make sure your motherboard stays cool.
| Form Factor | Full tower |
| Motherboard Compatibility | E-ATX up to 12 “x 10.7”, ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX |
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| Drive Bays | 2, 8, or 10 |
| Dimensions | 21.42 x 9.53 x 21.34 inches |
Pros
- Liquid Cooling system
- Comes in purple, red, blue, green, and white
- Clear view inside
- RGB led lights
Cons
- Some Amazon reviewers complain this case comes damaged on arrival
Fractal Design Meshify 2 ATX Case
The Meshify 2 from Fractal Design provides a bold, rugged aesthetic to rival its competition, thanks to its angular mesh design while allows for filtered airflow. Its innovative design allows you to open up the case to fully expose the interior on three sides. This case comes with two USB 3.0 and a USB 3.1 Type-C port, along with separate microphone and headphone ports.
A detachable nylon front filter allows for even greater airflow, adding to the already impressive cooling capabilities of the three built-in Dynamic X2 GP-14 fans. If this isn’t quite enough for you, then you have the option to expand up to a total of nine fans.
| Form Factor | Mid-tower |
| Motherboard Compatibility | E-ATX |
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| Drive Bays | 6x 3.5″, 2x 2.5″ |
| Dimensions | 21.34 x 9.45 x 18.66 inches |
Pros
- Extensive cooling facilities
- Huge capacity for storage
- Can be easily opened from three sides
Cons
- Built-in fans can be slightly noisy
Thermaltake Core V21 Micro ATX Cube PC Chassis
If you’re looking for the best PC cases that are great for gamers, look no further than the Thermaltake Core V21 Micro ATX Cube PC Chassis. This particular model comes equipped with many amazing features that make it worth your money. You get advanced ventilation from a cooling system like no other.
It keeps the components of your PC cool so they don’t wear out. Also, this stackable smaller case is specifically built for those that don’t have a lot of space. If you are worried that you won’t get what you pay for with this product, you shouldn’t fret. You get a 3-year warranty with this device.
| Form Factor | Case |
| Motherboard Compatibility | Mini ITX, Micro ATX, ATX Motherboard |
| Expansion Slots | 2 |
| Drive Bays | 2×3.5″, 2×2.5″ |
| Dimensions | 16.7 x 12.6 x 13.2 in |
Pros
- 3-year warranty included
- Advanced ventilation
- Stackable and small
- Pre-installed fans
- Great for gamers
Cons
- Ventilation system is a little weak
Lian Li PC-O11DX 011 Case
Another great PC case option is the Lian Li PC-O11DX 011 Case. It comes equipped with tempered and aluminum glass side panels that offer quite a bit of support to your motherboard. Additionally, it has the capability to have quite a large cooling system. If you are worried that this doesn’t have enough ports, you shouldn’t fret. It has a USB 3.1 Type-C port, two USB 3.0 ports, and HD audio ports. It’s a great, basic case for anyone that is trying to build their own device.
| Form Factor | Mid Tower |
| Motherboard Compatibility | Dual Compatibility |
| Expansion Slots | 8 |
| Drive Bays | 2x 3.5″, 4x 2.5″ |
| Dimensions | 20.5 x 14.4 x 22.2 in |
Pros
- Basic design
- Easy setup
- Space saving
- SSD expansion slots
Cons
be quiet! Dark Base PRO 900 Case
The be quiet! Dark Base PRO 900 is another high-quality option that packs quite the punch when it comes to its design – it can certainly earn you bonus points if you want to stand out amongst the competition. The in-built RGB LED illumination really makes this case pop. This case’s cooling system is basically completely silent thanks to the inclusion of three silent wing PWM fans.
The side panel is made from high-quality tempered glass that is not only durable but also provides a crisp look and premium feel to your case. The motherboard tray is also completely movable, so you can place it wherever you like according to your tastes.
| Form Factor | Mid-tower |
| Motherboard Compatibility | E-ATX and XL-ATX motherboards |
| Expansion Slots | 8 |
| Drive Bays | 2x 5.25″, 7x 3.5″ (shared), 14x 2.5″ (12 shared) |
| Dimensions | 26 x 13 x 27 inches |
Pros
- Five HDD and ten SDD slots
- Completely silent
- Relocatable motherboard tray
- RGB Led Illumination
- High-quality cooling performance
Cons
- The manual can be hard to understand
Phanteks Eclipse P360A Mid-Tower Case
Another top choice for PC cases is the Phanteks Eclipse P360A. A full-metal front panel and ultra-fine performance mesh allow simultaneously for high airflow and excellent dust filtration. With support for up to nine total fans, you can be sure of a quality cooling system in this case.
The two integrated D-RGB PWM fans can be synchronized with compatible motherboards and D-RGB products for a truly custom and impressive aesthetic. You won’t be left in the dust in terms of ports, either, thanks to its two USB 3.0 ports and individual microphone and headphone ports.
| Form Factor | Mid-tower |
| Motherboard Compatibility | E-ATX, ATX, micro-ATX, mini-ITX |
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| Drive Bays | 2x 3.5″, 3x 2.5″ |
| Dimensions | 17.9 x 7.87 x 18.3 inches |
Pros
- Excellent dust filtration and airflow
- D-RGB lighting can be expanded and synchronized
- Great for simple ATX systems
- Affordable
Cons
- Build quality is somewhat cheap
Computer Cases Buyer’s Guide
If you’re a gamer and you’re interested in building your own PC, you’re probably going to focus most of your attention on the hardware. However, you shouldn’t neglect the process of picking out a great PC case. Below is a buyer’s guide to finding the best PC cases on the market.
Size Actually Matters
If you aren’t aware by now, there are primarily three different sizes for PC cases: full tower, mid-tower, and mini-ITX. Full towers are the most common towers to buy out there because they fit just about any motherboard. While most mid towers run up to 18 inches high, they fit systems that have a CPU cooler, include a couple of spaces for your graphics card, and basically are the best for storage purposes.
Full towers are large and measure more than 20 inches. Full towers are great for those using a large and extended ATX motherboard. However, If you’ve got yourself a computer desk with a tower holder, be sure the dimensions still fit. You should get a full tower if you plan on incorporating and customizing your water cooling filtration. Many ITX cases are for those looking for something more basic, as they can’t even hold a full graphics card.
Remember, these are just cases. You’ll also need to get yourself a PSU. Check out our article on gaming power supplies.
Consider the Price
With just about anything you buy, you have to consider the price you’re paying. In many cases, you get what you pay for, but there are also a few instances in which you can really find a great deal. With PC cases, it’s best to spend a little more, or else you’re likely going to get a device that is stripped down to the basics.
While basic and cheaper models may leave a little more money in your pocket, it all depends on what you want. You definitely want a device that comes with USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 ports. Although cheaper models have seen their fair share of advancements over the years, they aren’t necessarily the best. As a rule of thumb, the best cases are usually more expensive.
Aesthetics Do Matter
Many of the casing options above include features that make the design really pop. For example, many include RGB lighting and transparent tempered glass which allow you to view your motherboard while it goes to work. Additionally, there are smaller casing options that can fit in a room perfectly and are great for those that live a minimalistic lifestyle.
They even have features that are included in full towers that cost a little more. Cable management, for example, can create a tidier gaming environment. If you need a PC case that stands out, you obviously have to spend a little more money to acquire something that suits your needs.
Accessories
Deciding on the space required for hard drives, sound cards, Ethernet cards, and video capture cards is just as important as finding space for the GPU and motherboard. At this point, you are likely also mulling on the look of the chassis.
Having a lot of USB ports, headphone jacks, and buttons on the front and sides of the processor case may be convenient for people who do not care so much about appearances, but people who care about having a sleek and classy-looking system would not want the connectors looking messy and disorganized. Therefore, the provision would have to be made to shift the internal components accordingly.
Bigger processor cases also feature more expansion slots. These slots offer places for more video cards and upgrades for the workstation. However, a smaller workstation case offers a compact look and does not take up as much space beside the processor. A smaller processor case also tends to cost less than the larger ones.
Most new expensive processors have features such as rubber-lined holes known as grommets used to organize and route the cables behind the motherboard. This allows for better airflow and a more organized look, though these features are generally present in more expensive and larger processor cases.
Tool-free organization features, such as plastic locks holding the processor case together for easy access, are good for any user in order to prevent too much fuss and a waste of resources when looking to upgrade and repair the system.
Cable management and the ease with which the case can be opened and examined are other factors to look out for. Having additional ports and expansion slots is always good for people looking to expand and upgrade their systems in the future. However, in the end, it all depends on the preferences of the user.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best PC cases?
The best case on this list is definitely the Cooler Master MasterCase. It has so many amazing features that make it one of Amazon’s top recommended models. Since it implements 2 RGB fans, it provides a higher quality of air than many other models on this list.
The Cooler Master MasterCase is also the way to go if you value aesthetics, since the RGB lighting system projects some really beautiful colors. The light grey tempered glass also makes the Cooler Master stand out in a big way, in that it provides a clear side view. While most cases are usually black, the Cooler Master’s approach to color is a refreshing alternative.
Which PC case has the best airflow?
Once again, the Cooler Master is the way to go if you’re looking for a better product with great airflow and the best cooling system around. Its built-in system comes with 360mm of radiator support. The fans are also top-notch and keep your motherboard from overheating.
What PC case should I get in 2022?
Depending on what you need in a model, the best idea is to go with your own personal preference. While many casing options out there are on the cheaper side, if you’re going for quality then you should spend more money on options that have more features. For example, do they have RGB LED lighting? If not, you definitely aren’t getting a product that stands out. RGB lighting enables a look like no other. The LED lighting makes the tempered glass and casing really stand out.
You shouldn’t just pay attention to RGB lighting, though. You should find options that incorporate USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 ports. If you have the space, a full tower usually is the way to go. However, mid towers are more popular and still offer features that really make it worth your while.
What is the best budget PC case?
The Thermaltake Core V21 SPCC computer chassis is quite possibly the best budget casing on this list because it comes equipped with many amazing features packed into a smaller body. This model supports M ATX and Mini ITX motherboards, and you can remove all the panels for a simple solution to install parts. There is also a great deal of ventilation that really protects your motherboard. Not only is this device small and stackable, but it is a great option for those looking for something more minimalistic. It may be small, but it packs a big punch that makes it worth your money.
Conclusion
When shopping for a PC case, you have to keep many things in mind in order to get hold of the best model for you. While many casing options come equipped with RGB lighting and USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 ports, some do not. The best idea is to spend a little more on your casing, otherwise the features listed above may not be included. While purchasing a case will ultimately come down to personal preference, you will have to decide what you really need. More features equate more money spent, while fewer features obviously cost less.
We at ISITRATED.com pride ourselves on being knowledgeable on just about any form of technology. Hopefully, if you are in the market for a PC case, you will consider our list of the best options above. Whether you’re looking for an ATX or something smaller, you should be able to find something to fulfill your needs here.
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