The 5 Largest SSDs Worth Buying in 2026 (2.5″, M.2 & External)

The 5 Largest SSDs Worth Buying in 2026

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated February 22, 2026

We’ve updated this feature to cover 2026 releases. While most of the picks remain the same this time, we’ve included a couple of decent SSD alternatives for our picks that sometimes have stock issues.

Are you looking for a solid state drive capable of running as an unparalleled storage solution?

Perhaps you want to build a server, premium HTPC, or even finally get your whole Steam library installed at once!

Whatever the goal, there are some incredible offerings available in the current market.

Today’s feature is here to guide you through the largest solid-state drives worth buying for 2.5-inch, M.2 & external needs.

In other words, we’re not here to recommend a 100TB SSD with no actual availability/realistic price tag, but the largest drives designed for mainstream consumption (with decent availability and great value).

Top Picks

Largest 2.5″ SSD: SAMSUNG 870 QVO 8TB
Largest M.2 SSD: Corsair MP400 8TB
Largest External SSD: Glyph Atom Pro 8TB
Largest Enterprise 2.5-inch SSD: Intel DC P4510 Series 8 TB
Largest Cheap SSD Option: SAMSUNG 870 QVO 4TB X 2

Quick word on where to buy large SSDs

Before we start, it’s worth touching on the problem with fake SSDs.

There are a fair few inauthentic listings out there that usually use smaller drives with data rewrites disguising the product as say, 8TB (when in reality, the drive will stop writing data very early, or simply not work).

You have to be fairly vigilant because some scammers will use a well-reviewed page to deceive people into thinking they’re buying a good product (e.g. a listing for a 1TB SSD with lots of good reviews is changed to a fake 8TB SSD page).

These fake drives are often more prevalent at larger sizes (particularly for external drives) because they lure buyers in with prices around 80-90% cheaper than our top picks.

Unfortunately, we’re here to say you won’t get a massive SSD that cheap for a long time, so be vigilant, keep to our recommendations if possible, and even when buying from these pages, make sure it is Amazon themselves shipping the product (or a reseller with 98%+ feedback).

If you want to stray to other picks, then we highly suggest sticking to reputable brands (Samsung, Corsair, etc.).

Largest 2.5″ SSD: SAMSUNG 870 QVO 8TB

8 Terabytes is the largest SSD size available for mainstream solutions (outside of the overpriced low-availability products and vanity prototypes).

Leading the charge for the average user after a SATA 2.5-inch SSD for their PC is this fantastic offering from Samsung.

One of the leading manufacturers in storage, Samsung’s 870 QVO series balances its enormous storage allotment and excellent value, without compromising on decent longevity.

The 870 QVO offers speeds up to 560 MB/s read and 530 MB/s write, and we’re pleased to add that hands-on benchmarks suggest that these are realistic speeds to achieve and not simply “marketing maximums”.

Firstly, these speeds make the 870 QVO an excellent offering for gaming, media/HTPC, and other general storage requirements, with enough speed to efficiently read/write (if you’re looking for the largest SSD for a gaming console like the Xbox Series X & PS5, just remember to check your model’s maximum compatibility – if you can’t reach 8TBs, the 2-4TB models are also great alternatives).

There’s plenty of capability here for production users too (e.g. video editing and rendering). We would say if you’re serious about maximizing your OS speed and most-used programs, it would be good to have an M.2 drive alongside the 870 QVO (or even consider the 8TB M.2 NVMe option below if your budget is large).

But we love the 870 QVO for the majority of your storage needs when considering the biggest SSDs, because it’s so cost-effective for what it offers.

The drive is based on a QLC memory cell structure to achieve this excellent price-point. While some users like to steer clear of QLC, Samsung has designed the 870 QVO with Intelligent TurboWrite and a ECC algorithm focussed on longevity that has enabled it to achieve a TBW (terabytes write) rating of up to 2,800, which is twice that of the previous version which was already well-received by long-term users.

A well-created QLC structure for 8TB with high-end SATA speeds and from one of the most reputable storage brand really is a fantastic combination of specs for most users, especially considering this is the cheapest 8TB solid-state drive widely available.

Build-wise, the 870 QVO boasts a minimalist design with a sturdy, durable frame. It looks understated like most SSDs, but we appreciate the drive feels physically made to last, and also boasts great results in thermal benchmarks.

Samsung also offers a host of great software utility alongside the 870 QVO drive management, data cloning/migration & their signature Samsung Magician for speed optimization. While not hugely unheard of, these utilities are nice value-adds for those after some hands-on maintenance.

We’ve already talked a lot about the value on offer here, but it’s worth re-iterating one last time, as it’s the reason it tops the list (alongside its enormous size); there isn’t even any premium compared to the smaller models, with the 870 QVO typically costing close to double the 4TB variant (it’s very common for larger solutions to come with diminishing returns price-wise).

While there are some options emerging in the 16TB SSD market, I don’t consider these viable options as the price increase over 2 x 8TB drives is grossly inflated. Take the VectoTech 16TB solid state drive; it’s nearly the price of 3 x8TB SSDs – therefore I would recommend buying in multiples of 8TB if you are in need of even more space.

When considering the needs of the average user after the largest capacity SSD, nothing compares to the 870 QVO (especially if you can compare it with a smaller M.2 drive).

With great speeds, build quality, longevity for QLC all at an unrivaled price, it’s not just the largest solid-state drive available for SATA users, but the one we recommend with the best regard for its other merits.

Largest M.2 SSD: Corsair MP400 8TB

We’re pleased to see that the largest M.2 solid-state drive matches the capacity of the more traditional 2.5″ offering.

And as you might expect, if you have the budget for it, the speeds that are on offer are stunning.

With up to 3400 MB/s read & 3000 MB/s write, we’re pleased to say that, like the Samsung 870 QVO, various reports and testing show that the real-world performance of the MP400 gets close to these advertised speeds regularly.

This is the fastest 8TB SSD available today, and despite that, its architecture still manages to also boast 1,600 TBW being built on High-Density 3D QLC NAND, striking a good balance between the cheaper options of QLC while maintaining great longevity

As fast as it is, the MP400 is over 50% more expensive than the 870 QVC.

Would we recommend it as one of the best SSDs for operating system use and demanding read/write needs? 100%.

But with the high price in mind, it’s worth pointing out that although the Mp400 is 6x faster than nearly all of its 8TB SATA SSD counterparts, this won’t mean you’re receiving anything close to 6x operational performance

While it’s a great investment if you can afford it, running your system using the 870 QVO would still provide great speeds (you could also combine this large SATA drive with a smaller version of the MP400 M.2 drive running your main software and OS, using the 870 QVO 8TB for your general storage/media if you want to try and balance yourself between price and performance).

If you’re utilizing lots of cloud storage, or an intensive virtual machine environment, investing in MP400s will be fantastic if you have a motherboard with the appropriate M.2 support.

Unlike SATA solid-state drives, we tend to see larger NVMe 8TB SSDs cost more per byte for their larger size.

In other words, for an 8TB MP400 drive, you can expect to pay around 5-10% more than 2 x 4TB MP400s. But as M.2 slots are usually more limited than SATA outputs, we think it’s worth the extra investment if you’re a serious user looking to maximize your storage capacity.

With unparalleled speeds, size, and awesome compatibility across PCIe, the 8TB MP400 may be pricey, but when you take into account you’re getting one of the best M.2 drives in any category, we think it’s more than worth the expense.

Largest External SSD: Glyph Atom Pro 8TB

Although Glyph isn’t a powerhouse name like Samsung and Corsair, they’re a reputable brand, especially in the premium SSD market.

One of the best examples of their achievements is the Atom Pro, which isn’t just a portable, durable 8TB external SSD, but it also operates on an NVMe interface to manage speeds comparable to some of the best M.2 drives.

With speeds of up to 2800 MB/s read and 2600 MB/s write, this may be a tad less than the MP400 above, but to reach these speeds for an external device that is also balancing portability/durability? The Atom Pro’s specs are very good.

We consider it better than the competition for a few reasons, but the main one is that we think that the type of user after the largest external drive will likely be looking for high transfer speeds.

Whether it’s for 4k 60FPS video editing, production use, or someone who is looking to use this enormous capacity for a dedicated portable PC storage with OS/media/games, the NVMe specification and speed of the Atom Pro gives it a fantastic, efficient position in the large SSD market.

Its capability as a top-end portable storage solution is really solidified (no pun intended) by the quality of the build. Not only is it surprisingly small (with a nice opening around its sides to fit the connector cable through during travel), but it’s one of the most durable SSDs we’ve seen, boasting 810F military standard grading to endure intensive environments.

Now, while we do rank this as the best external 8TB solid-state drive, we acknowledge that it is a very expensive drive.

As stunning as the read/write speeds are on a portable offering, if you don’t see yourself using the speeds to a decent level, then you may be better off looking at the VectroTech Rapid 8TB which we talking more about in our 8TB SSD article.

It’s worth adding that to achieve the top speeds, you need a device that supports Thunderbolt 3/4 (the Glyph comes formatted as a Mac SSD, but can be simply changed to a Windows drive with a reformat at the point of installation). Regardless, we would have liked to have seen an in-built USB-C.

Although, with a USB-C adapter, it would undoubtedly still reach great speeds on another connection.

Overall, we’re super impressed by what Glyph has put together with the Atom Pro; with unmatched durability, portability, speed, and storage size.

If you have the budget, you’re not just getting one of the best 8TB external solid-state drives available, but also one of the best portable storage solutions in any category.

2026 update: We still rate the Glyph as a great pick, but we’ve seen it run into more and more stock issues in 2025. Another fantastic portable option is the VectoTech 8TB drive. It’s very similar in capabilities to the Glyph, with the only downside being a slightly less durable design (but still quite rugged).

Largest Enterprise 2.5-inch SSD (TLC): Intel DC P4510 Series 8 TB

If you are looking for a business-grade storage solution (or simply want the highest-end large SSD for general use with no budget limits) this Intel SSD is your best choice.

The P4510 series stands out by fitting the 2.5″ form factor while running a U.2 PCIe setup to reach 3200 MB/s read & 3000 MB/s write speeds.

Not only are the speeds almost at the level of our top M.2 pick, but the P4510 also boasts excellent secondary specs that promote it as a great stable solution for business-level storage (e.g. virtual machines and other high-demand needs), with extremely low latency and fantastic read/write IOPS ratings.

Important note: This drive doesn’t operate on a SATA connection like a traditional 2.5″ SSD. You need a U.2 output on your setup, so ensure your motherboard has this available.

The other main part of how the P4510 earns its price tag is its TLC-based lithography.

Intel, which is one of the most reputable manufacturers for enterprise-tier storage, uses this TLC setup to achieve a mean time between failure (MTBF) of 1.5 million hours.

The drive is also optimized when compared to many higher-end SSDs for great temperature ranges and low vibration ratings (clearly this level of quality demonstrates its focus for critical enterprise server usage).

The longevity is a stunning offering and we know that some users will specifically be after a 8TB TLC drive, but the idea that QLC is always a huge problem is a bit of an over-simplification for many users.

Yes, manufacturers use QLC architecture to meet mainstream price points, but the best options like our top Samsung QVO pick dramatically increase the TBW to double that of its previous iteration/many competitors.

When considering QLC vs TLC, the latter may have a lower risk of issues in the long run, but a high-quality QLC drive also has great longevity, the difference between the two comes at a cost so dramatic that it doesn’t seem worth it unless you need the additional perks of the drive.

The P4510 may be the better storage (if you have a U.2 connection), but it costs nearly twice the price! For most mainstream users, we’re not sure if it’s worth it. SSDs with significantly less TBW than the Samsung 870 are used by millions of people. The P4510 and its specs are catered for enterprise/server usage.

So yes, if you’re working in a very demanding environment that will need lots of data overwriting and the lowest possible risk for a very large SSD (production use, business-critical infrastructure/VMs, etc.) or you simply are after the best 8TB drive regardless of cost, then the P4510 8TB is the pick for you.

Largest Cheap SSD Option: SAMSUNG 870 QVO 4TB X 2

OK, this option is a bit of a cheat, but we thought it was worth mentioning.

Typically, at RRP for SATA drives, XTB will be a similar price to 2 x X/2TB. Using the QVO 4TB as an example, 2 of these drives are often similar in cost to the 8TB offering.

With that said, because we’re specifically focussed on the largest SSDs available, it’s a market that sometimes has semi-limited supply, and in such markets nearly always comes occasional price gouging (i.e. grossly inflated options, like what we’re seeing with GPUs).

So if you want the largest solid-state drive possible but have cost in mind, whether it’s the 870 QVO or the other options on this list, please consider doubling up on an option half the size, as you may be surprised at how often they can be cheaper due to supply issues (or even discounting).

Best 16TB SSD? Best 100TB SSD?

As we mentioned at the beginning, we’ve focussed here on the biggest SSDs worth buying; that said, for completeness, we wanted to highlight that larger solid states do exist, but when you see the price tags, you’ll maybe see why we haven’t focussed on them!

Sabrent has come out with, Rocket XTRM-Q, a 16TB external solid-state drive. Very impressive and with a high-quality build that such a large size demands, but at just under $3,000, we can’t really recommend it unless you have a crazy budget.

If 16TB isn’t exciting enough for you, Nimbus is the company leading the charge at offering 32TB SSDs, 50TB SSD & an almighty 100TB SSD. And all it will set you back is a measly $40,000! They also appear to be looking at producing a 1000TB in the next few years – but you can bet it will cost more than a nice house.

So with no affordable options available now or anytime in the foreseeable future, we’d recommend sticking to the 8TB options above.

What's Next?

The 8 Best 8TB SSDs in 2026 (2.5″, M.2 & External)

Finally install every Steam game in your library!

The 6 Best 1TB Flash Drives of 2026

For some serious external storage

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 15 Best PC Cases of 2026

Source: Jaqobe

The 15 Best PC Cases of 2026

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated February 22, 2026

This feature has been updated after reviewing new and upcoming releases in 2026.

We’ve been through a lot of cases on What in Tech.

Anything from the cheapest to the largest to the quietest (to name a few).

But after 100s of PC case reviews, which stand out as the top choices?

Today’s feature is here to guide you through the best computer cases for gaming, general use, streaming, and production requirements (e.g. video editing) in all shapes, sizes, and budgets.

Top Picks

Overall Best PC Case: Lian Li PC-011 Dynamic
Best PC Case for Quiet Builds: Fractal Design Define R5
Best PC Case for Airflow: Corsair 7000D Airflow
Best Budget PC Case: Phanteks Eclipse P300A Mesh
Best PC Case for Watercooling & Large Builds: Thermaltake Tower 900
Cheapest PC Case for Gaming: Cooler Master N200
Best Micro ATX Case: Thermaltake S100
Best Mini ITX Case: Thermaltake Core V1

Best of the Rest: Quick-Fire Picks

Best Dual System PC Case: Corsair Obsidian Series 1000D
Alternative High-End PC Case: Thermaltake Core P8
Most Unique PC Case: Antec Torque
Best Mid-Range Budget Alternative: Phanteks P400
Best High-End Micro ATX Case: Corsair Crystal 280X
Best Mini ITX Premium Case: SilverStone LD03B
Best Mini ITX Case Alternative: InWin A1 Plus

Source: jerameyj

Overall Best PC Case: Lian Li PC-O11 Dynamic

What a fantastic PC case this is.

From one of the best tower manufacturers in the business today; the PC-011 is simply incredible at balancing everything most users want: build quality, design, internal features, and airflow all at a fantastic mid-range price-point.

Starting with aesthetic: the PC-011 is not done justice by stock photos.

We also gave the PC-011 the best looking PC case accolade. With an exterior made of beautifully finished thick aluminum and dual full-length tempered glass windows, it has the nicest build quality in its price range (as durable as it is beautiful).

The tower looks slick on its own, but what really gives it such a unique presentation is how a completed, powered-on build looks with the case’s fantastic internal visibility (this feature’s cover photo is an example, but the chassis looks even better in person). We love how much aesthetic customization you have here; you can go all out with an RGB lighting build, or something more minimalist. Either way, the chassis looks great.

Many of the PC-011’s competitors will just have a half-length window on the side only (with a PSU shroud at the bottom). The full-length windows on 2 sides may seem daunting if you’re a novice builder and can’t hide your cables at the bottom, but the PC-011 is a dual-chamber PC case. This means it has an additional compartment behind the motherboard designed for your “uglier” parts (think PSUs, drives, and cable management). Not only does this mean that you can get an incredibly clean aesthetic in the main chamber, but your primary parts will have more room to breathe/benefit from better airflow.

But this is far from just a beautiful chassis.

The PC-011 is an ATX PC case, with great space inside for:

8 expansion slots
2 x 3.5″ + 4 x 2.5″ drive bays
GPU length up to 420mm (more than enough room for mainstream cards, and one of the best PC cases for RTX 3070, 3080 & 3090 graphics cards)
I/O front panel that includes a USB3.1 Type-C

We think the PC-011 is the best ATX case for gaming available, with its excellent space for GPU installation/breathing room, more than enough storage capacity (hidden in the second chamber for a clean setup), and a beautiful aesthetic to show off your fancy hardware.

But the cherry on top for its gaming capability (or even someone more focussed on production), is the cooling. With up to:

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

This is a fantastic allotment for the dimensions of the case. Bear in mind that’s on top of the dual-chamber design that already gives you a great internal layout for ventilation.

We’ve included a choice below that we consider the best case for airflow, but the PC-011 really does have everything most builders will need in this respect. The fact that Lian Li has also managed to create such a beautiful and durable offering alongside its internal feature/cooling capability at a mid-range price is simply fantastic.

The last PC case you’ll need for a long time, we consider the PC-011 to be the best computer tower on the market today to satisfy most builder’s needs and simply can’t recommend it enough.

2026 update: The PC-011 Dynamic remains our best PC case choice for 6 years running! There just doesn’t seem to be anything that feels like the full package (providing you’re into the aesthetic) quite like it. One noteworthy addition to the market is the O11D Mini -X; a mini-tower version of the Dynamic that still can host ATX builds. We still rate the original as the best all-around choice, but it’s a nice option if you’d like something a little smaller.

Source: Fractal Design

Best PC Case for Quiet Builds: Fractal Design Define R5

Now, as much as we love the PC-011, there is one competitor that makes the top computer case spot a very close race.

Fractal Design has been at the peak of the case manufacturing game for years, and their flagship Define R series has been refined over many iterations to the R5 which, without a doubt, is the best quiet PC case in the mid-range price point.

If you are more inclined towards a minimalist PC case, the R5 shines in aesthetic. With a beautiful, sophisticated steel build surrounding most of its exterior (the front is plastic to retain lightness when opening the front panel, but has a beautiful metal finish).

Fractal are the masters of the quiet computer case. The R5 is the epitome of that; with its windowless design and powerful sound-dampening materials throughout. Even with a powerful gaming/production rig running inside, you can expect to have something very close to silence.

The best part about all of the low-decibel capability? The R5 is still an excellent PC case for cooling. Many towers dedicated to quietness compromise by running hotter, but this Fractal offering still records excellent low temps in benchmarks, with capacity for:

Up to 9 x 140mm fans with 2 top-quality Fractal Design Dynamic GP-14 fans (designed for silent builds) included
Or up to 420mm top, 360mm side, 240mm bottom & 140mm rear radiators

This is a fantastic allotment, with both water cooling and fan cooling builders having great options here with the R5 being one of the best PC cases for overclocking if you also don’t want your setup to sound like a jet engine.

While you don’t need the hyper-clean internals that a window PC case demands, the R5 still has some decent cable routing facilities to keep your internal ventilation going well.

This Fractal chassis is a mid-tower case, with room inside for:

7 expansion slots
VGA card lengths up to 310mm (enough space for most GPUs, but can be expanded up to 440mm with HDD cage removal)
8 x 3.5″ / 2.5″, 2 x 2.5″ & 2 x 5.25″ drive bays
Decent, easy to use dust filters
Minimalist I/O top panel including USB 3.0, 2.0 & a fan controller (perfect to control noise depending on your task).

The R5 is one of the top computer cases for gaming; but as you can see from the incredible storage space, this would also be an excellent production chassis if your work demands a large quantity of hard drives (think video editors, rendering, etc.).

All-in-all, what makes the Define R5 so impressive is how it pretty much ticks all of the boxes.

It’s well-built, beautifully minimalist, runs cool, has one of the best sound-dampening setups, and has great internal room for whatever your build demands.

And all of that comes at a mid-range price?

If you like the idea of a quieter PC case, or simply prefer the aesthetic over the PC-011, know this is easily one of the best mid-tower cases that has ever been produced.

2026 update: The R5 still comfortably ranks as our best choice for quiet builds, but we’ve observed some stock issues occasionally over the last year. If it’s out of stock, we highly recommend the Define R6 as a very similar alternative (the main difference is it is slightly larger and thus more suitable for E-ATX builds).

Source: Corsair

Best PC Case for Airflow: CORSAIR 7000D AIRFLOW

Next up is one of our favorite offerings from arguably the biggest PC case brand today.

Corsair’s 7000D Airflow Edition is, as the name suggests, a case designed to offer the best ventilation and cooling for mid-range builders.

While the PC-011 and Define R5 has excellent cooling capabilities in their own right for gaming/production use, the 7000D is even more impressive if decent airflow is your single most important objective.

This case is one of the latest iterations in a long line of D Airflow cases that have been improved over the years. With a build quality consisting of aluminum, high-quality steel, and tempered glass; the 750D is very durable and has a balanced aesthetic between the high visibility vs minimalist designs of our top two picks (with still enough window space for you to show off your beautiful internal hardware).

One of the best full tower PC cases on the market, you have room for:

E-ATX motherboard compatibility
11 x expansion slots (3 vertical)
GPU length clearance up to 450mm
4 x 2.5″ & 6 x 3.5″ bays

As you can probably tell, there is some serious room in this case for a powerful build; be it for gaming, streaming, or other high-end usages.

I am a little disappointed there is no 5.25″ optical bay available, the previous 750D case that this replaces had one. But I think that’s the old man in me not realizing nobody needs a DVD drive anymore!

You’ll have no issues fitting mainstream graphics cards inside. Tied with its great airflow, this is one of the best PC cases for RTX 4080, 4090, or 4070 overclocking.

Speaking of airflow, this is what this 7000D edition was designed to excel in, with:

Up to 7 x 140mm & 4 x 120mm fans (other configs possible, but I believe this is the best balance) with 3 high-quality Corsair 140mm fans included
Up to 3 x 260mm or 2 x 420mm radiator compatibility

Not only are these cooling specs great, but you’re combining it with a case design that is internally and externally very well equipped for ventilation & cable management. You can achieve some really excellent temps in the 7000D.

Although it’s worth the price, if you’re looking for an airflow focus but on a lower budget, Corsair also has a very compelling offering in the 4000D which offerings fantastic value at the 100$ pricemark.

While we give the overall top PC case edge to the Lian Li and Fractal offerings, you can probably see why we still hold the 750D in high regard.

If your focus is on ensuring ventilation for a beastly setup, or if you prefer the balanced aesthetic of this Corsair offering, then know it’s one of the best full tower cases on the market today.

Source: Phanetks

Best Budget PC Case: Phanteks Eclipse P300A Mesh

We appreciate some readers will be looking for the best cheap PC case options for a budget build. Phanteks, another classic manufacturer, has a fantastic offering in the P300A Mesh.

While we do explore an even cheaper computer case further below (the N200), this Phanteks case represents the best compromise between running at a much cheaper price range, while still retaining what we believe any good budget gaming, streaming or general use build will want.

The build quality, while not up to quite the same level as our top 3 picks, is still very impressive for the price. With a full steel exterior and tempered glass side panel, it’s a surprisingly beautiful case when you compare it to other budget options. The full-length mesh front panel excellent way to provide additional ventilation without loading up on fan purchases (there is a non-mesh edition if you prefer the design, but we would go with mesh if you’re looking to cool as cheap as possible).

This is a budget ATX case, still boasting good room inside for:

7 x expansion slots
355mm GPU clearance (enough for nearly all mainstream cards)
2 x 2.5″ & 2 x 2.5″ / 3.5″ drive bays

With all the GPU and storage room we think anyone would need on a low wallet, this is easily one of the best budget PC cases for gaming.

Cooling-wise, you have room for:

Up to 3 x 140mm + 1 x 120mm fans with 1 120mm fan included
Or up to 1 x 280mm + 1 x 120mm radiator (could be combined with a 140mm fan)

While this capability isn’t as high as the more expensive options on the list, there is enough here to comfortably cool a budget gaming/streaming PC.

We like how even at this price range, with the case already being relatively high quality, you’re still getting an included fan. You’ll want an extra 1-2 fans for most builds, but with the mesh ventilation design, this is a great little runner.

If you’re looking for the best cheap PC case for gaming, or another classic budget build, this is the best you’ll find on the market today.

2026 update: We still rank the P300A Mesh as the best all-around budget case but it has occasionally been out of stock in recent months. If you need something cheaper than the other top picks, check out our cheapest case feature.

Source: Thermaltake

Best PC Case for Watercooling & Large Builds: Thermaltake Tower 900

Now, if you’re looking for something more high-end, perhaps for an extra-large PC or to liquid cool your premium gaming/production setup, the Tower 900 is one of the best options available to you.

Thermaltake is another fantastic brand in the chassis business. Amongst their many great offerings, the Tower 900 really stands out in so many ways.

Starting with its aesthetic/build quality: the 900 is dubbed the “fish tank pc case”, with a wonderfully thick SGCC steel exterior and 3 durable full-size tempered glass windows. This is one of the sturdiest clear PC cases available today. It’s built to last and has a commanding presence due to its huge size.

This is another chassis that isn’t done justice by stock photos. Not only does it have great visibility, but its also one of the best modular PC cases on the market, giving you incredible customization capability in how you setup your parts/cooling, you can get an amazing look. On top of that, the Tower 900 is a dual-chamber case, with room in the second hidden compartment for your cables, power supply, and drives (to hide away for aesthetic and ventilation purposes).

One of the top full tower cases available today, there’s room for:

E-ATX Motherboard support
8 expansion slots
GPUs up to 400mm (with vertical mounting install options)
1 x 5.25″, 6 x 2.5″/3.5″ & 2 x 2.5″ drive bays

With these specs, you have an incredible PC case for multi-GPU setups, serious overclocking, and other demanding build types (we like that there is an option for an optical drive too even though we appreciate most users no longer require this).

To take such an intense build further, you have some seriously capable cooling capability, with room for up to:

13 x 120mm fans
Or 1 x 480mm & 1 x 560mm radiators (or other smaller variations of these sizes)

This case is big, but there aren’t many other cases at its dimensions that provide this level of cooling. We rank this as the best PC case for liquid cooling not just for the number of radiators, but the incredible modularity in the chassis that will really allow you to get the exact setup you want (not just practically, but aesthetically).

The Tower 900 is a beast in build quality, cooling, and internal space. If you’re someone looking after a unique aesthetic, or you’re serious about building something truly monstrous, we think you’ll love this chassis.

Source: Cooler Master

Cheapest PC Case for Gaming: Cooler Master N200

Now, while we would recommend you at least try and go with our top budget option (the Phanteks P300A) if possible, we appreciate some readers will be looking for the best computer tower we can comfortably recommend at very low price ranges.

We did a full feature on this recently, and the clear stand-out is the Cooler Master N200.

This cheap Micro ATX case is a little smaller than our other picks, in the mini tower form factor. But for a super budget build, mATX PC cases are exactly what you should be looking at.

So why does the N200 stand out? Well at its incredibly low price tag, you’re still getting:

A case from a reputable manufacturer (many super-cheap computer cases are from lesser-known brands).
A build quality superior to its other competitors at the same price point
2 120mm fans – this inclusion is simply fantastic for the price and, combined with the mesh ventilation around the case, will be enough to get a budget setup going
Great GPU space for a budget gaming mATX case: up to 355mm (more than enough for nearly all cards)
1 x 5.25″, 3 x 2.5″ & 4 x 3.5″ drive bays (we can’t imagine any budget builder needing even half of these bays)

The N200’s specs really are very impressive for the price. The fact that you’re getting 2 120mm fans is especially excellent as they could’ve easily included 0, and we’d still be highly recommending it for budget builds!

If you’re looking at gaming, we would recommend adding an extra fan or 2 eventually (with the N200 supporting up to 4 x 120mm) but this won’t be essential to get the build started if you’re on an extra tight budget.

If you’re looking for a non-gaming PC case for a general use build, then the fans included will be all the cooling you need.

If your budget can’t stretch any further than the N200, know that you’re still in luck, Cooler Master has really knocked it out of the park for those after the cheapest computer case possible.

Source: Thermaltake

Best Micro ATX Case: Thermaltake S100

Much of our list has been focused on the top ATX computer cases. For those interested in the best Micro ATX PC cases for gaming, streaming, or other use, we consider the S100 to be the best option.

Coming in at a very impressive price, the design of the S100 is beautiful. With a slick SPCC steel exterior and full-length tempered glass window, you’re getting an aesthetic and build quality rivaled by little else at the price point. We like that the window is an easy-access magnetic swivel design too. Too many PC case windows are still screw-based. The S100’s approach is way nicer and makes the building process more pleasant.

As you’d expect even from the best mATX cases, there’s a reduction in internal feature space; but still more than enough for most builders, with:

4 x expansion slots
VGA lengths up to 330mm (enough for nearly all mainstream cards)
2 x 2.5″ / 3.5″ and 2 x 2.5″ drive bays
Can host up to 6 x 120mm fans (with 1 pre-installed)

All the specs are decent for a chassis with this dimension range; with more than enough storage/GPU space for gaming or most other setup types.

We like that on top of having a pre-installed 120mm fan, the case can host up to 5 more. This is great for the form factor and gives you everything you need to cool even a powerful GPU.

Simply put, the S100 is an excellent all-rounder. It could be 20% more expensive and we’d still highly recommend it. Because of its very competitive price, we consider it to be the best mini-tower case for the average mATX build.

Source: Thermaltake

Best Mini ITX Case: Thermaltake Core V1

We’ve recommended the Core V1 many times in our various PC case features, and it’s no surprise that it comes out as the best smaller form factor PC case available.

The V1 is one of the most popular PC cases for Mini ITX builds ever (and for good reasons). Not only does this tiny chassis come at a very competitive price, but it also manages to balance its small size with some great cooling (for its form factor), build quality, and internal feature set.

For design, Thermaltake has created a fantastic cube PC case with a full SPCC steel & tempered glass exterior. This is a durable little unit and would comfortably act as a portable computer case as many ITX builders demand. Our favorite design choice is the focus on mesh for the front panel and other areas around the chassis.

It can be really difficult to reach acceptable temps in this form factor, but the Core V1 is very capable of that with its design, alongside an included 200m fan and room for 2 further 80mm fans. The 200mm fan is meant to act as the main cooling, and the fact that this is included at an already low price-point makes the V1 feel like a steal.

In terms of other specs, we consider this one of the best mini ITX cases for gaming, with room for:

2 x expansion slots (standard for form factor)
2 x 2.5″ & 2 x 3.5″ hidden drive bays
Graphics cards lengths up to 285mm

The GPU clearance is, of course, lower than larger cases. 285mm will still suit most cards (perhaps not RTX 3090s), but of course, check all the dimensions before you complete your build (that goes for power supplies & CPU coolers too).

The storage capability is perhaps the most impressive part of this case. We’ve seen larger ITX cases with only 1 x 2.5″ drive bays. The fact that you have great room for your HDDs & SSDs is one thing, but the way the case also manages to hide them in covered areas really adds to the sharp aesthetic.

We love the Core V1. Whether you’re looking at a Mini ITX case for gaming, streaming, or general use, this chassis provides so much utility for its price.

We’re comfortable in considering it the best mITX PC case for most builders and, providing you know the limitations of the form factor, think you’ll love it.

Alternative Quick-Fire Picks (Best of the Rest)

The above cases are our absolute top picks for a majority of situations. That said, we’ve reviewed a lot of cases, and some stand out as being excellent alternatives, or perfect for people after a less common aesthetic/build requirement – the below cases are still very much worth considering.

Best Dual System PC Case: Corsair Obsidian Series 1000D

Ranking at the top of our premium PC case feature, this is the best full tower case for those with no budgetary constraints who want to either achieve immense cooling or a dual system setup (perfect for production and streaming).

Alternative High-End PC Case: Thermaltake Core P8

The Core P8 is an incredible offering for those after high visibility and high cooling. It’s the perfect place for a beautiful RGB build if you purchase fans separately. You can create both a powerful and beautiful machine with it. See our full write-up here.

Most Unique PC Case: Antec Torque

For those after something truly head-turning, the Torque is an incredible option and has a motherboard tray that is deceptively simple to work with despite the intimidating look. We talked more about it in our best-looking cases feature.

Best Mid-Range Budget Alternative: Phanteks P400

The P400 is the perfect pick for someone who doesn’t quite have the budget for the P-011/Define R5, but can stretch a little further than our best cheap PC case picks. Read more here.

Best High-End Micro ATX Case: Corsair Crystal 280X

We’ve recommended the 280X in a lot of features through What in Tech. If you’re after the best mATX case for gaming at a premium price-point, this case is perfect for you. Read our full take here.

Best Mini ITX Premium Case: SilverStone LD03B

A fantastic PC case from a classic manufacturer, the LD03B is perfect for ITX builders who want something a little higher-end than our top Core V1 pick.

Best Mini ITX Case Alternative: InWin A1 Plus

Last but not least, from another great PC case brand, is a case we’ve featured several times before. With a beautifully unique aesthetic and included PSU, this is a fantastic option if the design speaks to you.

Best NZXT PC Case?

We know some gamers may be wondering what the best NZXT options are. The only reason we haven’t included a pick from them in this list is the above choices tend to beat out in most of the major categories slightly.

But make no mistake, NZXT are still a fantastic PC case manufacturer and one of the best for budget/mid-range stylish options, our favorite options are detailed here.

Best RGB PC Case?

To be clear, many of the windowed cases on this list would make great high-visibility options to show off ARGB fans and other illuminated parts (especially our top Lian Li pick, you can see an example of how good a build can look with the PC-O11 in this feature’s cover photo).

That said, if you want to purchase a PC case with RGB fans readily included (or in-built ARGB elements) we have another full feature on just that.

What's Next?

The 10 Best PC Case Brands in 2026

We’ve done plenty of reviews, now its time to see who shines.

The 15 Most Unique PC Cases You Can Actually Buy in 2026

For those after something extra special

The Complete Guide to PC Case Sizes – EATX vs ATX vs mATX vs mITX

Everything you want (and need) to know about tower sizes.

The 6 Best Tools for Building a PC (and Extras)

The tools you need to get your build up and running

About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 10 Best Quiet PC Cases for a Silent PC Build in 2026

The 10 Best Quiet PC Cases for a Silent PC Build

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated February 22, 2026

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

This feature has been updated after reviewing new and upcoming cases for 2026. 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.

2026 update: The Define 7 remains our top pick for 5 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.

2026 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.

2026 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

2026 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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* 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 7 Best Wall Mount PC Cases of 2026

The 7 Best Wall Mount PC Cases of 2026

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated February 22, 2026

How to install and choose your case for this unique aesthetic

Our top picks remain the same after reviewing the new offerings for 2026. We’ve included a couple of alternatives for our picks that run into some stock issues.

Building a chassis on a desk is boring!

Wall-mounting your computer has become a great alternative in the past few years.

Though completing the DIY approach is hard and not for the novice.

Luckily, there is a small amount of dedicated wall-mountable PC cases available and we’ve broken them down in this wall mount case feature.

If you’re not keen on our top picks or they’re sold out, we’ve included some other options that could achieve wall mounting with PC mounters or shelves instead.

Best Wall Mount PC Case

Thermaltake Core P3

Our Rating: 9.75/10

Read Review

Premium Wall Mountable Pick

Thermaltake Core P7

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Read Review

Best Mini-ITX Wall Mount Case:

Thermaltake Core P1

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Slim PC Case for Custom Mounts

Thermaltake Core G3

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Smallest PC Case for Custom Mounts

Fractal Design Node 202

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Honorable Mention

darkFlash Phantom

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

How to Wall Mount your PC

Before we get into the top picks, there are 3 main options you have when buying a wall-mounted PC case:

Cases designed to be wall mountable (i.e. the Thermaltake picks below).
- These are towers that are compatible with high-quality TV brackets which will give you the best sturdiness, presentation, and ease of setup.
Slim/small cases that can fit into a computer case mounter (we’ve detailed some smaller towers below that would work).
If you want a larger case that isn’t option 1, your best bet is to buy/install heavy-duty shelf brackets.
- We’d recommend you purchase the wood/metal plank for the brackets from a local DIY store.

Now, let’s get to it!

Thermaltake Core P3

Overall Best Wall Mount PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS*

REASONS TO BUY

+ Incredible build quality and aesthetic

+ Spacious layout with lots of modularity for parts and mounting

+ Open-air design provides great airflow

REASONS TO AVOID

– Slightly expensive

– A little challenging (but possible) for beginners

Our Rating: 9.75/10

Usually, in our best-of features, there’s a lot of deliberation for the top picks.

But if you want a chassis with wall mounting utility built-in, the Thermaltake Core P cases are easily the only ones we would highly recommend.

Don’t fret though, just because they’re the only good option, it doesn’t mean you’re not in great company.

The Core P3 stands as the best mid-range option in the series.

With an absolutely gorgeous design, this tower is covered with a thick, high-quality tempered glass panel over the top.

It’s suitable for vertical, horizontal, and wall mount orientations (with removable legs). Including a built-in bracket attachment on the back to work alongside a sturdy TV wall mounter.

The P3 is an ATX case/mid-tower with plenty of room for a wide range of builds, with:

8 expansion slots
Vertical GPU install options
VGA cards of up to 450mm (if radiator/reservoir removed)
Hidden 2 x 2.5″ or 3.5″ + accessible 2 x 2.5″ or 3.5 storage bays

You’ll be well placed to create a powerful gaming PC here if desired.

As far as cooling goes, the case accommodates up to 3 x 140mm fans or a 420mm radiator.

This may seem low for a mid-tower, but because of its open-air design, it has plenty of breathing room for ventilation, very capable of overclocking.

You can take the cooling and space requirements one step further with the case’s high modularity/customization.

This means that a majority of the case’s parts (mounting facilities/drive bays, etc.) are removable.

This isn’t just great for an easier build process, but it improves ventilation, noise reduction, and style.

I’ve been super impressed with the Core P3. It’s a joy to build in and performs great in thermals. It feels like a product of a behemoth case manufacturer at the top of their game.

If you’re looking for the best wall-mountable PC case for both a beautiful and powerful build, I think this is an unrivaled choice for you.

2026 update: The Core P3 remains our top wall-mount pick for 5 years running! It’s the best mid-range balance between price, spec, build quality, and aesthetic.

If you’re you like the look of this but are building something extra large, Thermaltake has released an equally great E-ATX version of the case; the Core P3 Pro.

Thermaltake Core P7 (& P8)

Best Premium Wall Mountable PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Beautiful design and top-tier build quality

+ Fantastic airflow/cooling options

+ Plenty of space for enthusiast builds

REASONS TO AVOID

– Expensive

– Large & very heavy (not for portability)

Our Rating: 9.25/10

2026 Update: While the P7 is still our top premium pick, The model If unavailable, I recommend looking at either the fantastic P8 iteration or Cooler Master’s MasterFrame 700. If these are outside of your price range, the P6 and P5s are excellent mid-range alternatives. The P3 tends to be the most in stock however, and is still great for a premium build if you can’t get hold of one of the others.

The P7 is the top choice if you’re looking for the most powerful build possible with little budgetary concern.

While we think that the P3 will comfortably handle most gamers’ needs, the features on the P7 are mouth-watering.

Let’s start with the incredible space and what it can offer you:

E-ATX motherboard support
1. Alongside its 8 expansion slots, will allow you to install up to 4 GPUs
2. Those graphics cards can be up to 570mm in length (reservoir removed)
Installation of up to 6 x 3.5″ / 7 x 3.5″ drives (or a mix)

As much as this case excels in space and design, its cooling capacity is what impressed me the most:

Up to 12 x 120mm / 9 x 140mm fans
Up to 3 x 480mm radiators for liquid cooling

Alongside its fantastic ventilation and modularity options, the P7 is one of the best cases for water cooling/air cooling around. The perfect basis for a build focused on overclocking.

The wall-mounting capability and design are the cherries on top. One important note is that this option is heavy. I’ve seen it mounted sturdily on plenty of setups but you’ll want to check that you have a strong enough mount (and wall) to handle this case.

There wasn’t much I didn’t like about the P7. I would say that, for many, the extra features over the P3 will feel like major diminishing returns; this is really for those with huge aspirations in mind (e.g. mining rigs) or those who don’t really have to worry about budget.

With the two side compartments for the additional fans/radiators and the thick tempered-glass presentation similar to the P3, this is one of the best-looking cases available and would make a great base for an RGB build given its excellent visibiltiy.

If you want a larger case than the P3, or are willing to fork out more, you are in for such a treat.

Thermaltake Core P1

Best Mini-ITX Wall Mount Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Same fantastic design and quality as the larger Core P cases

+ Very good airflow relative to most ITX cases

+ Good space & cable management options

REASONS TO AVOID

– Expensive for ITX

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Our final P-series/built-in mounting pick is the Core P1.

Another Thermaltake wall mount case, this is the case ideal for someone looking for a tiny build, with:

5 expansion slots/GPU lengths of up to 380mm (including vertical install options)
2 x 120mm fan or 1 x 240mm radiator support
1 x 2.5″/3.5″ inner and 2 x 2.5″ outer storage install options

The hardware support on this case is lower than the above picks, but that’s a given with a Mini-ITX PC.

You’ll be building a single-GPU setup in this form factor and the above specs + the open-air ventilation can easily handle this.

The case boasts the same great design, modularity, and high-quality tempered glass top cover as the P3/P7.

And of course, it still includes the wall-mounting options to attach to a bracket (due to its size, you’d get away with a smaller/lighter-weight bracket too if you prefer).

It’s also notably cheaper as mini-ITX cases often are due to less material. Usually, this is offset by the need to buy “specialist ITX parts”, but the P1 is pretty accommodating for many full-size components, so the price tag is a nice bonus.

If you’re looking for a wall-mounted PC case that also offers some portability, or simply don’t need the features that the top picks have and wanted something a tad cheaper, the Core P1 is perfect.

GDAE10 Open Frame Case

Best Budget Wall Mount PC Case

REASONS TO BUY

+ Very cheap

+ Perfect if you’re looking for a barebones, workbench-style chassis

REASONS TO AVOID

– No notable brand behind it (i.e. no service)

– Only to be considered for enthusiasts

Our Rating: 7.5/10

Let’s be clear, if you’re not an experienced PC builder, ignore this pick and focus on our other options, they’re worth the extra budget.

That said, we wanted to include something that was less than $100 as an option for budget builders.

This is the first pick on our list that doesn’t have dedicated wall-mount features (you would need to invest in some minimal shelving).

We would recommend the other cases (particularly the Core P series) in the article over this pick.

But if you’re looking for a cheap wall mount case and are ready to get your hands dirty, this may be a good option for you.

This is a DIY case. With very little in the way of features outside of the most barebone platforms for mounting the integral parts.

You’re still getting a slick open-air presentation that lends itself nicely to a budget build (i.e. less money spent on cooling), and if you are a DIY expert, you could makeshift your own glass enclosure around certain sides of the case/mounting shelves.

Reading this, you’ll see why we want you to stick with the Thermaltake Core options.

But if your budget is tight, your DIY/shelving skills are good and you aren’t building something too intensive, then you could still make a great wall mount gaming PC.

Thermaltake Core G3

Best Slim PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Really impressive price-point for the quality

+ Beautifully compact

+ Decent airflow

REASONS TO AVOID

– Tight layout means builds need to be planned

– Not too much cable management available

Our Rating: 8.5/10

2026 update: As great as the Core G3 is, I’ve seen it run out of stock occasionally. Other great thin case options are available in our horizontal case feature.

If you don’t like the exposed tempered glass options above and want something a little more traditional, this is for you.

The G3 is a great all-around ATX case with lots of features for a very decent price.

It doesn’t have standalone wall-mounting options but is slim enough that it can work alongside an independent computer mounter (or a sturdy shelf if preferred).

The Core G3 is made with SECC steel, looking (and feeling) very sturdy.

Given it’s one of the slimmest ATX cases, you have limited room compared to other choices in this form factor. But still enough for:

2 x 2.5″ / 3.5″ hidden storage bays
Up to 3 x 120mm fans (or replace 2 at the front with a 240mm radiator)
VGA length support of up to 310mm (with front fans installed)

This is a build for single GPUs only (with a great-looking vertical install option included).

That being said, for a single graphics card PC, the available cooling is more than enough.

The build is very well ventilated to ensure your parts have decent breathing room.

The G3 is also (rather uniquely) a reverse tower. This means its window is on the right side as opposed to the usual left.

This would be great if you want to wall-mount it to the right of your desk (so that the front I/O panel is still available easily to you).

The Core G3 ticks a lot of boxes as long as you can fit the hardware you want in it.

Affordable, compact, and stylish. If this case fits your specifications, then I highly recommend it.

Fractal Design Node 202

Smallest PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ High quality, compact build/design

+ Layout can still manage solid hardware/airflow

+ Portable

REASONS TO AVOID

– Thermals are, of course, limited compared to larger cases

– Tight space will limit some builds

Our Rating: 9/10

If you didn’t want any of the Thermaltake choices, we wanted to include the smallest case for wall mounting that we’d recommend.

The Node 202 is an incredibly low volume tower that excels as an HTPC case and could still manage to host a full gaming computer.

No in-built wall mounting options but due to its small size, it’s going to look great with either a PC mounter or on a shelf.

It also doubles as an incredible portable computer case (should you need something for LAN parties, a VR demo build, etc).

This Mini-ITX offering is a console-sized PC case with the excellent build quality, the design looks fantastic for those who enjoy a minimal style.

Despite the very tight dimensions, you can still achieve a gaming build with:

Vertical/riser GPU install options up to 310mm in length
2 x 2.5″ SSDs (you can go with M.2 storage if you need more)
2 x 120mm fans

The fan availability and room for ventilation are of course low.

But as always with Fractal, the case is designed to maximize the small volume it has.

With separate chambers for the motherboard and GPU (the 2 fan slots being located in the graphics card section), you’ll still have adequate cooling for a single-GPU gaming setup.

If you’re building this you’ll need to pay attention to the dimensions of your parts and their compatibility.

But if you want the smallest computer case that suits wall-mounting, this is a great option from a fantastic manufacturer.

darkFlash Phantom

Honorable Mention

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Beautiful glass and RGB fan aesthetic

+ Fantastic value for the build quality and fans included

REASONS TO AVOID

– Airflow is OK but inferior to some cases due to the glass coverage

– Some layout decisions make builds a little more difficult

Our Rating: 8.5/10

2026 update: If you like the RGB customization nature of the case, we recommend our RGB chassis feature to give you alternatives you could mount on a shelf.

We’ve raved about the Thermaltake P series and would push you towards these cases for the best wall-mounted computer.

But if you were looking at a shelf build, weren’t a fan of the open-air case design, and needed something large, we’re rounding off our list with a great option from darkFlash.

You may not have heard of this manufacturer, but they’ve made plenty of other decent cases (some of which I’ve reviewed and featured here and here).

This one stands out with its beautiful 3-way thick tempered glass covers, covering all the sides that would be well-visible on a shelved PC.

The case has a lot of great utility for a powerful gaming build, you could build a 2-way or 3-way VGA build (with cards up to 359mm).

The Phantom has great options to cool all of this too, with:

Up to 11 x 120mm fans
Or up to 1 x 280mm, 1 x 240 & 1 x 140mm radiators

For an ATX form factor, this fan allowance (alongside the good internal layout) makes it a fantastic choice for overclocking.

Not only that, but the version we’re reviewing comes with 6 RGB LED fans pre-installed.

This makes the case an incredibly high-value offering for RGB builds (if you think the pictures look good, RGB setups always look better in person).

Make no mistake, while we have talked a lot about the Thermaltake P1/3/7, we’ve included this for a reason.

If you’re looking for more of a traditional case and don’t mind it being on-shelf, the Phantom is an incredibly cheap case for the quality, style, and features you’re getting.

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The 5 Largest PC Cases for High-End Builds in 2026

The 5 Largest PC Cases for High-End Builds in 2026

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated February 18, 2026

Update: The feature has been reviewed for 2026. Many of our picks remain the same, but we’ve included a couple of alternatives for options that seem to run into some stock issues.

After 100s of PC case reviews, I’ve been through many different shapes and sizes of chassis on What in Tech.

Amongst them, some extra-large towers have really stood out for those looking at creating something particularly powerful.

If that sounds like you, today’s feature is about ranking the largest PC cases I recommend for top-end gaming/production builds. These are cases that I recommend for their utility across the board, not just the largest in dimension (otherwise I’d recommend you an XXL cardboard box!).

Largest PC Case Top Pick

Corsair Obsidian 1000D

Our Rating: 9.75/10

Read Review

Largest PC Case for Silent Builds

Deep Silence 6

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Largest Cheap Case

Corsair Graphite 780T

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Unique Pick

Cougar Conquer 2

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Read Review

Honorable Mention

Cooler Master Cosmos C700M

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Largest PC Case (Best Pick): Corsair Obsidian Series 1000D

Now, there are a couple of chassis picks further below that are a tad larger in terms of external dimensions. But in terms of internal space and capability? The 1000D is comfortably my top pick for super tower gaming or high-scale production use.

Featured multiple times on WIT, the 1000D is an absolute powerhouse. Its build quality has one of the slickest and sturdiest combinations of thick steel, aluminum, and tempered glass I’ve ever seen. It’s a case that is not done justice by stock photos. Only once powered on with beautiful internal components on display it’s stunning to behold. I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing many 1000D builds and even the most basic look incredible.

The crowning feature of the 1000D (aside from its excellent cooling, which we’ll discuss later) is that it’s a dual-system PC case. This means it supports an independent Mini ITX motherboard/PC alongside your main setup (in other words, 2 PCs inside the same chassis!). There’s a lot of potential utility for premium work/gaming builders with this, and great for content-focused streamers who can they enjoy separate dedicated gaming and streaming setups.

Inside this super tower is room for:

10 x expansion slots
GPU length clearance up to 400mm (enough for any mainstream card with room to spare for airflow, one of the best PC cases for RTX 3090 builds)
A great front I/O panel, with 2 x USB 3.1 gen-2 type C USB ports amongst the classic inputs (all beautifully backlit with RGB)
Accessible but nicely hidden bays for up to 5 x 3.5″ & 6 x 3.5″ drives
Up to 18 x 120mm fans (stock configuration up to 10 x 120mm + 3 x 140mm)
Or up to 4 x 480mm + 1 x 240mm radiators (stock configuration up to 2 x 480mm, 1 x 420mm + 1 x 240mm)
Triple-chamber layout to maximize cable management and airflow of both the main and secondary systems (as well as room to hide “uglier” components like PSUs)
Included smart fan controller if you want to add RGB fans to your build

Source: six60six

These are some of the most insane specs I’ve ever seen for a chassis. The 1000D isn’t just extra-large but adds some really unique features with its size.

Between the triple-chamber design, dual system capability, and fantastic room for hardware/cooling, what I like most about the 1000D is that it isn’t just large for the sake of it. It’s clearly been meticulously designed to make use of its huge dimensions for amazing capability.

The only case I’ve seen come close to its cooling capacity is the Thermaltake Core P8. But that case does not have the same large space for ventilation and airflow. The 1000D is the best PC case for airflow, cooling (fan or water cooling) I’ve ever seen. I’ve been super impressed by the thermal benchmarks I’ve seen from it, even in particularly demanding builds.

Whether you are intending to intensely overclock a gaming build or keep a demanding production setup performing optimally, you really can’t get better than this.

2026 update: The 1000D has been succeeded by the 9000D. The 9000D is an excellent case in its own right as it’s largely the same as the 1000D, however some slight corners feel cut in elements of the case’s build qualtiy (e.g. plastic feet). It’s still a great choice if you can’t find the 1000D in stock, but we’ve kept the 1000D up as we’re still seeing it occasionally in stock.

Our Rating: 9.75/10

Largest PC Case for Silent Builds (Best HTPC Case): Nanoxia Deep Silence 6

Our next choice is for those builders who have a specific requirement for an extra quiet super tower. The Deep Silence 6, while not reaching all of the highs of the 1000D, has some very impressive features (particularly in storage) and would make a great music production PC case, server chassis, or some other high-end work that requires optimum noise-reduction.

The Deep Silence 6’s build quality, as you would expect for a premium silence-focussed chassis, is very thick steel (one of the most sturdy/durable cases I’ve come across). Surrounding a large portion of the exterior is also some industrial sound-proofing material to maximize noise isolation. It’s one of the quietest PC cases available today, impressive considering its size. Aesthetically, everything about the case looks “professional”, like it’s designed to really make an impression for high-budget production.

This super tower PC case has room for:

HPTX / XL-ATX Motherboard support (one of the very few cases to have it, but you can still reap the value of the case with ATX or E-ATX)
10 x expansion slots
GPU length clearance of up to 400mm (perfect for all mainstream cards)
4 x 5.25″ external, 2 x 3.5″ external (with adapter), 10 x 2.5″/3.5″ internal (up to 13 with adapter) & 2.5″ internal drive bays
Up to 8 x 140mm + 1 x 120mm fans with 5 140mm quiet fans pre-installed + front panel controller to allow you to balance performance and noise depending on the situation
Up to 1 x 360mm, 1 x 280mm & 1 x 140mm radiators (that can be combined with some of the fan setup).

The Deep Silence 6 has some simply fantastic specs across storage in particular. Combined with its silent design, we rank this as one of the best server PC cases or something for media/HTPC builders available today. Not only is the drive bay allowance incredible out of the box, but the fact that you can add to it further with adapters is a bonus (not to mention, if you’re like most people and don’t need 4 x 5.25″ drive bays, you can use them to massively expand your storage).

There is also plenty of cooling capability, and we appreciate the 5 included 140mm fans that will be enough for a majority of builds in here. If you are looking for a gaming build, the 1000D is probably the better choice with its additional cooling and triple-chamber layout. However the Deep Silence 6 could still aptly run a powerful gaming machine if achieving a low decibel level means more to you.

Simply put, the Deep Silence 6 is an incredible chassis and easily the best quiet super tower available today.

2026 update: I’ve kept the DS6 as the top quiet choice as it does a fantastic job and is the largest in the picks designed for low volume. With that said, I also really appreciate the Fractal 7 XL for premium quiet builds. It’s not as large, but I think if your build would fit inside, it’s the better choice.

Our Rating: 9/10

Largest Budget PC Case: Corsair Graphite 780T

While “budget” and “largest” don’t go very well together, the 780T, despite still being a fair bit pricier than the average budget chassis, is notably lower than every other extra-large case close to its size while still being decently featured in its own right.

The case design is striking. With thick, curved steel engulfing much of the case’s exterior, the 780T feels built to last and has a rather unique aesthetic. One design feature we really appreciate is the latched handles on most of the case’s panels, with it being one of the easiest chassis we’ve seen to quickly access/re-close once finished.

This full tower has room for:

9 x expansion slots
Graphics cards up to 355mm in length (more than enough for most, but double-check dimensions if you’re buying a premium GPU)
2 x 5.25″, 2 x 2.5″ & 6 x 3.5 /2.5″ combo drive bays
Deep and well-laid-out cable management facilities
Up to 10 x 120mm fans with 3 x 140mm fans included (2 with red LEDs)
Alternatively, combine a smaller fan setup with up to 2 x 360mm radiators

With these specs, it’s clear that the 780T does a fantastic job of retaining lots of internal capability despite costing less than half our two top picks.

With plenty of room for high-end GPUs and cooling, this would make a great choice if you’re after one of the largest ATX cases for gaming (plenty of overclocking potential here).

Simply put, if you want an extra-large PC case that is only a hair above the usual mid-range price bracket, the 780T is the ideal choice.

Our Rating: 9/10

Largest PC Case with Unique Design: Cougar Conquer 2

I think you’ll agree that the chassis image speaks for itself!

If you want your extra-large PC case to also turn the heads of any guest that comes to your house, this is the ideal choice. The Conquer 2 has a wonderfully unique design.

Covered in thick metal panels and 4 tempered glass windows, the Conquer 2 has one of the nicest build qualities I’ve seen from any chassis. The aesthetic is made extra unique by the ARGB lighting on the front side of the case (including the pre-installed ARGB fan at the bottom). This is a strong example of a case that cannot be done justice by stock photos. I love how this case looks in person. The quality of the material really shows when you see a full build powered-on and running as part of a nice setup.

Inside this large ATX full tower is room for:

8 expansion slots & 2 for vertical GPU installs
VGA lengths up to 400mm (more than enough as a PC case for RTX 3080, 3070, or 3090).
2 x 2.5″ / 3.5″ & 2 x 2.5″ drive bays
Up to 6 120mm fans
Alternatively up to 1 x 240mm & 1 x 360mm radiators

You may find some of the above specs underwhelming compared to our other top choices. There is a key difference though: the Conquer 2 is an open-air PC case that is designed to be presentable at all angles. This means that the cooling solutions will be more than enough for even a powerful gaming setup due to the amount of open airflow and ventilation the case gets.

I am a little disappointed in the drive bay availability. They are notably lower as they are all designed to be hidden to maximize the clean aesthetic the Conquer is going for. Let’s be real though; unless you’re building a server, HTPC, or something with very high storage requirements, the drive bays enough will be plenty, especially for gaming.

It looks like the Conquer 2 would be difficult to build in, but Cougar included a fantastic feature: a detachable sub-chassis. Essentially you can remove a tray from the middle of the case where your motherboard & main components will sit. This doesn’t just make building smooth, but I found it more pleasant to build in than a lot of traditional cases!

You are, of course, paying a premium for the design of the Conquer 2, but it is a true marvel to behold. If you want to build a powerhouse in not just one of the largest gaming full towers available, but one of the most unique, the Conquer 2 is for you.

Our Rating: 9.25/10

Largest Full Tower (Alternative Pick): Cooler Master Cosmos C700M

Our last pick is an honorable mention if you want an overall alternative to the 1000D (in the same price range). The C700M is another supersize PC case designed for high-end builds.

With a beautiful, thick aluminium//steel/dual-curved tempered glass hybrid case design accompanied by some tastefully subtle ARGB lighting, the C700M is beautiful and another example of a case not done justice by stock photos. We appreciate also the handles neatly added to the top of the case; don’t underestimate how hard it can be to carry an extra-large chassis!

The specs lean the C700M towards being more of a gaming full tower, with:

8 x expansion slots
GPU lengths up to 490mm (320mm with HDD bracket, still enough for most cards)
1 x 5.25″, 4 x 3.5″ / 2.5″ combo & 4 x 2.5″ drive bays
Up to 9 x 140mm fans (with 3 pre-installed)
Up to 2 x 420mm, 1 x 240mm & 1 x 140mm (420mm reduce to 360mm if 5.25″ drive cage is installed)

There are some decent specs available on the C700M, certainly enough for a powerful gaming/production/video editing PC case. But you can probably see why, for the same price range, we rank the 1000D above it; with our top pick’s super cooling and storage availability. We also consider it to have a slightly better ventilation design (with its triple chambers & airflow setup) plus the nice option to set up a dual system.

None of this is to say the C700M is a bad case however, it has a lot going for it and we included it for a reason, if you’re looking for one of the largest PC cases and this Cooler Master offering fits in with your personal aesthetic, it’s a great choice for a very high-end build.

Our Rating: 8.5/10

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 15 Most Unique PC Cases You Can Actually Buy in 2026

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated February 18, 2026

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

We’ve updated this feature for 2026 after reviewing the latest and upcoming cases on the market.

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.

2026 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.

2026 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.

2026 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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The best PC cases from one of the top manufacturers in the game.

The 5 Best Blue PC Cases of 2026

Blue, black and blue and white and blue PC cases.

About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 10 Best Looking PC Cases in 2026

The 10 Best Looking PC Cases of 2026

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated February 18, 2026

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

Source: Robeywankenobi

I’ve updated this feature for 2026 after reviewing the latest (and upcoming) releases on the market. I’ve added a couple of additional options in certain categories, but most of our picks remain unchanged.

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.

2026 update: For 6 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.

2026 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. The H510 Elite isn’t as readily available as it used to be, so the H Flow series may also be a good alternative for those interested in NZXT’s style.

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.

2026 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.

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.

2026 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

What's Next?

The 15 Best PC Cases of 2026

After hundreds of case reviews, here are the best

The 15 Most Unique PC Cases You Can Actually Buy in 2026

For those after something extra special

The 5 Best NZXT Cases in 2026

The best PC cases from one of the top manufacturers in the game.

The 5 Best Blue PC Cases of 2026

Blue, black and blue and white and blue PC cases.

About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 10 Best Horizontal PC Cases in 2026

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated February 18, 2026

Reviewing the best picks for home theatres, horizontal cabinets and more

This feature has been updated for 2026. Most of our picks remain the same after reviewing the new options on the market this year. We’ve added a couple of decent alternatives for the picks that we’ve seen run into stock issues.

I know what you’re thinking:

“Where are all the horizontal cases amongst the thousands of vertical options?”.

Up-front options rule the market, and it’s difficult to find a good sideways case for all of you looking for something a little different for your next HTPC, VR, gaming, or server build.

But fear not, they do exist! And after some extensive reviews, we’re going to break down the top picks in this unique category.

A note on size

Before we jump in: many horizontal cases are on the smaller end of the scale. Whether you’re looking for a full tower or something for ITX, we’ve covered all the options below. Just remember to check that the dimensions of the parts you’re looking at will fit.

So, without further ado:

Source: SilverStone

SilverStone Technology GD09B

Overall Best Horizontal PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS*

REASONS TO BUY

+ Fantastic build quality

+ Decent layout for HTPCs & compact gaming builds

+ Good price

REASONS TO AVOID

− Finish can be a bit of a fingerprint magnet

− GPU space is tight for larger cards

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Offering both style and substance at a great price point, the GD09B really excels on multiple levels.

From a company that has specialized in building horizontal cases for over a decade, the GD09B has an impressive layout for hardware considering its small dimensions and horizontal orientation, with the ability to support up to an ATX motherboard.

7 expansion slots are available for the case. With support for 1 x 5.25″ external and 2 x 3.5″/ 1 x 2.5″ internal drives, there is decent room for your various storage needs.

Source: stevoisboss

With the compact nature of most horizontal cases, you may have to decide what is most important to you (e.g. drive bays in these cases often come at the cost of fan mounts or GPU space).

The case is surrounded by decent ventilation. This, combined with the reasonable size, allows for builds to run cool with good airflow. This is the ideal pick for a Home Theatre PC/HTPC build as you can keep fans at a lower speed due to the natural cooling capabilities of the chassis (smaller water cooling options are available too, but we think a fan build makes the most sense here).

We also really appreciate that despite the compactness, the GD09B still boasts room for a GPU up to 309mm. Many of the latest cards will fit into this space (but be sure to check dimensions of your desired pick).

We also highly rate the GD09B due to its sophisticated aesthetic and fantastic build quality. Along the front of the case are 2 USB3.0 ports, audio inputs, and a very sleek-looking drive bay.

This SilverStone offering manages to ticks so many boxes. Considering it’s far from the most expensive on the list, it’s the amount of value on offer that seals the deal as our top pick. If the design fits your idea of what you want from a horizontal motherboard case, we think you’ll love it.

Another option you may want to consider is the GD10B, which is very similar to the GD09 except it includes an additional 2 120mm fans (3 total) and a lockable aluminum front panel for a different aesthetic. It’s purely a choice of preference, the reason we rank the GD09B over it is we don’t think the extra fans and front panel will be worth the price increase for most of you. But if you like the look of it, it’s a great option!

2026 update: The GD09B continues to take our top spot for over 6 years running! The product listing we’ve linked to is sometimes low on stock. If this is the case for you, be sure to check the other versions (version 2/version-USA) on the same page and duplicate product listings on Amazon. These are very similar and are perfect alternatives.

If you like the look of the GD09B but find it’s running a little small, the updated version, Grandia 11, is available with a larger GPU and radiator support. It’s a great alternative, the only reason we don’t rank it as high as the GD09B is because it’s around 30% more expensive (and harder to find in stock) which is only worth it if you need the extra size.

Source: Cooler Master

Cooler Master HAF XB EVO

Runner-Up Best Horizontal PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Great value

+ Generous CPU cooler/GPU clearance for its form factor

+ Decent build quality

REASONS TO AVOID

− Nearly twice the height of the GD09B

OUR RATING: 9.5/10

We didn’t quite want to give this Cooler Master pick the top spot partially due to its slightly more square/cube shape.

However, know that if this fits your idea of a horizontal case aesthetically, you’re going to be in for a treat, This chassis is a beast.

Somehow this unit manages to host capacity for up to 2 x 5.25″ drives, 4 x 3.5″ drives, and 4 x 2.5″ drives. If you don’t need all that in your build, then it’s simply more room for other parts to breathe/fit!

The case has room for plenty of airflow/cooling (up to 5 fans, with 2 XtraFlo fans pre-installed) and space for a modest set of water cooling radiators.

Source: taddtorborg

Included on the front panel are the usual I/O connectors (2 x USB3.0/audio ports). We’re pleased to see that the build is largely made of thick steel. The feel/quality of the HAF XB EVO is superb and it comes across even better in person.

One big plus for novice builders: this case was designed for you. Some features have been included to make the build process as easy as possible. Most notably screwless installation and a removable motherboard tray (trust us: trying to install a PC in a more compact case can be a pain, so this is a massive plus!).

Cooler Master HAF XB EVO vs SilverStone GD09B: When considering our two top picks, the big decider will be on aesthetics and dimensions. Which better fits your idea of a horizontal case? We prefer the look of the GD09B, but it’s really the personal choice that matters most.

Aside from that, the key secondary factor is if you’re looking for a gaming PC case. The HAF XB EVO has significantly more room for your CPU cooler and GPU. If your heart is set on the GD09B, you can certainly make that work for a powerful gaming build, but it will require a more careful selection of hardware.

With a great balance between cooling, space, ease of use, and high-quality build/design, the HAF XB is a fantastic option all-around.

Source: Thermaltake

Thermaltake Core P5 V2

Best Premium Horizontal Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Fantastic build quality and endless potential for great build aesthetics

+ Great open-air cooling

+ Good layout customization for your build requirements

REASONS TO AVOID

− Very expensive

OUR RATING: 9.5/10

This Thermaltake range is quite special. We were very close to ranking this as the best overall case despite its high price point.

With a full-glass design, once you have installed your components in the Core P5, it is truly a sight to behold and one of the most beautiful cases available in today’s market.

The legs are fully removable, allowing this case to look as good horizontally as it does vertically.

There is plenty of space to play with when building here. But more than that, the case is very modular/customizable. Thermaltake is aware that when you invest in a chassis this transparent you’re trying to build a PC that is fully visible. The ability to install GPUs, drives, and other components in various positions is something the P5 excels at more than most other options on the market.

With the great design of this case, comes the recommendation to include water cooling if possible. Given the high visibility, you’ll be wanting to avoid dust, and air cooling builds will cause more of that. If you want to go down this route, however, the excellent cabling management capabilities should allow you to clear decent airflow paths and keep it relatively clean.

Source: vmitri

The front I/O panel is well presented and has 2 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, and HD audio inputs.

This case may look intimidating to assemble, but it is actually quite a beginner-friendly unit. Being able to detach the glass during your build, makes the overall process a lot easier than traditional cases!

Thermaltake Core P1 vs P3 vs P5 vs P7 vs P8 vs P90:

Here we’ve focussed on P5 as the main choice, but there are other great options for this range. Note that all of these cases support horizontal placing.

Aside from the obvious presentation differences (especially the beastly P90…), the biggest differences here are in the size/form factor.

The P1 is the Mini-ITX option. Full review available here.
The P3 and P5 are both ATX options and have the same number of expansion slots/part compatibility, but the P5 has a larger height/depth for freedom in your build. Our P3 review is available here.
P7, confusingly, is the biggest of the set, supporting E-ATX motherboards.
The P8 is a newer offering and is perhaps the best looking of the lot, see our full write-up in our premium case feature.
P90 offers the second-largest layout, but across 2 separate areas (as you’ll see in pictures of its striking design).

If you have the budget, we cannot speak highly enough of the Thermaltake P series. The P5 strikes a perfect balance for mid-range builds that will tick the right boxes for nearly every horizontal mobo builder (especially style!).

2026 update: We’ve also been enjoying the new Core P6 model by Thermaltake. It’s a great addition to the series and takes some of the best parts from its predecessors. Namely a customizable choice between an open-air design like the P1/P3 or an enclosed P8 design, and an ATX form factor that will satisfy most builders.

The case has a removable stand so you can set up a great horizontal placement. If you’re an ATX builder, we still like the Core P5 the most as we consider it the best value; but if you’re drawn to the P6 and don’t mind paying the premium, go for it!

Source: Thermaltake

Thermaltake Core G3

Best Budget Horizontal PC Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Fantastic price for what’s on offer

+ Sturdy, well-built unit

+ Plenty of ventilation to make up for the lesser cooling

REASONS TO AVOID

− Limited height of the case will be hard for beginner builders

OUR RATING: 9/10

I know, I know, the picture shows a vertical case.

But the beauty of the G3 is that it’s designed for either type of orientation.

The cheapest ATX case on our list, this Thermaltake offering still provides impressive performance for the price point.

Source: TheLeadPontoon

Designed to host a horizontal gaming PC with consideration for compactness (think virtual reality or people with small media cabinets). The case is on the smaller side for ATX but still offers 120mm / 240mm water cooling options and/or 3 fans, with 2 front fans pre-installed. The cooling should be fine for most builds but bear in mind that the space available is less than most mid-towers.

The front I/O panel is great and surprisingly one of the most plentiful on this list: with 2 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0 / standard audio ports.

Note that as the G3 is a very slim PC case, you will likely not have room for other PCI-e cards outside of your GPU. The case does, however, come with options to fit your GPU in vertically, giving you more control over space for the most spaciously demanding piece.

Overall, if you are looking for a cheap Horizontal PC case and don’t have the largest of components to install, the G3 is a great option for your build.

2026 update: While the Core G3 is still our favorite budget pick, it does still run into stock problems from time to time. If you can fit your build into a micro ATX chassis, we recommend the ML04 pick below if the G3 is not available. If you still need/want ATX, we haven’t found another budget case as memorable as the G3, so we’d highly recommend paying a little more for our top GD09B pick, which has fantastic value for its mid-range price.

Source: SilverStone

SilverStone ML04

Best Horizontal Micro ATX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Unit is well built and deceptively compact

+ Great price

+ Still manages decent cooling for its size

REASONS TO AVOID

− Space limits mean it’s not suitable for full-sized GPUs/serious gaming builds

OUR RATING: 8/10

We’re back to SilverStone for the best horizontal microATX computer case.

With a very high-quality steel/aluminum mix build and compact form, this unit is durable and looks fantastic on display.

We’re getting into the smaller builds now. Don’t expect to fit a traditional gaming GPU in here (perfect for those who are after a build that utilizes onboard CPU graphics).

However, we like this case because it still manages to offer some good internal space despite the tight dimensions.

Source: tomclaessens

This includes drive allotment for 1 x 5.25 ” external, 2 x 3.5″ and 1 x 2.5″ internal. Cooling-wise, there’s space for 4 x 80mm fans and 4 x low profile / 1 x utility expansion slots.

Sure, this may not sound like much compared to some of the others above, but for the size? It’s impressive. With its ventilation, if you can keep down the cabling and components not needed, you’ll manage decent airflow.

SilverStone even suggests you can install traditional ATX/PS2 PSUs up to 140mm. Impressive considering even when many vertical Micro ATX cases don’t support these.

A standard front panel is on offer with 2 x USB 3.0 ports and audio inputs (pretty decent for the form factor).

Overall, if you’re looking for a wide PC case for your micro ATX build, this is a great option and the best we’ve come across.

Source: Fractal Design

Fractal Design Node 202

Best Horizontal Mini-ITX Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Beautiful design and build

+ Manages to fit a full GPU despite compactness

+ Good price

REASONS TO AVOID

− Only 2 fan mounts

− Requires a extra small CPU cooler

OUR RATING: 9/10

As you may know from our silent PC case picks, we’re big fans of Fractal Design.

With the Node 202, they’ve managed to create an incredibly attractive, low-volume case that would be perfect for gaming builds and those looking for a console-sized portable alternative.

Despite the compactness, there is still decent room for a powerful GPU (PCI-E riser card included, supporting up to 310mm in length!) to go alongside your mITX motherboard. That said, remember to check dimensions as we’re getting into the smallest of cases.

We’re really impressed that Fractal has managed to keep this case suitable for gamers (especially considering our mATX pick further above doesn’t allow for full-size GPUS!).

Source: Zabaron

The front I/O panel is the standard for small builds: 2 x USB 3.0 and audio inputs.

The inner layout provides decent ventilation for both the CPU and GPU, on top of offering 2 x 120mm fan mount options and 3 included dust filters (good for the form factor).

We would’ve liked to have seen a little more space for a larger CPU cooler, but there are plenty of specialist ITX options available that are designed to be included in these tight clearances.

Fractal is simply one of the best manufacturers of PC cases today and this is another great example of why. If you’re going for a mini-ITX build, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something so visually pleasing, high-quality, spacious (yet compact), and impressively low-cost as the Design Node 202. For this specific form factor, this one feels like a no-brainer.

Source: SilverStone

SilverStone GD08

Best Large / E-ATX Horizontal Case

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Stunning, high-quality build

+ Great space, layout, and cooling for enthusiast builds with lots of drives/large GPUs

REASONS TO AVOID

− Quite expensive

− Larger than many average builders will need

OUR RATING: 9/10

A third SilverStone case in this list may seem like a lot, but they’re masters of the flat PC case for a reason.

If you have the budget and space, we would recommend the Thermaltake P7 discussed above within our P5 pick. But overall, the value of the GD08 is fantastic.

Not only do you get the high-build quality (including a stunning aluminum front panel), but also an incredibly roomy environment that will give you the freedom to effectively balance airflow, cable management, and beefy components (with 7 expansion slots, up to 6 fans of varying sizes and good PSU/GPU compatibility).

Source: ryansmission

The front panel is quite basic with standard audio inputs and 2 x USB 3.0 (would’ve been nice to see 4 USB ports on a case this size, but not a big deal considering most larger motherboards have plenty).

The case also has decent features to allow for an easy build. With the entire top being removable, you can easily get good access to its spacious layout (I know we’ve talked about its size a lot, but if you have the room, it really makes life a whole lot easier when building and managing temperatures).

Silverstone GD09 vs GD08: Although we highly rate the GD08, the reason we rank the GD09 at the top of the list is that we think it represents a better balance between price & space for the average PC builder. The GD09 still offers ample room for cooling, a mid-sized GPU, and drives for the HTPC builders, without becoming excessively expensive (and imposingly large) like the GD08.

That said, it ultimately comes down to your needs.

The size and quality of the GD08 make it a superb option if you’re looking to build a large-scale media center/server PC or a high-end gaming machine.

2026 update: The GD08 is still our top pick for large builds, but you may also be interested in the GD07B if you’re after a very similar case with a lock on the front panel (also a good alternative if the GD08 is out of stock).

More Options:

The above are our top picks, but if you’re looking for a few other options, we’ve included ones we’d still recommend for your next extra wide PC case.

Source: Thermaltake

Budget Horizontal ITX Case: Thermaltake Core V1

OUR RATING: 8.5/10

This tiny little cube was a decent runner-up to our ITX pick. It’s one of the most recommended ITX cases on What in Tech and is worth considering if you like the look (note there is also a great-looking white option available too).

At a very impressive low pricepoint (one of the cheapest on the list), the Core V1 still manages to boast a great build quality. With some steel components and a ventilation setup designed to get the most cooling out of its tiny space (up to 3 fans with 1 200mm one included, very impressive for the price point).

Bear in mind that while the cooling isn’t bad, you can only do so well with such a small setup! If you’re looking to run something monstrous, stick to one of the larger cases above.

Source: Seiren2112

The front I/O panel is standard, with 2 x USB 3.0 / audio inputs.

Given the layout and the “tiny cube” design, it isn’t necessarily the friendliest to all PC component shapes/sizes and you’ll need to be careful about the dimensions of your parts for this one (you’re certainly not fitting the large PSU/GPUs in here!).

It’s worth calling out that some users have seen quality issues with the Core V1 which is why we didn’t give it a top pick. With a 3-year warranty, if you’re one of the unlucky ones, you’ll be covered; but this is, of course, a risk that many would rather pay more money not to go through.

If your budget is tight and you’re confident that your build will fit, this case is a very impressive value offering and will give you a wonderfully unique aesthetic.

Source: Antec

Alternative Slim PC Case: Antec VSK2000

OUR RATING: 7/10

Another vertical/horizontal hybrid option, this mini-tower is a cheap case for those on a budget.

It comes with the standard 2 x 3.0 USB/audio I/O ports and a slick glossy black design.

Source: bluebanzai

The VSK2000 comes with a little less space for extras than our other Micro-ATX picks (4 expansion slots, 1 x 5.25″, 1 x 3.5″, and 1 x 2.5″ drives) and little room for air cooling (but one front fan included).

Despite this, the case seems to manage decent airflow, likely due to its decent ventilation and cable management options.

If you have a very minimalist build, a low budget, and are attracted to a small case for a micro-ATX build, the Antec VSK2000 will be a good choice for you.

Source: In-Win

Alternative Mini PC Case: In-Win CE685

OUR RATING: 7/10

Lastly on our top 10 list is the In-Win CE685, a MicroATX dual vertical/horizontal case.

At a cheap price point, the case offers good value for those balancing compactness and space.

A nice addition is the 4 x USB ports on the front I/O panel, many of its mATX competitors only offer 2.

Source: HikingMike

The case has space for 1 x 5.25″, 2 x 3.5″ & 1 x 2.5 (pretty standard for its size).

There is one included fan and not too much room to add more. However, the case still seems to manage good airflow (possibly because at this size, you’re not going to be installing too many hot parts!).

Much of the case boasts a toolless design (aside from the MB/PSU installs) so it would be a nice beginner pick.

Although not our top pick as we think the other MicroATX options are superior, if this case grabs your eye, it is still a great all-rounder and would make for a good horizontal case.

Round-up of Top Picks:

Best Overall: SilverStone Technology GD09B
Best Case Runner-Up: Cooler Master HAF XB EVO
Best High-End Case: Thermaltake Core P5
Best Budget: Thermaltake Core G3
Best Micro ATX Case: SilverStone ML04
Best Mini-ITX Case: Fractal Design Node 202
Best Large / E-ATX Case: SilverStone GD08
Thermaltake Core V1
Antec VSK2000
In-Win CE685

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About the author

Kaelum Ross

The 8 Best Quiet Laptops for a Silent Setup in 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated April 1, 2025

Finding a sweet spot between noise, performance and price

We’ve updated this article to cover 2025 releases. After reviewing the latest laptops, many of our top picks have been changed to new offerings. It’s a good time to buy a quiet PC, with our top 3 choices, in particular, boasting fantastic performance and value alongside their low decibel count.

…

Hear a noise?

Me neither, because today’s feature is about finding peace and quiet!

Many laptop options look beautiful and run well, but unfortunately come at the cost of obnoxious decibel levels when performing tasks.

This guide will take you through the quietest laptops available today for a variety of needs and budgets.

Quietest Laptop for General Use

Microsoft Surface Pro X

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Best Quiet Gaming Laptop

MSI GL66

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Read Review

Quietest Macbook

Apple MacBook Air

Our Rating: 9/10

Read Review

Best Quiet Budget Laptop

ASUS Chromebook Flip C434

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Read Review

Microsoft Surface Pro X

Quietest Laptop for General Use

SPECIFICATIONS*

REASONS TO BUY

+ Runs very quietly

+ Light, sturdy & beautiful build quality

+ Good specs for typical users

REASONS TO AVOID

– Slightly expensive

– Power users (gamers, producers, etc) will want to see our picks below

Our Rating: 9.5/10

2025 update: A new fanless Surface model, the Pro 9, has released. It is notably superior with its new processor, graphics, and 5G features (although heavier and thicker than the Pro X).

The reason we’ve kept the Pro X as our top recommendation is that we’re currently seeing it run at a notably discounted price. At the time of writing, the most basic 16GB Pro 9 version is around 30-40% more expensive. While it’s a better laptop, we think that most of you will be more than happy with the Pro X’s performance.

The Pro X will likely be discontinued over the next year or so though, so if you’re reading this article and it’s out of stock, similarly priced or you’re a more serious user who will appreciate the performance bump, then pick up the Pro 9, it’s a fantastic machine.

For those serious about a quiet laptop that still offers great performance for the average user, nothing comes close to the Surface Pro X.

The edition we’ve featured here is, from our reviews, the best fanless laptops we’ve found on the market. This means instead of using traditional loud fan cooling, the Surface Pro X is intelligently designed to operate on passive cooling alone even at high loads (it’s able to maintain great temperatures during most activities, which is impressive in itself).

The Pro X is sharply designed to be incredibly light and portable while still offering a decent amount of screen real estate with a fantastic 2880 x 1920 resolution.

We specifically cite the 16GB SQ1 version as the best value for someone after a silent laptop with a bit of longevity. 512GB is also plenty of space in today’s cloud storage/streaming world providing you’re not playing many big games (if you’re after the best gaming laptop, see our next pick).

Source: CAM

On a budget? We have cheaper choices further below, but if you still want the unparalleled design of the Pro X, you can go for the 8GB RAM/128GB version and still expect a decent machine for general use. We just encourage users to pick the 16GB version to get a smoother experience and a laptop that will last longer where possible.

It’s worth noting that some versions of the Surface Pro (e.g. all Pro 8 models and i7 Pro 7s) are not fanless laptops and will produce more noise. What really impresses us with the Pro X is how in previous iterations, it was the high-spec versions that needed fans while the budget choices were fanless. Now, Microsoft has managed to build an in-house processor that runs fanless even with a premium device. To put it simply: the Pro X doesn’t feel like you’re sacrificing performance for quietness.

Ports are one of the only areas we wish were a little stronger, with the Pro X having 2 x USB-C. We would’ve liked to see a traditional USB-A port remain. We know manufacturers are phasing these out, but there’s clearly still a demand for products with standard USB from many users (still, worst case if that’s you, a USB hub is an easy replacement).

Full teardown of the Pro X shows confirms no fans. Source: iFixit

We’ve specifically included the version without a keyboard or pen because these accessories tend to be cheaper individually. Some users may be fine with budget versions of the keyboard and pen, and we appreciate others may actually be perfectly fine without one/both and could act perfectly as a quiet tablet, or a tablet/laptop hybrid. Choose what combination fits your budget and needs best.

We will say that one of the other great USPs for the Pro X is that the official keypad (and likely many of its budget versions) is incredibly quiet. I found it much quieter than a traditional keyboard while still providing a great feel for longer typing sessions.

We love that this Microsoft offering doesn’t compromise in any significant way someone who needs less noise and performance.

With its decent specs to boot, the Pro X is a great option not just for general users, but also for studio builds, audio recording, or voice-over work.

With great performance capability, portability, a fantastic screen, and (of course) very low decibel production all for a very decent price, this is easily our choice for the overall best quiet laptop available today.

MSI Pulse GL66

Best Quiet Gaming Laptop

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Nice, sturdy build quality

+ Fantastic specs for mid-range laptop gaming

+ Gorgeous screen for smooth gameplay

+ Good thermal controls to reduce fan noise

REASONS TO AVOID

– Quiet for a gaming laptop, but loud compared to our other picks

– Can run a little hot during high performance

Our Rating: 9.5/10

2025 update: The Pulse GL66 has overtaken our previous top gaming pick, the GF65.

While the Gl66 is a direct improvement and at a great price point, we still want to shout out the GF65. The processor and GPU are inferior, but still very capable, so if you’re on a very tight budget and see it at a notably lower price, it’s a good alternative.

Looking at gaming? The market is a completely different ballgame.

We’ll start by saying there is nothing close to a silent gaming laptop. PCs designed for games come with powerful GPUs and other specs designed to run titles at acceptable settings/framerates which you simply cannot achieve without active cooling (there is no fanless gaming laptop on the market today).

The good news is that some choices are way better than others at providing low-decibel outputs with the right settings.

This is where the MSI GL66 Pulse comes in.

With an excellent design that is thick/large enough to provide both a decent screen size (with thin bezels) and, most importantly for noise reduction, a great internal layout for heat dissipation.

The laptop is portable, but not ultralight, and I say this to its credit. It allows the GL66 to have enough inner airflow that it only needs 2 larger fans. Big fans are actually an advantage for a quiet setup, as they can spin at lower RPMs to achieve the same as a very fast-spinning set of small fans (it’s the RPM that usually dictates the noise level).

When using it, I found it still comfortable enough to sit on my lap for a lighter gaming session.

Source: MSI

This setup means that the MSI GL66 is deceptively quiet compared to its competitors when performing general use/average tasks.

For gaming, you will, of course, hear the fans kick in, and there is no decent laptop where this isn’t the case.

But not only does the GL66 run on better internal heat dissipation than many other fan-dependent gaming laptops, MSI also offers one of the best control suites of all the PC gaming brands with its Dragon Center software.

This will allow you to customize/control your fan speeds, and set limits to what you want them to run up to even when playing games. This is the cherry on top of an already quiet gaming PC when compared to its counterparts.

But I love the GL66 for so much more than just low-noise output.

Source: MSI

It offers incredible value across the board:

One of the cheapest laptops with an RTX 3070, one of the best value laptop GPUs for 2023.
Perfect secondary specs to complement the GPU; with a Core i7-12700H, 16GB RAM & 512GB NVMe SSD (the quietest storage type available)
A fantastic screen for the price range with 144hz, fast response time, and an IPS panel with decent color accuracy (great for esports or more immersive titles)
Gorgeous backlit keyboard (that is also rather quiet while still providing the tactile feedback needed for gaming)

With these specs, you won’t just get fantastic performance in any game available today (and likely well into the future), you’ll also have a PC perfect for general use and even production tasks. This doubles up as the best quiet video editing laptop on the list.

As we said before, you won’t get a fanless/silent gaming offering.

But how about a low-noise laptop with a quiet keyboard that also doubles as the best value in terms of specs and builds quality in its price range?

If quiet gaming is your goal, we don’t think you’ll find better than this.

Apple MacBook Air

Quietest Macbook

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

+ Incredibly quiet fanless setup that still runs cool

+ Beautiful, sturdy & lightweight

+ Long-lasting battery life

+ Very nice screen for content/production work

REASONS TO AVOID

– Expensive

– Graphics are decent, but don’t expect a powerful gaming machine

Our Rating: 9/10

2025 Update: We’ve updated our top Macbook pick to the latest fanless Air model.

If you are of the Mac persuasion and are looking for a silent Macbook, the closest you’ll come is the latest edition of the Macbook Air.

Lead by the powerful new Apple M2 chip, this is a fanless Macbook and a self-proclaimed “no-noise laptop” that runs entirely off of passive cooling due to the great internal architecture of the device.

This is a really impressive feat, given the ultra-portable lightweight nature of the Air, we can’t overstate how hard it is to get a product this small that also keeps a level temperature without noise.

Tied with its 256GB SSD, you can expect quietness even under heavy loads.

This laptop also comes with an impressively quiet keyboard. With its focus on thinness, the keys are very light and therefore have short press-travel/produce very low decibels compared to most market competitors.

Source: SamsungAppleOnePlus

The Macbook Air also comes with some nice specs for general use and light to mid-range work, with:

Apple’s gorgeous retina display technology on a 13.3-inch 2560 x 1664 screen, one of the most stunning displays at its price-range
8-core Apple-designed CPU with both great processor power and an impressive integrated GPU (for light gaming/editing, serious production users and gamers will want to look at our MSI pick or the Macbook Pro).
8GB RAM and a very fast SSD in either 256GB or 512GB
2 USB-C ports

Bearing in mind this isn’t a MacBook Pro and the Air has serious limitations on what specs it can run with its tight space, this is an impressive offering; tied with macOS and their various well-optimized in-house software, this is easily one of the best laptops for general use & media (especially with its fantastic screen).

Source: Apple

What’s more to say? This is, without doubt, the best quiet MacBook on the market, and perfect for anyone who doesn’t need the more advanced capabilities of the Pro (we cover the best Pro option below if you’re a power user).

ASUS Chromebook Flip C434

Best Quiet Budget Laptop

SPECIFICATIONS*

REASONS TO BUY

+ Very impressive value

+ Quiet, fanless cooling

+ Good specs for general use (internet, e-mails, etc)

+ Sturdy, flip-style touchscreen capability

REASONS TO AVOID

– Chrome OS, no Windows apps

– At this price, specs of course limited for users who want something fast/more than general use

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The last of our top picks is for those who are looking for the best cheap quiet laptop on the market, while still meeting the needs of most general use consumers

The Flip C434 meets that feat very well, with the specific model we are recommending being another fanless laptop.

This ASUS offering is a Chromebook, meaning it runs off of Google’s Chrome OS as opposed to the usual Windows 10 choice.

If you are just a lightweight general user, ChromeOS can be a perfect solution, as it is a less demanding operating system than Windows that can run on cheaper PC hardware and still provide you with all the mainstream applications you’d expect (anything from internet browsing to media/Netflix to Office applications). The main exceptions (i.e. where you’d want Windows) are PC gaming and production work like video editing/animation – we recommend our other picks for such tasks.

Source: ASUS

With an M3-8100Y processor, 8GB RAM & 64GB eMMC storage, these secs are on the lower end.

But again, with ChromeOS, you can still expect a relatively smooth experience for general and standard business use.

The C434 has great secondary hardware/build quality for its price also; with a bright, full-HD touchscreen and a 2-in-1 laptop design, we love that you can put this laptop into a tablet orientation for media watching, presenting, or simple touch activities.

Source: ASUS

With an all-metal exterior, backlit keyboard, and beautifully thin bezels around its screen, you may not be getting the most powerful pick, but as far as silent budget laptops go, this is the closest you’ll get with some great value.

Note: we have provided cheaper options further below which are perfectly capable, but we’d recommend this as a minimum if your budget can stretch as far.

If you don’t have the budget for the Surface Pro 7 but noise is still important to you, know that the C434 is somewhat close to the Pro 7 in noise output (minus a less-quiet keyboard); you lose some specs/longevity, but it’s easily the best quiet budget laptop choice today.

Alternative Picks – Best of the Rest

While the top 4 are our top picks for the best quiet laptops available today, we’ve included a few more worth your consideration if your requirements are a little more unique/your preferred laptop above is out of stock.

Quietest 17-inch Gaming Laptop: 17-CK0010NR

We choose the MSI GL65 Leopard as the quietest gaming laptop overall. But if you’re after a larger screen, this HP omen pick is a great option.

With its larger space for heat dissipation and similarly great mid-range specs, it’s a powerful gaming PC with HP software to control fan speeds for noise reduction as required

Our Rating: 8/10

Cheapest Quiet Laptop: ASUS VivoBook Flip 14

If you want to go even cheaper than our top budget pick and would value the full utility of a Windows OS, the VivoBook Flip 14 is another impressively valuable fanless laptop.

It’s worth noting that the specs on this device are very basic, but if your needs are too (say, a budget quiet student laptop), this may be all you need.

Our Rating: 7/10

Cheapest Quiet Chromebook: Acer Chromebook 514

Very close to ranking as our best quiet budget pick, the Acer 514 is an impressively cheap quiet laptop. The reason we don’t give it the top budget accolade is its disappointing 4GB RAM, but if you only have very basic requirements, this is an excellent choice (you can expect it to run faster than the VivoBook Flip 14 if you don’t need Windows).

Our Rating: 7/10

Quietest Macbook Pro: Apple MacBook Pro M1 Edition

To wrap up our list is what we’d recommend for those users after the best quiet Macbook with performance in mind. Yes the Pro M1 edition isn’t fanless like the Air, but still runs impressively quiet in most processes and is a powerhouse in comparison (this is what you’ll need if you’re looking at production work or video editing on top of day-to-day laptop use).

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Tips for Buying a Silent Laptop

Although we’d recommend the picks above, we wanted to share some tips as part of this buying guide and also offer some of the methodologies behind how we picked our top quiet portable PCs.

First: no laptop is truly silent, this is a figure of speech.

But many of the above picks come quite close, and the decibel levels (of the non-gaming choices) aren’t anything anyone would complain about in a library.

What tends to create the more note-worthy dB output is using a keyboard, which is why our top picks (especially the Surface Pro 7) are tailored towards keyboards known for lower travel than similar counterparts.

Avoiding Fans

Usually, the main perpetrator of noise in a PC is loud fan cooling. If you are serious about creating a very quiet laptop setup, you should focus on our fanless PCs above which use clever internal layout/heat dissipation to not rely on fans.

If you want a higher-end machine for a lot of longevity, then you can still keep an eye out for machines that have decent thermal performance. More power does not automatically mean louder; even if a machine has fans, it may only need them for the kind of activity you couldn’t do on fanless PCs anyway, so don’t fret too much if you like our top gaming/MacBook Pro picks.

Avoid HDDs

3.5″ hard drives are notorious for being one of the nosiest parts of a PC; when data is collected from them, the discs spin loudly and often create a decibel level even higher than loud fans.

So a simple tip from us if you’re looking for a low noise laptop: ensure the storage is either a 2.5″ or NVMe solid-state drive.

None of our picks above use 3.5″ HDDs, and the good news is many laptops today don’t, but it’s still worth checking.

Integrated GPU

If you are not a big gamer, the next big way to cut down on noise is by buying a laptop with an integrated GPU (like all of our non-gaming picks above).

This means that your CPU is effectively designed to also provide graphical capability. For most needs, including 4k video, software use (even light gaming at times) this is all you need. The only exception being GPU-intensive work like video editing and, of course, gaming.

For Gaming

All the above rules are worth bearing in mind if you’re after a quiet gaming laptop (except you do want a separate GPU in a gaming PC), but there are a couple more points to consider too.

While not a universal truth, a good rule of thumb is that larger/thicker gaming laptops tend to run quieter. This is because the internal layout has more space for airflow and heat dissipation, meaning their fans don’t have to engage for lower workloads. Additionally, large gaming laptop shells can hold big fans which can spin at lower RPMs during low-mid activity.

Additionally, look for what kind of design is in place for the laptop you’re looking at: how many fans/heat pipes does it have, what are existing users calling out (including if the keyboard is quiet, etc).

As we’ve said in this guide though, don’t expect a silent gaming laptop, a PC with a decent set of specs (particularly a GPU) capable of playing titles well is always going to make some noise, but you can mitigate it with the points above, and also if you’re purchasing our recommended picks, you’ll be in a good place to use fan control software to maximize what noise you’re willing to accept.

Alternative: Noise Cancelling Headphones

This may sound like a dramatic solution, but on the off-chance you want a laptop that makes a lot of noise and is mainly bothered about its sound for your own ears, then getting a nice pair of noise-canceling headphones like the fantastic Sony WH-1000XM3s can be an amazing option.

This may sound like an expensive solution, but they are simply fantastic headphones for anybody remotely worried about noise (not just in a laptop setting, as someone easily distracted by noise, I can personally attest to how life-changing the XM3s have been for me, amongst the many, many others who have them).

If you don’t want to fork out that much, some nice audiophile headphones for media/gaming usually provide enough isolation to cut out most noise, if you’re interested, check out our feature on them here (we also talk about the 1000XM3s here).

That’s about it for this feature. We do a deep dive refresh of this list 2-3 times a year so the options you see are well up to date. We hope you enjoy the peace and quiet!

Top Picks

Quietest Laptop for General Use: Microsoft Surface Pro X
Best Quiet Gaming Laptop: MSI GL66
Quietest Macbook: Apple MacBook Air
Best Quiet Budget Laptop: ASUS Chromebook Flip C434

Best of the Rest: Quick-Fire Picks

Quietest Gaming Laptop Alternative: HP Omen 17-CK0010NR
Cheapest Quiet Laptop: ASUS VivoBook Flip 14
Cheapest Quiet Chromebook: Acer Chromebook 514
Quietest Macbook Pro: Apple MacBook Pro M1 Edition

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Kaelum Ross

The 5 Best Green PC Cases of 2025

By
Kaelum Ross

Updated April 1, 2025

I updated this feature in April after reviewing the new PC cases of 2025. My top picks remain the same for this feature, but there’s been a couple of great alternatives I’ve added where relevant.

Every popular chassis seems to be black or grey.

What about those after something a little…different?

There’s plenty of options around, be it pink, white, blue or red.

But today’s feature is here to guide you through the best green PC cases available on the market today.

Top Picks

Overall Best Green PC Case: darkFlash DLM22
Runner-Up Best Green PC Case: CUK Mantis
High-End Best Green PC Case: InWin D-Frame

Best of the Rest: Quick-Fire Picks

Best Clear Case for a Green PC Setup: Thermaltake Core P3
Best RGB Case for a Green PC Setup: MUSETEX Phantom 907

Overall Best Green PC Case: darkFlash DLM22 Mint Green

Out of the limited green desktop cases available on the market, this top pick was a bit of a no-brainer.

The DLM22 has been recommended on What in Tech in several previous features for its fantastic value and aesthetic.

Starting with the design: with great SPCC steel build quality, beautiful shape, and a very aesthetically pleasing mint green finish, the DLM22 looks fantastic. Stock photos do not do it justice. With its tinted tempered glass window and fully green interior, any impressive inner hardware is going to shine beautifully through this (we really are impressed that the internal coloring isn’t just black/metal, which many cheaper cases do if they are in a unique color).

This is a green Micro ATX case and strikes a good balance between having great space for hardware while not being too bulky and large for a case clearly designed to look sharp. With room inside for:

GPU clearance up to 350mm (more than enough for mainstream cards)
4 x expansion slots
2 x 2.5″ & 2 x 3.5″ drive bays
Up to 5 x 120mm fans (or 1 x 120mm & 1 x 240mm radiator with room still for 2 fans at the front)

Between this space and the decent airflow in the case, this is the best green PC case for gaming or general production builds at the low-mid tier price range.

We would usually add a cheaper choice in our features, but the DLM22 is really not just the best overall option, but the best budget green PC case (we rarely see a chassis this good & stylish at such a low price-tag).

A small additional nice touch is the tool-free magnetic window on the side. After going through years of clunky doors with screws and other contraptions, this is a really handy, elegant idea.

What’s left to say? The DLM22 is very impressive for its price. With everything that the average gaming/work build needs in a stylish design.

This is, without a doubt, the overall best green PC case available today.

2025 update: The darkFlash DLM22 remains my top green PC case pick; yes there aren’t many chassis’ in this color available in today’s market, but we’re thankful that the DLM22 is a high-quality & budget-friendly solution.

Unfortunately, I have seen it run into stock issues over the last several months. If that’s the case, there is a decent alternative in the Vetroo M03.

Also, if you are an ITX builder, we wanted to point out that a fantastic case, the Thermaltake Tower 100, is now available (limited stock) in green, and is a worthy consideration if you are happy with a small case and can find it in stock.

Runner-Up Best Green PC Case: CUK Mantis

While this is more of a green and black PC case than a straight, clean single color; once the green RGB lighting is up and running, the CUK Mantis shows off a great, unique aesthetic.

The Mantis has an awesome, intriguing design; with raised diagonal panels on the front and top that hide some beautifully subtle green LED lighting. On the main side is a full-length tempered glass window that covers the 6 x included green HALO fans. While the price may seem fairly high, once you count the fact that your cooling and case RGB solution is already fully set up, it’s a great deal.

This is a full tower green case, with room for:

GPU clearance up to 360mm length (enough for nearly all mainstream cards)
7 x expansion slots
3 x 3.5″ & 2 x 2.25″ drive bays

The Mantis has everything you need for a powerful gaming build, and with the included fans, you’ll have a great PC case for airflow too.

Make no mistake, while we ranked the V22 as our favorite pick, if the Mantis’s aesthetic is more up your alley, then know that we included it for a reason, it’s still one of the best green computer cases on the market.

High-End Best Green PC Case: InWin D-Frame

If you’re looking for one of the most unique PC cases on the market that also does a great job in performance, the D-Frame is one of your best options.

Featured multiple times on What in Tech, this case is a bit of an architectural marvel (not really looking like a chassis at all) and its green version is wonderfully striking. As you’d expect in the price range, you’re getting a top-quality build, with the tubing/base all made of aluminum (the best metal for PC cases) and a thick, tinted tempered glass covering the top of the case.

This is an open-air design, which doesn’t just make it an amazing chassis for airflow, but also gives your parts high-visibility with its clear layout.

It’s not just a pretty case, the D-Frame has won the acclaim is has due to its ability to perform and hold a suitably powerful build inside, with room for:

8 x expansion slots (+ vertical install option)
330mm GPU clearance
3 x 3.5″, 2 x 2.5″ & 1 x 5.25″ drive slots
4 x 120mm case fans
Great facility for cable management despite the large exposure around the whole case.

These specs are really impressive, considering how so much of the case is completely open. While the 4 x 120mm fan allotment may not sound like much for an ATX tower; you really won’t need more than this with the open-air design which compensates with great airflow.

We’re not trying to say you need to go out and spend this much money on a case to have a powerful build.

But if you have the budget, and are looking for the best green PC tower to truly show off your unique side, while retaining excellent hardware specs and performance, the D-Frame is for you.

Alternative Quick-Fire Picks

While the top 3 choices are the only green PC cases on the market right now we’d recommend, we appreciate that there isn’t a massive choice for this stylish color.

So if you’re a little pickier, we’ve included a couple of other options that would be the next best thing for setting up a green PC build.

Best Clear Case for a Green PC Setup: Thermaltake Core P3

The best alternative to a green-colored PC case is getting the best clear chassis on the market, the P3, and letting your green hardware do the talking (things like green fans, PSU cables, and other parts are more than enough to give you a colorful unique build and will look great against the dark base colors of the P3).

Best RGB Case for a Green PC Setup: MUSETEX Phantom 907

If you want your green aesthetic to come solely from fans, a great budget option is the Phantom 907, which includes 6 x addressable RGB fans. This would be more than enough to make your build shine in the unique color (just check a photo or video of the build in action to see what we mean!).

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Best PC Case for Quiet Builds: Fractal Design Define R5

Best PC Case for Airflow: CORSAIR 7000D AIRFLOW

Best Budget PC Case: Phanteks Eclipse P300A Mesh

Best PC Case for Watercooling & Large Builds: Thermaltake Tower 900

Cheapest PC Case for Gaming: Cooler Master N200

Best Micro ATX Case: Thermaltake S100

Best Mini ITX Case: Thermaltake Core V1

Alternative Quick-Fire Picks (Best of the Rest)

Best Dual System PC Case: Corsair Obsidian Series 1000D

Alternative High-End PC Case: Thermaltake Core P8

Most Unique PC Case: Antec Torque

Best Mid-Range Budget Alternative: Phanteks P400

Best High-End Micro ATX Case: Corsair Crystal 280X

Best Mini ITX Premium Case: SilverStone LD03B

Best Mini ITX Case Alternative: InWin A1 Plus

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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

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Be Quiet! Silent Base 802

Runner-Up Best Silent PC Case

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Corsair 100R Silent Edition

Best Budget Quiet PC Case

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Best Silent Micro ATX Case

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Best Silent Mini ITX Case

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Best High-End Silent Case

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Corsair Carbide Series 678C Low-Noise Case

Alternative Quiet ATX Case

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REASONS TO BUY

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Alternative Quiet Micro ATX Case

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Deep Silence 6

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