Here youll find the top small micro ATX cases based on different use cases or types of builds.
For example, thePhanteks Evolv mATX Tempered Glass Editionis overall the best small mATX case on the list.
Keep reading to know about the details of all the shortlisted PC cases.
Best Smallest Micro ATX Cases
mATX size is the most popular size for motherboards.
Most users go for a micro ATX motherboard due to its excellent balance between compact size and enough clearance.
Phanteks is a top manufacturer of PC cases.
Their Evolv line of products is the most premium offering from them.
The PC case is super-premium with its aesthetics and builds quality.
On top of that, the case has a sleek and clean look.
Excellent finishing and shaded panels make the case look gorgeous.
The mATX case has a volume of 41.7L.
Hence, it has lots of clearance, just like regular mid-tower cases.
In short, clearance is no issue for the Phanteks PC case.
As for RGB, the inclusion of dual tempered glass makes the case a top choice for RGB showdown.
The case also has integrated RGB lighting.
With proper motherboard software, it’s possible for you to sync and customize the RGB.
Naturally, you have to shell out a hefty sum for such a premium and feature-rich PC case.
Its expensive, but if you have the budget, its worth it.
Verdict
The Phanteks Evolv mATX is a premium small-sized mATX case with excellent finishing, design, and compatibility.
It has ample clearance for PC components despite being a small micro ATX case.
The PC case focuses on thermal performance and flexibility.
you might install up to 5 radiators and up to 11 fans inside the case.
It has enough clearance to mount up to 280mm radiator.
you’ve got the option to install regular-sized CPU coolers as the clearance is pretty high at 185mm.
A 200mm fan is pre-installed on the case which blows air directly through the middle.
It has enough venting on different sides for pushing or pulling air.
However, the PSU mounting situation could be improved.
It doesnt offer much flexibility in this scenario.
The design is decent and theres nothing special about it.
The Thermaltake Core V21 aces at the main aspects of a PC case: component mounting and airflow.
It doesnt focus much on the aesthetics.
This is the best RGB lighting case on the list.
Enermax made a unique-looking case by including a marble design front.
The front also has ARGB lighting and a mesh front panel for airflow.
On the side, you get 4mm tempered glass.
The top and rear are standard like other mATX cases.
Clearance is enough from all perspectives.
Also, you might install up to six fans on the case.
The case includes 3 fans, two of them are ARGB fans.
However, the airflow design is not the most optimized here.
Hence, it doesnt perform as well as the airflow-focused cases.
Also, the drive bays under the PSU shroud are hard to access and work with.
Apart from that, everything in this PC case is excellent.
If you are an RGB lover, you will be happy with the PC case.
It comes with an integrated ARGB hub that can connect up to six devices.
you’re free to control the RGB via motherboard software or the RGB switch at the front.
If you want aesthetics and RGB, the Enermax MarbleShell MS20 ARGB is the best choice for you.
The Enermax MarbleShell MS20 ARGB aces in design, and RGB, and is a compact mATX case.
Though the airflow is not the best, it can handle low to mid-range PC builds.
It has an incredible 11.5L volume, making it the most compact PC case on the list.
The PC case is so compact that it’s possible for you to carry it to different places.
As such, this PC case is suitable for those who need a portable workstation.
But even at such a compact size, it has enough clearance for most types of builds.
you could install up to four low-profile expansion cards like GPU and capture cards.
It also has enough space for a 5.25 drive and 3.5 drive.
The included PSU is a TFX-sized 300W power supply, suitable for builds with entry-level graphics cards.
As for cooling, you get an 80mm fan on the side with vents.
The removable air filter is a plus.
Since it will house low-power components, thermals are no big issue here.
The case is not made for use with high-end components that emit a lot of heat.
Finishing and build quality are above average.
You get 2x USB 3.0 ports, 2x USB 2.0 ports, and HD audio on the front panel.
If you need the most compact case without sacrificing much, the IN-WIN BL631 is the one for you.
IN-WIN BL631 is the most compact case on the list featuring decent clearance.
Its also the slimmest one and is portable.
Silverstone Technology made a superb slim case here.
Despite being slim, it has enough clearance for most standard PC components.
The case can house regular-height RAMs.
CPU cooler can go up to 70mm in height.
You also get to install low-profile expansion cards.
The most important fact is that it can house an ATX PSU, rare in slim cases.
Cooling capacity is surprisingly good for such a small case.
You get vents on the sides and back.
it’s possible for you to mount up to four 80mm case fans for cooling.
Since the case is intended to be an HTPC case, the standing feet are present on the side.
The color is black to go nicely with the living room setup.
As for the IO, you get 2x USB 3.0 ports and HD audio ports.
It also features room for 5.25 drive and multiple 3.5 hard drives.
A support bracket runs through the top of the case.
In case you mount a giant cooler, you’ve got the option to remove the bracket.
But then the top becomes a bit flimsy.
If youre looking for a slim case for HTPC builds, the SilverStone Milo ML03B is for you.
The standing feet at the sides ensure you’re free to put it on the living room shelf.
The SilverStone Milo ML03B is the best slim case for HTPC builds with excellent clearance and cooling.
Its the best budget small mATX casing option.
For the price, the build quality is good enough.
The case is compact at 40L while still having enough clearance for most regular PC components.
You get up to 159mm of CPU cooler clearance.
Up to 240mm radiator can be mounted inside the case.
The position of the IOs is unique.
How We Chose The Smallest mATX Cases
Most PC cases on the market support micro ATX motherboards.
But they also support ATX motherboards, which are considerably larger than mATX.
Hence the overall size of the PC case increases.
Since its a niche category, the options are limited.
We need to carefully consider some facts that determine which PC case ends up on our list.
Build Quality
Since youre buying a PC case, build quality is an important factor here.
A decent build will ensure the components are safe and stable.
The materials used in the PC case are important too.
Airflow
Airflow is an important factor when buying any pop in of PC case.
So ultimately it comes down to the vents and their position and what the layout is inside the case.
Otherwise, youd end up spending a lot of cash while upgrading in the future.
Layout
A well-thought-out PC case layout will ensure you have an easy time building the PC.
Final Thoughts
So which compact micro ATX case do you like?
I like thePhanteks Evolv mATX Tempered Glass Editionfor its premium build and fantastic design.
TheThermaltake Core V21is a solid choice for a more compact case with solid thermal performance.
