Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.
See all posts Rohit MittalBest Budget PC Case: Top 10 Affordable Options for 2024
Updated on April 24, 2024
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Choosing a budget PC case for your DIY build can be tough due to numerous options. Key factors to consider include motherboard size compatibility, cooling system design, and cable management. We’ve researched and tested various budget PC cases, and will share our top picks in the following sections.
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Best Budget PC Cases
We know that building a PC can be expensive, which is why we’ve compiled a list of the best budget PC cases for those who want to save some money without sacrificing quality. A good budget PC case should provide adequate cooling, be easy to build in, and have enough space for all your components. After researching and testing various options, we’ve narrowed down the top choices that offer the best value for your money. Check out our list below to find the perfect budget PC case for your needs.
Zalman S-Series Case
Zalman - S3 - ATX Mid-Tower PC Case - Full Acrylic Side Panel - 3x Case Fan 120mm Pre-Installed, Black
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly PC case that offers excellent airflow, the Zalman S-Series case is a great option.
Pros:
- The luxurious hairline front panel design and dual intake design with metal finish make this case look sleek and stylish.
- The full acrylic windowed side-panel allows you to show off your build and adds a touch of elegance to your setup.
- The top and bottom dust filters ensure smooth air circulation and protect the case from dust, keeping your components clean and safe.
Cons:
- The case is made of fairly thin metal, which makes it feel a bit cheap and flimsy.
- The materials used in the construction of this case may not be as durable as those used in more expensive cases.
- The case may not be as spacious as some other mid-tower cases, which could make it difficult to install larger components.
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Overall, we would recommend the Zalman S-Series case to anyone who is looking for a budget-friendly PC case with great airflow and a stylish design. While it may not be the most durable or spacious case on the market, it offers excellent value for the price and is a great option for anyone who wants to build a budget PC without sacrificing style or performance.
Antec NX410 ATX Mid-Tower Case
Antec NX410 ATX Mid-Tower Case, Tempered Glass Side Panel, Full Side View, Pre-Installed 2 x 140mm in Front & 1 x 120 mm ARGB Fans in Rear (White) (9734088000)
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If you're looking for a budget PC case, the Antec NX410 ATX Mid-Tower Case is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- The three included ARGB fans make for a stunning visual display.
- The tempered glass side panel allows for a full view of your components.
- The staggered grid front panel design adds to the overall aesthetic while still allowing for efficient cooling.
Cons:
- The case may be a bit too large for some setups.
- The included fans can be a bit noisy.
- The white color may not be to everyone's taste.
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We recently used the Antec NX410 ATX Mid-Tower Case for a budget build and were impressed with its features. The three included ARGB fans add a great visual element to the build, and the tempered glass side panel allows for a full view of all of the components. The staggered grid front panel design not only adds to the overall aesthetic, but also allows for efficient cooling.
However, the case may be a bit too large for some setups, and the included fans can be a bit noisy. Additionally, the white color may not be to everyone’s taste. Overall, if you’re looking for a budget PC case with great features and a stunning visual display, the Antec NX410 ATX Mid-Tower Case is definitely worth considering.
GAMDIAS AURA GC2
GAMDIAS ATX Mid Tower Gaming Computer PC Case with Side Tempered Glass, 4X 120mm ARGB Case Fans and Sync with 5V RGB Motherboard and Excellent Airflow
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If you're looking for an affordable mid-tower case with great airflow and RGB lighting synchronization, the GAMDIAS AURA GC2 is a solid choice.
Pros:
- The RGB lighting synchronization is easy to set up and makes for a visually stunning build.
- The panoramic tempered glass side panel is tool-free and allows for easy access to your components.
- The 4 built-in 120mm ARGB fans and mesh front panel provide excellent airflow for your system.
Cons:
- The case can be a bit tight for larger components, so make sure to double-check compatibility before purchasing.
- The lack of a front filter for intake fans can be a downside for some users.
- The LED fan RPMs are not adjustable.
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We recently built a gaming PC using the AURA GC2 and were impressed with its sleek design and excellent airflow. The RGB lighting synchronization was simple to set up and really made our build stand out. The panoramic tempered glass side panel was also a nice touch, allowing us to easily show off our components. The 4 built-in 120mm ARGB fans and mesh front panel kept our system cool and running smoothly.
However, we did notice that the case was a bit tight for some of our larger components, so make sure to double-check compatibility before purchasing. Additionally, the lack of a front filter for intake fans can be a downside for some users. Lastly, while the LED fans look great, the RPMs are not adjustable, which could be a concern for those who prefer more control over their system’s cooling.
Overall, we would recommend the GAMDIAS AURA GC2 for budget-conscious gamers who want a case with great airflow and RGB lighting synchronization.
JONSBO D41 MESH SC Black ATX Computer Case with Screen
JONSBO D41 MESH SC Black ATX Computer Case with Screen, ATX Mainboard/Support RTX 4090(335-400mm) GPU 360/280AIO,Power ATX/SFX: 100mm-220mm Multiple Tool-Free Design,Black
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If you're looking for a budget PC case that offers a lot of features, the JONSBO D41 MESH SC Black ATX Computer Case with Screen is a great option.
Pros:
- The mesh screen on the front is a useful feature for displaying important information or monitoring system stats.
- The case is compatible with a wide range of components, including ATX/MATX motherboards, 360/280/240 AIO coolers, and 335-400mm GPUs.
- The case has a sleek and stylish design that will look great in any setup.
Cons:
- The case has limited space for cable management, which can make it difficult to keep your build looking neat and organized.
- The case is relatively heavy and bulky, which can make it difficult to move around or transport.
- Some users have reported issues with compatibility during installation, so it's important to contact customer service if you encounter any problems.
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Overall, the JONSBO D41 MESH SC Black ATX Computer Case with Screen is a solid choice for anyone looking for a budget PC case that offers a lot of features. With its mesh screen, compatibility with a wide range of components, and stylish design, it’s a great option for anyone looking to build a new PC.
GIM ATX Mid-Tower Case Black Gaming PC Case 2 Tempered Glass Panels & Front Panel RGB Strip Gaming Computer Case Desktop Case USB 3.0 I/O Port, Magnet Dust Filter, Water-Cooling Ready (Black) Black Glass-GM1
GIM ATX Mid-Tower Case Black Gaming PC Case 2 Tempered Glass Panels & Front Panel RGB Strip Gaming Computer Case Desktop Case USB 3.0 I/O Port, Magnet Dust Filter, Water-Cooling Ready (Black)
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly PC case with ample space and excellent cooling, the GIM ATX Mid-Tower Case is a great option.
Pros:
- The case has enough space for up to 10 120mm GIM ARGB fans, providing both lighting and excellent air performance.
- The internal space is wide and easy to install, with room for up to 3 x 2.5" SSD, 2 x 3.5" HDD, ATX/Micro ATX/ITX motherboard, and a maximum length 400mm GPU.
- The case has a big space behind the motherboard tray for hidden cable management, improving cooling performance.
Cons:
- The case is quite heavy, weighing in at 7.2 kilograms.
- Some users have reported that the included fans can be a bit loud.
- The cables included with the case are quite short, making cable management a bit challenging.
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We were impressed by the GIM ATX Mid-Tower Case’s powerful cooling system, which kept our PC running smoothly even during intensive gaming sessions. The case’s two tempered glass full-view side panels are a nice touch, allowing you to show off your build. We also appreciated the big space behind the motherboard tray for cable management, which helped us keep the interior clean and tidy.
That being said, the case is quite heavy, which may be an issue if you need to move your PC frequently. Additionally, some users have reported that the included fans can be quite loud, so you may want to consider upgrading them if noise is a concern. Finally, the cables included with the case are quite short, which can make cable management a bit challenging.
Overall, we think the GIM ATX Mid-Tower Case is a solid budget option for gamers looking for a case with ample space and excellent cooling.
MUSETEX ATX PC Case 6 ARGB Fans Pre-Installed, Mid Tower Gaming PC Case, USB 3.0 Tempered Glass Phantom Black Computer Case, G06Q6
MUSETEX ATX PC Case 6 ARGB Fans Pre-Installed, Mid Tower Gaming PC Case, USB 3.0 Tempered Glass Phantom Black Computer Case, G06Q6
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If you're looking for a budget PC case with great features, the MUSETEX ATX PC Case is a great option. With six ARGB fans pre-installed, this mid-tower gaming PC case provides excellent cooling performance. The tempered glass side panel adds a touch of style to the overall design.
Pros:
- The six pre-installed ARGB fans provide excellent cooling performance.
- The tempered glass side panel adds a touch of style to the overall design.
- The case is easy to assemble and install.
Cons:
- The corner guards on the glass panel do not fit well and fall off very easily.
- Mounting a motherboard can be tricky and requires removing the top case fans.
- The SSD mounting is iffy at best because the SSD ends up very close to the case and just far enough.
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We were impressed with the MUSETEX ATX PC Case’s cooling performance. The six pre-installed ARGB fans provide excellent airflow, which is essential for keeping your PC components cool. The fans are quiet and look great, and the included remote control allows you to customize the lighting to your liking.
The tempered glass side panel adds a touch of style to the overall design. It allows you to show off your PC’s components and lighting, making it a great option for those who want to build a PC with a unique look.
The case is easy to assemble and install, making it a great option for novice builders. The case’s cable management system is well thought out, making it easy to keep your cables organized and tidy.
However, we did encounter some issues with the case. The corner guards on the glass panel do not fit well and fall off very easily, which can be frustrating. Mounting a motherboard can be tricky and requires removing the top case fans, which can be time-consuming. The SSD mounting is iffy at best because the SSD ends up very close to the case and just far enough, making it difficult to access.
Overall, the MUSETEX ATX PC Case is a great budget option for those looking for a stylish case with excellent cooling performance. However, the issues we encountered should be taken into consideration before making a purchase.
MUSETEX ATX PC Case
MUSETEX ATX PC Case,5 PWM ARGB Fans Pre-Installed,360MM RAD Support,Type-C Gaming 270° Full View Tempered Glass Mid Tower Pure White ATX Computer Case,Y6
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly PC case that offers a unique visual experience, the MUSETEX ATX PC Case is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- The 5 pre-installed PWM ARGB fans provide excellent cooling performance and can be customized with various light modes for cool and colorful lighting.
- The 270° fully transparent dual tempered glass panels offer a wider field of view and allow you to display your high-end PC hardware and beloved dolls.
- The upgrade high-speed IO expansion interface is convenient for connecting a variety of new standard devices and enjoying a higher transmission rate.
Cons:
- The fans are not PWM and run at full speed all the time, which can be a bit noisy.
- The case is a bit small for an ATX midtower and may not fit larger components.
- The glass panels are not completely clear and have a slight tint, which may affect the visual experience.
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The internal structure of the MUSETEX ATX PC Case is divided by MUSETEX in an orderly manner, and each space is skillfully laid out. Due to strong compatibility, the PC case is installed without any obstacles, and users can carry out various DIY according to their favorites.
The case is compatible with most of the mainstream hardware in the market, supporting GPU up to 400mm, CPU cooling height up to 176mm, and top mounting up to 360mm liquid cooler. It also supports PSU up to 200mm, making it a versatile option for a variety of setups.
The innovative air duct design, side panel openings, pre-installed 2 side fans, and anti-blade design are not only beautiful but also help the PC gaming case to absorb air cooling and maintain stable performance. The top and bottom of the computer case are equipped with magnetic dust filters, which maintain the cooling function while reducing the dust on the computer.
Overall, the MUSETEX ATX PC Case is a great option for budget-conscious gamers who want a unique visual experience and good cooling performance. While it may have some minor drawbacks, it offers excellent value for the price.
Zalman T6 ATX Mid Tower Computer PC Case
Zalman T6 ATX Mid Tower Computer PC Case, Pre-Installed 120mm Fan, 5.25 ODD, USB 3.0, Patterned Mesh Design, mATX ITX for Gaming Workstation, Black
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly PC case that can accommodate ATX, mATX, and mini-ITX motherboards, the Zalman T6 ATX Mid Tower Computer PC Case is an excellent option.
Pros:
- The hairline pattern front and side mesh design, along with the 120mm rear fan, provides optimal air circulation to keep your PC cool.
- The T6's chassis is made of high-strength steel sheets and coated with black powder, making it corrosion-resistant and able to withstand high pressure and heat.
- The internal layout design of the T6 provides ample workspace for building various types of PCs, whether for a home workstation, office, or gaming.
Cons:
- The case won't fit ATX motherboards with side-facing SATA ports, so be sure to check your motherboard's specifications before purchasing.
- The case doesn't come with additional fans, so you may need to purchase them separately if you want to install more than the pre-installed 120mm fan.
- The case doesn't have a lot of space for cable management, so you'll need to be creative to keep your cables organized.
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Overall, the Zalman T6 ATX Mid Tower Computer PC Case is a great budget option for building a PC. It’s sturdy, well-designed, and provides excellent airflow to keep your PC cool. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly case that can accommodate various motherboard sizes, the Zalman T6 is definitely worth considering.
GAMDIAS AURA GC1
GAMDIAS ATX Mid Tower Gaming Computer PC Case with Side Tempered Glass, 4X 120mm ARGB Case Fans and Sync with 5V RGB Motherboard
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If you're looking for an affordable mid-tower case, the GAMDIAS AURA GC1 is a great option to consider. With a sleek design and built-in ARGB fans, it's perfect for gamers who want to showcase their builds without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- The panoramic tempered glass side panel allows you to show off the beauty of your build.
- The mesh front panel provides excellent airflow intake, keeping your system cool.
- The built-in ARGB fans are displayed in full by the mesh front panel and the tempered glass side panel, providing a stunning visual effect.
Cons:
- The case doesn't offer much room for cable management, so you may need to get creative when it comes to organizing your cables.
- The wiring that comes with the case can be a bit of a mess, making it difficult to organize.
- It may be a bit challenging to fit a 2-fan radiator and mid-size GPU due to limited space.
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Overall, we found the GAMDIAS AURA GC1 to be a great budget-friendly option for gamers who want to showcase their builds. The sleek design, excellent airflow, and built-in ARGB fans make it a great choice for those who want to show off their systems without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for an affordable mid-tower case, the GAMDIAS AURA GC1 is definitely worth considering.
Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L Micro-ATX Tower
Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L Micro-ATX Tower with Magnetic Design Dust Filter, Transparent Acrylic Side Panel, Adjustable I/O & Fully Ventilated Airflow, Black (MCB-Q300L-KANN-S00)
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly PC case that offers great features and functionality, then the Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L Micro-ATX Tower is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- The I/O panel can be adjusted in 6 different locations, and the case can be positioned vertically or horizontally, making it a versatile option for different setups.
- The edge-to-edge acrylic transparent side panel offers a full view inside, which is great for showing off your hardware.
- The case has extra space behind the motherboard tray for hidden cable management, which helps to keep your build looking neat and tidy.
Cons:
- The front magnetic design dust filter can be a bit difficult to remove and clean, which can be a hassle.
- The case is relatively small, so it may not be the best option if you're looking to build a high-end system with a lot of components.
- The plastic construction of the case may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
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Overall, we think that the Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L Micro-ATX Tower is a great budget option for those looking to build a compact and stylish PC. The adjustable I/O panel and transparent side panel offer great customization options, while the hidden cable management helps to keep everything looking neat and tidy. However, the small size of the case and the plastic construction may not be ideal for everyone.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best budget PC case, there are a few important factors to consider. We recommend focusing on the following features to ensure you find a product that meets your needs:
Size and Compatibility
The size of your PC case will depend on the size of your motherboard and the components you plan to install. Make sure to check the compatibility of the case with your motherboard and ensure that it has enough space for your graphics card, CPU cooler, and other components.
Airflow and Cooling
Proper airflow and cooling are crucial for keeping your components running smoothly and preventing overheating. Look for a case with good ventilation and space for fans or liquid cooling systems. Consider the number and placement of fans, as well as the ability to add more if necessary.
Cable Management
A cluttered and disorganized build can impede airflow and make maintenance difficult. Look for a case with ample space for cable management, such as routing holes and tie-down points. This will help keep your build looking neat and tidy while improving airflow and cooling.
Build Quality and Features
While budget cases may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it’s still important to consider build quality and features. Look for a case with sturdy construction, easy-to-use drive bays, and front panel ports that meet your needs. Consider any additional features, such as tempered glass side panels or RGB lighting, that may be important to you.
By considering these factors, you can find a budget PC case that meets your needs and provides reliable performance for years to come.
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Rohit Mittal
Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.
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