The 6 Best Motherboards With 8 RAM Slots in 2025

The 6 Best Motherboards With 8 RAM Slots in 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated April 1, 2025

I updated this article in June after checking for any new releases in 2025. That said, there haven’t been any new 8-slot boards since early 2022.

Today’s 8 RAM options run on HEDT chipsets that are a few years old. These are still very powerful for niche requirements but will have some diminishing returns compared to modern mid-range chipsets (e.g. the below picks have limited Intel processor and DDR5 compatibility).

With that in mind, unless you were aware of these limitations before even reading this article and know what you’re doing, I would highly recommend any builder serious about high-end performance checking out out my premium E-ATX motherboard feature. The top few picks in this article include options that not only boast support for more modern CPUs/GPUs, but also DDR5 support up to 192GB. Even for memory-focussed users, this combo will nearly always outweigh DDR4 @ 256GB.

If you told me there would be motherboards with 256GB RAM support 20 years ago, I would have laughed at your funny joke.

And yet, here we are!

AMD and Intel’s innovations have come so far that there are now premium offerings that boast 8 DIMM slots capable of up to 32GB each.

While the average user does not need this amount of RAM, if you’re building a serious setup for production, hosting, or the most powerful PC you possibly can, then this capability could really take you to the next level.

Today’s feature is here to guide you through the best motherboards with 8 RAM slots. These are premium offerings with lots more going for them than just the RAM, too.

Best AMD Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots

MSI Creator TRX40

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Best Intel Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots

ASUS ROG Strix X299-E

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Budget AMD Pick

ASUS Prime TRX40-PRO

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Read Review

Budget Intel Pick

GIGABYTE X299X AORUS Master

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

High-End AMD Pick

ASUS ROG Zenith II Extreme Alpha

Our Rating: /10

Read Review

High-End Intel Pick

ASUS ROG Rampage VI Extreme Encore

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Read Review

Best AMD Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: MSI Creator TRX40

We’re starting with AMD in no particular order (both leading manufacturers are kings in the high-end desktop space, though AMD is a great choice for those after a CPU with the most cores).

The MSI Creator TRX40 is a fantastic offering. While no mobo with 8 ram slots is cheap, this option achieves a great sweet spot; balancing most of the features you expect in a premium motherboard, while not carrying the 4-figure price tag some HEDT hardware can creep up to.

This Threadripper motherboard doesn’t just boast 8 RAM slots but also supports up to 256GB DDR4 RAM.

Don’t assume this is the case for all 8-sotted offerings, many only go up to 128GB/even 64GB in some budget cases.

What’s more, its JEDEC RAM capacity allows you to achieve 256GB RAM @ 3200MHz, this is an insane speed for this quantity of JEDEC which we would often expect to be bottlenecked further at these amounts.

This is an E-ATX motherboard, with an incredible level of power drawn across the board. With a Threadripper CPU and powerful GPU/s, we can’t imagine any builder, be it for rendering, gaming, or other high-end needs, would be left wanting more power than a build on this motherboard could offer.

Speaking of GPUs; with 4x PCIe 4.0 x16 slots and compatibility for 3-way Nvidia SLI or 3-way AMD Crossfire GPU setups, the amount of graphical capability here is insane. I’m really impressed by MSI’s ability to balance the power draw between the RAM, CPU, GPU, and other onboard features.

The motherboard excels storage-wise too, with 6 SATA 6Gb/s ports & up to 3 M.2 storage slots. I expect this to be a decent option (alongside a premium PC case with high storage capacity) for those after a server motherboard or one for virtual hosting.

On the notion of overclocking your key specs; the Creator TRX40 also lives up to its HEDT name. With plenty of heatsinks operating through the board to maintain appropriate thermal control.

You might not have the bells and whistles of our pricier picks below. But relative to many other options on the market, you can get expect to achieve some impressive speeds.

It’s also worth touching on the I/O panel port and Wi-Fi/audio availability here too. With a whopping 9 x USB 3.2 type-A outputs (some equipped for Flash BIOS use also), a 20G USB type-C port, in-built Intel Wi-Fi 6/bluetooth, Realtek ALC1220 Codec/outputs for high-quality 7.1 audio & 10G Super LAN.

The inner connectivity is equally impressive, with tonnes of 4-pin fan connectors, ARGB/RGB headers, and all the other ports you’d expect.

What else is there to say? Not only is this the best motherboard with 8 DIMM slots for AMD builders, but it’s an offering that excels in all the categories HEDT users demand.

If you’re looking for the most power possible without getting into nearly 4 figures for your motherboard alone, this is an incredible choice.

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Best Intel Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: ASUS ROG Strix X299-E Gaming II

If you are instead, after an Intel LGA 2066 motherboard with 8 DIMM slot capability, our top pick comfortably goes to this ASUS offering.

Coming in at a very impressive price point for the features, it’s a worthy rival to our top AMD choice.

With its 8 RAM slots also supporting up to 256GB RAM at impressive speeds (or lower quantities at up to 4266MHz). Whether it’s quantity, speed, or a mix of both, you won’t find better RAM capacity at this price point.

With a very impressive set of PCI-e 3.0 x16 slots, you will have the option to install up to 3-way GPU builds with SLI or Crossfire.

ASUS is also a great reliable brand as far as decent BIOs and onboard overclocking software go; often ranking very favorably in benchmarks if you’re after a fantastic OC motherboard.

Another offering with 3 x M.2 slots, the E Gaming II isn’t just great for storage, but also slightly trumps our top AMD pick with an extra 2 SATA ports totaling 8 (6 was already impressive!).

Port-wise, there’s a lot on offer here. With 9 x USB 3.2 Type-A & 1 x Type-C ports, as well as a SupremeFX CODEC S1220A leading its audio ports are perfect for high-quality speakers or headphones. There is little left to desire network connectivity-wise (the LAN port is 2.5G vs our top AMD pick’s 10G, but I don’t expect many users will notice this difference much).

Also for those aesthetic focussed folk, ASUS is a great brand for offering onboard ARGB lighting with the fantastic ASUS ARGB software/onboard headers. I’ve seen these create beautifully illuminated builds alongside an RGB PC case.

Alongside one of the Core-i9 10000X series CPUs in its X299 socket, it’s hard to imagine any type of user wanting more from a high-end build.

At an incredible price for the offering, this is comfortably our top pick for the best Intel mobo with 8 RAM slots.

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Best Budget AMD Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: Asus Prime TRX40-PRO

Looking for a cheap motherboard with 8 RAM slots feels like a bit of an oxymoron; you’re not going to find the budget options of the mainstream market here.

But with that said, there’s still a huge difference in the price range between the top 8 DIMM options and the cheapest. I’m pleased to say this AMD offering is a very decent choice for those with a tighter budget.

One of the cheapest Threadripper motherboards available today, I’m impressed that the TRX40-PRO still boats 256GB memory support across its 8 DIMM outputs. I expect with the onboard specs, you won’t get quite the same speeds as that of our top AMD pick @ 256GB, but the board will still be capable of a very impressive speed/GB balance when compared to a huge majority of other market offerings.

One of the biggest changes to our more expensive offerings is a slightly reduced power draw to PCIe. With 3 4.0 slots, it’s still a fantastic capability for a budget, but supports a max of 2-way SLI/CLX instead of our main choice’s triple-GPU capability. It’s really up to your if this matters, dual GPUs will still offer incredible utility for most HEDT builds.

The unit still boasts plenty of onboard M.2, VRM, and active chipset thermal protection with its heatsink arrays (alongside the great ASUS UEFI BIOs, you’ll have plenty of customization available).

For storage, we’re pleased to see the TRX40-PRO boasts 3 x M.2 slots and 8 x SATA ports at 6Gb/s; if your prime needs are storage, this may even be a better choice for you than our overall best AMD pick!

Port-wise, you still have a great array of connectivity, with 9 x USB-Type A, 1 x USB Type-C, and decent onboard audio. Compared to our more expensive picks, it’s worth noting the outputs are slightly less capable, with only 3 of the Type-A USB ports being 3.2 Gen 2 (we expect most users will be fine balancing their needs here though).

There is no included Wi-Fi or Bluetooth onboard. We expect this has been done to achieve both the fantastic price and also minimize the power draw. If you do need these, a good Wi-Fi card and Bluetooth adapter will do the job just fine.

The budget hasn’t compromised on headers either, with decent fan, RGB & ARGB connectivity.

If the reduced ports, no Bluetooth/Wi-FI, missing third GPU capability, and slightly lower expected RAM speeds don’t bother you much, know I very nearly made this our top overall AMD pick. It’s great for the price and I was impressed by the performance I saw from it.

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Best Budget Intel Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: GIGABYTE X299X AORUS Master

Although our top pick is already a very cheap 256GB motherboard offering, there’s another compelling option in the AORUS Master.

Previously highlighted on our E-ATX motherboard feature, I consider it one of the best HEDT options on the market and have reviewed some fantastic builds operating on it.

Let’s start with one of the most impressive capabilities of the X299X; its PCIe bandwidth is capable of 4-way GPU builds (with a 48-lane CPU).

You’d be forgiven for thinking this means it’s better than many of our pricier offerings, and for those focussed on graphical capability, it’s a very compelling choice!

RAM-wise, the system still boasts the ability to support 256GB RAM (we expect slightly lower speeds than the top overall/high-end Intel choices, but not significant in the grand scheme of things). Bear in mind that if your CPU is <48 lanes, the maximum support will be 128GB RAM (still a fantastic amount even for a production machine).

Port-wise, the motherboard is still plenty equipped with 9 x USB 3.2 Type-A and 1 x Type-C. The audio codec is a little more basic than our higher ends choices but still capable of great sound output to the average listener (especially with a good pair of headphones). We’re happy to see the board still includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth too.

The inner connectivity is still good, with plentiful fan headers and outputs for the front I/O panel.

The only thing to reiterate is that to access its 4-way GPU capability, and many other features (including 256GB RAM instead of 128GB max) the motherboard requires a 48-lane CPU to draw from.

That’s the secret to the X299X, part of its lower price tag is achieved by utilizing more capability from the onboard CPU.

While more expensive offerings definitely still require high-lane CPUs for their capability, they can get more done with less. With this dependence, you can also expect to be a little more limited speed-wise if you choose to use all of the Master’s functionality (e.g. quad GPU, 256GB RAM, max storage).

So if you’re a top-end user, you may desire one of the other picks. But on a budget, there is no contender more worthy than the Aorus Master.

Our Rating: 9/10

Best High-End AMD Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: ASUS ROG Zenith II Extreme Alpha

Now, we will say that we think the mid-range or budget AMD board picks will satisfy many users, even those after a HEDT setup with 256GB RAM.

That said, if you want the best sTRX4 motherboard possible in the premium price range, this is our choice for you.

With its E-ATX form factor, the Zenith II Extreme Alpha has a feature list as long as its name and is an incredible solution for balancing high-end RAM, CPU, GPU, and storage combinations.

With its 8 DIMM slots, this ASUS offering doesn’t just support 256GB RAM, but according to user reports, can handle that quantity at 3600MHz.

This is an incredible achievement on modern hardware, if your needs are of a serious production/rendering persuasian, this RAM capability could be a game-changer for high-end productivity.

The PCI-express 4.0 x16 capability is what you would hope for in a top-end choice, with excellent bandwidths capable of 3-way SLI/Crossfire and unrivaled overclocking capability.

Now, onto storage…

The Extreme Alpha boasts, wait for it…5 PCIe 4.0 bandwidth M.2 drive & 8 x SATA ports!

We are floored by how ASUS has managed to utilize the power draw to incorporate this on top of all of the other specs throughout the motherboard and we can’t imagine anybody needing more storage capability.

There is no compromise on ports either, with 2 x USB Type-C, 6 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 & 4 x USB3.2 Gen 1 outputs, we haven’t come across a motherboard with more USB connectivity. These are accompanied by a 10Gbps ethernet port, AX200/Wi-fi 6, and a fantastic codec for high-quality audio output.

Internal headers are what you would expect in a premium ASUS mobo too, with plenty of connectivity for ARGB/RGB lighting and 4-pin fans.

As you’d expect at this high-end price, it’s also one of the most beautiful motherboards we’ve come across.

Not only does it have some gorgeous ARGB lighting surrounding the top and bottom, but its various heatsinks are designed in a way that has clearly put aesthetics in the equation (without compromise on thermal control capability, something the Extreme Alpha is unrivaled for).

Speaking of thermal control, with all of its onboard heatsinks, intelligent layout, various buttons to test/switch during failed OCs, and fantastic BIOs, the Extreme Alpha is one of the best overclocking motherboards available for Threadripper (or any socket, for that matter).

There is even a customizable OLED screen to display either key thermals or other overclocking stats you’re focussed on at a given time.

Is there anything I don’t like about this offering? Well, I could certainly say it’s easy to praise something that is this expensive because it has all of the bells and whistles you can imagine. But that comes at a price that might be overkill for some builds.

So with that in mind, ask yourself: do you need everything the Extreme Alpha offers to enjoy the benefits of 8 RAM slots? No, our above choices are very respectable offerings.

But if you want to build on the most powerful AMD HEDT motherboard possible in nearly every sense of the word, then this is the choice for you.

Our Rating: 9/10

Best High-End Intel Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: ASUS ROG Rampage VI Extreme Encore

Last but most certainly not least is our premium 8 DIMM Intel motherboard option.

The Extreme Encore is made for the top echelon of HEDT and overclocking with its 16 70 amp power stages giving an incredible capability across the board.

Its 8 RAM slots are capable of 256GB with decent speeds, its PCIe capable can support up to 3-way Crossfire/SLI & with 3 x m.2 outputs and 8 x SATA ports, it’s got fantastic storage allotment.

Similar to our top AMD pick, the overclocking capability is top class. Working alongside the fantastic AI overclocking/UEFI BIOs is an active VRM heatsink & onboard M.2 heatsinks (not to mention an incredible array of fan headers).

It’s one of the best-looking motherboards, with its metal heatsinks sharply covering many of the more traditional “ugly” board components, with ASUS design lighting on the front and further illumination on the bottom; this would look gorgeous in a clear PC case.

One thing we will say; if you are trying to support the best of the best as we expect for this price range, we think that AMD may be the better choice for you.

That’s not to say the Extreme Encore isn’t capable of an immensely powerful build for rendering, production, server-building, or more.

We just recognize that our AMD premium pick above offers unparalleled connectivity with PCIe 4.0 and its 5 M.2 slots amongst all the other incredible features.

That said, if your heart is set on an Intel HEDT, this is comfortably our choice for the best 8 RAM slot motherboard for LGA 2066 and still packs an incredible punch.

Our Rating: 9.25/10

LGA 1200, 1700 or AM4 Motherboards with 8 RAM Slots

We appreciate some users may be looking for significant RAM on mainstream, non-HEDT motherboards.

However, for 8 RAM slots, you need to be looking at LGA 2066and sTRX4 motherboards.

Not only are these the only type with support for 8 slots, but also the only sockets that can accommodate up to 256GB of RAM.

On top of this, if you are building a production/hosting machine that requires 8 RAM slots, we expect you’ll probably want a HEDT motherboard to match anyway. These machines give you CPUs with insane amounts of cores, the power to draw lots of PCIe slots (for multi-GPU builds), and much more.

If however, you want to build a setup with mainstream GPUs, then check our best E-ATX motherboard picks, which include premium AM4/LGA1200 mobos (some of which can accommodate a hefty 128GB RAM).

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

Kaelum Ross, BSc is the Lead Writer at What in Tech and a leading authority in PC hardware and software. With a career as a senior IT professional, Kaelum has led multi-million dollar projects covering everything from bespoke software development to complex Windows hardware upgrades. Today, Kaelum uses his expertise to serve What in Tech's readers and has been featured in numerous global publications including New York Magazine and Lifewire.

The 8 Best 1440p 240hz Monitors of 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated April 1, 2025

1440p and 240hz? What a time to be alive!

For those after the best gaming display possible, this combination hits an incredible sweet spot between resolution and refresh rate, perfect for competitive and immersive titles.

Today’s feature is here to break down the best 1440p 240hz monitors available for your setup.

Top Picks

Overall Best 1440p 240hz Monitor: Alienware AW2721D
Best Budget 1440p 240hz Monitor: Omen X 27” 240 Hz 1ms Monitor
Best Curved 1440p 240hz Monitor: SAMSUNG 32-inch Odyssey G7
Best Ultrawide 1440p 240hz Monitor (High-End Choice): SAMSUNG 49-inch Odyssey G9
Second Best IPS 1440p 240hz Monitor: Acer Nitro XV272U Xbmiipruzx
Lowest Latency 1440p 240hz Monitor: AOC AGON AG273QZ

Best 1440p 240hz Monitor Alternatives

Best 1440p 155hz Monitor: Dell S2719DGF
Best 240hz Monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM

Upcoming 1440p 240hz Monitors

Eve Spectrum 1440p 240hz

Quick Word on Availability/Where to Buy 1440p 240hz Monitors

This technology is new to the market. Therefore there are, unfortunately, some issues with availability.

Amazon has by far the best selection as it stands, but we will also be including any upcoming 240hz 1440p monitors that may be worth considering and are regularly updating this list to ensure it’s as accurate as possible for availability/pricing.

Hopefully at least one of our top picks (which are all worthy of a high-end setup) are available for you. But if not, we’ve finished the list with some alternatives if you have no luck finding this spec of monitor available. Now, without further ado…

Overal Best 1440p 240hz Monitor: Alienware AW2721D

Arguably one of the most powerful gaming displays on the market today in any category at its price-point, this Alienware IPS QHD 240hz monitor is a beast.

We previously listed it as our top high-end pick. But over time, Alienware has lowered the price of this offering so it’s actually only slightly more expensive than the other mid-range choices (despite it offering significantly better specs in certain areas). You really feel like you’re getting a premium choice for a deceptively low price with the AW2721D.

Boasting Vega DisplayHDR 600, 1ms GTG response time, and a gorgeous IPS display, this offering has everything we would hope for to accommodate the beast-like 2560 x 1440 240hz leading the monitor’s specs (in other words, you don’t feel like you’re buying a monitor just for 240fps and QHD, the picture quality and latency matches the demands of a premium gaming/e-sports setup).

But let us specifically call out where this Alienware pick excels over the mid-range options below:

Up to 600-nits brightness is a fantastic feat with everything else the monitor offers; combined with HDR and the monitor’s contrast capabilities, you’re going to get some fantastic blacks/whites.
98% DCI-P3 color coverage – an insane spec for a monitor focussed on resolution and framerate. You can expect a very vibrant, colorful picture.
One of the best build qualities of any gaming monitor on the market – with a beautiful, sturdy design, reliable tilt/swiveling options, and one of the best HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB output setups on the list.

We love how all of these specs have been built on an IPS panel. We would expect, with its clear quality across the board in color, contrast, and latency, for this Alienware offering to be on a TA/VN panel.

But that’s the beauty of this pick; it doesn’t feel like any corners have been cut.

If you’re in the market for the perfect display for esports, immersive gaming, or another type of high-end setup, we think this is the one for you.

At an incredible price for the way it balances refresh rate, picture quality, response time, build and design; this is, without doubt, the best 1440p 240hz monitor on the market today.

Best Budget 1440p 240hz Monitor: HP Omen X 27” 240 Hz 1ms Monitor

Update note: While this HP Omen choice is usually going to be one of the cheapest 240hz 1440p monitors available for you, be sure to check the prices of our top overall, curved, and second-best IPS options, as these are all occasionally on discount.

Ranking consistently as one of the top picks through all of our updates, this cheap 240hz 1440p HP monitor is fantastic, and our favorite TN panel choice.

The Omen X’s screen still boasts a lot of what gamers will look for in such a high-spec display, including:

1ms response time: perfect for avoiding ghosting on hud-based games and blur on fast-motion titles
AMD Radeon Freesync 2 HDR & G-sync compatibility
With 90% DCI P3 color spectrum and up to 400 nits brightness, you’ll be getting fantastic color accuracy for TN.

Although the specs aren’t as good as our top pick, you can still expect a great picture quality for competitive gaming, immersive titles, media, and general use.

While a lot of people prefer IPS over a TN panel, the monitor still demonstrates sharp colors, blacks, and decent viewing angles.

With its low latency (1ms) and high refresh rate, this is one of the best monitors for Fortnite, PUBG, and readers who take competitive gaming/esports seriously but can’t stretch their budgets any further.

Having a reliable low input lag is, in our opinion, the most important quality in choosing the best budget 1440p 240hz monitor, so we’re pleased to see this pick retains that despite being one of the cheapest picks on the list.

The one notable downside of the Omen X is its stand/mount. While it looks fantastic, it’s disappointing that for this price-range, HP hasn’t included a rotatable/tiltable stand or easy cable routing/management options in the back.

With that said, the important thing here is the quality of the picture and response; and boy does the Omen X smash this department at a price we would not expect this to be achieved in.

Not only is this the best cheap 1440p 240hz monitor, but if it’s a very respectable alternative to our top Alienware pick, and worth picking up if that model is out of stock or your price range.

Best Curved 1440p 240hz Monitor: SAMSUNG 32-inch Odyssey G7

We know that for many gamers, having a curved monitor is an important factor (if you’re never used one before, it’s hard to describe the additional immersion it can add in words).

If that describes you, then this Samsung QHD display is a fantastic choice and comes in at a very impressive low price-point (that often rivals our cheapest 1440p 240hz display picks).

With a choice of the usual 27″ size or a gorgeous large 32″ display, the Odyssey G7 comes with up to 600-nits brightness, 1ms grey to grey response time, and decent color accuracy. In other words, the Odyssey G7 still meets many of the specs integral to a premium gaming monitor.

The 1000R curve is stunning too. The angles from the curvature provide a unique, immersive bonus that suits what we think most people will be looking for.

This Samsung offering is a VA 1440p 240hz display; this panel type is good at balancing viewing angles/display quality and reliable response times at a lower price.

So with all that said, why isn’t this our top overall/budget choice? Well it is a close one to call, but the Odyssey G7 has a couple of slight cons:

While the picture quality and brightness on this monitor is still great by most gaming display standards, the other main choices on this list come out slightly ahead in providing a very vibrant picture (especially the Alienware pick).
Some users report G-sync issues in regards to flickering (though using this software isn’t a necessity for a great display and an overwhelming majority of users appear to have no issue)
The package doesn’t include the high-quality cabling you’d expect for a premium monitor. To get the full potential of your picture, you’ll need to pick up some VEGA-certified cabling (it’s not a big deal, just a bit disappointing for a monitor of this caliber).

Now don’t mistake us; this is still a fantastic display.

The build quality/design is beautiful (as you’d expect from Samsung), the curvature is fantastic and nearly all the specs are very impressive for being one of the cheapest choices on this list.

If a curved gaming monitor is important to you, we think the Odyssey G7 is a great choice.

Best Ultrawide 1440p 240hz Monitor (High-End Choice): SAMSUNG 49-inch Odyssey G9

What an incredible display this is.

Let’s start by being clear; this is the most expensive monitor choice on the list by far and is a very premium offering.

But if you have the budget, what you are getting is a pick that excels across the board and offers an unparalleled gaming/work screen real estate.

Let’s start with the obvious, and re-iterate; this is a 49″ super ultrawide 240hz monitor.

The “super” isn’t just a marketing term, this means the monitor extends beyond the usual UWQHD resolution of 3440×1440 (21:9) and is instead a whopping 5120×1440 (32:9).

Doubling the width of the standard 16:9 aspect ratio, what you are getting in the Odyssey G9 is essentially 2 traditional 1440p monitors in 1.

Reaching this as QHD alone is impressive, but with 240hz too? This display is simply stunning and alongside its very deep 1000R curvature, offers incredible levels of immersion during gaming, and a wonderful space for productivity/general use

We’re pleased to say that this monitor excels in its other main specs too, with up to 1000 cd/m^2 and a 2500:1 contrast ratio, the blacks/whites and brightness on this display are breathtaking (especially with HDR1000 content).

Color-wise, you’re getting a 125% typical SRGB coverage, 0.95 DCI color gamut, and 92% Adobe RGB coverage. The panel is VA, but between these specs and the QLED backlighting/quantum-dot technology the display runs with, the monitor is still able to offer the kind of picture vibrancy you expect from a high-end choice.

We’re happy to still see a 1ms GTG response time here too, making the odyssey G9 a great choice for ultrawide gaming/esports, as well as ensuring minimal complications with ghosting/blur.

The G9 also boasts support for Radeon FreeSync Premium Pro, one of the latest monitor software technologies for gaming on very high-end displays.

Between all these specs, you can expect the gaming/general use experience to be one of the best you can find on the market.

Now, let’s talk build quality.

Samsung is usually pretty decent at providing beautiful, durable monitors, but this is one of our favorites from them in a while.

With a heavy, sturdy stand, the monitor certainly feels built to last, which is important for something with this aspect ratio and curvature.

Design-wise, I’m sure the pictures of the monitor speak for themselves; looking like it came out of Star Wars or the Avengers Tower, the G9 boasts a slick black/white aesthetic and a wonderfully unique (and customizable) RGB “infinity core” that tastefully lights the back of the machine.

This is definitely one of the best-looking monitors we’ve come across and perfectly suits the high-tech nature of what the product accomplishes.

What else is there to say? This is the most expensive monitor on the list, but you’re getting what you pay for with the G9.

If you want the best, and ultrawide appeals to you, we think you’ll love this pick.

Second Best IPS 1440p 240hz Monitor: Acer Nitro XV272U Xbmiipruzx

Don’t be deceived by the “second best” accolade; this Acer WQHD 240hz monitor is a fantastic offering and worthy of your consideration.

At one point our pick for the best 240hz 1440p display, the XV272U offers a lot of power at a very respectable price-point.

Built on an IPS display that uses agile-splendor technology to reach 0.5-1ms response times, the display manages to avoid the usual big disadvantage that a lot of gorgeous IPS screens have (i.e. higher latency than TN and VA panels). 0.5-1ms makes this extremely responsive and one of the best 1440p 240hz gaming monitors under $1,000.

The screen also boasts HDR400 & a great color gamut of 99% Adobe RGB. Tied with the IPS panel, you can expect gorgeous colors and sharp blacks/whites for gaming, watching media, and general use (if you’re after a higher nits monitor, then our top Alienware/Samsung picks are ideal, but 400-nits is a decent balance between price and brightness).

With the ability to use AMD FreeSync Premium (or Nvidia G-Sync if desired) the monitor is able to effectively minimize stuttering and screen-tearing which can be a worry for some higher refresh rate displays.

Speaking of refresh rates; while this Acer screen stands tall at 1440p 240hz, there is the option to overclock your display up to 270hz if using DisplayPort or USB Type-C. We’d recommend this monitor as highly even if it didn’t have this capability, so it’s a nice bonus-add and makes it the highest refresh rate 1440p monitor available.

The XV272U also boasts a great build quality. With very thin bezels on the sides and top, the nice screen-to-body ratio makes the Nitro work well in a multi-monitor setup. It comes with decent tilt, swivel, and height adjustment capability too.

Is there anything we don’t like about the XV272U Xbmiipruzx? Well, the model name is horrific, but we won’t drop points for that!

We’re floored by how this monitor manages to tick all the boxes for gaming, esports, and much more. It has a great build quality, gorgeous colors/brightness, a fantastic response time that is uncompromised by its beautiful IPS panel.

The only real issue is that some of its competition is just that much better; with the Alienware display reducing price slightly over time.

But if the top Alienware pick is out of stock, or the specs of this offering resonate more with you, then know it’s still one of the best 1440p 240hz monitor available today.

Lowest Response Time 1440p 240hz Monitor: AOC AGON AG273QZ

This TN 1440p 240hz monitor was one of the first major offerings on the market in its category.

It’s worth noting for one specific feature; a 0.5ms MPRT response time.

This is an impressive spec and really the single crowning feature of the monitor. It puts the offering in a good place (alongside Freesync) to be great, on paper, at ghosting/flicker reduction.

Alongside this are other respectable features like 400-nits brightness/HDR and fantastic build quality (even offering great rotation options for vertical monitor alignment).

So, why is this towards the bottom of our top picks?

Well, while the AG273QZ is a great monitor in its own right, the competition for the best 1440p 240hz monitor is fierce, and this offering is let down in some areas:

Even for a TN panel, the contrast ratio (745:1) is really disappointing on this screen, especially for its high-end price tag. The contrast on our other choices will (largely) look notably better.
While the other monitors on this list are mass-produced, the availability of the AG273QZ is fairly low (unless you’re in the UK/Europe, which has a better listing) – For the U.S., this results in some pretty heavy inflation/price gouging most of the time, and we expect our other choices will nearly always represent a better value for money.
Despite the fantastic MPRT response time, some users have noted issues with flickering on this monitor, which is disappointing given this should be the problem the AG273QZ is best at avoiding.

Finally, the monitor has a 1ms GTG response time, the same as a majority of our top picks. It’s also a little less obvious to find this spec next to the constantly advertised 0.5ms MPRT, which we find a tad deceiving. Yes, with the MPRT latency, this can still be considered a very responsive monitor, but in 2021, fast IPS technology has really narrowed the gap between the practical difference between TN and IPS.

It’s a controversial opinion, but thinking TN is better than IPS for gaming is becoming an outdated view (at least at the highest price-ranges), pro players across pretty much all genres are happy with 1ms GTG/MPRT.

Even if your concern is exclusively competitive, the argument could be made that the improved contrast/picture quality of something like our top Alienware pick would serve you better in identifying surroundings on screen as quickly as possible. While the difference between 0.5 and 1ms is technically noticeable for humans, it’s just not as big a deal compared to the myriad of other effects once we get to this level.

With all that said, if having the lowest response time monitor is the most important thing to do, then know we still gave it a spot on the list for a reason.

The AG273QZ is a great 1440p 240hz monitor if you can live with its shortcomings.

Honorable Mention: Porsche Design AOC Agon PD27

While we don’t give the PD27 one of our “top spots”, it’s worth your consideration if the other monitors are out of stock/price gouged (or if you happen to be very aesthetic focussed).

Boasting many of the same specs as the Odyssey G7 (likely because this display was built on a very similar Samsung panel), the PD27 comes with a great 1000R curve, decent color accuracy (119.76% sRGB), a VA panel, and HDR400.

The PD27, like the AOC display above, also boasts a 0.5ms MPRT response time (this is great to see, but we won’t repeat why we think it’s not as important as you might think as we cover that in the pick directly above).

One stand out feature, as you would expect from a Porsche collaboration, is a gorgeous, very sturdy metal frame. There’s no denying this is a beautiful monitor, we appreciate the craftsmanship and know that some of our readers may get a bit of a vanity kick from the slick Porsche Design logo running across the front (don’t worry, we’re not judging you!).

These are pretty decent features for a QHD 240hz monitor, but there are a couple of reasons why we don’t rank it quite as highly as our other picks.

In a lot of ways, this feels like a head-to-head pick with the Odyssey G7. The G7 offers a notably improved HDR600 over the Porsche’s HDR400 and is usually around 10% cheaper.

To get improved HDR/typical brightness for a lower cost sounds like a good deal to us. Of course, some of you may consider the cost/reduced HDR a worthy trade-off for the sleek design of the PD27.

And if that’s worth it to you, that’s totally fine! We just already like the design of the G7 and its build is not lacking in sturdiness, therefore it feels like the better pick for a majority of setups.

We dislike that there are not too many user experiences for the PD27 to confirm if there are any issues after some medium-term usage too (the Amazon reviews are all for a different 120hz UW model).

With all that said, this 240hz 1440p monitor is still a great product, and have included it for a reason. We only rank it a little lower because of the quality of its peers.

If the design/brand speaks deeply to you, or you were after the G7 and happen to catch a rare point where the PD27 is cheaper, then by all means go for this monitor, it’s still a great choice for a high-end setup.

Alternative Options

Unfortunately in the world of 1440p 240hz displays, we’re occasionally seeing these great screens without any availability.

If that is the case for you, don’t fret! The below 2 options are great alternative choices should you want to complete your setup and the above aren’t available.

Alternatively, we have monitor features on 4k 144hz, 1440p 144hz ultrawide and the highest refresh rate monitors available which are all suitable for a premium gaming setup.

Best 1440p 155hz Monitor: Dell S2719DGF

Capable of a fantastic picture and still boasting an excellent refresh rate, the S2719DGF is a perfect compromise between achieving smoothness and resolution you can’t get in 60hz and 1080p

Best 240hz Monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM

If your focus is more on ensuring you have a 240 fps monitor (e.g. if you’re a competitive gamer or simply value high refresh rate over anything else), the VG279QM is the best we’ve found in the full HD range

How we chose the best 1440p 240hz Monitors

Considering this technology is brand new and targetted for gamers after the best setup possible, this list has focussed on picks that specifically tick nearly all the boxes, as we don’t expect someone wants to pay for a high-end monitor without a decent, responsive picture and reliable build.

With that in mind, the top picks have been ranked based on:

Panel type – When considering VA vs TN vs IPS monitors, some publications/gamers may favor choosing TN options for the perceived low latency. While this is a sensible choice at lower price ranges, the technology available for these premium monitors means that IPS displays, with their typically improved color vibrancy, also offer comparably low response times even for the likes of competitive gaming. Therefore we consider IPS (especially our Alienware pick) the best choice for most readers (if you like VA or TN however, the Samsung Odyssey and HP Omen monitors are respectively great choices and perfect for lower budgets).
Black vs white sharpness – With consideration to the average and maximum nits brightness availability, as well as HDR features and contrast ratios to ensure the top picks have a deep image.
Color vibrancy – With attention paid to the various color gamuts used to measure the top picks (as well as IPS panel superiority in a majority of cases).
Response time – Respecting that many readers are after the best esports/competitive gaming monitor, we’ve ensured our top picks are weighed against their low latency capabilities. This includes consideration for GTG versus other latency recording methods; all of our top picks are extremely responsive, with our top Alienware choice shining in this regard (impressive considering its IPS panel use).
Supporting Software – Technology like AMD Freesync, Nvidia G-Sync (and Freesync 2 and G-Sync Ultimate for some of our premium choices), ensuring our top picks have suitable software in place to reduce risks of stuttering and screen tearing at high refresh rates.
Port availability – Our top picks have decent DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB outputs available as you would expect in high-end picks for PC gaming.
Build quality – Monitors were ranked with consideration for their durability, stand quality, and designs; with nearly every monitor excelling in all of these areas (save perhaps the HP Omen’s stand, which makes up for it with its low price).

And of course, all of these factors have been tallied up against each respective model’s price.

We’re pleased to report that for this technology, we were expecting a majority of the choices on this list to be even more expensive than what they are in reality. Yes, these are pricey displays, but you’re really getting some immense, future-proofed value for a premium setup.

Final Word

And there you have it! After deliberating against our criteria, the above options are easily the best 1440p 240hz monitors available today for gaming, media, and general use.

While we will continue to update this article regularly (already having gone through several iterations), we would say that if you’re in the market now; it’s a great time to buy.

The best options have remained relatively stable for some time, and no upcoming choice looks to significantly rival the quality of our favorite choices.

So with that said, whether you’re going for our top pick, on a budget, or considering the premium option, we think you’ll love picking up one of these 2K 240hz screens as your future main display.

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 10 Best Looking PC Cases in 2025

The 10 Best Looking PC Cases of 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated April 1, 2025

After 100s of reviews, these are the ones that look extra special

Source: Robeywankenobi

I updated this feature for 2025; after reviewing the latest (and upcoming) case releases. I’ve included a couple of extra options, but most of our picks remain the same this time.

Come on now, don’t lie.

When looking for your perfect chassis, you may be focussed on the classic factors; motherboard fit, airflow, etc.

But we all know you’re also looking for the most beautiful PC case you can find!

And that’s fine! I strongly disagree with some of the elitist advice that suggests your desired aesthetic shouldn’t be a key part of your final choice.

There are so many great-looking towers, in all shapes and sizes, that fit the bill in offering fantastic utility for a powerful build. In other words, you don’t have to choose between functionality and aesthetics, you can have both.

I’ve reviewed a ton of options throughout What in Tech. Today’s feature is to guide you through the best-looking PC cases for gaming, general use and much more.

Overall Best Looking PC Case

Lian Li PC-O11

Our Rating: 10/10

Read Review

Runner-Up Best Looking PC Case

NZXT H510 Elite

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

High-End Best Looking PC Case

Corsair 680X RGB Edition

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Looking Budget PC Case

NZXT H510

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Looking Unique PC Case

Antec Torque

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Looking Micro ATX Case

Corsair 280X RGB Edition

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Looking Mini ITX Case

NZXT H1

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Honorable Mention

Thermaltake Core P3

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Source: jerameyj

Overall Best Looking PC Case: Lian Li PC-O11

Pictures of this case simply do not do it justice.

I’ve seen many completed builds across my community of the PC-O11 and they always look fantastic. But what’s more impressive than that is when I reviewed it in person, it looked even more aesthetic.

Built on a gorgeous, thick SECC steel exterior and aluminum front, the PC-011 looks and feels very high quality. Moreso than other cases in its price range.

Covering the front and left side of that exterior is two high-quality tempered glass windows.

A glass side panel is nothing out of the ordinary, but the addition of the one on the front gives your build beautiful visibility.

The other reason this is such a good-looking PC case is its dual-chamber layout. This is when you have a separate, dedicated, secluded chamber to hide some of your “less attractive parts”. Think PSUs, HDDs, and various cables.

Essentially, the PC-011 offers the best of both worlds between offering transparency to show off your build while still offering you space to hide components. I slightly prefer this to fully exposed looks like the Thermaltake P3.

Source: Jinair

Having a nice-looking PC case is one thing, but there’s something even better about the PC-011: it’s not just pretty.

One of the top picks on the market, there is so much utility here for a powerhouse ATX build.

That includes:

GPU cards of up to 420mm
2 x 3.5″ / 4 x 2.5″ drive bays (no 5.25″)
Up to 9 x 120mm fans or 1 x 360mm, 1 x 280mm & 1 x 240mm radiators
8 expansion slots

The utility available makes this an ideal basis for any mainstream build type. Be it for gaming, streaming, video editing to other high-end production

Not only do you have the room for demanding hardware, but fantastic ventilation between the cooling capability and the dual-chamber layout ensuring cables/other hardware isn’t blocking airflow.

Is there anything we don’t like about the PC-O11? Honestly; not really.

The price and size are on the larger end of cases, which is why I’ve covered plenty of smaller/cheaper options below.

Beauty is, of course, subjective too. Even though I’m confident it’s hard to make a build that doesn’t look fantastic in the PC-011.

If it’s within your budget and fits your idea of a beautiful chassis, then I would say it’s a no-brainer.

This is easily the all-around best-looking ATX case and my undisputed pick as the best PC case in any category.

2025 mid-year update: For 5 years running, the Dynamic PC-011 doesn’t just remain my top choice in aesthetics, but also for the best overall PC case category. I’ve seen some other gorgeous options enter the market but nothing that balances everything as well as this beauty!

Our Rating: 10/10

Source: Mar.Mak

Runner-Up Best Looking PC Case: NZXT H510 Elite

If you’re familiar with NZXT and their various cool PC cases, I’m sure it’s no surprise to you that one of our top spots goes to this flagship model.

The build quality of this chassis is fantastic. With an SGCC steel exterior and thick tempered glass window on the front and side.

The exterior is given a matte finish. Different from the Lian Li which goes for more of a “metallic” aesthetic.

Both look and feel great. It’s really up to you which type you prefer.

While not a dual-chamber tower like our top pick, you are still getting decent utility to cover “uglier” parts with good cable management space and the bottom portion of the case being covered to hide the PSU.

The H510 Elite is also one of the best-looking RGB PC cases, offering a lot of lighting features out of the box, with:

2 x NZXT AER RGB 2 case fans
Included Smart Device 2 fan/RGB controller
1 x LED strip to shine in the exterior

Tied with its clear, visible glass presentation, you have an amazing basis for an RGB build in the H510 Elite.

Source: Yolenzo

And for non-aesthetic features, the case really shines too. Including:

7 expansion slots + 2 vertical slots: great to show off your GPU
VGA lengths up to 381mm (without front radiator installed, 320mm with)
2 x 2.5″ & 2 x 3. 5″ drive bays, with an option to expand to one more of each (likely not needed for a gaming tower)
Up to 2 x 140mm & 2 x 120mm fans or 2 x 140mm & 1 x 120mm radiators

While some of this space isn’t super impressive for an ATX case, the H510 Elite is a “compact mid-tower”.

Essentially meaning it’s on the smaller side of mid-towers. Really carefully balancing a nice tight look while still offering the space you’ll need for most builds.

Tied with the good internal ventilation/cable management utility, you’ve still got everything you need here for a powerful gaming machine.

If you want a slightly cheaper option you can check out our budget pick below, and we also break down the difference between the NZXT 510 models in another feature.

NZXT H510 Elite vs Lian Li PC-O11

So with all this said, why do I rank the PC-O11 over the H510 Elite?

Well, it’s a close one, as the H510 is fantastic across the board and I enjoyed what it had to offer. But I think the PC-O11 wins in space (particularly with its dual-chamber to better hide less attractive parts), build quality, and in overall aesthetic when a setup is fully built with its fully transparent front panel.

I also love how the PC-O11’s windows run down the full length of the front and side. the 510 Elite has the more traditional PSU shroud which covers about a third of the inner case.

That said, this is all very subjective. If you prefer the look (or the price tag) of the H510 Elite, know that it is still an amazing option and easily one of the coolest, most aesthetic ATX PC cases around.

2025 update: If you happen to like both of our top picks, there is something of an in-between option released by NZXT; the H9 Flow boasts the slick sharp lines of the H510 Elite, while also offering the full-length display of the Lian Li Dynamic. All 3 are great cases, so it’s really down to your aesthetic preference.

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Source: MarkHawk

High-End Best Looking PC Case: Corsair 680X RGB Edition

One of the most featured cases through What in Tech, the 680X has so much going for it across all the important chassis areas.

But focussing on aesthetic: you’ve got a wonderfully built, unique design that really shows off a good-looking interior build.

With a thick, high-quality steel exterior, the 680X has one of the nicest metallic finishes I’ve encountered and feels as great as it looks.

Alongside that steel material, the exterior is surrounded by 3 x beautiful tempered glass windows.

Having an extra window over our above picks, its third window is on the top of the case, making room for even further visibility.

Now while you can get this case without fans, we specifically recommend the RGB edition as it comes included with 3 x LL120 RGB fans & a Corsair Lighting Node Pro Fan Controller.

I consider these to be some of the best RGB case fans available. The LL120s look beautiful shining through the glass front.

Source: jjzeng21

Like our Lian-Li top pick, this is a dual-chamber PC case.

But the 680X takes it one step further, with its second chamber being particularly large.

If you look at example pictures of a finished build with it, you’ll see you can get an incredibly clean-looking interior that only displays your most “attractive” parts.

Now with all that said, I love this case for much more than its aesthetic. Including:

10 expansion slots (2 vertical)
GPUs up to 330mm
3 x 3.5″ & 4 x 2.5″ drive bays (hidden in the second chamber)

And then there’s the cooling capability. With up to 8 120mm fans or 360mm front, 280mm top, 140mm rear & 280mm bottom radiator support.

When you consider the excellent ventilation that the dual chambers add, the fact that you can have so many fans/radiators makes this one of the best PC cases for airflow and cooling I’ve encountered.

There’s no denying it, this is an expensive chassis.

But if you want a gorgeous computer case that also ticks the box for building one of the most powerful PCs possible. Then this is the option for you.

Our Rating: 9/10

Source: dannybae.16

Best Looking Budget PC Case: NZXT H510

If you’re looking for a cheap PC case that doesn’t compromise on awesome aesthetics, you can’t go wrong with the H510.

Topping our list of best NZXT towers due to its insane value for money, I’ve seen this as the basis for loads of quality mid-range builds.

NZXT H510 vs H510 Elite

You’re getting the same high-quality SGCC steel+ matte finish as the NZXT elite.

This cheaper version only has a tempered glass window on the left, but the front of the case still looks very slick even if it offers less transparency of your internals.

If you’re looking at a budget build too, you may not be as focused on high visibility on the inside anyway (with hardware not being as “aesthetically pleasing”).

Source: Zuby300

This more “covered” exterior tied with the sharp edges and coloring give it a fantastic, slick “monolith” look. Really nice if you’re looking for more of a minimalist style.

In terms of non-aesthetic features, this case is practically identical to the H510 Elite specs listed above.

The only exceptions are that you’re not getting the RGB fans/controllers/strips and 2 x vertical GPU expansion slots.

But really, for budget builds, these aren’t things you’re going to need. You can always pick up RGB upgrades later too.

Simply put, if you’re on a tight budget, this is the best-looking mid-tower available and still offers plenty of utility for a great gaming PC.

Our Rating: 9/10

Source: neo457

Best Looking Unique PC Case: Antec Torque

We know that some of you will be wanting something more….unique.

Well, look at this thing!

There are plenty of excellent innovative PC case options out there like the Thermaltake AH T600 and the Cougar Conquer.

But this incredible offering from Antec is on its own level.

Built with 14 aluminum panels and thick tempered glass on both sides, I was blown away by how this case looked and felt in person.

Consider too that all of these panels are uniquely curved/tilted, this is so far gone from a traditional “cuboid” PC.

With its beautiful open-air presentation, it really shines once a build is fully installed/powered on.

If you created a decent RGB setup in here, it’s hard to imagine coming across a more unique-looking rig!

Source: neo457

There’s also plenty of hardware room in the Torque too, with:

7 expansion slots
GPUs up to 450mm in length
1 x 2.5″ & 1 x 3.5″ drive bays
Compatible with EATX motherboards up to 12″ x 11″

We think it’s great that Antec has managed to create a PC case suitable for SLI/crossfire (if desired) despite the focus on design.

The disappointing spec here is, of course, the storage capacity.

We expect this is because the Torque is so aesthetic-focussed (and HDDs/SSDs are often on the “uglier” side) so creating too many hidden bays would hamper its appearance.

But with a large capacity SSD, HDD (and potentially some NVMe storage on the motherboard), you’ll still have more than enough storage for gaming and most other build requirements.

The most impressive feature the Torque offers is its cooling.

The case can host up to 6 x 120mm fans or 2 x 360mm radiators.

While this may not seem too out of the ordinary for a mid-tower, this is an open-air PC case. These types of chassis usually offer way less cooling utility as they instead rely on high/open ventilation. Manging to pack this much fan/water cooling availability with the number of open areas is fantastic.

So with that said, while the selling point of the Torque is its design, I’ve seen some powerful builds and overclocking achieved with it as a basis.

If you have the budget and want to stand out from the crowd, this luxury PC case is such a treat.

2025 update: I still highly rate the Torque for a trendsetting build, but unfortunately it seems to have run into some stock issues this year. If it’s not available for you, there is also the fantastic Thermaltake AH T600 case available. You can also check out my unique-focussed feature for some crazier choices.

Our Rating: 9/10

Source: PTjutsu

Best Looking Micro ATX Case: Corsair 280X RGB Edition

If you’re looking for the most beautiful PC case in the mATX form factor, you really can’t go wrong with the 680X’s little brother.

This chassis has the same fantastic steel exterior and triple tempered glass presentation.

Its height/width gives it more of a cube PC case design, looking very unique for its form factor.

This case comes with 2 x Corsair LL120 RGB case fans and a Lighting Node controller.

This is some of the best RGB hardware around. The fans really beautifully illuminate such a high proportion of the case given its compact size.

This is certainly another chassis aesthetic that you can only fully appreciate when you see a fully built rig powered on within it.

Source: mgkhn

It’s also another dual-chamber tower (and the best one for mATX builds. With great capability to hide your cables, PSUs, and drives; keeping the focus on the “prettier” hardware.

Corsair 280X vs 680X: Both cases are built with the same focus on build quality & aesthetics, so the decision for your build really comes down to which version meets your space/cooling requirements (the 680X will perform better in cooling/airflow given its large size, but the 280X is still formidable for most builds).

The utility you’re getting is great for the mATX form factor, with:

4 x expansion slots
Graphics cards up to 300mm
2 x 3.5″ & 3 x 2.5″ drive bays (in the hidden chamber)
Up to 6 120mm fans or 1 x 280mm top & 2 x 240mm front/bottom radiators

The cooling, in particular, is great for the size. I’ve seen great results for mATX overclocking here compared to many competitors.

It’s pricey, but bear in mind the inclusion of its top-tier RGB kit and build quality really set it above so many other towers.

Looking for a cheaper option in this size? The darkFlash DLM21 is a great choice with a range of different colors/designs.

That said, if you’re after the best-looking mATX case around that is also capable of running a powerful gaming/production machine, I don’t think you can get better than the 280X.

Our Rating: 9/10

Source: THLNG

Best Looking Mini ITX Case: NZXT H1

I know from experience that some of the best looking builds are in the smallest form factor.

The NZXT H1stands at the top of those tiny offerings. It has been featured several times on What in Tech.

Aesthetically, the case boasts an incredibly unique “monolith” style. Standing tall but also very small with an awesome SGCC steel exterior.

The tempered glass surrounding a lot of the case is tinted. Cases with window tinting really stand out to me amongst the crowd as they make the presentation of a bright internal build feel so much more tasteful in presentation.

The case most excels at being so incredibly compact which adds so much to the style. This is easily the most aesthetic portable case available.

The H1 achieves its size by a really intricate dual-chamber build layout, designed to accommodate a decent gaming/production build despite its small volume.

Source: Jinair

That means the case does excellently in features for its size too, with:

A PCIe riser card for vertical GPU install
2 expansion slots and GPUs up to 305mm in length
2 2.5″ drive bays – even some larger ITX cases only have 1

The GPU room means you’ll have space for most of the mainstream graphics card choices (but remember to understand the dimensions before buying parts for such a small build).

The chassis may come across as a tad expensive, but bear in mind you are getting a pre-installed 650W 80+ Gold PSU.

Not only does this really add to the value factor, but the case was designed with this PSU in mind (meaning you’re not losing out on the case having to accommodate different types of custom PSUs).

And to top off the value; you also have an integrated AIO 140mm Liquid Cooler for your CPU.

Due to the GPU and CPU residing in independent chambers, while you’ll never get the airflow of an ATX case in a Mini ITX form factor, it still offers impressive cooling for the size.

For a high-end ITX build, you would need a compatible PSU and cooler anyway so it’s not like you’re paying a tall premium for just the case. There is a lot of value in the price tag.

We’d go as far as to say that the NZXT H1 isn’t just the best-looking ITX case on the market, but one of the best value cases for a compact/portable gaming build too.

2025 update: NZXT has released a second version of the H1. This version boasts more space, a slightly better airflow setup, and a superior PSU. While these are great upgrades, I’ve also seen that version 1 is currently floating at a notably lower price-point. I would suggest that if you can pick up V1 cheaper than V2, it’s a good option for those on a budget. Where I would recommend V2 is for those with who are building particularly powerful builds (RTX 4090, etc.) where the extra space and PSU wattage will come in handy.

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Source: Sherlock_Q

Best Looking Clear PC Case: Thermaltake Core P3

When ranking picks for this feature, I’ve focused as much as possible on the design of the case itself.

However, sometimes, a minimalist PC case that focuses more on very high visibility for inner parts (versus a more covered exterior) is what you may want to make your next build look amazing.

Featured on What in Tech several times, the Core P3 is an absolute monster.

A perfect option for wall mounting, RGB builds, and much more, the Core P3 gives you so much potential for expression in your build.

Pictures don’t do this chassis justice. If you’re building your own PC, chances are the hardware you’re buying will look awesome if given the visibility the P3 offers.

Source: LmNoPg007

Your GPU, CPU, and Motherboard will be displayed through a thick, high-quality tempered glass and plenty of space for an ATX gaming build, including:

8 x expansion slots
Installation option for vertical GPU (perfect for showing off)
Graphics card lengths up to 450mm (with cooling reservoir removed)
2 x 2.5″ or 3.5″ hidden and 2 x 2.5″ or 3.5 visible drive bays

Cooling-wise, the P3 has space for either 3 140mm fans or a 420mm radiator.

This may not seem like much for a mid-tower chassis, but remember that this is an open-air PC case (with 4 sides of open ventilation). The high visibility doesn’t just make the case look better but offers great airflow too.

Don’t be deceived by this not getting a “best overall” pick. The P3 is the best-looking case for someone really wanting to show off their internal parts above all else.

2025 update: If you like the look of the P3 but want something different size-wise, there are a whole host of cases in the P-series. Check out my clear PC case guide for a breakdown of each one.

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Quick-Fire Picks

The above 8 picks are our favorite recommendations for the best good looking PC cases around today.

That said, we wanted to show a few alternative options that are still worthy of consideration.

Alternative Best Looking Mini ITX Case: InWin A1 Plus

From a fantastic PC case brand, we’ve featured the inWin A1 Plus several times before. With a power supply included and wonderfully unique ARGB lighting, this is one of the coolest tower cases available for a compact build.

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Best PC Case with Monitor Built-In: iBUYPOWER Snowblind S

That’s right, you heard us correctly.

This iBUYPOWER PC case has a transparent monitor built-in to the window side panel!

A fantastic unique looking PC case, the Snowblind S also comes with great build quality and an internal layout for a decent gaming build.

Our Rating: 8/10

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 10 Best Quiet PC Cases for a Silent PC Build in 2025

The 10 Best Quiet PC Cases for a Silent PC Build

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated April 1, 2025

Guiding you through the quietest PC cases for all shapes, sizes, and budgets

This feature has been updated after reviewing models available in 2025. Most of our top picks remain the same, but we’ve included a couple of decent alternatives throughout.

Hear that?

It’s the wonderful sound of a silent PC case!

Years ago, having a loud computer was almost a boast point; “check out my huge, high-RPM fans through my thin case window!” one would shout over the sound of their jet-engine PC.

Thankfully, today, there has been an emergence of really great cases that focus on various noise-dampening methods. Padding/insulation, modular components to reduce fans/vibrating parts, and other features combine into a desktop that is capable of outputting extremely low decibels when you are idling or even testing the computer to its limits.

Whether it’s for home theatre (HTPC), gaming, streaming, video editing, or music/studio production, here are the best quiet PC cases available after our extensive cases reviews (including deep-dives in decibel/cooling benchmarking).

Overall Best Silent PC Case

Fractal Design Define 7

Our Rating: 10/10

Read Review

Runner-Up Silent PC Case

Be Quiet! Silent Base 802

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Best Budget Quiet Case

Corsair 100R Silent Edition

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Silent MicroATX Case

Fractal Design Define Mini C

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Best Silent Mini-ITX Case

Fractal Design Define Nano S

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

High-End Silent Case

Be Quiet! Pro 900 Full Tower

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Alternative ATX Pick

Corsair Carbide Series 678C Low-Noise Case

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Alternative Micro ATX Pick

Cooler Master Silencio S400

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Silent Super Tower Case

Deep Silence 6

Our Rating: 8/10

Read Review

Alternative Budget ATX Pick

Thermaltake Suppressor F31

Our Rating: 8/10

Read Review

Fractal Design Define 7

Overall Best Silent PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS*

REASONS TO BUY

+ Fantastic sound isolation

+ High-quality/sturdy

+ Great internal layout for cooling & parts

+ Beautiful look

REASONS TO AVOID

− Expensive

− More spacious than some will need (similar smaller versions available)

Our Rating: 10/10

What a fantastic chassis this is.

The latest version in a long line of excellent mid-towers from the best silence-focused brand, the Define 7 is unmatched in its ability to balance low-decibels and cooling.

The assumption with a silent case is that you are having to sacrifice a great deal in the way of airflow and heat management for the quietest performance.

But the Define 7 has an excellent track record of ranking very well in component heat tests (often out-scoring many other cases that are much louder!).

The sound dampening panels covering most of the chassis offer excellent low-decibel levels during idling and high loads (often benchmarking as one of the quietest PC cases in tests against the notable competitors).

The chassis comes with 3 pre-installed Fractal fans designed for low noise output.

If your heart is set on water-cooling, the Define 7 has a fantastic setup and radiator space to cater to you. We’ve seen builds in all sorts of shapes and sizes accomplished in the D7.

Source: Hubwest

The Define 7 has all the usual features you’d expect in a high-quality PC case; lots of space for HDDs/SSDs, large enough to fit nearly all GPUs (but be sure to check based on your size requirements, we have larger cases reviewed below) and a decent front I/O panel that includes a USB 3.1 Type-C, 2 x USB2.0, 2 x USB3.0 & headphone/mic ports.

The case boasts great customization, with plenty of modular parts like its 6 universal drive trays that you can remove or reposition depending on the need of your components, airflow, and cabling. This is one of the many reasons we rate the case so highly in the pursuit of maximizing quietness as unused trays/cages can often result in slightly more vibration.

If you are willing to sacrifice a few decibels for more airflow you can install up to 9 140mm fans (though most builds will be completely fine using just the 3 included).

The non-window version also boasts a gorgeous minimalist aesthetic and allows for maximum noise-reduction. If you want to show off your parts and go for the windowed version, its still going to be notably more quiet than other windowed cases as it boasts a thick tempered glass panel (and all of the other features that make the Define 7 quiet).

It’s true that the case is on the expensive side, but if you’re serious about making a quiet build, this is the best silent PC case on the market overall and we think it’s worth the investment; especially when you consider the high-quality fans included and very long lifespan you can expect with the excellent build quality.

Like the case but seeing it out of stock or looking for something a tad cheaper? The R5 version is an excellent alternative (the R6 is also great, but a very similar iteration of the R5 while often costing significantly more on price checks). We also feature smaller Fractal cases in this list that run cheaper if you can build your PC compactly.

2025 update: The Define 7 remains our top pick for 4 years running! We recommend the Define R5 just as much for users who don’t need the enormous space the Define 7 boasts (featured in our best overall case article).

Be Quiet! Silent Base 802

Runner-Up Best Silent PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Great sound dampening

+ Solid build quality

+ Plenty of modularity/customization

REASONS TO AVOID

− Some complaints of difficulty with fitting large parts & cable management

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Very close behind the Define 7 is one of the latest Be Quiet! models, the only brand to rival Fractal in noise cancellation.

The German-made Silent Base 802 performs excellently in both heat and noise tests, with 3 140mm Pure Wings 2 Be Quiet! fans pre-installed. It boasts an impressive array of modular customization with its HDD/SSD trays and removable insulation mats should you desire a boost in cooling over quietness. The 802 essentially has everything you need to get a quiet build up and running off the bat.

Some users have reported problems with previous versions of the case fitting their larger components (such as E-ATX builds) however the dimensions of the 802 seem apt for a majority of mid-range builds (just make sure to check the dimensions with your specific parts before purchasing).

One great feature of the 802 is the fan controller switch on the top of the case (giving easy access to different speeds and an “auto” setting). This is great for those users who want to have more control over their fans (e.g. maximize speeds while gaming, but minimize while recording/watching content). There is plenty of good software for fan control though, so if you’re interested in another case on this list, not having the physical button isn’t a big deal, it’s more of a “nice-to-have”.

Source: Gioriv

The 802 is an improved iteration of the previous 801 version that was received excellently.

The main differences between the Silent Base 802 and 801 are better ports on the I/O panel (now includes USB type-C) and a nice touch for the front panel. We like that both a mesh and solid panel cover are included. This means you can choose whether to have a slightly better airflow or slightly lower noise depending on your needs.

With that said, if you happen to be interested in the 802 but it’s out of stock or expensive, the 801 is a great alternative if the above differences don’t bother you too much.

When ranking the 802 versus the Define 7 and R5, the Fractal Design choices perform slightly better in most decibel benchmarks and temperature ratings for CPU, GPU, and storage (both idle and high-load) which is why we give the edge to Fractal.

That being said, it’s still a close race. If you prefer the design or something else the 802 offers over the Define 7 or R5, we don’t think you’ll be disappointed in choosing this case.

Corsair 100R Silent Edition

Best Budget Quiet PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Fantastic value

+ Plenty of space for a budget build

+ Still performs decently for quiet & cooling

REASONS TO AVOID

− Cheaper quality material

− Airflow, layout & sound dampening notably inferior to our top picks

Our Rating: 9/10

For a sub-$100 case, the 100R is a very impressive mid-tower value option.

One 120mm fan is included and a maximum of 5 can be installed (we would recommend at least buying a second fan to give yourself manageable airflow, more if you plan on overclocking or running a bulky gaming/editing rig).

The 100R comes with the usual power/audio buttons and USB ports (just 2) on the front with all the HDD/SSD/Universal Drive support you are likely to need on a budget build.

Source: Mybooo

With a lower price comes fewer features. There is little in the way of modularity for the various drive bays compared to our top Fractal/Be Quiet! picks (meaning more risk of vibration and a less “clean” internal setup). Some of the general build quality is less impressive than the more expensive cases on this list (e.g. plastic thumb screws and cheaper quality noise-dampening panels)

That being said, for the price point, the case still manages to output low noise levels over many other popular budget PC cases. If you’re a new builder, some of the modular options available in pricier options may be more than you need. The 100R will be quick and easy to get up and running even if it isn’t the quietest.

A common question is what case wins in a battle between the Corsair 100R vs 200R. Bear in mind that while the 200R comes with some marginally improved features/cooling, it’s not a case focused on noise-canceling (there’s a reason the 100R is called the “silent edition”!). The 200R is a good case, but if noise-cancellation is your goal, we would stick to the 100R.

You’re not going to get the same silence and quality as the Define 7 or Silent Base 802, but if you are on a budget, this is a great option for a cheaper quiet build.

2025 update: The 100R is still a great option, but we’ve seen it encounter some stock issues this year(or get sold grossly over RRP by third-party vendors). If the 100R isn’t available at a low price, we recommend the Corsair 110Q iteration, (just check this option meets your storage requirements, this is where the cases differ most). The Thermaltake Versa H17 is another decent option for very low budgets.

Fractal Design Define Mini C

Best Silent Micro ATX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Best M-ATX sound-dampening

+ High-quality build material

+ Lots of internal space despite its small size

REASONS TO AVOID

− Slightly expensive for an M-ATX case

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Trying to create the quietest mATX desktop you can? Then the Mini C is quite the case for the job.

Pre-installed with 2 Fractal Design Dynamic X2 GP-12 120 mm fans with all the usual top buttons and ports (only 2 USB3.0, but this is standard on an mATX unit).

Just like its larger Define 7 counterpart, the case comes with great customization capability. With removable drive bays & filters depending on your component/airflow needs (with up to 5 bays and 5 PCI expansion slots available).

Source: mjmill4

If you’re concerned about having enough cooling options in a smaller case, this pick comes with space for up to 7 fans, excellent for an mATX chassis.

The Mini C performs very well in noise level tests against the mini-tower competition while maintaining good airflow, solid cable management options, and even enough space for a dual GPU setup should you need it.

It’s very impressive how much freedom Fractal has managed to put into an mATX case. Not only are your customization options great, but they’re balanced against a really impressive noise-dampening layout.

If you’re looking for a Micro ATX case with a focus on silence, you will be hard-pressed to find better than this.

Fractal Design Define Nano S

Best Silent Mini ITX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Great sound-dampening

+ Same great quality as larger Fractal cases

+ Fantastic space/cooling options for mITX

REASONS TO AVOID

− Slightly larger/heavier than some other ITX offerings

Our Rating: 9.5/10

I know what you’re thinking, “another Fractal case?”. Hear me out!

It just so happens Fractal has managed to create wonderful offerings in all 3 of the most popular case size categories. There’s no point in switching the products across our top picks if one name has done it best!

When it comes to Mini ITX specifically, there is really no other chassis that comes close right now. The Nano S defies what little space it has to offer impressively quiet readings (with high-quality noise-dampening filters and 2 quiet fans pre-installed). It also still manages to offer decent temperatures and a layout for good cable management/airflow.

Source: MrNathanielP

As always with Mini-ITX builds, be extra careful about the parts you’re installing and their size requirements. That being said, the Nano S has managed an impressive inner dimension against its competitors (the case somehow manages to fit some of the largest GPUs on the market!). It may be a little larger than a few other ITX options, but this isn’t surprising as it allows more airflow to run fans at lower RPMs, notably reducing noise output.

The Nano S comes with the usual ports and buttons on the front panel (including 2xUSB3.0), up to 4 drives including 2 dedicated SSD areas, 2 expansion slots, and up to 6 fans (for such a small machine, this is great!).

In such a tiny case dedicated to silence, it’s incredible what balance is managed here, this is a no-brainer for any mITX builder.

Be Quiet! Pro 900 Full Tower

Best High-End Silent Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Incredible noise isolation

+ Tons of customization options

+ Huge case for high-end cooling/space

REASONS TO AVOID

− Very expensive

− Some build process annoyances

Our Rating: 8.5/10

If budget isn’t a word you care about, the Be Quiet! Pro 900 is a great option.

In terms of noise reduction, there are diminishing returns after the price points that the Fractal Define 7 or Be Quiet! 802 sit at. You’re not getting too much of an improvement on the search for silence by spending more on this case.

That being said, this full tower offering has very impressive space, modular capabilities, and control. With 5 relocatable/removable HDD slots (and support for up to 10 SSDs) and many other customization options within the case to get the airflow/presentation you want, the large dimensions make this a great option for most E-ATX/XL-ATX motherboards.

Source: Xocet

Be Quiet! focussed on maximizing the water-cooling potential of the 900, with 4 areas for radiators of up to 420mm, or 7 additional fans if air cooling is your preferred route. Even if you’re building something truly monstrous, there is so much airflow & hardware space for you to play with.

Included are 3 Silent Wings 140mm PWM fans to get your build up and running with close to no noise. The case has the most feature-filled front panel on the list, with an advanced fan controller, the usual ports and a USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type C input. The Rev 2. version even includes a QI charger on the top of the case.

The main reason we don’t score this case higher is its price. We think that a large majority of users will have everything they need in the Define 7 or Be Quiet 802.

But if you’re building something very expensive with overclocking, multi-GPUs, and other large goals in mind, the Pro 900 is the quietest you can get with an extra-large PC today.

2025 update: The Pro 900 is still usually available, but we’ve seen it go out of stock/over RRP a couple of times recently. If that’s the case, the Fractal Define 7 XL is just as worthy for a large, high-end build.

Other Options

None of the cases so far take your fancy? The above picks are our top choices for a silent computer case, but we’ve included some further recommendations below that are still great options:

Corsair Carbide Series 678C Low-Noise Case

Alternative Quiet ATX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Decent sound dampening

+ Well constructed

REASONS TO AVOID

− Less value than Fractal choices

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Another option in the price range similar to the Define 7/Silent Base 802, Corsair has built a case that performs great across noise and cooling benchmarking.

The chassis is surrounded by a rich amount of sound-dampening material, with the option to remove it out for dust filters should your cooling be more of a priority to you.

3 high-quality silent fans are included with a maximum space of 9 (at 120mm), not to mention water-cooling capabilities with space for multiple radiators. The 678C hasn’t compromised on performance options for silence.

Source: idarwin

It comes with modular capabilities not too dissimilar from the D7/801, with plenty of space for your HDDs, SSDs, and drives (and the option to remove the casing you don’t use).

You may also be drawn to this case by its sleek design; the white color option boasts a great look for someone wanting something a little different.

The front panel has the usual ports/buttons and also includes a USB3.1/Type C input. It only has 2 USB ports, however (3.0).

The Define 7 and 802 perform marginally better in noise tests and offer a slightly better value point. So as good as this case is, we can’t help but ask why anyone would choose it over those 2. But if you are drawn to this case or see it on offer, we say go for it. It’s still a great option as far as quiet windowed PC cases go.

Cooler Master Silencio S400

Alternative Quiet Micro ATX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Great value

+ Sturdy build & slick aesthetic

+ Decent modularity/space for mATX

REASONS TO AVOID

− Sound dampening inferior to Mini C

Our Rating: 9/10

The S400 vs Mini C was a close race for the best silent mini-tower and this pick certainly deserves your consideration.

From another classic manufacturer, this chassis performs great across decibel tests with good noise-dampening material surrounding it (a mix of vinyl, foam, and steel) while still offering great ventilation options.

Two Silencio FP 120mm PWM come pre-installed, offering you a great starting point for cooling. The S400 comes with space for up to 6 fans or 3 radiators for a water-cooling build (impressive for such a small case!).

Source: Litebeard

Comes with space for 1 ODD, 4 HDDs, and 2 SSDs (and the ability to remove unwanted bays). The usual ports are seen on the front panel (2xUSB3.0) with an SD card reader also.

A small feature some of you might appreciate is the reversible door hinge setup, if you want the front panel of your PC to open the other way to the standard right side, this might be a positive USP for you.

The reason we choose the Mini C is because it performs slightly better in noise tests. We also slightly prefer the build & aesthetic of the Fractal case (though this is highly subjective).

With great modular options, cooling, noise levels, and large inner dimensions considering its small size, the S400 is a great option for you if you are drawn to it over the Mini C.

Deep Silence 6

Best Silent Super Tower

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Incredible space for cooling & high-end builds

+ Fantastic sound isolation for a case of its size

+ One of the most modular PC cases around

REASONS TO AVOID

− More than most users need in space and cost

Our Rating: 8/10

2025 update: The Deep Silence 6 is unfortunately often out-of-stock and doesn’t seem to re-supply regularly. If you like the sound of it (or lack thereof!), you’ve got 2 great alternatives; the Be Quiet Pro 900 pick above or the Fractal Define 7 XL.

Trying to fit a skyscraper into your case? We haven’t forgotten you!

While the Be Quiet! 900 PRO is our preferred full-tower choice if your desired build fits that case’s dimensions, the DS6 is the largest case on the market with a focus on silence.

Deep Silence 6 is designed to have all of the impressive features the cases above have. Including very quiet noise levels with its sophisticated sound-dampening materials, fan controllers, and modular options (with up to 18 HDD/SSD slots!).

With 5 high-quality silent fans pre-installed and the option of up to 7 more, the case is in great shape for cooling. One of the downsides in this tower is due to some of the limitations of the top panel, you are likely going to have some slight sound leakage if you install radiators on the top side.

For that reason, if you’re looking at water cooling we would suggest the 900 PRO if possible, or keep your radiators off the top panel.

This thing is truly a beast and the only case on the list capable of HPTX motherboards. If you have a very demanding component size and cooling requirements but still don’t want to compromise on a silent build, the DS6 is your best option.

Like the sound of the Deep Silence cases but not this one? Check out the Deep Silence 3 or Deep Silence 5 for other options. While we wouldn’t recommend them over the above cases, they are certainly not bad choices.

Thermaltake Suppressor F31

Alternative Budget Quiet Mid Tower Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+Good mid-range value choice

+ Decent space/cooling for the average build

REASONS TO AVOID

− Other cases beat it out for silence

Our Rating: 8/10

To round up our list we have included another cheap option from a great PC case brand.

While not out-performing most of the above competition in regards to silence or cooling, it certainly holds its own at its price point and is impressively quiet for a case in the $100 range; high-quality sound dampening panels on the front, side, and back.

Source: TheNolanK

The case has great options for air and water cooling builders alike, with 2 pre-installed 140mm fans (up to 6 total) and decent space for radiators.

The F31 has great modular options too. You’ll be able to remove the unnecessary drives for your cabling/airflow preferences, and with the case boasting 8 expansion slots, you’ll have a good amount of room to fit an ambitious build.

This is certainly a time where “last but not least” applies. If your budget is around the $100 mark, this is a really solid case and strikes a great balance between price, silence, and cooling.

Why no quiet NZXT option?

We know a lot of readers really enjoy the design of NZXT or have a positive history with the brand. That said, we simply can’t recommend any of their cases when considering a silent build. The ones above are far superior and we would strongly suggest them. If your heart is really set on NZXT, the H510 has performed OK on some noise benchmarking tests, combined with quiet fans/water-cooling you could still achieve a relatively quiet build.

Further Advice on a Silent PC Build

The importance of cooling

As a lot of the above alludes to, the setup of your PC cooling and airflow is an integral part of what level of silence you’re going to build.

Below we talk about the hardware cooling requirements, remember: the physical layout of your PC is also key. Make sure when building your silent PC, you remove unneeded trays/disc shelves, neatly arrange your cables and position your parts to allow for airflow. Doing so means you have fewer cooling requirements and thus, less noise!

Is water cooling quieter than fan/air cooling? If you are running a very intensive build (I’m talking full-tower or a beefy mid-tower, expensive GPU/CPU with lots of other inner components) then water cooling will be your best choice (not just for silence, but for the advantages of superior cooling in general). The problem with fan builds is that noise tends to appear when you have a high quantity and they’re all blasting at maximum RPM.

For an average desktop, unless budget really isn’t a concern, we would say stick to fans. Frankly, the expense & complication of water cooling isn’t necessary unless you’re running a monstrous build (or really like the aesthetic). Just make sure you get fans that are designed for quiet performance as discussed below.

Want the absolute optimal setup for cooling and silence? Then get both! This may sound like an odd answer but it’s the truth. If you have both fans and a water cooling system in place, your fans can run at low RPM and the water cooling at low speeds. The real noise comes from when either system is working hard. So for silence, keep your cooling of choice running low.

Quietest PC Case Fans: We strongly recommend picking up some Noctuna NF-S12A FLX fans which rank excellently on noise tests and are the closest to silent PC fans you’ll find.

Quietest traditional CPU Cooler: This is an easy one: the Be Quiet! Dark Rock 4 is the choice for a CPU cooler with a focus on silence. In noise benchmarking, this cooler is nearly always one of the top on the list for decibel minimums and still ranks excellently on keeping CPU temperatures low.

Quietest CPU Water Cooler: We recommend the Corsair Hydro Series115i. The included fans are specialized for very low noise even at high-stress levels and the included Corsair software has a zero RPM mode that can turn off (silence!) when the fans aren’t actively needed. On top of this, the Hydro is a fantastic cooler in its own right regardless of its impressively low noise levels.

Final quick-fire tips for a silent PC

Glass panel vs no panel cases: If you care about silence, having a PC case without a window is going to be the quieter option. However, with the high-quality cases above mostly using thick tempered glass, the difference isn’t severe if you want to show off your beautiful build!

Go for SSDs over HDDs: Hard drives are prone to vibrate and spin at high speeds, you’ll likely be familiar with this noise. If you can’t afford a full SSD build, then just make sure to put your OS and most used applications on your SSD space.

High-quality PSU: Getting a Power supply that can more than handle your needs is important to reduce noise (similarly to your cooling, if a PSU is under heavy load, it’s going to be noisy!). We recommend the Fractal Design Ion+ range (high wattage is better but even the low watt options will cover most builders’ needs) – excellent performance, noise ratings, and user options to set the PSU fan to zero RPM at low loads.

Keep it clean: Dust and any other build-up in your PC will cause the cooling to work harder for performance. Clean regularly with compressed air for silence and a healthy machine.

Finally, enjoy the sound of silence!

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

* Specifications throughout our articles are double-checked and intended to inform our users, but should not be treated as factual information. When making final decisions on your products, please check the manufacturer pages to confirm the fine details.

The 15 Best Monitor Brands in 2025 (Gaming, Work & More)

The 15 Best Monitor Brands in 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated April 1, 2025

I updated this feature to cover the latest releases of 2025. None of the brand picks have changed, but I’ve updated a couple of the monitor recommendations throughout the article.

Are Dell monitors good?

Is HP overpriced?

When searching for your next display, it can be overwhelming when you’re met with so many options, one of your many questions is likely which PC monitor brands you should consider.

Well, today, we will be helping you answer just that!

This feature will take you through everything from the best gaming monitor brands, to the best manufacturers for work displays. We’ll also include where each brand shines the most.

The Top 7

Best Overall Monitor Brand: Dell / Alienware
Best Gaming Monitor Brand: ASUS
Runner-Up Best Monitor Brand: Samsung
Runner-Up Best Gaming Monitor Brand: Acer
Solid All-Round PC Monitor Brand: HP / Omen
Great Brand for High-End Monitors: LG
Fantastic Gaming Monitor Brand: BenQ

Worth Considering

Best Budget Gaming Monitor Brand: AOC
Second Best Budget Monitor Brand: Sceptre
Great Gaming Monitor Brand: MSI
Great Brand for Video Editing / General Use: Philips
Great Monitor Brand for Work Display: Lenovo
Cheapest Monitor Brand: Viewsonic
Cheapest High-Spec Monitor Brand: Viotek
Good Gaming Monitor Brand: Gigabyte

Honorable Mentions

Good But Limited: Razer
Cheapest PC Monitor Brand Alternative: Pixio
Cheapest High-Spec Monitor Brand Alternative: Nixeus
Limited Cheap Monitor Brand: Monoprice

The Top 7

We’ve ranked this list into 3 parts; “The Top 7” & “Worth Considering” for the best 15 brands, and a few more “Honorable Mentions” for certain companies who we don’t rank as the best, but shouldn’t be completely written off.

Our 7 front-runners are the best monitor manufacturers at balancing great screen specs, gorgeous design/build quality, reputation, and price.

Bear in mind that these manufacturers have 100s of different monitors and who is best will often depend on your needs (resolution, framerate, budget, etc.).

This is why we’ve included the best picks for each brand to guide you while we go.

Best Overall Monitor Brand: Dell / Alienware

At the top of our list is the behemoth manufacturer in all things technology.

Texas-founded Dell has always been a frontrunner in providing a great mixture of budget desktops with everything a simple general/work users would want, and then higher-end displays with great color gamuts, contrast ratios and build qualities.

At this point, however, what makes us consider Dell the best manufacturer overall is their ownership of the Alienware brand.

With this combination, Dell now has something for everybody:

Cheap IPS panels that offer great budget use
Mid-range monitors for gaming, video/photo work, or a premium office setup
With Alienware; high-end monitors that represent the best display technology on offer today with incredible options for premium gamers.

A huge majority of their options also come at a very competitive price-point (you don’t feel like you’re paying an unfair amount for the reputation/service of a well-known brand with many of Dell’s screens).

Our main highlighted monitor today is the SE2719h. This display is one of the best balances between specs and price for your standard user.

With a 27 inch screen, IPS panel, fantastic picture quality for the price, and all hosted in a gorgeous build quality/design, there’s a reason why this is one of the most popular monitors on the market (and with its thin bezels, would be perfect for a dual-screen setup).

For gamers, the Alienware AW2721D is one of the best monitors for gaming today and tops our list of 1440p 240hz screens (a very hard category with a lot of competition). This is a premium monitor of course, and we have more budget-friendly options highlighted by other manufacturers below.

With something for everybody, and often with specs/prices rivaling other frontrunners, we think Dell is on the top of their game today and well deserving of the best PC monitor brand accolade.

2025 update: Dell, alongside their Alienware subsidiary, remain my top pick for 4 years running. With a solid stream of new releases and some fantastic products old and new that stand the test of time, Dell has done a good job at providing options for every major use type and budget in today’s market.

Best Gaming Monitor Brand: ASUS

While Dell is very capable in the gaming sector (especially at the premium range with Alienware), ASUS gives them a run for their money in this category and is equally worth your consideration.

With a huge range of monitors, Taiwanese-based ASUS has its fingers in all of the gaming pies; with some very innovative monitors in the high and low-end price points.

Where we think they shine most, however, is in the mid-range offerings.

Few (if any) monitor companies have more compelling balances between specs for the average gamer, build quality, and price.

Taking our best ASUS monitor pick, the VG27VH1B, as an example: offering 165/144hz options, very fast 1ms MPRT response time, a decent 1500R immersive curvature, AMD Freesync & Nvidia G-sync compatibility, a fantastic 120% sRGB color gamut great technology for sharp blacks all hosted in a full HD 27″ offering with perfect, close-to-frameless build quality.

For all of this to come in its relatively cheap price tag is a fantastic offering and demonstrates just how capable ASUS are of providing some of the best value monitors for gaming.

Don’t count them out if you’re after a more expensive offering too; we constantly feature ASUS across our articles touting more premium specs like the highest Hz, 1440p 240hz, 4k 144hz & 1440p 144hz ultrawide monitors.

While there are a few great contenders on this list for gaming, ASUS offers the best balance of specs and value in today’s market and is our pick for the best gaming monitor manufacturer.

Runner-Up Best Monitor Brand: Samsung

Our next display manufacturer is one that needs no introduction…

One of the biggest players in the TV space, Samsung has extended its reach to providing its efficient screen supply chains to create high-quality monitors and very competitive offerings in some of the main PC display categories.

Samsung positions many of its offerings as business monitors, with lightweight, cheap yet deceptively decent LED screens leading their budget range, their monitors are a compelling choice if you want a great picture quality for general use/media without breaking the bank.

Our best Samsung monitor pick is a shining example of that; the LS24R356FZNXZA is a gorgeous full HD display hosted in a fantastic shell and is a very close competitor to our top Dell pick if you’re after something simple but capable of a beautiful picture for the price (we’d go for whichever is cheaper at the time of viewing if this describes you).

For gaming; we wouldn’t recommend Samsung in most cases for budget/mid-range offerings, but they do have some mouth-watering expensive gaming displays. Our favorite of which is the Odyssey G9, with its QHD, 1000R Curve, 240hz setup in a super-ultrawide aspect ratio (essentially, 2 16:9 screens in one) and dual DisplayPort output, this is arguably the best gaming monitor on the market for those after next-level immersion.

While not our #1 pick due to its gaps in non-premium gaming, Samsung is a behemoth for a reason.

With the company’s huge capability in producing high-quality LED panels, they are easily one of the best monitor brands for work setups (and gaming if your budget is very high!).

Runner-Up Best Gaming Monitor Brand: Acer

Although we rank ASUS as the best brand for gaming monitors, it was a close race, and just behind them is another Taiwanese powerhouse.

While far from exclusively focussed on gaming, this area is where Acer really shines. With some very compelling options in budget, mid-range, and premium, we often feature Acer for their innovative products, leading the pack for 1440p 144hz ultrawide screens.

We appreciate Acer is also good at balancing offerings with TN, VA, and IPS panels, allowing them to cater to a wide range of user requirements and budgets.

Our best Acer monitor pick is one to rival the ASUS offering above if your budget is just a little tighter.

With a smaller screen size but still boasting a gorgeous quality full HD screen, 1ms response time, and 144hz, the XFA240 bmjdpr contains all the necessities of a gaming monitor (including DisplayPort/HDMI, G-Sync, and more) if you don’t need a 27-inch display at a price that feels like a steal to still get such a quality product from a very reputable brand.

All in all, Acer is one of the best gaming monitor manufacturers in the field today and is easily one of the companies you should focus your searches on when looking for your next immersive setup, whatever the price range.

Solid All-Round PC Monitor Brand: HP / Omen

Don’t be deceived by us not ranking HP as the top/runner-up overall pick, we’ve called these brands the top 7 for a reason!

Californian-based Hewlett-Packard doesn’t have quite the same level of offerings in the mid/high-range, but they have some really fantastic products for a budget office/general use monitor.

Leading that charge is one of the best budget options on the list; the 1D0J9AA.

With the fantastic, sleek build quality you expect from HP hosting a full HD screen with respectable specs; you’re, of course, not going to get the best picture quality at this price range.

But for the budget users? We’re quite floored by how HP has packed such a beautiful offering in this price-tag. Especially considering many larger brands often opt to add what feels like a “tax” to purchase from a reputable manufacturer with decent customer service.

This would be a great option for an office setup (even purchasing multiple units to run a productive multi-screen environment).

On the gaming front, HP’s sub-brand, Omen, doesn’t rule the roost as much as ASUS, Alienware, and Acer, but in certain categories, has some of the best value options.

Our favorite example is in the 1440p 240hz category; whereby the Omen X is one of the cheapest screens in the category, capable of offering a high-end gaming experience at a deceptive low premium price.

While there are some gaps in the mid-range, if you’re looking for a budget monitor that still has a great reputable company behind it, or like the look of some of the high-end value offerings from Omen, know that HP is still without a doubt one of the top PC monitor manufacturers today.

Great Brand for High-End Monitors: LG

If you’re in the market for a premium display, either for top-quality video/photo editing, gaming, or other professional usages, LG is one of the best choices for you.

With a rich experience in the display market, this South-Korean company seems to really understand the demands of users on the premium end, creating some fantastic screen innovations to match these demands like 4k, top-end color gamuts, and contrast ratios, while still boasting compelling price tags.

Our favorite example of this is the 34WN80C-B. With its stunning WQHD setup (in other words, 1440p ultrawide resolution) hosting an HDR10 compatible IPS panel with a superb color gamut, this screen would be a productivity dream for pretty much any kind of work user. We also cover a cheaper 1080p alternative here.

For gaming, LG has a host of other premium innovations on the market and we consistently feature them in many of our gaming monitor posts.

The most impressive amongst them is the incredibly feature-reach 27GN950-B, which is the highest Hz 4k monitor available today, and easily one of the best in any high-res/refresh rate combo category when considering its other specs, build quality, and price. Despite being aimed at gaming, this would also be a dream for 4k video editing work.

While other PC monitor companies seem to come out on top when considering the best picks for a basic office display or a budget gaming monitor, LG is among the best for really cutting-edge screens.

If you’re after the best money can buy (while still retaining impressive value at higher price-tags) LG is one of the top monitor brands for you.

Fantastic Gaming Monitor Brand: BenQ

Last but most definitely not least is a company that has stormed the market in the last decade or so to match many of the largest gaming display manufacturers.

While we give Acer and ASUS the top accolades for gamer monitor brands, we can comfortably say BenQ is on the same level as them and is particularly impressive for those after an esports monitor or someone focusing on fast, reflex-based gameplay (note: Acer/ASUS monitors are great at this too, we’re just talking about in general, for those with a focus on latency above all else).

While the company has plenty of offerings for more immersive titles and even non-gaming, their best capability is when they’re focussed on designing screens for the competitive gaming scene at modest price-points, this will include the highest frame rates, lowest latencies, and lots of quality-of-life features an esports enthusiast will demand to take the edge.

Our pick for the best BenQ monitor is the perfect personification of all of these great traits; the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K is arguably the best esports monitor at its price range.

At a mid-range budget, the screen manages to pack in a 240hz refresh rate and a visual setup specifically designed to better highlight environmental details (e.g. help the player notice enemy movement ASAP).

On top of that, it boasts great adjustability, a quick-settings change remote, and customizable sideways sliders to avoid distractions in your peripheral; all examples of the great mini-features you often see in BenQ innovations.

For good old-fashioned immersive gaming, this stuff might be overkill.

But for esports players? Having the extra edge in the competition can be what really makes a monitor stand out, which is why we still consider BenQ one of the best gamer monitor brands today.

Worth Considering

The next section contains some monitor manufacturers who we may not think of as the same level as the top 7, but are still great and will often have offerings to compete with the above brands in certain specific specs/price-ranges.

Best Budget Gaming Monitor Brand: AOC

AOC is a fantastic gaming display company often capable of producing options that offer comparable value to the top 7 or sometimes offer worthy budget options by sacrificing an optional spec (e.g. a cheap panel type, fast but slightly slower latency).

The AOC C24G1 is a fantastic budget gaming monitor offering 144hz, 1ms, and a 1500R curve all in one affordable package.

Second Best Budget Monitor Brand: Sceptre

Sceptre has really impressed us as of late, with their commitment to often undercutting larger brands with very comparable specs.

Yes, you won’t always have the same exact specs or a large reputable brand behind manufacturing, but if you want a premium experience on a budget, we think this is a great option.

Take the C345W-2560UN as an example, which is an absurdly cheap gaming ultrawide monitor – we would not expect to see one geared for gaming at this price, but they managed it!

Great Gaming Monitor Brand: MSI

A lot of people might be surprised to not see MSI in the top 7.

As great as the company is, we think that their monitor offerings that compete with other brands are limited (and have some history of less impressive customer service).

There is one huge exception though, the Optix MAG27CQ is one of the best gaming monitors on the market, balancing a QHD, curved, 144hz setup in fantastic build quality and price, this single monitor is so good it pretty much puts the company into this category alone!

Great Brand for Video Editing / General Use: Philips

Philips is a great TV brand that needs no introduction.

While we don’t rate them as high in some monitor categories (not competing with the budget office picks or expensive gamer options), they are a really nice player when it comes to high-quality picture specs for production-focused setups or someone after a nice media/general use screen hybrid.

The 346E2CUAE is a superb example, with a gorgeous 1440p ultrawide screen made better by its excellent contrast and color gamut, it represents what Philips is great at: focussing on picture quality above all else.

Great Monitor Brand for Work Display: Lenovo

Lenovo is a company we love for its domination in the laptop market.

But they are also a decent manufacturer of some aesthetically pleasing, well-specced monitor setups for work (no surprise, as work has always been a leading focus of this brand).

Standing at the top of their offerings is the fantastic Lenovo Q24h-10. With QHD, a great picture quality, and one of the most beautiful thin designs we’ve seen in any monitor, this display exemplifies Lenovo as a great choice for someone looking to build a premium work environment.

Cheapest Monitor Brand: Viewsonic

Viewsonic isn’t a powerhouse brand like many of the ones we’ve mentioned today.

But as far as the companies that focus on the absolute cheapest possible? We think they’re arguably the best for the lower-range choices.

Take the VA2446MH for example, yes it has an included VGA cable instead of HDMI, sure the speakers will be the bare minimum.

But for a full HD monitor with a decent picture quality at this price? If you can’t afford anything more, they’re a respectable option.

Cheapest High-Spec Monitor Brand: Viotek

What if you want to fork out on hardware that is impressive say, in resolution, framerate, and/or latency, but have a very limited budget?

This is Viotek’s specialty, often sacrificing some spec to sell a relatively comparable monitor to its competitors at 10-20% less of the price.

The GNV34DBE is their best offering, which is 15% cheaper than the average curved 1440p 144hz ultrawide gaming monitor and has likely achieved this through its slightly slower 4ms latency.

For some gamers (like those focusing on single-player titles like Cyberpunk 2077/Red Dead Redemption 2), the difference between 1ms and 4ms will be insignificant, so we appreciate Biotek, despite not being a huge brand, still has carved a respectable space for a certain type of user.

Good Gaming Monitor Brand: Gigabyte

Gigabyte, a huge reputable brand in motherboards, GPUs, and laptops, has a few great options in the monitor space (we just don’t rank this company higher due to only having a few options and being a tad more expensive for what you’re getting).

The FI27Q-P is one of the best 1440p monitors for gaming if you have the budget; with up to 165hz, gorgeous colors/contrast, and perhaps the most beautiful monitor design we’ve seen at the price point (with tons of adjustability options).

Honorable Mentions

While we don’t consider these brands part of the top 15, we wanted to include them as there may still be a situation or two where you might be rightly inclined to pick them for your next PC monitor.

Good But Limited: Razer

Everybody knows Razer; a gaming company geared for selling high-spec, beautiful products at a premium.

They only have 1 monitor offering right now, the Razer Raptor, which is why we wouldn’t give them any large accolade.

But the Raptor is a great choice in itself! With stunning picture quality and a beautiful design. You are paying more for the brand and aesthetic, but if it speaks to you, it’s a strong option for a gaming setup.

Cheapest PC Monitor Brand Alternative: Pixio

Pixio is another choice if you’re very tight on cash and none of our competitors seem to have something for you.

We do think Viewsonic is usually the better choice for ultra-cheap displays, however.

Cheapest High-Spec Monitor Brand Alternative: Nixeus

Nixeus is a little like Viotek; a brand trying to compete with many of the premium offerings on the market.

Our issue is, they tend to be at a similar price to the Top 7 or where not, lacking in stability across their products (e.g. complaints of G-Sync not fixing ghosting in games).

They’re not a bad manufacturer, but we can’t help but ask “why go for Nixeus if Dell, ASUS, Acer, etc. offer something similar?”.

Limited Cheap Monitor Brand: Monoprice

Monoprice is a respectable monitor brand in a few very limited scenarios, usually not competing with other value options.

Perhaps the biggest exception is the Monoprice 35in Zero-G, which offers a very impressive value for a UWQHD 35 inch setup.

Final Word

And there you have it! The above are our top choices for the best monitor manufacturers available and we expect in most cases, the monitor you’re looking at should be amongst these companies.

We’ll re-iterate one last time; most of our top picks have tons of choices, this list is about summarising the best average performance of a brand.

For example; even though we cite ASUS as the best gaming display brand, don’t assume that they are the best in every gaming category, it will depend on your individual needs.

So with that said, focus on our top product picks for each brand, or check out our other monitor features here (or below) to find the perfect screen for you!

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 7 Best Clear PC Cases of 2025

The 8 Best Clear PC Cases of 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated April 1, 2025

For those looking to show off their beautiful internal builds

We updated this feature in April. After reviewing the latest options available in 2025, our top picks remain the same this time, but we’ve included a couple of decent alternatives where relevant.

Let’s look at a hypothetical:

You’ve dedicated loads of time and money into putting together your perfect build.

The hardware looks amazing and you plan to set it up as neatly as possible.

…but then most of the cases you’re looking at only have one small window showing the internals!

Thankfully, there’s been an emergence of beautiful, clear computer cases that give as much transparency to your build as possible.

I’ve reviewed all of the significant offerings and reviewed/ranked them below for a range of sizes/budgets.

Overall Best Clear PC Case

Thermaltake Core P5 V2

Our Rating: 9.75/10

Read Review

Runner-Up Clear Case Pick

Lian Li PC-011 Dynamic

Our Rating: 10/10

Read Review

High-End Clear PC Case Pick

Thermaltake Core P7

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Clear Micro ATX Case

Thermaltake Level 20 VT

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Clear Mini ITX Case

Thermaltake Core P1

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Best Clear EATX case

Thermaltake Tower 900

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Read Review

Worth Considering

Thermaltake View 37

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Best Clear PC Case: Thermaltake Core P5 V2

The Thermaltake Core P series is the undisputed king of transparent computer cases.

The P5 is the best “all-around” pick.

A tempered-glass ATX case, it has a single window on the top and completely open sides, with its slim base being made up of SPCC steel.

The case can be orientated horizontally, vertically, or even wall-mounted.

So you’re well-positioned to ensure the non-transparent base is against a wall/your desk with the rest fully on display.

Inside room for:

8 Expansion slots
VGA lengths up to 570mm (without drive reservoir)
1 x accessible 2.5″/3.5 & 3 x hidden 2.5″/3.5″ drive bays

You’ll have plenty of space for a meaty GPU and good storage options for a gaming PC.

I really appreciate how most of the drives can be hidden in a case designed to be so exposed.

Some builders choose to keep the top glass panel off. Source: chief3630

The other impressive allotment is cooling. Despite not having a lot of fixtures, the case still manages to have room for either

4 x 120mm fans
1 x 480mm radiator

This may not seem like much for an ATX case.

But remember, this clear tower has excellent ventilation with airflow from 4 of its sides. Meaning you don’t need as much internal cooling (a nice value-add).

With some basic air/water cooling setup you have a chassis perfectly capable of decent overclocking. I was really pleased with the thermals I observed in a test build.

Don’t be intimidated by the lack of fixtures and mounts that you’d see in a traditional case. The P5 is actually quite beginner-friendly for building.

When taking off the glass panel during assembly, you have a lot of space to place around with and are not “reaching inside” plastic/metal casing like you are with other chassis.

Is there anything I don’t like about the P5? Honestly; not really.

It is pretty expensive considering its very bare-bones material. But what you do get is high quality and I have seen so many great looking builds inside that it feels worth the premium.

If you’re comfortable paying a bit of a premium for an amazing aesthetic, I can’t recommend the P5 (and the other P-series options) enough. I’ve not seen another fully visible case that better balances excellent build quality, style, and space.

2025 update: The P series is still the best choice for clear case builders. I think the P5 is still one of the better mid-range options, but you might want to consider the P3 if you have less of a budget or if the P5 is out of stock.

Our Rating: 9.75/10

Best Clear Case Runner-Up: Lian Li PC-011 Dynamic

One of the most renowned PC cases on the market, and for good reasons.

Lian Li’s flagship PC-011D model seems to tick every box most users need for a gaming ATX case and also ranks at the top of the list in our overall best PC case feature.

While a little more covered than the Core P5, I still think it warrants a good place on this list because of its full-length tempered glass panels on the side and front. It’s a lot more visible than a majority of options.

And with the rest of the exterior made between high-quality SECC steel and aluminum, even the non-clear sides look and feel excellent.

The case has great room for a mid-tower, with:

8 expansion slots
VGA cards up to 420mm in length
2 x 3.5″ & 4 x 2.5″ drive bays

There’s a very important USP over other chassis on this list: it’s a dual-chamber case.

This means it has a second compartment fully dedicated to hiding your “uglier” parts; think PSU, hard drives & cables.

I think this is a great bonus add for those after a clear case. It gives you the freedom to fine-tune how your build looks and make sure only the parts that you want on show are visible.

I’ve seen so many builds in the PC-011 and they never disappoint. Source: jerameyj

It also maximizes the airflow to your key components that need it (i.e. GPUs and CPU).

Despite the split compartments, the PC-011 still has room for:

Up to 9 x 120mm fans
Up to 1 x 360mm, 1 x 280mm & 1 x 240mm radiators

I’ve seen great thermal results in the case despite how much of it is covered. Both watercooling and air cooling builds have excelled in overclocking due to its great internal layout.

The reason I don’t give this case the top spot over the P5 is because it’s significantly more covered.

But if you prefer the 2-window approach of the PC-011 to the very transparent presentation of the P5, then I truly don’t think you can find a better case on the market.

Our Rating: 10/10

Best High-End Clear Case: Thermaltake Core P7 & Core P8

2025 update: The below focuses on the Core P7, our original high-end pick. However, Thermaltake has created another fantastic option in the Core P8 , check out our full review in our premium PC case feature.

For our most expensive case pick, we’re back to the P-series.

The premium model is an incredibly unique case and I’m sure you can tell why from its monolithic aesthetic.

The central body is similar to the Core P5 (just sized up for EATX motherboards / a full tower form factor).

But on top of that are two side panels on the left and right side designed to host and show off extra fans/radiators.

If you check out some of the build/stock photos on the product listing, you’ll see just how incredible this case can look, especially if you’re building an RGB setup.

The cooling potential is crazy for a see-through PC case with so much ventilation:

Up to 12 x 120mm fans
Up to 3 x 480mm radiators

The fact that there are so many cooling allotments despite the case also being large open-air is quite the achievement. I was really impressed by thermal benchmarks here. There’s capability here to run a very intensive build.

Few cases offer more freedom of expression while building. Source: ittypartspicker

You have the room in the main case for a monstrous multi-GPU build too, with:

E-ATX motherboard compatibility (allowing up to 4 GPUs)
The VGA cards can be up to 570mm in length (with the reservoir removed)
8 expansion slots
Up to 6 x 3.5″ / 7 x 2.5″ drives (or a mix) – more than enough for gaming, streaming, video editing or a HTPC case.

Between all the cooling options, space, and open-air case design, this is one of the best overclocking towers available today.

Let’s be real though; this is a very expensive choice.

And for many gaming builds, the Core P5 and others on this list are more than enough for what you’ll need and I recommend them more over the P7 for that reason.

But if budget isn’t a big concern and you want the most power/style you can possibly get, this is one of the best clear computer cases available.

Final note: If you like the look of this high-end chassis but it’s a little out of your price range, you can also consider the Core P90 as a great middle-ground option.

Our Rating: 9/10

Best Clear Micro ATX Case: Thermaltake Level 20 VT

This list may seem a little Thermaltake-heavy

But there simply isn’t any other manufacturer that has come out with clear chassis as good as them (in so many prices/size ranges).

This next offering is for those looking for the best clear mini-tower case.

The L20 VT is covered with 4 tempered glass panels: left, right, top, and front.

These exposed angles and the small form factor would make it fantastic for an on-desk setup.

Due to the solid build quality of the case overall (SPCC steel), it’s still more than sturdy enough to act as a portable/LAN Party case if needed.

Source: a_pc_has_no_name

The space is really excellent for Micro ATX too, with:

5 expansion slots
VGA lengths up to 350mm (great for mATX)
Up to 7 x 120mm + 1 included high quality RGB 200m fan on the front
Up to 3 x 240mm & 1 x 120mm radiators

This case is also the smallest dual-chamber tower on the list.

With hidden compartments for PSUs, drives, and some of your cables.

There aren’t many see-through computer cases with full/open exposure for Micro ATX.

But fortunately, the Level 20 VT is such a good offering it hardly matters.

With excellent build quality, deceptive internal size, beautiful presentation/style, and unparalleled cooling options for a Micro ATX tower, this is an easy pick if you’re looking at this form factor.

Our Rating: 9/10

Best Clear Mini ITX Case: Thermaltake Core P1

The last Core P case on our list is the smallest one available – perfect for mITX builders.

What I really like about the P1 is that it manages to maintain the excellent build quality of its larger brothers.

With an SPCC steel base and the same signature open-air setup (+ a thick tempered glass top).

Stock pictures really don’t do the P1 justice; with its compact size and high visibility, I’ve never seen a build completed and powered on that doesn’t look beautiful.

Note also, that even in this tiny option, the Core P1 still has dedicated wall mounting support and looks great in this format.

The tiny case still manages full-sized GPUs. Source: Flyinlow23

You’ll be getting good space for mITX, with:

5 expansion slots
VGA lengths up to 380mm
2 x 2.5″ accessible & 1 x 3.5″ / 2.5″ hidden bays

Obviously, this is much more limited than a mid/full tower.

But if your focus is on the smallest build possible, you have more options here for a portable gaming build than a lot of other similarly sized chassis.

Cooling-wise, you’ll be looking at either 2 x 140mm fans or 1 x 280mm radiator.

Alongside the open-air case design, this is more than enough for a single-GPU build.

The case is the cheapest of the P series, but it shares the premium price tag relative to other ITX options (which are usually cheaper due to their smaller size). My same point applies to this version; I think the premium is worth it if you’re really after a gorgeous aesthetic.

With excellent build quality, deceptive internal size, beautiful presentation/style, and unparalleled cooling options for a Mini ITX case. The P1 is unmatched in its form factor for a high-visibility build.

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Best Clear EATX case: Thermaltake Tower 900

So what if you’re looking for the most space possible?

The Tower 900 is a fantastic option for Extended-ATX motherboard builds.

Dubbed “the fish tank PC case”, the Tower 900 has 3 full-length thick, tinted tempered-glass windows.

They provide an excellent presentation for a monstrous build alongside the rest of its rock-solid SGCC steel exterior.

Speaking of monstrous builds, you can certainly create one here, with:

8 Expansion slots
VGA lengths up to 400mm
1 x 5.25 “, 6 x 3.5″ / 2.5 ” & 2 x 2.5″ drive bays

Note this is in a case that is extra-long. If tied with an appropriate motherboard, these space provisions will give you room for a Quad-GPU build.

You’ll be able to overclock them well with the incredible cooling on the Tower 900 too.

Trust me; it’s larger than it looks. Source: Jaz11

It’s the largest dual-chamber case we recommend. With space to hide all your storage drives, PSU, and cables.

This gives maximum airflow to your GPUs/CPU in the main chamber (and makes them look as neat as possible).

That great airflow can then be combined with:

13 x 120mm fans
1 x 480mm & 1 x 560mm radiators

You can add air cooling to your water cooling build too if you prefer. If you install both of these radiators, there will still be room for 5 further 120mm fans on the top, rear & HDD cage.

The Tower 900, simply put, is one of the best cases for cooling and overclocking available today.

You will get diminishing returns compared to an ATX/Micro ATX case as we detail in our complete case size guide. These form factors are suitable for most builds.

But if your concern is less on budget and more on asking “how do I make the most powerful PC possible?”, here’s your answer.

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Worth Considering: Thermaltake View 37

While not taking one of our top picks, the View 37 has some great factors going for it.

The biggest one by far is style.

The design is very unique; with a curved window covering the full length of the left side/top.

Paired alongside its included addressable RGB fans, it’s one of the coolest-looking cases in its price point.

For a mid-tower chassis, you’re getting excellent room too, with:

8 + 2 (vertical mount) expansion slots
VGA cards up to 410mm (without front fans)
3 x 2.5″ / 3.5″ accessible & 8 x 2.5 /4 x 3.5″ hidden drive bays
Up to 8 x 120mm fans
Up to 1 x 420mm, 1 x 360mm & 1 x 120mm radiators

The lack of an edge between the top/side glass looks very slick. Source: JTricky

The storage capability in this case is a particular standout.

With the drive bays here, you have room for an HTPC, server, production, and/or video editing build.

Note the airflow design of this case isn’t quite up to the standards of some of the other options on this list.

But there’s still great cable management utility and it’s good enough to achieve decent overclocking on a multi-GPU build.

The case even claims to support E-ATX motherboards. Though this may be a tight squeeze and we’d recommend the larger options above if you were looking at a huge build.

One important note: the View 37 is a clear plastic PC case.

It still has a sturdy SPCC steel exterior but the window is not tempered glass like the rest of our picks.

But if its curved window design, excellent space, or decent price-point appeal to you, know we’ve included it for a reason and would still highly recommend for a clear PC case RGB build.

2025 update: Hopefully you’ve found what you’re looking for in the picks above, but one more fresher case that is worth a quick shout-out is the HYTE Y60 – it offers a great single-glass, dual chamber aesthetic at a good mid-range price.

Our Rating: 8.5/10

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 5 Best Console-Style PC Cases in 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated April 1, 2025

We've reviewed the options available in this unique style

We updated this article in 2025 releases. After reviewing the new cases on the market, our top choices remain the same. We’ve mentioned a couple of decent new alternatives to certain choices where relevant.

Is anybody else looking for a build that looks a little more…console-y?

In the world of chassis, there’s an overwhelming amount of good-looking cases out there.

But I often find myself being surprised at how large and imposing many designs are. What about those after a more classic gaming aesthetic akin to a PlayStation/Xbox?

In today’s feature, we’ve found the appropriate options and reviewed them to guide you through the best console-sized PC cases for your next gaming build.

Overall Best Console-Style PC Case

Fractal Design Node 202

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Runner-Up Console-Style Pick

SilverStone ML08

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Budget Console-Style PC Case

Thermaltake Core V1

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Console-Style Premium Pick

NZXT H1

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Budget Pick Alternative

SilverStone ML05

Our Rating: 7.5/10

Read Review

Overall Best Console-Style PC Case: Fractal Design Node 202

What a fantastic chassis this is.

If your budget doesn’t stretch to our top premium pick further below, the Node 202 is the perfect choice for creating a console-style aesthetic.

We rank it at the top because of the impressive balance between its tight, slim, Mini-ITX form factor and an intelligent, internal design that allows you to install a powerful mainstream GPU within its size limitations.

Its steel/plastic hybrid design looks very slick, boasting a high-quality finish and sturdiness, giving the chassis a nice premium aesthetic.

Source: System48

Inside, there is room for:

A separate GPU chamber that can accommodate a video card up to 310 x 147 mm
2 x 2.5″ drive bays
Room in the GPU chamber for 2 x 120mm fans (impressive for the shape/size, but bear in mind these will have to compete with the GPU dimensions)

The hardware you can install within the Node 202 is really impressive considering its unique, slim form factor.

It doesn’t just look the part, you have room in here for a powerful console-style gaming PC build; with a majority of mainstream graphics cards being installable (please check your dimensions before installing!).

While you’re (of course) not going to get the same airflow as a more extensive “traditional” case (ATX, etc.), the ventilation design in the Node 202 is fantastic. With its separate GPU chamber that segregates cooling, not to mention the optional fan mounts if your build demands them.

Overall, while we love the premium NZXT H1 pick below (and think anyone reading should also consider that chassis), I chose the Node 202 overall as it represents an incredible balance in design, quality, specification, and price. Whether for gaming or other PC builds, this is a fantastic choice.

2025 Update: The Node 202 remains my top Console-Style pick for 4 years running; nothing else better balances price, quality, and inner space while retaining a nice, slim aesthetic.

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Runner-Up Best Console-Style PC Case: SilverStone ML08

Coming in very closely behind the Node 202 is a worthy alternative in the ML08.

Its steel body and reinforced plastic shell look as high quality as they feel. Like the 202, the ML08 easily doubles as a great portable PC case option with its decent durability.

With room inside for:

An independent graphics card chamber for a dual-expansion slot card up to 330 x 121mm
Oversized vents designed to provide a fanless cooling setup for the tight layout
2 x 2.5″ drive bays
Some convenient install features, such as its tool-less drive bays/dual chamber design

Source: phdpepper

The internal dimensions here are still very impressive for the case’s external size, with the GPU slot still being large enough for most popular choices (remember to check!).

Fractal Node 202 vs Silverstone ML08

We rank the ML08 a tad below the Node 202 as its GPU width allowances are slightly less, and there are no optional case fans (though the ML08 performs surprisingly well with its oversized vents).

The GPU length allowance is notably longer, but we expect the width to be the main consideration point for your installation as very few cards are over 310mm (having extended width is also nicer for airflow on most cards).

But all things considered, this is still an excellent option and easily one of the best console-sized cases available. Don’t hesitate if you prefer it over the Node 202.

Our Rating: 9/10

Best Budget Console-Style PC Case: Thermaltake Core V1

This pick is a bit of a side-track from the main aesthetic we’ve featured in the rest of the list.

But we thought this pick still deserved a place if your idea of a console PC case is closer to a GameCube (or you’re simply flexible if the budget is right).

The Core V1 is a really impressive case for the price and has been featured many times previously on What in Tech.

The build quality is really quite impressive considering its low cost; with an SPCC steel/tempered glass design, covered with extended ventilation (important in a small case).

Source: Seiren2112

Largely considered as one of the best Mini-ITX cases for budget gaming builds, you have great room in here for:

2 expansion slots/GPU lengths up to 285mm
2 x 2.5″ & 2 x 3.5″ hidden drive bays
1 included 200mm fan + space for 2 x 80mm fans

As you can see, the length allowance on the GPU space is a tad lower than the other cases featured (but still good enough for many popular cards if you check pre-purchase).

The Core V1 makes up for this with its additional storage compartments and excellent cooling capability.

While we think the above picks better capture the essence of a console-style computer case, there is no chassis of those styles in the V1’s price range. It really is an excellent budget alternative.

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Best Console-Style PC Case for Cooling (Premium Pick): NZXT H1

If we had to pick just one case to crown as the best console-style tower available today, this would be it.

Due to its price tag, we’ve given the H1 the “premium choice” label.

But before you cry at the price, know you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck beyond just the case itself.

On top of its incredible design/build quality, the case is worth its price tag due to the included fully modular 650W PSU and AIO water-cooler.

The NZXT H1 is special as it has been designed with this PSU and water cooler in mind.

This has been done to remove any unnecessary size gaps that the other cases demand to be compatible with a wider range of SFX PSUs/cooling.

Source: THLNG

Everything inside the unit is carefully designed and has its place (no waste) with room for:

A beautiful SGCC steel/tinted tempered glass design. This is easily the highest quality and best-looking console tower on the list and the closest thing you’ll see to an Xbox Series X PC case
A dual-chamber layout that gives fantastic ventilation to the allotted GPU space (up to 305mm x 128mm for your card).
2 x 2.5″ drive bays

It cannot be overstated how impressive the H1 is from both a design and performance perspective. I was particularly impressed by how it looks in person, photos don’t do it justice!

As good-looking as the unit is turned off, seeign a complete build light up through the tinted window (much more classily than a completely transparent panel in my experience) is a level of elegance you can’t really find in the other console-like PC cases we’ve reviewed.

And the fact that the ventilation/integrated water-cooler work so well to provide decent thermals is something extra special in this form factor, which can be plagued with cases that have serious heat issues.

This isn’t just the best console-shaped PC case, but one of the best Mini-ITX cases available today in any category

2025 update: This case is sadly quite low on stock in 2025. If you like the style but want something a little cheaper (or in stock), the closest alternative to the H1 is the SilverStone LD03B which is an excellent console-like alternative.

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Best Budget Console-Style Tower Alternative: SilverStone ML05

As much as we rave about the Core V1 as a budget pick above, we thought it sensible to include the cheapest option we’ve seen that has similar “cuboid” dimensions to the other choices.

The ML05 is the smaller brother of the ML08 and is the smallest PC case on the list with a tiny 7-liter volume.

With a comparably great build quality and design, as well as space for 2 x 80mm fans, 4 x 2.5″ drive bays, and an optical disc drive, you can be forgiven for thinking this is the ideal choice.

There is a big gap with the Ml05 though: it only has 1 expansion slot and is not designed for most independent/large GPUs.

Source: monophonotronic

Being more specialized as an HTPC case, you would need either a specialized GPU with 1 expansion slot or integrated motherboard graphics for this to work for you.

I thought to include this pick as appreciated some budget builders may be OK with integrated graphics if their focus was more on portability.

That being said, if you’re looking for the best console-sized computer case for gaming, the options above will be far better suited and we think you’ll prefer the Core V1 model if your budget is tight.

Our Rating: 7.5/10

Round-Up

Overall Best Console-Style PC Case: Fractal Design Node 202
Runner-Up Best Console-Style PC Case: SilverStone ML08
Best Budget Console-Style PC Case: Thermaltake Core V1
Best Console-Style PC Case for Cooling (Premium Pick): NZXT H1
Best Budget Console-Style Tower Alternative: SilverStone ML05

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 15 Most Unique PC Cases You Can Actually Buy in 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated March 29, 2025

We've reviewed everything from tanks to pyramids...here are the best

We’ve updated this feature for 2025 after reviewing the latest and upcoming cases on the market. We’ve added a couple of alternatives where relevant, but most of our top picks remain the same this time.

As far as aesthetics go for your next build, nothing is more important than the chassis.

There are plenty of great options out there (in all shapes, sizes, and colors).

But in terms of design, they can often feel like they blend into each other.

So what about those who want something a little….different?

I’ve reviewed 100s of options through What in Tech and made today’s feature to take you through the most unique computer cases available today that you can actually buy (not just one-off mods that cost 1,000s).

Best Mainstream/Affordable Picks

Overall Best Unique PC Case

Corsair Carbide SPEC-Omega

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Runner-Up Unique PC Case

Thermaltake Core P3

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Best Unique Budget PC Case

Thermaltake Versa N24

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Best Unique Micro ATX Case

Phanteks EVOLV MATX

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Unique Mini-ITX Case

NZXT H1

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Best Unique PC Case for Performance

Corsair Crystal Series 680X RGB

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Craziest Picks

Most Unique PC Case

Antec Torque

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Runner-Up Crazy PC Case

Azza Pyramid 804L

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Large Unique Case:

Cougar Conquer 2

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Cool PC Case Alternative

InWin D-Frame

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best of the Rest

Tank PC Case

LIQIANG Tank

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

PC Case with Screen Side Panel

iBUYPOWER Snowblind S

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Premium Unique Mini ITX Case

Antec Striker

Our Rating: 8/10

Read Review

Great ATX Alternative

Anidees AI Crystal V3

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Unique E-ATX PC Case

Thermaltake Tower 900

Our Rating: 8/10

Read Review

Best Mainstream/Affordable Choices

This feature is broken into three parts – the first is for the most unique PC cases with some consideration for availability and affordability.

Skip over to the Craziest PC Cases section if you’re more interested in the most innovative, unusual designs.

Corsair Carbide SPEC-Omega

Overall Best Unique PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS*

REASONS TO BUY

+ Good all-round case

+ Cool design, but still easy to build

+ Decent value & availability (unlike many unique cases)

REASONS TO AVOID

– May not be “crazy” enough for you (see below)

– Better options available for high-end builds

Our Rating: 9.5/10

The SPEC-Omega tops our list with its ability to strike an amazing balance between price, build quality, features, and of course, uniqueness.

On the surface, it has a rather normal shape and tower presentation.

However, the front and top panels give a deceptive depth to their unique design.

With the dominant sides of the front and top consisting of high-quality steel, the case feels as solid as it looks.

The less dominant front side offers a thick tempered glass preview into the case, with the top offering a mesh view.

It’s not uncommon to see cases with visible fronts or tops, but being done in this “diagonal” way with the slick RGB divider is special.

Photos don’t do this unique tower justice. I’m featuring it highly because I’ve been really surprised by how great it looks in person.

Source: Katpcman

When you have gorgeous components shining through its design, you’ll see why I rank it so highly.

The tower also has some gorgeous additional color options, topping our list of red PC cases.

But it gets our top mainstream pick not just for looks, but performance.

With 7 expansion slots, VGA lengths up to 370mm, and 3 x 3.5″ + 2 x 2.5″ drive bays, this ATX tower has great space for a wide variety of builds.

There are some great cooling options too, with:

Air: 6 x 120mm fans – 2 high-quality Corsair SP120L fans included
Water: 1 x 360mm, 1 x 240mm & 1 x 120mm radiators

Alongside this availability is a good internal design that provides great cable management and airflow. It’s a great basis for a gaming build, including overclocking.

While there are some crazier designs further on the list, I started with this pick as it offers a fantastic “jack of all trades” feature set, solid design/build quality, and stock availability (a problem with some unique picks) all under a very good price tag.

Thermaltake Core P3

Runner-Up Best Unique PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Stunning design and build quality

+ Great customizable layout

+ Open-air design lends itself for airflow

REASONS TO AVOID

– Customisation may be intimidating to beginners

– Slightly expensive

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Oh boy, I love this case.

Featured several times previously on What in Tech for its amazing capability, the P3 is the perfect unique case if you’re looking for high visibility.

It may look simplistic, sure.

But its uniqueness comes from its ability to show off your beautiful internal parts as no other case can.

The P3 has 4 open sides and a thick, tempered glass covering the top. This design is great not just for looks but also for ventilation with all of the open space providing ideal airflow.

Not to mention this is by far the best wall-mount PC case which, as the name implies, effectively allows you to hang your chassis from a wall. This is a stunning way to display a PC. Many of the most exciting setups I’ve seen or built utilize this method of placement.

If you want a different size/more intense unique build, check out the different P-series options in the product listing (P1 – P90) – we talk through some of the key differences here.

Source: LmNoPg007

The case excels in space too due to its minimalist design, with:

8 x expansion slots (and options for vertical GPU install)
Graphics cards up to 450mm in length (with radiator reservoir removed)
Hidden 2 x 2.5″ or 3.5″ + visible 2 x 2.5″ or 3.5″ drive bay
Cooling: 3 x 140mm fans or 1 x 420mm radiator

With the open ventilation, you don’t need the 6-7 fans you usually see in an ATX case.

The P3 performs just as well, if not better in cooling, making it such a great option for gaming and enthusiast builds.

If you know you’re building some unique-looking components and want the best case to show them off, you won’t get a better offering than the P-series cases.

2025 update: If you like the P3 but it’s out of stock, check out our clear PC case guide that includes the other iterations of the Core P chassis series.

Thermaltake has also made an E-ATX version of the case, the Core P3 Pro, which is equally fantastic for those building something larger.

Thermaltake Versa N24

Best Budget Unique PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Great unique design for the low price point

+ Decent layout for budget/beginners builds

REASONS TO AVOID

– Cheap build quality

– Better thermals in more expensive options

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Now, if you were thinking you couldn’t find a cheap option that still boasts a unique look, I’m here to happily prove you wrong!

Looking like it came out of Fallout or Midgar, the Versa N24 design is fantastic.

We love all of the intricate edges, pipes, and different panels around this futuristic chassis.

With the cheap price tag, you’re not getting the same build quality as other cases on the list. With a cheaper metal window and plastic exterior.

Source: robsn

That said, it still feels great for the price tag, and what’s more, it has a lot of space capability, with:

7 x expansion slots
VGA lengths up to 415mm (with a front fan removed).
1 x 5.25″, 2 x 2.5″ / 3.5″ & 2 x 2.5″ drive bays
Up to 6 x 120mm fans (1 pre-installed, great for the price).
Or up to 2 x 240mm & 1 x 120mm radiators

There’s still everything needed here for a unique gaming build. If you were planning a crazy, overclock-heavy setup, we’d steer you to one of the more expensive offerings for cooling.

That being said, if you’re building a budget PC, this case will perform excellently for what you’re after.

Phanteks EVOLV MATX Edition

Best Unique Micro ATX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Beautiful build quality/aesthetic

+ Surprisingly spacious for form factor

+ Great cooling options for mATX

REASONS TO AVOID

– Slightly expensive for mATX

– Some very minor quality-of-life issues (fiddly hinges, screws, etc.)

Our Rating: 9/10

There aren’t as many interesting options available for mATX.

Thankfully, Phanteks, who specializes in all sorts of wonderful and weird PC cases, has created a striking monolith chassis.

With a high-quality aluminum front and metal body, the case has an awesome gunmetal grey finish.

This is one of those cases that looks way better in person, but I like it for much more than just its looks.

If you check some of the product photos that show the internal layout, you’ll see why we tout this case as special.

Source: cfritz562

The structure of the EVOLV is very well built. It’s cramming in great space for:

4 Expansion slots
VGA cards up to 319mm in length
2 x 3.5″ & 2 x 2.5″ drive bays
Up to 6 x 120mm or 5 x 140mm fans (2 140mm fans included)

Now while these specs may not seem impressive next to many of the other top picks, bear in mind this isn’t just an mATX case, but one with some pretty compact dimensions.

If your idea of a unique tower includes a micro ATX form factor that is not too big or too small, the EVOLV is the perfect fit for you.

NZXT H1

Best Unique Mini-ITX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Incredible design, layout, and build quality

+ Expensive, but lots included in the price

+ Deceptive amount of space for GPUs and drives

REASONS TO AVOID

– Space is tight

– Cheaper ITX builds possible

Our Rating: 9.5/10

On the surface, the H1 may seem like a pretty ordinary vertical tower.

But for its form factor? All of the H1’s serious competitors are cube/short cuboid shapes.

NZXT has created a truly unique innovative space inside the H1 to make such a low volume “console-shaped” PC case possible. I’m impressed that it still manages to accommodate a decent gaming build.

The quality and design are simply awesome. With a high-quality SGCC steel exterior and tinted tempered glass that will sleekly display the interesting inner layout of the H1 combined with your components. In my experience, tinted windows always look better (more tasteful) even if you want to show off RGB lights.

With what feels like wizardry for its dimensions, the H1 has:

A PCIe 3 riser card to vertically install a GPU
2 x expansion slots / GPU lengths up to 305mm
2 x 2.5″ bays (many larger ITX cases only have 1)

The fact that you can install most mainline GPUs in a case of this size is incredible, and the vertical layout will give it a truly unique presentation.

Source: THLNG

The case comes with a high-quality PSU specifically designed for the case (so isn’t wasting any space trying to cater to multiple PSU sizes).

You’re also getting a pre-installed AIO 140mm Water Cooler; which combined with the great dual-chamber layout, is designed to be the only cooling in the case (and it’s all you’ll need).

Of course, in a Mini ITX build, you’re not going to have a dual-GPU overclocked setup. That is a choice every ITX builder makes (and for many, won’t be a great loss).

It may seem like a high price tag, but for the build quality, design & included PSU/cooling solution, this really is a great deal.

If you’re looking for the best unique Mini ITX case for gaming or other portable uses, you’ve found it.

2025 update: A second version of the H1 has been released which includes an additional 92mm fan, an extra USB 3.1 C input, larger GPU compatibility, and a more powerful PSU.

Currently, the v1 runs a little cheaper than the v2. While v2 is a direct improvement, I’d only recommend paying more for it if you are looking to build one of the higher-end GPUs (e.g. 4/5000 series cards). If your build is a little more mid-range, V1 will suit you just fine.

Corsair Crystal Series 680X RGB

Best Unique PC Case for Performance

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Incredible build quality

+ Dual chamber layout provides enthusiast level cooling, cable management, and space

REASONS TO AVOID

– Quite expensive

Our Rating: 9/10

One of the most featured cases on What in Tech, the 680X has so much going for it.

Let’s start with its unique design.

This Corsair tower is the top premium dual chamber PC case available.

This means it has a separate “hidden” compartment designed to hide your “uglier parts”. Think PSUs, cables, and drives.

This doesn’t just help presentation but also improves airflow and room for parts in the main case.

The build quality is some of the best available today. With a very high-quality steel exterior and thick tempered glass on the front, top, and hinged side panel (full length), the case is truly gorgeous and one of my favorites I’ve reviewed in person.

Source: jjzeng21

But it’s not just pretty…

This is one of my overall top picks throughout many What in Tech features for much more than its innovative design.

Perfect for high-end gaming/production builds, you’ll have room for:

10 expansion slots (2 vertical mounted)
VGA cards up to 330mm
3 x 3.5″ + 4 x 2.5″ drive bays (all in the 2nd “hidden” chamber)
Air cooling: Up to 8 x 120mm fans (with 3 very high-quality Corsair LL120 fans & controller included)
Radiator support: Up to 360mm front, 280mm top 280mm bottom & 140mm rear

We love the specs the 680X achieves out of its already well-ventilated dual-chamber setup.

This chassis will be perfect for not just a powerful gaming build, but also for overclocking with the great cooling potential.

And with the fantastic addressable fans included alongside the beautiful design, you really have a special look going for you out of the box.

The downside? This is a very premium case and the price reflects that. You can certainly accomplish a powerful build in one of the cheaper chassis I’ve featured.

But when you’re balancing an amazing feature set, high-quality RGB inclusion, and beautiful unique design, I think this cool PC case is worth every cent for those with larger budgets.

Craziest PC Cases

The above picks were special cases with some consideration for being widely available and affordable.

Now, the next section is more about offering the craziest computer cases that money can buy.

Note that while you are paying a premium for their awesome designs, I’m still only recommending cases that offer great performance.

Some towers (like the Keider Open Case & darkFlash Knight) look very special, but have some quality problems. Trust me, you don’t have to sacrifice good performance for a cool design.

Antec Torque

Most Unique PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Unparalleled unique design & build quality

+ Open-air design with plenty of cooling support provides great thermals

+ Decent layout for most hardware needs

REASONS TO AVOID

– As expensive as you might expect

– Low on drive bays

Our Rating: 9.5/10

OK, now we’re getting to some truly crazy PC cases…

The picture speaks for itself!

Antec really is at the top of their innovative design game with the Torque.

The case is designed to look as unconventional as possible without compromising functionality.

With an exterior made of 14 uniquely curved aluminum panels and double-sided tempered glass, the finish of every surface is incredibly high quality. I was stunned when I first caught it in person. The whole unit feels as stunning as it looks.

This unique ATX case has space for:

7 x expansion slots
Graphics cards up to 450mm in length
1 x 2.5″ & 1 x 3.5″ drive bays
Compatible with EATX motherboards up to 12″ x 11″
Up to 6 x 120mm fans or 2 x 360mm Radiators

Source: neo457

Despite the focus on design, you still have space in here for an intensive GPU/overclocking setup should you desire.

The only spec lower than we’d like is the drive availability.

It will be low because Antec will only have bays that can be hidden due to the focus on a highly visible design.

And with that said, unless you are looking for video editing or some other very high storage requirement, this capacity will be fine for you.

The cooling may not seem out of this world for an ATX chassis but bear in mind that, with its highly ventilated design, you’re going to be getting great airflow with either solution type.

So, while it’s the aesthetic that is the big selling point of the Torque, through great innovation, Antec is offering a great balance between form and function.

Yes, this insane PC case is expensive, but you’re paying to have not just great build quality and features, but something truly special that is unmatched by most of the market.

2025 update: While this is still our top pick, we’ve seen the Torque run into some stock issues this year. If you’re looking for something that comes close to its unique aesthetic, we’d recommend the Thermaltake AH T600.

Azza Pyramid 804L

Runner-Up Unique PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ As well-built as it is unique

+ Fits most enthusiast hardware despite unusual shape (be sure to check)

+ Deceptive amount of space for GPUs and drives

REASONS TO AVOID

– High price (as with all cases this unique)

– Tough build for beginners

Our Rating: 9/10

Yes, that’s right, your eyes don’t deceive you.

This is a pyramid PC case.

This Azza chassis, like our Torque pick, is great because it still offers a lot of functionality behind the crazy aesthetic.

With its very high-quality aluminum, thick SPCC steel, and tempered glass build, it’s one of the sturdiest towers around.

And the finish on the metal (not to mention the sharp, sleek corners) gives it a premium feel that few traditional cuboid PC cases match.

Source: soar-anthony

When it comes to space, the Azza is an ATX tower with:

2 expansion slots
Graphics cards up to 330mm
2 x 2.5″ + 1 x 3.5″ drive bays
Air: up to 4 x 120mm fans with 1 Hurricane II Digital RGB Fan pre-installed at the top
Cooling: up to 1 x 360mm radiator at the bottom

The case is designed for a single-GPU build which these days should be the focus of most gamers (there are single graphics cards that will give you top performance in all games today)

With the good ventilation offered around the top of the case, the cooling available will be all you need for a gaming PC.

It’s hard to imagine a more unusual PC case than this pyramid.

But Azza really manages to pull it off, if you have the budget and your desired build can fit, this is a fantastic option.

Cougar Conquer 2

Best Large Unique PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Powerful design and build quality

+ Layout and cooling for enthusiast builds

+ Deceptively easy to build in

REASONS TO AVOID

– Very pricey

– Very large and heavy, not for portability

Our Rating: 9/10

The Conquer is certainly one of the most unique full-tower cases around.

But then Cougar recently released the Conquer 2 and well….look at this thing.

With a full high-quality metal exterior and 4 thick tempered glass side panels, the case is an incredibly sturdy offering.

So much of the aesthetic is also built around the syncable RGB lighting on the front of the case (and that includes a COUGAR ARGB fan pre-installed).

We’ve been saying this a lot on this feature but; the Conquer 2 is another example of a case not done justice by photos, I almost laughed out loud at how ridiculously cool it looked in person.

Just check some of the user builds in the product listing. With some RGB components alongside it, you’ll have something really special.

Source: skygunner27

We love the size that the Conquer 2 offers, with:

8 expansion slots + 2 for vertical install
While not officially listed, is reported to fit E-ATX motherboards
VGA lengths up to 400mm
2 x 2.5″ & 2 x 2.5″ / 3.5″ drive bays
Up to 6 x 120mm fans
Or up to 1 x 240mm & 1 x 360mm radiators

The cooling availability is fantastic for an open-air case (which often compromises the amount of cooling available in favor of ventilation).

With the incredible capacity, it’s a great option for a very high-end overclocking build (or something more modest with better cooling).

One neat extra feature in a case this size that we don’t see much is the detachable inner-chassis designed for making modifications and installation easier.

Don’t underestimate the convenience of this feature, everything from cleaning to cable management will be made easier by this luxury.

This is the kind of weird PC case that is so unique, we’re sure some people will love it, and some people will think it’s too much.

But that’s what we think is so great about it; and why it’s perfect for a powerful build if you want something truly one-of-a-kind.

InWin D-Frame

Cool PC Case Alternative

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Incredible build quality

+ One of the most customizable case layouts

+ Open-air cooling great for enthusiast builds

REASONS TO AVOID

– The quality comes with a price tag

– Utilising its customizability may be intimidating to some beginners

Our Rating: 9/10

InWin has created one of the best innovative offerings around in the D-Frame.

We’ve featured this awesome chassis multiple times on What in Tech, with its ability to still offer great performance despite the design focus.

With the unique tubing and base made out of high-quality aluminum and a beautiful tempered glass window on the front, the build is absolutely top-tier.

With its open-air case design, you are getting both fantastic airflow and high visibility on your more beautiful parts.

But it also does an excellent job in size, with:

8 expansion slots (with vertical install available)
Graphics cards up to 330mm in length
3 x 3.5″ + 2 x 2.5″ + 1 x 5.25″ drive bays
Up to 4 x 120mm case fans
Impressive cable management facility despite the large exposure on most sides.

Source: wardog102

You’ll have everything you need here for either a powerful gaming PC or something more for production/editing.

We like that it even comes with the option for a 5.25″ optical drive in case you’re after a unique HTPC case.

(Though if you’re like most of us and don’t need it, it can be used for further hard drive space with a convertor, or better airflow).

4 x 120mm fans may not sound like much for an ATX case.

But with its high-airflow design, the D-Frame performs excellently even for high-demand builds.

If the style is to your liking, know that there’s a reason this chassis has had a few iterations and won numerous awards.

It truly is one of the most innovative computer cases around, combining a special aesthetic with great functionality.

Best of the Rest

The picks above are what we’d really recommend on your search for the most unique PC case that suits your next build.

That being said, we’ve included some additional options that are still great and worth considering, in case you have some specific requirements we haven’t covered.

Tank PC Case: LIQIANG Tank

No, your eyes don’t deceive you.

You can, in fact, have a tank PC tower!

And the internal workings/specs are pretty impressive despite the high price tag. The only reason we don’t include this in our detailed writeups is that its stock is pretty limited, but if you have the budget and see it available, we can’t think of many cases that will shock your friends more!

Our Rating: 9/10

PC Case with Screen Side Panel: iBUYPOWER Snowblind S 19″

Yes, you read that right.

This iBUYPOWER PC case comes with a display inside the side panel window.

One of the craziest tower concepts we’ve seen and capable of running a cool gaming build, this is worth considering if you have some ideas on what the transparent display could add to your setup.

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Premium Unique Mini ITX Case: Antec Striker

If you’re looking for an innovative ITX case, this is the best around.

We didn’t give it a top pick because of its intense price for such a small case.

But if you have the budget, its a fantastic offering.

Our Rating: 8/10

Great Unique ATX Case Option: Anidees AI Crystal V3

This is our “third-best” pick for the top of the list and was very nearly the runner-up.

If you’re looking more for a cube PC case or simply like the design, know that this is a brilliant offering and provides great performance alongside its amazing looks.

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Unique E-ATX PC Case: Thermaltake Tower 900

We’ve talked above about some options that will “unofficially” support E-ATX.

But if you want a unique PC case that you know will do so with ease, this is the one.

With its “fishtank” design, any PC in here will look like little else – check out our full breakdown on our best EATX case picks.

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Crazy PC Case Alternative: Cougar Conquer

In the Conquer 2 review, you may have heard us mention it’s older brother, the original Conquer.

While not quite as striking as the new model, this is still a very innovative PC case with a special, unique design.

If this aesthetic speaks to you more than the others on this list, know that it is still a great case.

Our Rating: 8/10

Unique Budget Micro ATX Case: Nanoxia Rexgear 2

Last but not least, we mentioned that the options for unique mATX cases are a little slim.

But if your heart is really set on this form factor and you want something more budget-friendly or aligned to gaming, the Rexgear 2 is a good choice.

Our Rating: 7.5/10

Final Word

We have come across hundreds of towers at What in Tech, and this is truly the culmination of the most unique PC cases around.

We know some users feel like they need to focus fully on functionality for a case.

But know there’s no shame in taking the aesthetic just as seriously, all the picks above will be great for different types of build users.

Don’t focus on form or function, with an innovative PC case, you can have both!

What's Next?

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

256GB vs 512GB vs 1TB SSD – How Much is Enough? Laptop & Desktop 2025 Guide

256GB vs 512GB vs 1TB GB SSDs - How Much is Enough for You?

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated March 29, 2025

Finding the ideal storage solution for desktop and laptop buyers

Short answer:

256GB (or even 128GB) for light/budget users who only browse the internet, watch online videos and use basic programs (Microsoft Office, very light gaming, etc.).
512GB: Users who want more apps, modest media collections & gaming.
1TB: Serious gamers, larger media collections, and/or people who have file-intensive work (video editing, music production, etc.).
2TB: Very heavy gaming/production work – at this point consider mixing a smaller SSD + larger HDD (hard drive) for the budget.

That’s just a very simplistic summary.

For the rest of this feature, we’re going to be breaking down each size, detail what you might want depending on your usage, and recommend the best 256GB, 512GB & 1TB SSDs to ensure you avoid fake options on the market.

(This is a long, in-depth piece, use the contents to guide you!).

A quick word on where to buy SSDs

Before we get started, we need to touch on the problem with fake SSDs in today’s market.

For whatever reason, storage tends to attract a lot of inauthentic listings that usually use smaller SSDs disguised as a larger size (e.g. a 128GB drive that “pretends” it’s 1TB but will fill up very early).

I point this out because some scammers are cunning and will use a well-reviewed page to deceive buyers into thinking they’re purchasing a well-reputed product (e.g. a listing for a 1TB drive with lots of reviews is changed to a fake 4TB SSD option).

These fake drives are often more common at larger sizes because they lure buyers in with prices around 80-90% less expensive than our top, genuine picks (e.g. a 1TB SSD for $10…).

Unfortunately, we’re here to tell you won’t be able to buy an SSD that cheap for a long time, so be vigilant, keep to our recommendations later in this article if possible, and even when buying from these choices, make sure it is Amazon themselves delivering the product (or a reseller with 98%+ feedback).

If you want to stray to other picks around the web, then we highly recommend purchasing from reputable brands like Corsair and Samsung.

What type of user are you?

The easiest way to find out how much storage you need is by assessing what you will be using it for. Which of the below best fits your needs?

Note: the advice in this section applies to laptops & desktops.

How much storage do you need for gaming?

Gaming is one of the most storage-intensive activities for PC users.

If you like to have a regular library of games, you can very quickly fill up 256GB, 512GB, and even a 1TB drive.

This is all very dependent on what type of games you play and how many you cycle through at one time.

For example, if you’re into big blockbuster titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (231GB!) and Red Dead Redemption 2 (150GB) and like to have many games installed at once, you will want to invest in the largest SSD your budget can afford.

On the other hand, if you perhaps stick to playing a few competitive games, you’ll likely be fine with a much smaller drive (256GB or 512GB) as many of these games are well optimized and run under 30GB (including Fortnite, Overwatch, and League of Legends).

If you have a big library but only play a few of the titles regularly, then your best option will likely be to purchase an SSD + HDD combo: a smaller SSD (say 512GB) for key apps/games, and a larger HDD (1TB-4TB) for the rest of your less-played titles. We talk more about this later in the article.

Is a 256GB SSD enough for gaming?

A 250GB SSD is good for a budget gaming PC that is more focused on running simpler titles (perhaps you only play one or two popular optimized titles like Minecraft or Dota 2).

256GB is not going to be enough for any user that plays larger, modern titles like Cyberpunk 2077 (remember, you don’t get 256GB of raw space to use, after Windows, other apps, and drive configuration, you may only have around half the drive available for your games).

For desktops, we would encourage you to try and go for at least 512GB. For laptop users, if the choice you’re interested in charges significantly more for this size upgrade, then you can make do with 256GB if your gaming library is very light (we would strongly suggest buying a laptop that has a spare solid-state or hard drive slot so that you can upgrade later).

Is a 512GB SSD enough for gaming?

A 500GB SSD is the minimum size we would recommend for a gaming laptop /desktop where possible.

You will still run into some space constraints if you play lots of modern AAA titles, but you should typically be able to have enough space for a limited library at once (so you can play certain games at a time, and then install others using Steam at a later time).

512GB is good enough if you’re the kind of gamer dedicated to one or two titles.

Is a 1TB SSD enough for gaming?

A 1TB SSD is what we would consider a good standard for a serious gamer who likes to play lots of titles.

You’ll have plenty of room for a large array of titles and won’t feel the need to constantly remove/re-install games (of course, this depends on your library, if you have a massive catalog, then a 2TB SSD+ will continue to provide benefits).

If you want this capability but don’t necessarily have the budget, then we recommend going for a 256GB/512GB SSD with a larger hard drive for your game library. Games won’t run/load as fast, but the cost will be a notable difference.

That said, if you can afford it, having the luxury of a large SSD is a great privilege. Compared to HDD speeds, your games will load notably faster.

For some users (like competitive gamers who mainly stick to one game), 1TB may begin to enter the “overkill” range. If this sounds like you, you’ll likely be fine with a 512GB solid-state drive.

How much storage do you need for a Windows 10 / 11 general use PC?

If you are purchasing a laptop or desktop for the purpose of very general uses like browsing the internet, using simple apps (e.g. Microsoft Word/Excel), sending e-mails, and watching YouTube/Netflix, then we think most users will find a 256GB SSD to be good enough.

This is because most modern mainstream usage all happens on the internet. Between cloud storage and streaming videos, you don’t have to worry too much about installing content on your PC.

In some cases, you can even get away with 128GB or 64GB SSD budget options, just beware you’ll be quite limited in application and backup storage (for photos, music, etc.).

The only exception to 256GB being good enough is if you’re the kind of user who has a lot of heavy work documents, or perhaps a very large family photo/video collection. If this sounds like you, going a little further to 512GB would be a good option (but you can also stick with 256GB and purchase a decent flash drive or external hard drive at a later time).

How much storage do you need for video editing?

1TB is the minimum we would recommend for a serious video editing laptop/desktop.

That said, there is very little more demanding on storage than this profession, and you could easily fill up a 1TB drive, especially if you’re an 8K video editor or work with long rolls/footage.

If budget allows, investing in a 2TB+ SSD would be a great option, but if not, you can consider SSD + HDD combos.

If you’re a professional or have a big budget, we’d consider looking at our largest SSD feature, which also covers external drives (a great idea if you want to get a laptop or desktop with a base 1TB drive and then have an enormous, portable solution for your less-used video projects).

How much storage do you need for a Macbook?

If you’re an average user who browses the internet, streams video content, and uses a few simple apps, then you will likely be fine with the 128GB/256GB SSD options a Macbook offers.

If you’re a gamer, video editor, or another type of production user, then the same advice as above applies, you’ll want a Macbook that has a 512GB/1TB storage to give you some leeway in the big apps/files you’ll be working with

(Apple does charge a huge amount for storage increases though, so another great option will be to purchase a small SSD Macbook and also pick up a large flash drive or an external SSD if you don’t need to constantly access the information).

How much storage do you need for music production?

A 500GB SSD is the minimum we would recommend for music producers. Although not as intensive in size as video work, you quickly run into high storage requirements with the various software, recordings, and sound libraries accumulated.

A 1000GB SSD would be the preferred option where possible, 512GB drives will likely be eventually surpassed if you’re a serious producer.

(That said, like the other aforementioned sections, you can comfortably combine a smaller SSD with a larger HDD or external drive, this is likely the best option for most users on a tighter budget).

Breaking down each size

So, the above section defined storage needs based on the type of user you are, which we think is the best way to determine what size SSD you need.

However, if you’re still after more info, we’ve broken down each popular SSD type below and the kind of functions we think each one fulfills (skip to the next section if you’re already comfortable with what size SSD you’re after).

Is a 128GB SSD good enough?

A 128GB SSD is good for a laptop or desktop that isn’t going to be used for much more than internet browsing, streaming, and basic document/picture storage.

Many decent family/work laptops come in this size; as long as you don’t have a large media collection (remember, Netflix/YouTube don’t count as they’re all streamed online), you’ll be fine with this option as a budget choice.

(Some users can even get away with 64GB choices! But we’d try and stick to 128GB, having some leeway on a PC you intend to use for a while tends to be a nice perk).

If you’re a gamer, you might get away with 1 to 2 popular games installed if they’re not too large (e.g. Minecraft/Overwatch) but we’d really recommend a larger choice.

Is a 256GB SSD good enough?

A 256GB SSD will feel like a luxury for most office/general-use computers. You’ll have plenty of space for office documents and most family photo/video collections (providing they’re not very large).

It’s a comfortable minimum for gamers who don’t play huge titles or don’t mind re-installing titles, but 512GB+ is really the ideal.

A 250GB SSD isn’t recommended for users who are heavier production users (video, photo and music production, game development, or programming); you’ll definitely want to consider larger SSDs for these areas.

Many 256GB laptops come with a second drive bay to upgrade at a later time, we always recommend checking to see if your choice has this (it’s not a deal-breaker if not, but a nice bonus if you’re not 100% sure you won’t need more later).

Is SSD 512GB good enough?

512GB is likely where things become overkill for a family/office computer unless you have a huge photo/video collection or work in an industry that demands saving large office files.

This is, however, the size where gamers and some production users will begin to feel more comfortable. A 512GB SSD + larger HDD is one of our favorite recommendations for gamers.

The only common area we don’t consider 500GB a suitable minimum is video editing (see next).

Is 1TB good enough?

1TB is for serious production users (video editors, music producers, etc.) who demand significant, high-speed storage for larger files (you’d be surprised how quickly you can fill up space when working in these areas, so a serious SSD solution is best).

1000GB is also excellent for gamers with diverse libraries, especially those who want to play lots of games regularly (to make full use of the fast load times an SSD enables).

If you think many of the files/games you store may not be accessed super regularly, then we would recommend looking at a smaller SSD + Hard drive combo to ease your budget.

(Don’t consider 1TB for a general use PC unless you have a good reason/budget, we expect this will often be unnecessary).

Is 2TB good enough?

2TB SSDs are for users who are either serious gamers or professionals who will be working with large video/audio files or miscellaneous work (database files, game dev projects, etc.).

We would say that a 2000GB SSD is likely more than most gamers will need (unless you simply want the best setup no matter what); yes, you can fill this space up with games, but if you don’t use all 2TBs worth regularly, you’ll be better storing many of your lesser-played games on a second largest (and cheaper) hard drive.

You won’t see many 2TB laptop options as these power users are less common and usually stray to home PCs. That said, you can easily build a larger storage solution if you need portability by looking at a 1TB laptop with an extra drive bay. You can also pick up one of the largest external SSDs which is an excellent balance between storage & cost.

Hard Drives vs Solid State Drives?

If you’re like most users, you’re considering how much you want to invest in an SSD vs HDD.

HDDs are the more traditional hard disk format of storage that were more common in the last couple of decades.

Many PCs today (especially laptops) focus on providing SSD storage

Can I use SSDs and HDDs together?

Depending on what your desktop/laptop has available, yes!

In most cases, if you’re building a PC (or even if you’re buying a pre-built desktop) a majority of PC cases will come with spare 3.5″ and 2.5″ drive bays for SATA SSDs and HDDs (your motherboard may also include space for ultra-fast NVMe M.2 SSDs also).

For laptops, many DO come with spare SATA ports for 2.5″ HDDs or 2.5″ SSDs (typically this is the size of the drive bay available), it’s also becoming increasingly common for laptops to come with spare M.2 slots for NVMe storage (which is expensive, but the fastest around).

That said, it’s not a guarantee for a laptop to come with this option, so check the manufacturer’s website (you’ll often also find user reviews confirming if the model you’re after has the capacity to upgrade storage also).

If you like the look of a laptop and it doesn’t have upgrade capacity, we wouldn’t say this is a dealbreaker. You can focus more of your budget on getting a large primary SSD or purchasing an external drive for your lesser-used files/backup.

Either way, we would recommend using both of these formats if you are a user that demands a lot of space but has budget limitations.

SSD vs HDD Head-to-Head

Speed – SSD: You will get a significantly better read & write speed with an SSD, which is the main reason manufacturers are moving towards them today. This is why we’ll always recommend installing your operating system and key apps/games/files on an SSD over an HDD.
Price – HDD: HDDs are usually notably cheaper which is why they’re often recommended for larger storage requirements.
Reliability – Tie: It used to be the case that HDDs had better longevity, but with most storage innovation focussed on solid-state drives today, SSDs now have a very similar level of reliability (in fact, because of their lack of moving parts, they can often be the better choice, especially for portable solutions like laptops).
Noise – SSD: A SSD is the easy winner here, without the physical disk spinning inside like a hard drive, the flash memory an SSD operates on is significantly quieter, you’ll find all of our top quiet laptop choices use them.
Best usage: As you can probably tell from the above factors, there’s a reason SSDs are becoming the de facto standard for most manufacturers. Where hard drives still rain supreme, are for lesser-used/backup storage where there is no point in forking out the extra price tag for a solid-state drive.

Best SSD + HDD combos

Providing you have the physical space in your PC, you can mix and match what sizes you like, there’s no set rule/best combination.

As a general rule of thumb though, we would recommend getting a solid-state drive large enough for your operating system, core apps (internet browser, Microsoft Office, etc.) & games/media you use regularly.

For most people, this will be a 256GB or 512GB SSD (1TB+ if you’re a big gamer/production user), and then whatever hard drive size makes sense for your needs (1-2TB will suit most, but you can get HDDs up to 16GB if desired!).

Best SSDs by Type

For nearly every pick below, we rate the same product as the best for different sizes (and we’ll make it clear where there are exceptions) – so the best 256GB 2.5″ SSD is the same product range as our top 1TB 2.5″ SSD.

You’ll also notice some sizes are slightly different (e.g. 250GB instead of 256GB), we’d recommend ignoring any differences where drive sizes are very close (we explain why in the FAQs below).

Best 2.5″ SATA SSD (256GB – 2TB): SanDisk SSD PLUS

One of the most popular SSDs on the market for a good reason, SanDisk has created a very reliable, cost-friendly 2.5″ SSD that reaches great speeds for by its SATA standards – perfect for serious desktop storage.

Best M.2 NVMe SSD (256GB – 2TB): SAMSUNG 970 EVO Plus

With stunning 3500/3300 read/write speeds (up to) that are replicated in real-world environments better than most of its counterparts at a competitive price point, the 970 EVO is the choice for someone after a PCIe SSD that is all about performance and can stretch their budget further than a traditional SATA drive.

Samsung stands alongside SanDisk as a behemoth in the storage space and we rate them very highly for their performance, especially when investing in expensive, premium storage.

Note: For laptop users, we would recommend the 980 EVO Plus variation, which will run slightly cooler (desktop/PC builders should stick to the 970).

Best M.2 SATA SSD (256GB – 2TB): Western Digital WD Blue

If your desktop/laptop has space for an M.2 SATA drive, the WD blue series is the best balance between performance, reliability & price.

Best Portable / External SSD (512GB – 2TB): SAMSUNG T7

Throughout this guide, we’ve recommended that if you aren’t able to upgrade your internal storage any further, an external solid-state drive is a great alternative. Samsung has created a competitively priced, durable drive here that runs on NVMe to reach fantastic speeds alongside gen 2 USB 3.2.
SanDisk also has a great option in this market should the T7 be unavailable.

Best mSATA SSD (128GB – 1TB): Kingshark Gamer mSATA

mSATA is becoming increasingly less common in today’s market and we recommend the other types of SSDs where possible.

Still, if you have a laptop that only has an mSATA slot available, Kingshark has created a decent option here. This would also be an excellent upgrade if you have an older laptop that only runs on a HDD.

FAQs

Can I run my PC or laptop with just an SSD?

Yes! Not only is this possible but it’s becoming the standard, especially for laptops. You only really need to consider a hard drive if you’re looking at needing lots of storage and need

Best laptop SSD?

There is no universal type of laptop SSD as it varies depending on your laptops’ compatibility options (and your budget!).

Generally speaking, the most common laptop drives are 2.5″ SATA (same as our desktop picks above), mSATA/mini-SATA SSDs (same functionality as 2.5″ but smaller), or M.2 (SATA or PCIe, both are significantly faster than traditional SATA but PCIe moreso).

In other words, check with the manufacturer’s website what drive options there are for your specific laptop and go from there (we have recommendations for all types in the section above).

Best type of SSD (NVMe vs SATA)?

Traditional SATA drives (2.5″ and mSATA) are the slowest of all the SSD choices (still decent overall and perfectly fine), SATA M.2 are notably faster but more expensive & PCI-E M.2 (NVMe) drives are the fastest but run the highest cost.

Note that when considering these different types of SSDs, it really comes down to what your laptop/desktop has available (in terms of SATA/M.2 & PCIe ports) so be sure to check before making any purchase decisions.

How long do SSDs last?

SSDs typically last 10 years by today’s average estimates. This of course varies dramatically depending on how much you use it, physical care (i.e. no using your SSD as a tennis ball!) & how often you replace (read & write) data on the SSD.

That’s not to strike fear in you though, there’s a reason SSDs are now the common standard in storage, they last as good as any mainstream drive solution in 2022.

240GB vs 256GB SSD, 480GB vs 512GB SSD & 960GB vs 1TB SSD difference?

You may have noticed there are many confusing differences in sizes when shopping for SSDs; drives that advertise as 240GB, 250GB & 256GB (with similar minor variations in higher sizes).

Because of the way SSDs operate, there is typically a “usable space” that is slightly smaller than the usual 256GB/512GB/1TB “true” sizes.

This is because an SSD performs better and has increased longevity when not completely full – generally speaking, 10-20% of the drive should remain empty.

In nearly every case, all of these drives have the same amount of actual space (256, 512GB, etc), but many drives like to lock the maximum space to ensure drive health (even many drives that advertise as 256GB end up being 230-240GB on arrival).

Note, there technically are exceptions to this rule (i.e. drives that operate on slightly different technology), but without getting needlessly complex, we would suggest it’s worth treating 240GB and 256GB SSDs (and similar variations) the same during your search.

Best SSD + RAM combo/ratio

Although not strictly related, we see a lot of our users curious over what combination of SSD and RAM is typically best.

As always, these things are far from set in stone, some users will want 1TB of storage and 8GB RAM, others 32GB RAM and 256GB storage (though unlikely!)

Generally, the RAM sweet spot is 8GB-16GB, and the storage sweet spot is 256GB-1TB. If you’re not very experienced with PC buying, operating within this spectrum based on your budget will be your best bet.

If you’re interested in the details of RAM speed, we have an extensive feature covering it.

Is 16GB RAM 512GB SSD good enough for a laptop?

This combination is one of the most common in laptops today, and for a good reason!

For a majority of laptop users (work, general use, and some light gaming), 16GB RAM + 512GB SSD is a great balance. 16GB ensures you are relatively “future-proofed” for the next several years and 512GB offers plenty of space for apps, files, and smaller games.

If you’re a production user (video editor, etc.) you may want to invest in 32GB if possible, but more importantly, you will appreciate 1TB+ in storage (we would say this is typically going to be a higher priority upgrade than surpassing 16GB RAM).

Is 8GB RAM 256GB SSD good enough for a laptop?

8GB RAM + 256GB Storage is a good budget standard for most users. If you’re the kind of person to mostly consume online content (social media, Netflix, Youtube, etc.), we expect you’ll be fine with 256GB in storage.

Of course, upgrading to 16GB RAM would be preferable, what we would recommend, if possible, is picking up a laptop that has 1 stick of 8GB RAM with a spare second slot so later on, you can add a second stick of 8GB to get to that nice 16GB upgrade.

Direct Head-to-Heads

The key information about today’s features is in the sections above.

If, however, you find yourself stuck between 2 specific sizes, we’ve built this quick-fire list of comparisons to give you some indication.

Important point: With these head-to-heads, we are assuming the 2 drives you are picking between have the same secondary specs (speed, etc.). Make sure to consider you’re not buying a slower, larger drive over a faster, smaller one (as for many users, the latter may be the better pick overall).

128GB vs 256GB SSD

Typically, we would recommend people go with 256GB if possible. Even though many users can get by on 128GB, 256GB gives a nice safety net as files, work documents and family photos manage to fill more and more storage over time (it’s not fun running into limitations and feeling like you need to keep your PC super clean at all times).

That said, we appreciate budget is a big concern for users (especially if you’re looking at a Macbook, where the upgrade to 256GB can be very expensive). If this sounds like you, then rest assured, you can get by on 128GB, especially if you’re mainly focused on internet/cloud/streaming usage. You’ll also always be able to buy an external SSD if your storage isn’t looking enough.

One important thing to bear in mind when looking at the smallest drives is, assuming you are using either choice as your main storage, the drive configuration, operating system, and your key apps will likely take up around 30-40GB of space.

On a 256GB, this is only 10-20%, but on a 128GB SSD, it’s cold be p to 40% of your space being taken before you consider adding media/games. For many this is fine, but just bear it in mind if you think you have things to store.

128GB vs 512GB SSD

We see this question asked by some readers but really, these drives are in separate leagues.

128GB is for the budget user who is confident they only need a small amount of space for media/documents (most of their usage likely being online).

A 512GB SSD, on the other hand, is for users who have a larger budget and want to be able to store games, larger media collections, and/or have room for some novice production use (music, photo editing, etc.).

Although we’d recommend 512GB where possible, it is going to be overkill for many simple users who don’t do much more than browse the internet/e-mails, so let your budget & intentions decide.

256GB vs 512GB SSD

One of the most common storage questions is between 256GB and 512GB as most mainstream laptops come in one of these two specifications.

256GB will suit most users after a simple family/work computer used mostly for online content, basic document storage, and even light gaming.

512GB is better for those who are more serious about gaming, have large work/media collections to store, or do not want to worry about managing storage as much.

We imagine most people building a desktop PC will likely be the sort to at least want a 512GB SSD (unless you plan on running a 256GB SSD + large HDD combination).

512GB vs 1TB SSD

512GB will suit a majority of average users fine, even those after a long-lasting laptop or desktop.

The big exceptions here are gamers, large media collectors, and serious production users (video editors and similar) who are going to demand serious, fast storage.

Remember also, this is the period of storage where combining say, a 512GB SSD with a 512GB/1TB HDD may make a lot more sense for your budget.

1TB vs 2TB SSD

1TB is a generous size for a majority of users, with plenty of room for the games you’re currently playing, demanding work storage & fairly large media collections.

There will, however, certainly be enthusiast gamers, collectors and serious production users who would benefit from the jump to 2TB (if you’re working in 4K video editing, for example, this can fill up faster than you can imagine).

Remember also that as we get into these larger drives, the price increases are steep, so a 512GB/1TB SSD for your main files alongside a larger HDD for your secondary documents/games may suit you best.

2TB vs 4TB SSD

We’re getting to the very serious storage now. Both of these picks are really only for enthusiast PC builders, hardcore gamers who demand lots of game storage at once, or production users who are dealing with a lot of content.

This really comes down to personal preference. We expect most users can manage with a 2TB drive if they keep things clean (e.g. keep games in their Steam library uninstalled when they haven’t played for a few months, organize video projects) but there’s no denying that the freedom of 4 terabytes is a wonderful feeling.

In other words, it’s a choice between budget and convenience, which is more important to you?

If you need an even bigger option than 4TB (say, if you’re trying to build the best PC possible, a server, or something special), check out our feature on the largest SSDs available today.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it! We’re pretty confident this is everything you need to comfortably know as someone looking at 256GB vs 512GB vs 1TB solid-state drives.

To sum up: the smaller drives are going to suit simple, internet-using family computers and those for basic work. 256GB or 512GB will be enough if this sounds like you.

The larger drives will be more suited toward gamers, serious production users, and enthusiasts with big budgets.

And remember, where possible, try to look for a laptop (or PC case) that has space for upgrades later (e.g. spare SATA/m.2 PCIe ports and drive bays). If that isn’t possible for your desired choice, then there are also always the external SSDs above which are great options.

Best of luck, and be careful to avoid the fake drives around by sticking to our recommendations above where possible!

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For users with big storage needs

The Full Guide to RAM Speeds: DDR4 2400 vs 2666 vs 3000 vs 3200 vs 3600 vs 4000 MHz

Everything you need to know about RAM

The 5 Longest Lasting Laptops of 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated March 29, 2025

We updated this article in March to cover the new models on the market in 2025. Our top picks have been updated to include this year’s improvements.

When buying a new PC, why does it so often feel like you’re getting something that isn’t built to last more than a couple of years?

I know how frustrating this can be. Thankfully, we’ve reviewed a ton of decent laptops and have put this list together to rank them for longevity to save you the heartache of disappointment!

This isn’t a list of the most expensive laptops. I’ve specifically sought out choices that represent a combination of great longevity and value. Yes, the most future-proof laptops will technically be several thousand dollars, but there are huge diminishing returns over the choices below.

Longest Lasting Laptop for Business/General Use

Lenovo ThinkPad E16

Our Rating: 10/10

Read Review

Longest Lasting Laptop for Gaming & High-End Production

ASUS ROG Strix G16

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Mid-Range Gaming Pick

ASUS TUF Gaming F15

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Budget Pick

Lenovo Ideapad 3i

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Touchscreen Pick

HP Envy X360

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Read Review

Longest Lasting Laptop for Business/General Use: Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 2

Lenovo is nearly always at the top of my list when someone enquires about a non-gaming focussed laptop built for the long-term (think e-mails, web browsing, Netflix, and basic software/Microsoft Office).

ThinkPads have a fantastic reputation as a rugged, high-durability laptop range. They’re not only made to last physically but also boast fantastic battery life and an internal build/thermal quality that retains over years.

Of course, you still need the ThinkPad to have decent specs, and that’s where this E16 model comes in.

The specific capacity that we’re highlighting boasts a fantastic Intel Ultra 5-125U processor & 16GB RAM. This pairing (and the onboard graphics of the Ultra 5) will work together to handle pretty much any business/general use task you can throw at them with great speed.

We love the inclusion of a 512GB NVMe SSD too, which is the fastest mainstream storage solution available for laptops. Not only will this mean the included Windows 11 Professional will run very smoothly, but you’ll have a huge amount of space (more than most laptops) for long-term file storage.

Note: depending on your budget, there are many different versions of the Thinkpad Gen 2 to consider. You can increase the specs to include Intel Core Ultra 7 155U & 32GB RAM & also change the storage space. I was most impressed by the 125U model highlighted in terms of value.

16GB vs 32GB: the latter is a nice upgrade but will have diminishing returns. Don’t feel forced to upgrade to it (I personally run a laptop on 16GB and do lots of intensive tasks).
Storage space is completely dependent on your needs. I think many longevity-focussed users will like the freedom of 1TB but you will be fine with 512GB, or even 256GB if you mostly use cloud storage.
125U vs 155U: I prefer the value of the 125U, but the 155U is a notable upgrade if you happen to spend a lot of time doing intensive tasks (high-capacity spreadsheets, programming, etc). If you are just a general PC user, the 125U is more than enough.

The E16 has some other nice quality-of-life features we like to see in a premium laptop like a full HD IPS screen, a 720p webcam + shutter for privacy and a USB 3.1 Type-C Gen 1 port.

Overall, if you’re not doing lots of gaming or work that requires a high-end GPU (video editing or rendering), then I think you’ll love what the Thinkpad E15 can do. I’ve not come across anything that balances durability, thermal quality, specifications, and price better than this range.

2025 update: The E16 gen 2 overtakes our previous Lenovo pick from 2024, it’s a brand-new offering on the market and a great time to pick up.I

Our Rating: 10/10

Longest Lasting Laptop for Gaming / High-End Production: ASUS ROG Strix G16

Now, for those after some serious longevity for gaming or video editing/rendering, you’ll want something with a powerful GPU to go alongside the other high-end specs.

With an absolutely beastly RTX 4070, this is one of the best graphics card available for laptops today and works alongside a top-range i9-14900HX & 16GB of DDR5-5600 RAM to achieve fantastic framerates on pretty much any title available. You can expect Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2, the latest Call of Duty, and all upcoming games for the next few years to run at an impressive spec.

To be very clear; when it comes to gaming, there is no such thing as full future-proofing. There are always new graphics cards and more intensive games coming out.

With that said, this set of specs is not just fantastic by today’s standard but is good enough that even when they’re no longer “top-of-the-line”, I expect them to hold some real power for way longer than a majority of competitors.

If you happen to use your machine for general use too, know that between the main specs of the G16, it will pretty much destroy any task you can throw at it for a long time.

Another reason we love this machine is its wonderful screen. This is a QHD 240hz display. Not only are you getting the capability to games and other content at an incredibly high spec, but with decent contrast/color accuracy too. We’re impressed by the screen included here, it will be the perfect accompaniment for a top-tier laptop for many years to come, and with the RTX 4070 at the helm, you’ll have a GPU powerful enough to make the most of it.

With any decent gaming PC needs to come to a lot of storage. This G16 model includes a 1TB SSD which will provide fantastic loading times and speed during non-gaming tasks. That said, if there’s anything I wish was better about this laptop, it would be an inclusion of a 2TB drive. Given so many games reach 200GB+ these days, it can be easy to fill up even 1 terabyte of space.

That said, there’s a very important inclusion; a second M.2 SSD slot. This gives you the freedom to upgrade your storage later on. The good thing about this is adding a second NVMe yourself is very easy and usually a lot cheaper than having it built in. So my advice to you is start with the base model, see how 1TB feels, and if you’re running out, pick up a second large drive to meet your needs!

With longevity being the focus, I also rate ASUS’s track record in producing durable and efficient laptops. With a very sturdy (yet ergonomic) exterior, a beautifully laid out inner internal cooling, and options to customize the level of noise/fans yourself within ASUS’s custom software, I’m really pleased to see the design of the laptop suit the quality of the internal specs. You would be surprised how many high-end picks reduce the price by ultimately not creating a product designed to last, especially when it comes to thermal performance.

It is an expensive device, but between its fantastic internal/external build quality, screen and specs? There’s so much value in this choice.

The Strix G16 is such a joy to use, and my comfortable pick for the top long-lasting gaming laptop available today.

2025 update: The Strixc G16 replaces my previous top MSI pick. It’s a great time to pick up a longevity focussed gaming laptop as the 4070 GPU is a fantastic offering.16GB DDR5-5600

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Longest Lasting Gaming Laptop (Mid-Range): ASUS TUF Gaming F15

As much as I’d love to recommend the above pick to everyone, I understand many gaming budgets will be in the lower 4-figure range. The ASUS TUF Gaming F15 is perfect for someone after some serious longevity for gaming, but without the budget for our top MSI pick.

Boasting an RTX 3060 graphics card alongside an Intel Core i7-12700H. This GPU/CPU combo is quite formidable at a mid-range price in 2023. You’ll be able to play close to every title in excellent sittings at FHD with high FPS (which will last into the future for many games too).

You’re also getting 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 1GB NVMe SSD. I’m happy to see that ASUS didn’t skimp out and include 512GB here (which would be almost expected at the price). For hungry users, there’s still an additional slot to upgrade later if needed.

You might be thinking “at this price, where does the ASUS TUF Gaming F15 cut corners?”. Well, I can’t really find an answer to that as it excels in its other areas too!

Take its screen for instance, with a decent IPS panel running at 300hz and adaptive sync to counter screen-tearing; you’ll be getting sharp, and smooth gameplay on a laptop that can actually produce high FPS. The color accuracy and brightness aren’t as impressive as some higher-end screens, but it’s perfectly decent for the price.

It’s worth bearing in mind that 300FPS will be achieved in games like Fortnite, LoL, and other well-optimized competitive titles. Don’t expect these framerates while maxing out the latest meaty single-player games. This is completely fine, as ultra-high Hz are more important for competition anyway.

The TUF also boasts a beautiful and sturdy design, a comfortable backlit keyboard with enough tactlessness for gaming, and inbuilt thermals that have had a good track record from most other users. ASUS really focussed a lot on durability in this build, even passing some well-regarded tests for military-grade toughness.

If you can’t stretch to our top RTX 3070Ti pick, don’t fret. This is such a great gaming offering for anyone looking in the mid-range price point.

2025 update: If you like the look of this pick but want something slightly cheaper, there is a 3050Ti model with an 11th Gen Intel CPU to cater to lower budgets.

While I would certainly recommend you pick up the 3060 12700H version if you can afford it, this cheaper model is still an impressive offering for its price and will do well in most modern games.

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Best Cheap Long Lasting Laptop: Lenovo Ideapad 3i

Now, for general users, we would definitely steer you towards the ThinkPad if possible (even reducing its specs) because those machines are built like tanks, and have long-lasting battery life.

That said, if you’re looking for the cheapest laptop that still offers specs we see as being suitable for the medium-long term (for business and personal use, not gaming/high-end production), then this cheaper Lenovo offering packs a decent punch!

Boasting some specs not often seen from a reputable laptop manufacturer in this price range, you’re getting 8GB RAM, a 256GB SSD & a Core i5-1135G7 processor. We expect these to all provide you with everything you need for general use like basic software, Office, internet browsing, and Netflix/Amazon Prime/Disney Plus for a decent amount of time.

So with all that said, why is this our budget long-lasting laptop choice? Well, there are two areas that may bother some users:

8GB RAM is a notable downgrade compared to 16GB. If you like to do a lot of tasks at once (e.g. multiple tabs/programs), you’ll begin to notice your machine become slower more than you would with 16GB. This usually won’t be observable in the initial year or two, but it will become more of a problem faster than with 16GB.
A 256GB SSD might be plenty for some, but I like the freedom a 512GB-1TB drive gives to longevity focussed users (this is mostly personal preference though, if you mostly use online apps and stream, you won’t be affected too much)
The CPU is a notable downgrade compared to the ThinkPad options. This will be mostly fine if you are a basic user, but its age will show more quickly as the years pass

This makes our take sound super negative, but for the price, the 3i is still a very well-built machine. I would definitely recommend stretching to our top Thinkpad picks if possible, but if that isn’t achievable for you, then this laptop will still serve your personal use better than any other competitors at its price range.

2025 update: If you are interested in the 3i but would prefer even cheaper, there are now smaller-sized models available in this listing. Most of these do have slightly lesser specs than the 3i we’ve linked but are still impressive for their lower price-point.

Our Rating: 9/10

Longest Lasting Touchscreen Laptop: HP Envy X360

If you’re looking for a high-performance touchscreen laptop that is as future-proof as a mid-range device can get, the HP Envy X360 edition is a fantastic option.

The latest version of this classic flagship line from HP’s laptop division has a lot going for it, alongside its 15.6-inch touchscreen (with a gorgeous 400-nit IPS panel) is a powerful Intel 11th Gen Corei7-1195G7 CPU with 16GB RAM and a TB M.2 NVMe SSDs (which will make your OS/file use feel like a smooth dream).

With these specs, you can expect this to last a long time for personal use and general work; but the LG Gram excels in another type of longevity: battery life.

With an awesome 3-cell 51W lithium battery, the laptop can last up to a juicy 9.5 hours (of course, don’t expect this for a bunch of intensive tasks, but it’s still a great achievement).

If touch and/or battery are important to you, the X360 is a great pick-up and one of the most popular setups on the market for a reason.

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Laptop Brands that Last the Longest?

To end this feature, we just wanted to address this common query. Prospective buyers often ask “how long do Lenovo/HP laptops last?”, etc.

The truth is there isn’t a one-size-fits-all long-lasting brand, it depends on the model (namely build/cooling quality, CPU, GPU, RAM).

If we had to name the longest-lasting laptop brand, it would typically be Lenovo, specifically their ThinkPad range.

However, this is a huge generalization, and a $1,000 HP laptop will (usually) last longer than an $800 ThinkPad.

So we’d highly recommend looking at the picks above which have been tailored to this question, but if you want to look further, focus on user reception and laptop reviews of certain models that seem to fare in the medium/long term and making sure you have decent enough specs (including a beefy GPU if you’re gaming).

EXPERT INSIGHT & TRUSTED REVIEWS

The 6 Best Motherboards With 8 RAM Slots in 2025

Best AMD Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: MSI Creator TRX40

Best Intel Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: ASUS ROG Strix X299-E Gaming II

Best Budget AMD Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: Asus Prime TRX40-PRO

Best Budget Intel Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: GIGABYTE X299X AORUS Master

Best High-End AMD Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: ASUS ROG Zenith II Extreme Alpha

Best High-End Intel Motherboard With 8 RAM Slots: ASUS ROG Rampage VI Extreme Encore

LGA 1200, 1700 or AM4 Motherboards with 8 RAM Slots

What's Next?

About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 8 Best 1440p 240hz Monitors of 2025

Quick Word on Availability/Where to Buy 1440p 240hz Monitors

Overal Best 1440p 240hz Monitor: Alienware AW2721D

Best Budget 1440p 240hz Monitor: HP Omen X 27” 240 Hz 1ms Monitor

Best Curved 1440p 240hz Monitor: SAMSUNG 32-inch Odyssey G7

Best Ultrawide 1440p 240hz Monitor (High-End Choice): SAMSUNG 49-inch Odyssey G9

Second Best IPS 1440p 240hz Monitor: Acer Nitro XV272U Xbmiipruzx

Lowest Response Time 1440p 240hz Monitor: AOC AGON AG273QZ

Honorable Mention: Porsche Design AOC Agon PD27

Alternative Options

Best 1440p 155hz Monitor: Dell S2719DGF

Best 240hz Monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM

How we chose the best 1440p 240hz Monitors

Final Word

What's Next?

About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 10 Best Looking PC Cases of 2025

After 100s of reviews, these are the ones that look extra special

Overall Best Looking PC Case: Lian Li PC-O11

Runner-Up Best Looking PC Case: NZXT H510 Elite

NZXT H510 Elite vs Lian Li PC-O11

High-End Best Looking PC Case: Corsair 680X RGB Edition

Best Looking Budget PC Case: NZXT H510

NZXT H510 vs H510 Elite

Best Looking Unique PC Case: Antec Torque

Best Looking Micro ATX Case: Corsair 280X RGB Edition

Best Looking Mini ITX Case: NZXT H1

Best Looking Clear PC Case: Thermaltake Core P3

Quick-Fire Picks

Alternative Best Looking Mini ITX Case: InWin A1 Plus

Best PC Case with Monitor Built-In: iBUYPOWER Snowblind S

What's Next?

About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 10 Best Quiet PC Cases for a Silent PC Build

Guiding you through the quietest PC cases for all shapes, sizes, and budgets

Fractal Design Define 7

Overall Best Silent PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS*

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO AVOID

Be Quiet! Silent Base 802

Runner-Up Best Silent PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO AVOID

Corsair 100R Silent Edition

Best Budget Quiet PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO AVOID

Fractal Design Define Mini C

Best Silent Micro ATX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO AVOID

Fractal Design Define Nano S

Best Silent Mini ITX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO AVOID

Be Quiet! Pro 900 Full Tower

Best High-End Silent Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

REASONS TO AVOID

Other Options