Different Types of PC Cases: Size, Purpose & Working Principle
Did you know that a PC case can range from 4.5 liters (InWin Chopin MAX) to a massive E-ATX case (ESGAMING FT2009) with a volume of 67 liters? Why such a drastic difference between just PC cases? We will answer this question and explain what makes small and large PC cases relevant in different settings. We will demonstrate how fitting custom cooling loops and dual motherboards in a PC case is feasible in some cases and why console-like PC cases are popular. Let's begin!
1. Introduction: Why There Is a Need for Different PC Cases
PC cases that were traditionally just boxes of metal are now both design statements and highly practical. The need for different PC case sizes arose with the introduction of new technologies and the market's need for premium aesthetics. Mostly, the gaming PC market is driving the change.
The need for specific cooling design and space requirements changed with advancements, such as the shift from integrated graphics to dedicated large graphics cards. Similarly, the storage drives, which were once massive (5.25-inch), have now shrunk to the size of NVMe SSD (30mm). For efficiency in design and balancing cost, manufacturers have introduced different dimensions in PC cases. One-size-fits-all cases can lead to inefficiencies in performance, meaning lower cooling, unutilized space, and higher initial costs.
Examples of Different PC Case Needs
As an example, a gamer won't mind a noisy PC, but they would need a high flow rate and space to fit their massive graphics card, like the 38.1cm long RTX 4090, for stable performance. In contrast, an office worker would need an ultra-quiet environment with minimal space occupancy for work efficiency and concentration. These diverse applications led PC case manufacturers to design every case on the basis of purpose and principles. Therefore, different PC case types were needed.
Why Discuss Size, Purpose, and Principles
Physical dimensions are the key factor that differentiates them. It is the physical dimension and provision of the motherboard that give them their name. The term used for these types is “form factor”. Here are the four commonly termed form factors for PC cases. Intel introduced different sizes of motherboards in the ATX form factor, while VIA Technologies developed the Mini-ITX category. Each PC case, alongside the capability to house PC components, serves a purpose. Manufacturers design them considering the target audience in mind. Finally, the principals explain how airflow is ensured and temperatures are managed. Moreover, the way each PC case type offers functionality will provide an in-depth understanding of PC cases.
2. Different Types of PC Cases
2.1 Full Tower: High-End Gaming & Content Creation
Size
The largest size typically has the name of a full tower. Typically, these cases have a capability of housing an E-ATX motherboard, which starts from 12x13-inch dimensions. Fitting these motherboards in other cases is not possible, as the mounting screws of the PC case will not match the motherboard. Therefore, you will need to have a large volume inside the case with a dedicated fastening mechanism for an E-ATX motherboard. Here are typical parameters of a full-tower PC case. However, it's pertinent to note that these can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but the difference is often slight.
- Dimensions: ~500-700mm height, supports E-ATX motherboards
- .Characteristics: Large, heavy (15-25 kg), designed for extensive builds
- Example: Thermaltake Tower 900 (~70 liters)
Purpose
Content creator who are gaming and streaming their content live will need extensive hardware support. They may even require multiple motherboards inside a single case, where one is used for streaming while the other enhances gaming performance, ensuring zero lag in the process. High-end gaming may require multi-GPU setups and extensive storage for 4K recording. All this hardware can produce intense heat, so they will also have a performance-oriented liquid cooling kit that supports overclocking hardware.
- Ideal For: Enthusiast gamers and video editors rendering large files.
- Example: Corsair 7000D for gaming/streaming rigs.
Principle Features
- Vertical Airflow with Multiple Fans
- Dual Chambers Design to Isolate PSU Heat
- Radiator Mounting in Front or Top
- Dual Motherboard Backplate Support
2.2 Mid Tower: General Gaming & Programming
Size
The mid-tower is the most moderately dimensioned PC case, offering enough space to house the largest graphics card while maintaining a small footprint that fits on any work desk. The mid-tower form factor is also sometimes referred to as an ATX PC case. They offer the best price-to-performance ratio or value. It can accommodate a full-size ATX motherboard and all the smaller dimensions comfortably, providing the most versatility. Most gamers, creators, and office users will find this size to be most convenient from every aspect.
- Dimensions: ~400-500mm height, supports ATX motherboards
- .Characteristics: Balanced size and versatile for most users
- Example: ESGAMING 1101 (~55 liters)
Purpose
For gamers seeking the best performance from their PC, achieving 120+ FPS is often sufficient. It provides a strong balance between cooling and performance. They can house the largest graphics card and immense storage drives. Moreover, gamers who want a reliable air cooler can also use this case, as it has enough space to feature one with a high flow rate.
- Ideal for: Casual gamers, developers running IDEs.
- Example: Seaview 1101 with 360mm radiator support..
Principle Features
- Extravagant Mesh Panels with Air Ducts
- Premium Cable Management (Grommets, Ducts, Cable Ties, etc.)
- Massive Radiator Support (360mm and above)
- ATX Motherboard Support
2.3 Micro-ATX: Programming & Office Work
Size
Market trends continue to shift, while the mid-tower remains the most successful. There is a slow and steady trend towards micro-ATX form factor PC cases. These are gaining popularity amongst the premium category PC builds. The micro-ATX is named after the motherboard it can house. To accommodate high-end gaming components, manufacturers may offer unique features that can make these cases expensive. However, generally, their budget-friendly versions are affordable.
- Dimensions: ~300-400mm height, supports Micro-ATX/ITX
- .Characteristics: Compact, budget-friendly, basic builds
- Example: Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L (~30 liters)
Purpose
For programmers, an office mini-tower is the ideal PC case. They can offer enough airflow to support moderate-performance processors, which are great for work. High-static-flow fans, combined with a minimal footprint, give the PC a quiet and compact design. These PC cases do not primarily target performance but ensure reliability. Some manufacturers will provide advanced features for gaming.
- Ideal for: Programmers and office users with basic needs
- Example: ESGAMING BC13 RGB Elite
Principle
- Focused Airflow with Fewer Fans
- Emphasis on Passive Cooling
- Compact PC Components Support (Graphics Cards and CPU Coolers)
- Hardware Statistics Display and RGB
2.4 SFF/Mini-ITX: Portable Content Creation & HTPC
Size
The small form factor is generally for enthusiasts who want to build extremely small PCs with complete functionality. It is incredibly challenging to fit modern high-end PC components inside this SFF PC case. They also require a mini-ITX form factor motherboard, which iVIA Technologies specifically designs for compact builds. These can comfortably be mounted on the wall for maximum space utilization.
- Dimensions: <300mm, supports Mini-ITX boards.
- Characteristics: Ultra-compact, portable, cube/slim designs.
- Example: Louqe Ghost S1 (~10 liters).
Purpose
For extreme portability and space-saving, SFFs are ideal for a home theater personal computer (HTPC) or a portable content creation machine. These come in convenient sizes with features to make carrying one convenient. These are great for traveling creators, as they weigh less and offer enough power for on-the-go editing. Home theatre setups that require a 4K or even 8K display can also utilize these, which can serve as both a gaming machine and a home theatre system.
- Ideal for: Traveling creators, minimalist coders.
- Example: NZXT H1 for compact power.
Principle Features
- Highly Optimized Layout
- Support for Low Profile CPU Coolers
- Compact Power Supply Support (SFX or SFX–L)
- Minimalist I/O and Drive Bays
3. Conclusion: Finding the Right PC Case for Your Needs
Every PC case comes with a purpose. Manufacturers aim to design PC cases with a specific design philosophy and clearly mention them in the product title. They will always say the form factor of the PC case, whether it's Full tower, mid-tower, micro-ATX, or mini-ITX. Then they will elaborate on the case's purpose, for example, gaming, quiet, or HTPC design. Moreover, they will also mention the principal feature of their case within the title. To find the proper PC case for you, you need to study and understand the title to see if it relates to your needs, then examine the specifications further to check whether your selected hardware components will fit inside the PC case. We hope you find the best PC case for your hardware.