The Ultimate PC Case Buying Guide for Gamers and Builders

Choosing a PC case might seem like the least exciting part of building your dream setup. But ask any seasoned builder; the right case sets the tone for everything. It's not just about looks. Your case decides what you can install, how cool and quiet your system stays, and how easy it is to upgrade later.

Whether you're building a sleek workstation, a bold RGB battlestation, or a compact mini powerhouse, this PC case buying guide walks you through every critical consideration before picking the perfect case.

Start with the Size: Form Factors Explained

Let's begin with the basics. PC cases come in different sizes that are directly tied to the type of motherboard you plan to install.

Mini ITX Cases

Mini-ITX cases are ideal for ultra-compact builds. They're small and space-saving, perfect if you need your PC to fit in tight spots. Just bear in mind that you'll have limited space for cooling, storage, and GPU upgrades. Brands like NZXT and Cooler Master have some fantastic mini ITX case options – check out mini ITX computer cases for more inspiration.

Micro-ATX Cases

Micro-ATX cases offer a balance between compact size and flexibility. They support slightly larger components than mini-ITX but still keep your build relatively small. A well-designed MATX case can deliver performance without a huge footprint.

ATX Mid-tower Cases

ATX mid-tower cases are the sweet spot for most gamers and builders. They're roomy enough for powerful components, multiple PC fans, and big graphics cards without taking over your entire desk. If you're building your first gaming PC case, explore mid-tower PC options to find the best fit for your setup.

Full Tower Cases

Full tower cases are made for those who want maximum airflow, room for custom loops, and expansion. Ideal for multi-GPU setups and extensive storage arrays, a full tower PC case gives you more flexibility than smaller builds.

Cooling Considerations: Keep Temperatures in Check

Airflow makes or breaks a computer case. Even if you have the best graphics card or the fastest CPU, poor airflow will throttle performance and shorten component lifespan.

Air-Cooled Setups

Most cases come with at least one or two fans pre-installed. But high-performance rigs need more than that. Look for cases with support for multiple 120mm or 140mm fans, front and top ventilation, and dust filters. Brands like be quiet! and DeepCool are known for their silent, airflow-optimised chassis, and they have some of the best PC cases for quiet operation.

AIO Liquid Coolers

If you're installing an all-in-one liquid cooler, your case needs to support radiator mounts — usually 240mm, 280mm, or 360mm. Always double-check radiator compatibility in the case specs, especially when buying a Corsair PC case or Cooler Master PC case.

Custom Water Cooling

Planning a custom loop? Custom water-cooling loops take things to another level compared to AIOs. Unlike a simple CPU cooler, a full custom loop requires ample space for a pump, reservoir, tubing, and often multiple radiators, depending on how many components you're cooling.

While some cases provide dedicated mounting points for reservoirs and pumps, many builders find themselves creatively using spare space or bracket kits to make it all fit. If you're going this route, look for cases specifically designed with modders in mind. Phanteks and Lian Li lead the pack here, offering modular layouts, removable panels, and extensive radiator support. A Lian Li case is especially popular among builders who want room to breathe.

Motherboard Compatibility: Match Before You Mount

PSU Compatibility: Not All Cases Fit All Power Supplies

Your PSU needs to fit the case - simple as that. Most mid and full-tower PC cases support standard ATX power supplies. Compact cases may require SFX or TFX units, which are smaller. If you choose a high-wattage PSU, double-check that the case has enough clearance, especially in mini builds.

Drive Bays & Storage

SSDs and HDDs come in different form factors. M.2 drives plug straight into your motherboard, but 2.5in and 3.5in drives need dedicated bays. If you're building a gaming PC case with plenty of game installs, make sure your case can house all your storage without blocking airflow.

GPU and Cooler Clearance

Modern GPUs are big. Some triple-fan cards can stretch beyond 330mm. Make sure your case supports your chosen graphics card length and has clearance for your CPU cooler, too. A low-profile air cooler might fit fine in a compact case, but tall tower coolers need proper vertical space.

Connectivity: Front Panel Features

Don't overlook convenience. A good case will offer front I/O ports like USB 3.0, USB-C, audio jacks, and power/reset buttons in an accessible position. This is especially useful if your PC lives under a desk. Cases from Fractal Design and ASUS often come with premium front panel options. If you're browsing, check out our full collection of Fractal Design cases.

Aesthetics

We get it - gamers love good looks. Whether it's RGB fans, tempered glass side panels, or a minimalist black finish, your case is the part of your build you'll see every day. Many top-tier cases, like those from Hyte and NZXT, are designed to showcase your build in all its glory. The right NZXT computer case makes all the difference if you're aiming for a clean yet expressive build.

If you're going for a side window, consider your desk setup. Most cases are designed to sit on the right, with the window facing left. If your space only works the other way, look for reverse orientation options.

And yes, RGB. Many modern cases come with pre-installed RGB fans or lighting strips. You can always customise it later, but starting with something that already looks great is nice. Even if you're after a more subtle white PC case, you'll still find plenty of options with understated lighting.

Cable Management Made Easy

Good cable management keeps airflow unobstructed and makes your build look tidy. Look for cases with routing channels, Velcro ties, and PSU shrouds. Tool-less side panels are also a bonus when you need to open the case up.

Noise Control

Budget Considerations: What You Get at Each Price Point

Your budget plays a huge role in determining your options, but don't assume you have to spend a fortune to get a great case. Here's a quick look at what your money buys in the UK market:

Under £80

Expect basic steel builds with decent airflow and support for ATX boards. The Game Max F15G or Sharkoon VS4-W are solid entry-level picks. RGB fans may be included, but quality varies.

£80 to £120

This is where most good mid-towers live. They have tempered glass, better airflow, cable management, and branded RGB. Consider the NZXT H5 Flow, Fractal Focus 2, or Phanteks ECLIPSE G360A—all contenders for the best PC cases in this bracket.

Over £120

Now you're getting high-end design and features: water-cooling support, vertical GPU mounts, premium materials, and CPU case full tower designs. Look at the Lian Li O11 Dynamic; be quiet! Pure Base 500 FX or Hyte Y60.

Some premium cases, like the Corsair 5000D Airflow, can cost between £150 and £180, but they're worth it for builders looking for high-end cooling and expansion.

Last but Not the Least… Don't Forget to Do the Math

The PC case might not be the first thing you think about when planning your build, and it's true that the GPU, CPU and motherboard carry more performance weight. But don't let your PC case become an afterthought. It plays a meaningful role in airflow, thermals, noise levels and upgrade potential. A poorly chosen case can bottleneck an otherwise powerful setup.

High-end components deserve proper housing. If you've invested in a high-wattage CPU or a premium graphics card, putting them in a case that offers robust airflow and thermal headroom makes sense. Cramming flagship parts into a cramped chassis with limited ventilation is asking for throttling issues, overheating, or worse, system instability under load. Give your hardware room to breathe.

That said, you don't need to overspend. It's easy to get caught up in flashy RGB designs or premium brands, but if you're building on a tighter budget, focus on size compatibility and cooling support first. Many lower-priced cases offer great airflow and enough space for full-sized GPUs; you just need to look carefully. Some brands even deliver solid build quality and tempered glass panels without breaking the bank.

All you need to do is balance performance, cooling, and cost. Our PC case buying guide breaks down everything you need to consider, helping you choose the right case for your components, needs, and budget.

If you're still unsure what to pair with your next upgrade, check out our curated desktop PC builds designed to suit every budget and purpose, from everyday workhorses to serious gaming machines.

PC Case Buying Guide: FAQs 

How to know what PC case to buy? 
Start by identifying your needs: the size of your motherboard (ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX), your cooling setup (air or liquid), and GPU/PSU dimensions. Consider how many drives you want to install, your preferred aesthetics, and your budget. Always match your case to the components you’re planning to use. 

What to look for when buying a new computer case? 
Look for airflow-friendly design, ample internal space, radiator or fan support, GPU clearance, and cable management features. If you're building a high-performance or quiet rig, opt for cases with dust filters, noise insulation, or tempered glass panels for style. USB-C and front panel I/O placement are also worth noting. 

Should I get a full tower or mid tower? 
Mid towers are ideal for most users—they support standard ATX motherboards and offer enough room for modern GPUs and cooling setups. Full towers are best if you're building an extreme setup with custom loops, multiple GPUs, or extensive storage. Choose a full tower only if you truly need the extra space.

Do PC cases affect performance? 
Indirectly, yes. A well-ventilated case with proper airflow helps maintain lower temperatures, allowing your components to run optimally without thermal throttling. Poor airflow can lead to overheating, instability, or reduced hardware lifespan especially in gaming or rendering-heavy builds. 

Are expensive PC cases worth it? 
They can be, depending on your goals. Premium cases often feature better build quality, quieter operation, easier cable management, modular design, and superior airflow. But if you’re on a budget, many affordable cases now offer excellent cooling and build features—you just need to compare specs carefully.