ATX cases Vs. Micro ATX cases: Which one to buy?

Jul 07, 2021

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Every gamer or computer user tries to get the best possible components for their needs so that they can enjoy the machine to its fullest. But sometimes, there are preferences, options, and conditions that make them choose between two things, and that is where the things start to get out of hand. In the same way, if you are confused between the ATX cases and the Micro ATX cases and can’t decide which one you should go for, then let me make things easier for you. I will discuss both of the types separately so that you can understand how both of them work and how they would work out for you.

But before moving on, it is important to know that both of the types have got their own pros and cons and you will have to decide which type suits your needs the best.

ATX Cases: Why should you consider these for your PC?


Following are the reasons that can actually sort out your questions and confusion regarding the ATX cases.

1- The compatibility


One of the best benefits of standard ATX cases over the Micro ATX cases is that they offer better compatibility. You can easily integrate an ATX motherboard, Micro ATX motherboard, or even a Mini ITX motherboard on your ATX case, and that is what everyone loves about it. You will also not have to worry about your future upgrades, as the ATX case will be able to support all three common types without creating massive troubles for you.

2- The expandability


Standard ATX cases offer great expandability to the users due to their size. It does not precisely matter if you want to add another HDD, SSD, or a fan; you will have multiple options to do so. The thing is, you do not actually know what you would need in the future, and that is where the expandability helps you out. Not only that, but what if you are upgrading from your older PC and have multiple drives? What will you do if your case does not have space for it? You will have to go through several processes to get your problem solved, and that is what you would not want ever.

3- Overall management


If we take a look at all of the latest components that have been arriving, they all are getting bigger for various reasons. The CPU coolers, along with the GPUs, both these components play a crucial role for every PC, and these are the components that can create hassles for your case. If your case is not big enough, your GPU won’t be able to fit in it. Not only that, the CPU cooler you have chosen might interfere with the top of the case, and it will make it harder for you to close the side panel.

Other than that, cable management is another aspect that gamers tend to focus on. Cable management can be a lot easier in the best PC cases with ATX form factor because of the space available to manage all the wires.

4- Airflow


A bigger case equals more space, and more space means you can integrate more fans. That is how standard ATX cases offer good airflow to the components and keep them safe and sound all the time. Other than that, users also actually have the option not to integrate fans if they think that lesser fans will be enough. But on the safer side, there is a choice available to do so.

Micro ATX Cases: Why should you consider these for your PC?


Now it is time for Micro ATX cases to shine, so let’s check out what they can offer!

1- Compact Size


Honestly, this is the only benefit most of the gamers check out in the Micro ATX cases. But the thing is, this single aspect can sometimes demolish the whole list of benefits of other cases that can urge you to buy it no matter what. The first thing is, you don’t have to worry about your PC space and where you will have to put it. Not only that, but you will actually not have to spend some extra bucks on the fans if you are going for the small PC cases.

2- Compatibility (Varies)


You will certainly not be able to fit the standard ATX motherboards in the Micro ATX cases, but these cases can still support two types. You can easily integrate the Micro ATX motherboards and the Mini ITX motherboards. So if you know you won’t need a motherboard along with the GPU for the next five years, it still is a good choice because of the two options available. But make sure to check the features of the case you are buying because sometimes, the Micro ATX cases offer different types of compatibilities.

3- Optimal Airflow


The airflow in the Micro ATX cases is definitely not the best, but it is still good enough if you know how to manage things. Because of the compact size, most of the components are quite close to each other. So even if your case only has two or three fans, the air can be circulated between your components. If you are facing temperatures issues, you can try changing the placement of your fans and see if the problem is solved. So in the end, you will just have to use your mind in order to do the things.

Finally, which one should I buy? The verdict!


As we have now finally discussed both of the types, you might now be thinking about which one you should buy. So in simple words, the whole scenario depends on your preferences and the options. If you have space available and few extra bucks to spend, I would suggest you go with an ATX case. But if you don’t have enough space, you can go with the Micro ATX cases, and you won’t really have to go through hell to manage it. Just keep your future planning in mind so that you can make a proper decision because your case is what is going to hold all of your components together.