Complete Guide To Computer Case Sizes [Different Size Explained]

Building a PC is quite an intriguing task, isn’t it? The year is 2024, which means that technological advances are unfolding daily. So, we tech users have unlimited choices for building our PCs. Now, the search for a computer case is a whole different story, and it’s pretty enjoyable if you’re someone who digs customization and technology. It’s the era of showcasing our personalities by customizing everything we hold.

However, suppose you are someone who’s just entering the world of PC building. In that case, you must be familiar with the fact that building a PC revolves around computer cases that are explicitly made to enclose all the elements of your robot friend, which is your computer.

However, setting up a case is quite a tedious job. There are many factors that you need to consider before you take your wallet out and spend those bucks. For example, you have to find the right size, the presence of case fans, whether water cooling is present or not, and much more. Because these factors affect your hard drive space, drive support, and other features, it’s imperative to pick out the right one.

Long gone are those days when we had boring solid-colored matte desktop cases. Instead, the market is blowing up with all sorts of new, unique cases with exquisite features to cater to the needs of those who are willing to buy them. This article will focus on some fundamental elements you need to consider before buying a case for your PC. We’ll be looking at the form factors, size options, pros and cons that come with each, and so on, so keep scrolling, readers!

Contents

Which Computer Case Size Is Best For Your Next Custom PC To Build?

This question really gets your noggin running! It’s pretty confusing because there are so many things to consider. Obviously, aesthetics isn’t the only thing we’re looking for. We want something that is functionally elite as well as good-looking, something that caters to our exact needs.

We’ve got you covered in this article; all you have to do is go through it. All the hard work has been done for you in this article.

What Is A Computer Case?

Before getting into significant details, we first have to know what a computer case is. Of course, it’s pretty evident from the name, but still, let’s break it down.

Computer cases are shells, just like a turtle’s shell. They act as a shield to protect the inner components of your computer, just like a turtle’s shell protects the turtle from predators and any harsh conditions. Therefore, the size and form of a case are of utmost importance. The main components of these cases are basically the cooling systems. That determines the amount of space present to function the radiations and air circulation.

Different Types Of PC Case

As discussed before, size really does matter. We deal with sensitive hardware ranging from video cards to hard drives and so on. Any of these components, when overheated, can cause damage to the system. So, the size matters because, ultimately, we have to have a case that has a cooling effect on the system.

Hence, the size needs to be just enough to enable the computer to perform ultimately and efficiently. There are 4 types of computer cases, all with different sizes:

FULL TOWER

A full tower is an ultimate beast. This is mostly in use by gamers, overclockers, PC enthusiasts, etc. Since gamers and overclockers, and other individuals of this category use high-performance processors and giant RAM, and other space gobbling tools, a full tower is the best option for them. So, to achieve efficiency out of this, full towers are used.

They range in size from 55 to 75 centimeters tall and are 22 to 32 centimeters wide. These cases are great for accommodating mega processors like EATX, SSI, and CEB server boards.

You can also install sound cards, graphics cards, etc. The cherry on top is a cooling system with 230 mm fans making it the best computer case for all those high-end function demands.

MID TOWER

Mid towers are relatively more minor than full towers and are quite a hit amongst PC builders ranging in size from 35 to 55 cm tall and 15 to 25 cm wide. They are commonly used by all. They are the most flexible cases available in the market and are pretty lightweight and compact. The mid-tower is an ATX format mid-tower. It allows its users to run various types of drives and motherboards.

The cooling system on these towers is excellent, with up to 200 mm fans, keeping all your components cool. The temperature won’t rise more than 70 to 80 degrees Celsius.

MINI TOWER

Smaller cases are always a favorite, thanks to their unique space-saving designs, portability, and eye-catching aesthetics. The cases in this size category are pretty easy on the wallet too. They are 30 to 45 cm in height and 15 to 24 cm in width. They occupy very little space and are portable as well. Their expansions, however, are excellent.

The case has 4 expansion slots. They are fully capable of supporting Mini ITX or a MicroATX. The cooling system is also sound, but it could have been better.

HTPC AND SFF

Though considered standard, the HTPC and SFF have recently regained recognition in the market, mainly due to their miniaturization. As a result, the HTPC is a must-have for entertainment purposes. Store it under your table. Hang it on a wall. The possibilities are endless.

The SFF takes up very little space and is an excellent alternative for laptops. In addition, the cooling fans are far better than their contemporaries. This is mainly because the sound and video are built into the motherboard, generating less heat.

Features To Consider

The size of the PC matters but there are other features which you have to consider as well:

HARDWARE SUPPORT

Computer cases with large motherboards provide more scope to function for various hardware. Additionally, they have expansion slots, allowing you to install multiple GPUs and drive bays.

COOLING SYSTEM

The larger a case is, the more influential the cooling. Custom loop water cooling is the end game! Nothing on the market beats it. With this, you are going to need radiator support. Again, the bigger the case, the more help you’ll have.

CABLE MANAGEMENT

A neat look is all we’re about these days. Fewer cables mean less mess and a more uncluttered design. Plus, it’s also easy to set up.

SIZE AND DESIGN

The size and design matter the most. Of course, we need to determine what size will fit our PC. The design depends on your aesthetic needs.

DRIVE MOUNTING

Hard drive space is an essential factor to consider. You need to ensure that your case has enough room for your 2.5″ SSD and 3.5″ HDD drives.

TOOLLESS DESIGN

A modern feature that we see in cases these days is the toolless design. These can range from a thumbscrew to a clip-on drive bay, making your life much easier and cutting down extra costs.

What PC Case Size Should You Get?

The size ultimately depends on what your demand is at the moment. If you want something not too hard on the wallet, then a Micro ATX should be your go-to. However, if you’re looking for a bit of extra, a mid-tower would be a good choice. Their cooling facility is excellent, and ventilation is pretty up to mark.

If you want excellent performance, excellent cooling, and something bougie, then the full tower ATX is for you! With excellent cable management, GPU build-ups, cooling systems, and lots of space, they are the leading choice of cases for all those gamer junkies and PC enthusiasts.

FAQs

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT SIZES OF COMPUTER CASES?

There are four different types of computer case sizes. They are the full tower, mid-tower, mini-tower, and HTPC or SFF. The full towers offer tremendous space and cooling and other additional features. Mid-towers are pretty common, and almost all of us use them. Mini towers are budget-friendly.

WHAT ARE THE PC CASES SIZES?

The full tower ranges from 55 to 75 cm in length and 22 to 32 cm in width. Mid towers are 35 to 55 cm tall and 15 to 25 cm wide, mini-towers are 30 to 45 cm in height and 15 to 24 cm in width.

HOW DO I KNOW IF A CASE WILL FIT MY COMPUTER?

You want to look for a model number close to the PSU and on the PSU. Type in the search bar and google it. That should help you figure it out.

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT COMPUTER CASE TO BUY?

That totally depends on what your needs are. If you want something budget-friendly, go for the micro tower. If you want something high-end, with lots of space and high-end functions, then the full tower is your go-to. At the end of the day, it depends on your need and demand.

Conclusion

Pretty evident from the article, we now know that computer cases are quite important and helpful. They protect all the delicate parts and prevent overheating and other problems. With the proper care, you’ll have optimum functionality and eliminate any issues that might hinder your activities. We hope our article proves helpful to you and helps you decide upon a case that would prove beneficial to you.