This guide breaks down all of the features, options and pros and cons of each of the Cube Cases on our list. Below that, feel free to view our buyer’s guide with information on what to look for when shopping for a new Cube PC case
Best Cube PC Cases – Overview
CORSAIR Carbide Air 540
The CORSAIR Carbide Air 540 compact case has a ton of features that provide maximum cooling. Providing MicroATX support and plenty of airflow within the case, this cube features a tool-free installation of SATA drives and includes a CPU backplate cutout that allows for the removal of the CPU cooler without removal of the motherboard. The Carbide Air 540 provides outstanding air and liquid cooling support with pre-spaced holes for 240mm or 280mm radiators on top and 240mm,280mm, or 360mm radiators on the front.
Case Dimensions – 415mm x 332mm x 458mm Motherboard type – Micro ATX / ATX / Mini ITX / E-ATX Maximum GPU Length – 320mm Maximum PSU Length – 250mm Maximum CPU Cooler Height – 170mm Expansion slots – 8 Case Drive Bays – (x4) 2.5″ (x2) 3.5″/2.5″ (2) 5.25″ Case Material – Steel Radiator Compatibility – Up to 360mm radiator Cooling System – Up to (x6) 120mm or (x5) 140mm mounted fans Weight – 7.4 kg
The panoramic window allows you to see everything within your case and is beautiful to look at. The GPU clearance is really good allowing 12.6” in length and CPU cooler height of 6.7” clearance. There are also 3 different color schemes for this case to fit into almost any surroundings. It also features easy access low-restriction dust filters to keep your PC clean. The atx cube case provides quieter operation yet provides great airflow. Although we found the filters don’t quite work the way they should. With tool-free PCIe and storage installation, two hot-swap drive bays and more, the only thing else you could ask for is more room for SATA drives. If you have a small workspace and want something that looks stunning in any environment, we love the CORSAIR Carbide Air 540.
Thermaltake Core V21
When we talk about Best Cube PC cases it is no surprise that these cases are on point. Thermaltake impresses us by offering a design that provides dual-chamber layouts to separate the motherboard, PSU, and storage drives. The Thermaltake case features the ability to change between vertical or horizontal orientation. This micro atx cube also provides enough space to allow for the largest of GPUs and CPU coolers. The Thermaltake Core V21 allows installation of two 120/140mm fans on the front, and plenty of fan mounts throughout to vent out all that heat. Its stackability is awesome because of the ability to use another case for a dedicated water cooling chamber and stack it right on top.
Case Dimensions – 336mm x 320mm x 424mm Motherboard type – Micro-ATX (9.6″ x 9.6″) / Mini-ITX (6.7″ x 6.7″) Maximum GPU Length – 350mm Maximum PSU Length – 200mm Maximum CPU Cooler Height – 185mm Expansion slots – 5 Case Drive Bays – (x3) 2.5″ (x3) 3.5″/2.5″ Case Material – SPCC Radiator Compatibility – Up to 600mm radiator at the front of the stack Cooling System – Up to (x11) 120mm or (x7) 140mm and (x1) 200mm mounted fans Weight – 6.5 kg
Cable management can be a bit tricky for some in this case yet, the features of this cube case outweigh any negatives. The Thermaltake Core V21 may not be the most beautiful case on our list. Yet, this case offers an excellent price at (under $80), motherboard orientation, and color options. This cube is available at a great price and provides a variety of cooling options. If you’re okay with the lack of RGB fans or light strips, you can easily purchase them, or just go without.
Thermaltake Level 20 VT
The Thermaltake Level 20 VT makes the list as another affordable case that provides plenty of bang for the buck. This cube case is absolutely stunning and offers easy access to all your components. It features (4) 4mm tempered glass panels on the front, top, and 2 sides. These panels help resist dust and scratches while providing a clear view of all your components. This micro atx cube case again offers a two-chamber design, a tool-less drive bay, speedy transmission with side I/O ports of 2 USB3.0, 2 USB2.0, and even HD audio. There is already a 200mm black fan pre-installed on the front to help cool your components.
Case Dimensions – 348mm x 330mm x 430mm Motherboard type – Micro-ATX (9.6″ x 9.6″) / Mini-ITX (6.7″ x 6.7″) Maximum GPU Length – 350mm Maximum PSU Length – 200mm Maximum CPU Cooler Height – 185mm Expansion slots – 5 Case Drive Bays – (x3) 2.5″ (x3) 3.5″/2.5″ Case Material – SPCC Radiator Compatibility – Up to 280mm radiator Cooling System – Up to (x9) 120mm or (x7) 140mm and (x1) 200mm mounted fans Weight – 8.66 kg
The Level 20 VT case supports up to M-ATX motherboard, a CPU cooler up to 185mm in height, and GPU up to 350mm in length, with fan and radiator support. The Thermaltake Level 20 VT is sure to impress with these features and beautiful enclosure to boot. The Thermaltake Level 20 VT is an great case, especially if you are looking for a budget friendly cube case, with lots of modular options. One thing we want to put out there is the limitation of airflow in the design of the case. So the Level 20 VT will need a good liquid cooler. The 200mm fan on the front of the case allows less than an inch of airflow in the front of the case. The top of the case has less than an inch gap that also allows minimal heat dissipation from the case.
Fractal Design Node 804
The Fractal Design Node 804 is our next pick of Best Cube computer cases. The Node 804 features a micro ATX chassis that sets its focus on configuration and cooling performance. This cube case includes three 120mm fans, and can even be upgraded with several more fans if desired. This dual chamber case layout makes it another great choice for cooling with a minimalist design. Fractal cube design offers a unique hard drive mounting system that can fit up to (10) 3.5” drives. This case also includes an extra space for seven more fans, with a fan controller included. With the spacious design, including fans and fan controller, it makes perfect sense we include this micro atx cube case on our list.
Case Dimensions – 344mm x 307mm x 389mm Motherboard type – Micro-ATX / Mini-ITX Maximum GPU Length – 320 mm, 290 mm (if a fan is installed in the lower position in the front) Maximum PSU Length – 260mm Maximum CPU Cooler Height – 160mm Expansion slots – 5 Case Drive Bays – (x2) 2.5″ (x8) 3.5″ (x2) 3.5″/2.5″ Case Material – Aluminum / Steel Radiator Compatibility – Up to 280mm radiator Cooling System – Up to (x9) 120mm or (x7) 140mm and (x1) 200mm mounted fans Weight – 7.7 kg
If you are searching for a well designed cube case that offers plenty of features for liquid cooling, this is the perfect case for you.
anidees AI Crystal Cube AR V3
The Anidees AI Crystal Cube manages to wow us with the AI-AUREOLA fan hub. It features AR fan and LED Strips, synchronizing the lighting effects with an RF controller. This act Cube case offers a superior airflow design as shown above. The cube fits on any desk, it is easy to work on, and the temps stay very low with its superior cooling design. This cube case provided a dust filter in the front, top and bottom for easy maintenance. The case supports up to 10 cooling fans for maximum cooling.
Case Dimensions – 402mm x 311mm x 404mm Motherboard type – M-ITX/M-ATX/ATX/E-ATX Maximum GPU Length – 335mm (w/o front fan),310mm(w/ front fan) Maximum PSU Length – 230mm Maximum CPU Cooler Height – 168mm Expansion slots – 7 Case Drive Bays – (x4) 2.5″ (x3) 3.5″ (x2) 3.5″/2.5″ Case Material – Steel Radiator Compatibility – Up to 280mm radiator Cooling System – Up to (x10) 120mm or (x4) 140mm and (x3) 80mm(optional) mounted fans Weight – 9 kg
The 5mm thick tempered glass panel located on the front and side help to keep your cube quiet during those intense gaming moments as well. The Crystal Cube is one of the most expensive options on our list coming in at around $180. Even though the Anidees AI Crystal Cube case may not be the top choice for those looking to save money on their case. Let us point out that it includes (5) pre-installed RGB fans, 5mm thick tempered glass panels all around, and the ability to fit the largest of GPU and CPU coolers. This cube provides one of the coolest looking cases around.
CORSAIR Crystal 280 X
The CORSAIR Crystal 280X provides massive cooling in an small package. This micro atx cube has room for up to six 120mm cooling fans, or a 240mm radiator on top, 240mm radiator in the front, and a 240mm radiator in the bottom. The only downside to this would be the increase of noise emitting from the use of all those fans. This cube has dedicated storage for up to two 3.5” drives and three 2.5” drives. This allows your system to look clean without sacrificing storage capacity. Speaking of clean, this cube features a filtered chassis. Front, top, bottom, and PSU dust filters keep your system clean, with minimal maintenance.
Case Dimensions – 398mm x 276mm x 351mm Motherboard type – M-ITX/M-ATX Maximum GPU Length – 300mm Maximum PSU Length – 180mm Maximum CPU Cooler Height – 150mm Expansion slots – 4 Case Drive Bays – (x3) 2.5″ (x2) 3.5″ Case Material – Steel Radiator Compatibility – Up to 240mm radiator Cooling System – Up to (x6) 120mm or (x6) 140mm mounted fans Weight – 7.1kg
CORSAIR Crystal 280X allows for a direct airflow path to keep cool air directed to the hottest components of your PC without drive cages. With a Dual-Chamber internal layout you are able to highlight your PC’s components while hiding all those cables, drives, and PSU.
SilverStone SG13
The SilverStone SG13 may not be the smallest cube to date, but it might very well be the most capable. This particular mini itx case is an updated version of SilverStone’s SG08. It has been completely redesigned from the bottom up. Now it can support full-length GPUs, standard ATX PSUs, and even a closed-loop liquid cooling system. There are two versions of this case available right now that include a solid front panel and one with a mesh panel. The mesh design is ideal for those using air-cooling to create the most airflow. The solid front is quieter and allows less noise to escape from the cube.
Case Dimensions – 222mm x 181mm x 285mm Motherboard type – Mini-DTX / Mini-ITX Maximum GPU Length – 266mm Maximum PSU Length – 150mm Maximum CPU Cooler Height – 61mm Expansion slots – 2 Case Drive Bays – (x1) 2.5″ (x2) 2.5″ or (x1) 3.5″ Case Material – Steel Radiator Compatibility – Up to 140mm radiator Cooling System – Up to (x1) 120mm or (x1) 140mm mounted fans Weight – 2.47 Kg
The pricing is the same regardless of which look you prefer. Unfortunately, the SG13 doesn’t come with any fans and only provides one spot for a 120mm or 140mm fan or radiator in the front of the case. Although this case can fit larger graphics cards such as a GeForce GTX 980, getting it inside the case is not an easy task. Although this might not be an issue for those not intimidated with the small form factor, and for around $60 it is difficult to point out many negatives with the SG13. The SilverStone SG13 doesn’t get much better for the price.
AZZA CSAZ-802F
When a cube case isn’t enough that you need more style and something that wows, look no further than the AZZA CSAZ-802F. AZZA features bold, crazy, and very innovative design to exceed your expectations. Let us say this tax cube case doesn’t disappoint. AZZA includes five of their Hurricane II digital RGB fans and three light strips that all can be controlled through a compatible motherboard. The included stand props the case up and at an angle providing you with an unique look.
Case Dimensions – 350mm x 350mm x 350mm(no stand)/593mm x 500mm x 514mm(with stand) Motherboard type – Micro ATX / ATX / Mini-ITX Maximum GPU Length – 280mm Maximum PSU Length – 190mm Maximum CPU Cooler Height – 165mm Expansion slots – 7 Case Drive Bays – (x2) 2.5″ (x1) 3.5″ Case Material – Steel Radiator Compatibility – Up to 240mm radiator Cooling System – Up to (x5) 120mm Mounted Fans Weight – 13.7 kg
If for some reason you don’t care for the stand, it is also removable. The AZZA cube offers limited airflow, and for those not looking for the ultimate gaming machine will enjoy a beautiful case that doubles as a work of art. Although the AZZA cube supports up to a 280mm long video card, and support for radiators is up to 240mm on the front, its limitations of airflow and drive space, places this particular atx cube case towards the bottom of our list. It is so much fun to look at and fits almost any size motherboard. Even with its negatives, we still can’t get enough of this design and for that, we considered it one of the best cube computer case.
Expert buying Tips
When purchasing a cube case, it is important to consider many factors. When considering a smaller or more compact atx and mini itx enclosure consider some of the following tips.
Size Matters
If you are looking to build a cube case, the most important factor to keep in mind is the size of the components that you are going to install. Before purchasing your components carefully look at the dimensions on the manufacturer’s website. Consider height, width, and cooling needs. Even if the component will fit, a tight fit will limit airflow and cause problems later.
Quality
If all you care about is how the case looks, you might be looking at the wrong guide right now. Remember, looks aren’t everything. It is important to have a good build quality that will suit your needs. If you are building a gaming pc, consider space for a water cooling system, and aluminum chassis. If you are only building a mid-level PC for office work, then plastic or metal might be okay for your situation.
Cable Management
It is extremely important to consider your cable management options when buying a cube case. You are already considering one of the smallest form-factors available. Look for cut-outs, and cable routing throughout the case. Otherwise you are going to have a huge mess of cables blocking your airflow and you will not end up with an appealing cube display either.
Cooling
Without proper cooling, your new cube may be doomed from the start. Cases with limited airflow should not be considered if you plan to air-cool your PC. These types of cube cases will require liquid cooling which you have to consider will add more cost(s) to your project. Look for the best airflow possible when choosing any case, not just cube cases.
Budget
Remember when choosing a cube case that you consider your budget also. If you get a cube PC case, you are already limiting the cooling of your components. The small form-factor makes it difficult to provide adequate airflow. Your budget will be influenced by the amount of fans you will need to install, or the added cost of liquid cooling.
Are Cube PC Cases good?
Cube cases are great for those who need to reduce the size of their workspace, or want to impress their friends. Cube chassis allows you to reduce a clunky tower down to a minimally efficient alternative.
Why are almost all cube PC cases made for mini-ITX or micro-ATX instead of ATX mobos?
Due to the nature of the cube being so compact in size, the majority of the cube cases don’t have enough available space for anything larger than a micro-ATX. However, more and more cube cases manufacturers are designing ATX and mini itx capable cubes.
Can a cube case fit any size GPU?
Cube cases range in size and due to the smaller form factors of the cube itself, it is sometimes difficult if not impossible to install some larger GPUs. Be sure to read the manual or the website’s information about the dimensions of the case. Verify the dimensions of your GPU and the available space within the cube before making a purchase.
What is the best way to keep a Cube case cool?
Depending on what type of cube case you purchase you can cool it with good case fans and a quality CPU cooler. However, in some cubes you will have less room than others and components may take up the majority of the space within the cube. If this is the situation, it is recommended you utilize liquid cooling as the preferred cooling method.
Is a cube case good for gaming?
A cube case can be an excellent gaming rig if you consider how you will cool the components within. If you are going to be gaming, it is recommended that you utilize liquid cooling. If your case has plenty of room left after your build, and you have plenty of case fans properly moving air through your cube, it is possible to safely air-cool your cube as well.
How to choose the best cube case?
To choose the best cube case, you need to consider what you want inside your PC. If you plan on building a gaming computer, you will want a larger cube so that it will fit the larger GPUs. If you are just wanting a smaller mid-level PC for general office work, then any smaller tax and mini itx should satisfy your needs as long as your cube will match your mobo form factor.
What are the drawbacks of a cube case?
The drawbacks of a cube case can range from size to a lack of cooling. When considering a cube case it is important to consider what you are using it for. If you want the very best gaming rig out there and you want to be able to upgrade each time a new component releases, you might want to consider the following:
Cube cases are more difficult to upgrade than a tower PC. You will find that the lack of space will make it extremely difficult or even impossible to install larger components such as newer GPUs due to their increasing size. Cube cases are intended to sit on a desktop, so if you have limited desk space, remember the cube will take a good portion of your available space. Cable management is a nightmare. You have very little space to work with and hiding cables and wires is almost impossible. If you have big hands like me, get someone with little hands to help. The space you have to work in is very limited, and everything from tucking cables to installing I/O cables can be a real challenge. The ability to install multiple GPUs are slim to none, there just isn’t enough space within the confines of the cube to allow this. Not to mention the very limited airflow.
Conclusion
The clear winner of Best Cube PC Case is the anidees AI Crystal Cube AR V3. This case allows multiple configurations, including two beautiful RGB light strips, five RGB fans and AI-AUREOLA fan hub. This cube also includes removable dust filters on the front, top and bottom. A more expensive, but well worth investment that is certain to impress. Our lowest rating goes to the SilverStone’s SG13 which allows for only one cooling fan on the front and makes it difficult to install a larger GPU and CPU Cooler due to the tight space. The SG13 included no RGB lighting or pre-installed fans. It did however, include a low price around $60 but that still wasn’t enough to wow us in our review.
