Best HTPC Case Reviews and Guide
Introduction
Consider creating an HTPC (home theatre personal computer). High-performance gaming cases are the center of most of the excitement in the PC case market, which leaves those of you seeking understated, living-room-friendly cases in a bit of a bind. Even though we are powerless to stop the market’s direction, we can at least aid you in your search by outlining the best HTPC case for your brand-new living room PC.
Technically, if you utilize a PC case for a living room system, practically any case can qualify as a “home theatre PC case.” However, we assume that anyone expressly shopping for HTPC cases wants something that is tiny, horizontal, and fits in a home theatre cabinet. Therefore, it is exactly what we have chosen for you here.
However, you should at least have a general understanding of “what to compare?” in these HTPC scenarios before starting the list. You can gain a better understanding of the subject and problem we should search for by considering the aspects listed below.
Case Size
A case’s size affects more than just how much room an HTPC case will take up. The interior space is also a factor. You should check the size of your motherboard before beginning your search for an HTPC case.
Typically, three distinct sizes are offered for motherboards. Atx, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX are the three universal sizes, with Mini-ITX being the smallest.
The majority of HTPC cases have either of the port sizes. And now for something to take note of. Due to its greatest size, ATX-compatible cases are easily able to accommodate any type of motherboard. An ATX motherboard, however, cannot be used in a Mini-ITX enclosure.
Heat Dissipation
Without a doubt, one of the biggest issues with computer technology is the heat that accumulates inside the chassis. The HTPC case is similarly applicable.
In addition to good ventilation, vigorous cooling is the most effective strategy to combat heat buildup. This is why you want to take into account a case that has a suitable fan space and a sufficient vent as well.
The issue of noise productivity is brought on by the strong cooling, nevertheless. You’ll also have to take care of that.
If you aren’t yet comfortable taking into account the components of an HTPC case, don’t worry at all. The previously provided details were only a brief introduction to the product. A thorough “Buying Guide” is provided later in this article.
But first, let’s search the list for your ideal HTPC case.
Best HTPC Case of 2023
SilverStone GD10 HTPC Case
Thermaltake Core V21 HTPC Case
Cooler Master HAF XB EVO HTPC Case
Fractal Design Node 202 HTPC Case
Apevia X-Master HTPC Case
Do not underestimate how much you can fit into this case, despite its size. The most recent Grandia model from the firm is the SilverStone GD10. It is the result of its creators’ ten years of experience in creating HTPC cases into a thing that every PC builder may take pleasure in.
Due to the creative use of the available space, the chassis is nearly the same size as Micro-ATX cases while still being able to accommodate the majority of significant full-size standard components, including wider ATX motherboards. Up to 12.2-inch expansion cards can be supported by this clever compact case.
In terms of HTPC cases, SilverStone is arguably the market leader. This specific container fits perfectly any place in your entertainment center and has a really good, straightforward appearance.
It feels pretty solid and substantial right out of the box, which is one thing that is immediately obvious.
We love how adaptable this case is considering its size! It has retractable feet, the ability to be put on a rack, and drive cages with multipurpose mounting that do not require adapters.
The newest PC case in the Core V series is the Thermaltake Core V21. It can accommodate both vertical and horizontal installation of the motherboard and supports both microATX and mini-ITX motherboards. There are three internal 3.5″ or 2.5″ bays, two USB 3.0 connections, one headphone port, and one microphone port. The front panel already has a 200-millimeter fan attached.
The Core V21 has a lot of customizability, so you may make the space your components require.
The visual appeal of this case is excellent. We prefer the square shape since it provides more space, improves airflow, and looks fantastic.
Oh, and did we mention that this case is particularly created to function as interchangeable module pieces? Thus, you could get two of these cases and combine them into a fantastic super-case!
This case is a fantastic price at less than $65! The Thermaltake Core V21 case’s quality is probably unmatched by any other case at this price range.
The renowned High Air Flow series (HAF) is elevated to a whole new level by the Cooler Master HAF XB EVO! True to the series name, ventilation won’t be an issue thanks to the removable horizontal motherboard tray, wide mesh front, and top panels, and two stock 120mm XtraFlo fans in the front.
VGA cards up to 13.1 inches in size can fit in this ATX HTPC case. With the replaceable HDD cages, it can accommodate up to four HDDs or SSDs.
Strong front-to-back air circulation is produced by the case’s design and fan arrangement, which keeps the case cool without being unduly loud. Additionally, this case has a tonne of room inside for all of your hardware!
This case’s material, which is primarily constructed of polymer with some steel and even some mesh, is something we find to be a touch below average. With its massive, hard exterior, you wouldn’t expect it to feel a touch fragile when you first take it out of the box. Overall, though, this is still a top HTPC case because of the excellent ventilation and usefulness.
The problem with PC cases is that they are often large—this is true even with cases that have carry handles. However, Node 202 has the audacity to depart from the norm.
Among the sexiest and slimmest PC cases, this year is the Node 202. As soon as you see it, you should start to wonder about how it handles cooling and heat dissipation. Moreover, what kind of motherboards or GPU length does it support?
First off, both Mini-ITX and Micro-ATX motherboards can fit in Node 202. If your motherboard is ATX or larger [E-ATX], do not purchase it. It can accommodate graphics cards up to 310mm in length for GPUs.
After that, let’s examine the capabilities of the Fractal Node 202 as an HTPC case.
The Node 202 has a very compact footprint. The casing is only 5.7 inches broad and 13 inches deep, according to the measurements. However, it can stand 18 inches tall. In order to make it appear like a gaming console, you can either position it horizontally or raise it vertically. Therefore, this example receives high marks for aesthetics.
We were pleased with how the motherboard, GPU, and disc trays were arranged inside the chassis. They were positioned so that there was enough room within for heat to dissipate readily. Additionally, there are dust filters inside to keep your components clean and capture dust.
You just get a USB 3.0 port and an audio port for I/O connections, but you can get by for your home theatre with that.
The Fractal Node 202 is a beautiful HTPC case you should give serious consideration. It costs less than $100.
The Apevia X-Master, like the SilverStone GD10, is the ideal combination of a roomy tower and still being tiny enough to be tucked away in your entertainment center. There are spaces for two 3.5″ drives and two 5.25″ drives inside. ATX boards are supported by the motherboard tray (or smaller if needed). For any additional upgrades you want to add outside, it features seven expansion slots on the backplate.
It can be set up either vertically, like a typical desktop tower, or horizontally, like a tower. There are many possibilities for cooling and how you want to put your system because there is space to install four fans, if necessary.
For the majority of typical HTPC system requirements, the supplied 500W power supply is more than adequate. To liven up your home entertainment setup, there are also three color options (silver, blue, and black) that are available.
An easy-to-grasp steel handle is located along the edge of the casing so you may move your computer without applying pressure to the wrong places.
We don’t like how loud the stock fans are. They set up a sort of wind tunnel within the case due to their orientation. Without any curves or other aesthetic elements, the case is quite simple and uninteresting to look at.
Additionally, there are some bothersome red and blue LEDs that shine from the front and back. This is a fantastic hybrid between a complete tower and a micro design, but, if that doesn’t concern you.
HTPC Case Buying Guide
There aren’t many technological components to compare an HTPC case to. However, the few elements listed above are crucial for making a happy choice. Additionally, playing around with these variables could stop your computer from functioning properly.
You can properly comprehend the cases thanks to the buying guidance that is stated below. Let’s take a closer look.
Case Size
One of the most important considerations for an HTPC case is the case size. However, the size in this case also refers to the internal size and denotes a sleek and compact design. The casing should comfortably accommodate your motherboard without interfering with other parts.
The three types of motherboards—ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX—are all compatible with the cases now on the market.
As these are the largest, keep in mind that ATX-compatible cases would work well for any of the sizes. The Mini-ITX compatible devices, however, will only take Mini-ITX motherboards.
In a similar vein, the HTPC’s real case size should be taken into account. The small, sleek cases look nice and are more space-efficient. However, ventilation will be more difficult to achieve the slimmer your case is. Just make sure you aim for a good spot in this situation.
Managing Cooling and Noise
The power of computers occasionally increases steadily. Additionally, you will continue to require a computer. The only thing your PC needs in exchange in this scenario is proper and potent cooling.
The real question is, though, whether you can put up with the fan’s buzzing noise while completing a crucial mission in the game. With the larger fan size, this buzzing noise will continue to grow.
Your computer will determine the best fan size. There isn’t much information on cooling equipment if you frequently use a PC for everyday tasks. However, using a PC to handle certain heavy usage would be an unpardonable offense.
PSU of the Case
When someone is looking for an HTPC case, this is one of the most frequently disregarded variables. Things could get worse if your HTPC chassis was unable to accommodate a sizable PSU and GPU housing.
Compact HTPC cases have the drawback of being inefficient in terms of better PSU provision. There may not be enough watts for the PC in a small HTPC chassis with a low-profile power supply unit. Additionally, while the system is under heavy use, you’ll see observable changes in its performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an HTPC?
Home theatre personal computer is referred to as HTPC. Its function is to play movies and other material (including video, audio, and photographs), giving you a home theater-like experience.
What CPU should I use with HTPC Case?
With an HTPC, you should typically choose a CPU that has the lowest thermal design power (TDP) while yet offering the necessary processing capability. It’s not always advantageous to have a quicker, more potent CPU. Installing a more potent CPU will increase heat production and increase fan noise.
What size case do I need?
Make sure the case you select fits your motherboard. Keep in mind the size of the PSU you require as well. Many cases already have a PSU built-in, but if you want to add your own, it must fit in the designated space. You should pick a case that will fit comfortably in the area where you plan to use it.
Conclusion
It’s now time for you to choose a case that suits your needs and start the thrilling process of constructing your new HTPC! The cases we’ve described here are certainly not the only ones available; there are many more expensive options as well. Our choice is based on the features that the typical PC builder would seek in an HTPC chassis.
What are you going to do now that you are aware of how important a good HTPC case is? You are in charge.
Have fun assembling your new computer now that you’re feeling more self-assured!
