Horizontal PC cases are used mainly for office machines and HTPC build. It is difficult to find the perfect case in this niche market. Because there aren’t many popular cases, it shouldn’t be difficult to find the right one. If you are looking for a unique case that supports large GPUs or AIO cooling, then you will need to search the enthusiast DIY market. This is usually a very small stock and expensive shipping.
Our picks are all mainstream options that can be found almost anywhere online. While there are some niche options, most of them are easy to find. Let’s now look at the top horizontal PC cases available.
Top Buys for Horizontal PC Cases in 2023 | A Quick Glance
| Ranking | Best Horizontal PC Cases | Reviews |
| 1. | SilverStone Grandia HTPC Case | 5 out of 5 |
| 2. | Cooler Master HAF XB EVO | 5 out of 5 |
| 3. | Thermaltake Core P5 V2 | 4 out of 5 |
| 4. | SilverStone Technology GD09B | 4 out of 5 |
| 5. | Fractal Design Node 202 | 4 out of 5 |
| 6. | Antec VSK2000 | 4 out of 5 |
| 7. | SilverStone RVZ03 | 4 out of 5 |
Top Buys for Horizontal PC Cases in 2023 | Detailed Review
1. SilverStone Grandia HTPC Case
SilverStone is a popular brand for PC cases, particularly those that are made for mid-range builds. SilverStone’s horizontal computer case is also very affordable. We are placing the SilverStone Grandia HTPC Case in 1st place. This is a horizontal case so it measures 14.09 x 17.32x 6.69 inches. It is significantly smaller than other options.
Silverstone still delivers a high level of performance in terms of airflow, due to its positive air pressure design. The case is also silent and dust-free. It can also house up to 309mm graphics cards. This is a great choice for high-end gaming computers.
The SilverStone Grandia HTPC Case is affordable but still has the best quality build in this class. This case can accommodate 2.5- and 3.5-inch storage drives. The case supports standard 120mm case fans. However, 240mm fans are more powerful and might be your best choice. It has 8 expansion slots that can be used to add any PCIe components.
2. Cooler Master HAF XB EVO
If you have experience with custom-built PCs, Cooler Master might be a familiar brand. Cooler Master has many other peripherals than just PC cases. These include thermal coolers, PSUs & CPU coolers. Their brand is a household name and we are proud to place it in the top 10.
The Cooler Master HAF XB EVO has a higher capacity than other horizontal computer cases. This case measures 16.7 x 17.4x 13 inches. It is the perfect choice for high-capacity builds. You can also use this case as a testbench to quickly test various configurations. You will also find 2 durable trifle fans that provide great airflow.
It is compatible with any mini ATX case. This case is compatible with nearly all standard components and motherboards. You can have a tolerance up to 180mm for the CPU cooler and a range up to 334mm for the GPU.
With this much space, you can fit the Nvidia RTX3090 GPU. It is the biggest GPU available on the market. There are 4 slots that can hold either an SSD or an HDD. The CoolerMaster HAF XB EVO has dual USB 3.0 ports, as well as X docks
3. Thermaltake Core P5 V2
Thermaltake Core 5 V2 is for gamers and programmers who are keen to display their rig without fear. This case isn’t just a horizontal PC case. You can tilt the case using the two-way vertical GPU mounting. This is all in one stunning beauty, designed to amaze guests as well as their owners.
The chassis is open frame construction with a side window made of tempered glass measuring 5mm. This premium horizontal computer case is our favorite. The chassis offers everything an experienced modder could want but can cause problems for beginners. The front instruction manual can be difficult to understand.
It is missing a Type C USB port on the front panel. Type-C USB ports are slowly becoming more common and essential. If you are still using optical drives, make sure this horizontal computer case doesn’t support their installation. Open-frame designs cannot reduce noise levels and dust are an unavoidable consequence of this design.
With high-end components in this chassis, any new game is guaranteed to run smoothly. It can accommodate a 480mm radiator with a liquid reserve to boost your CPU’s speed. The GPU does not have any restriction to airflow and performs well under OC conditions. Four USB 3.0 ports are included in the case, which allows for data transfer at lightning speeds and HD audio connection. It is possible to mount your chassis on the wall, which can be useful for home improvements. Also, it’s possible to customize the look of your liquid tube by bending and placing them as you wish.
4. SilverStone Technology GD09B
SilverStone Technology GD09B
2. RA02 Rackmount Ears
3. Weight 9.26 pounds
Silverstone offers a solution if you are looking for computer systems that are small and compact but can still do the job. SilverStone Technology is the chassis that fits all of your hardware into a compact space. It’s our choice for the best horizontal PC case.
Nvidia’s RTX 3080 GPU can fit comfortably in the enclosure. This will allow for breathtaking graphics and a higher frame rate. Noctua NHC14s will fit in the case without restriction. Any higher air-based cooler will not work. Although the case is a great replacement for your home theatre system it can’t be used as an advanced gaming computer. It does not have enough clearance to allow for a CPU air-based cooler or liquid cooling radiator.
This case only comes with one 120mm cooling fan. This is insufficient for modern gaming computers. The chassis will not allow for excessive overclocking. The chassis can accommodate 7+1 expansion slots. This allows for an ATX PC case motherboard to fit in a small space. The cable management of an HTPC case is a little tricky.
The filter is designed to keep dust out. SilverStone used positive pressure to remove dust or other contaminants from the chassis. It makes maintenance easier and prolongs the component’s life. The front panel includes a Type C USB port, which is crucial for any modern-day computer case. A USB 3.0 port is also available for peripheral connections. The GPU has its own vent to help dissipate heat effectively and perform under OC conditions.
We Believe you are a Gaming Enthusiast, You Might like Best Vertical GPU Cases
5. Fractal Design Node 202
Fractal is known for making the most beautiful computer cases. They are affordable and well made. Fractal Designs Node 202 is no exception. This is the best horizontal Mini ITX computer case. It supports PCIe 3.0 Riser Cards that can easily be converted into a mid-range gaming PC. The chassis has sufficient airflow to dissipate heat generated by the components.
You can place the simple design horizontally or vertically. The horizontal placement is very practical. There is no RGB on this chassis and there is no window for spotting the hardware inside. Non-RGB components can be purchased to save money and serve a functional purpose.
Some people do not like the logo being horizontal. But for this review, we believe you would prefer to have your chassis placed horizontally as it is intended. The filters are difficult to access and will need to be taken apart from the chassis.
There are two USB 3.0 ports. The dust filters were strategically placed to minimize dust accumulation. This price is affordable for a small PC gaming case. The dual-chamber chassis keeps heat transfer in check and cools other components. It is important to have a CPU or GPU that can cause heat transfer between each other. Cable management is simple because fractal provides premium cable management.
6. Antec VSK2000
Antec VSK2000 is the best budget-friendly horizontal computer case. The chassis is lightweight and can be used for desk work. It has a simple design and a tool-less ODD/HDD housing for quick installation. It supports motherboards with Micro-ATX and Mini ATX case sizes. This computer will provide the minimum necessary capability to perform productive work.
While the compact desk footprint is great, certain items need to be carefully inspected inside a chassis. Antec went for a TFX PSU. It is a rare power supply and expensive to replace if it becomes damaged. It is not a smart choice to use a motherboard with OC RAMs.
Clearance is very low when using a Micro ATX motherboard with high-profile RAMs. Users had to trim parts of the case in order to adjust. There is no filter on the case, which can lead to dust accumulation over time.
The PC case is equipped with an SFF and has a slot to hold an optical drive. This is an unusual feature for this type of form factor. The build quality is excellent and the material used gives the package a solid feel. The edges of the case are gentle and won’t cause any cuts or bleeding. The horizontal PC lid can be easily released by pressing a button. It supports USB 3.0 front and is one of the most advanced tech available. This chassis is ideal for use as an HTPC in your living area. It can easily be fitted with a low-profile CPU cooler.
7. SilverStone RVZ03
SilverStone RVZ03 has many colors and RGB flavors, but all variations share one thing: they are primarily vertical slim computer cases. It’s possible to use the RVZ03 horizontally. The only problem is that the CPU fan will not be visible. This can result in lower thermals.
The RVZ03 delivers excellent thermal results. Because of its three 120mm fan mounts, it’s one of the coolest Mini ITX case. This case can hold a dual-slot GPU up to 330mm long, a CPU cooler up to 83mm high, and an SFX power supply. You can also build an RTX3080 or R9 5900X rig within this case. You can keep your CPU at its stock clocks while you get a low profile, high-performance air cooling unit like the be silent! Shadow Rock LP, or the Noctua NH-12S.
You can store four 2.5 inch drives with storage drive support. But, it is important to note that a PSU greater than 140mm may make it impossible for one 2.5 inch drive mount to be used. This case can be used with AIO coolers. AIO coolers will not fit due to the limited clearance. You will likely need an air cooler to cool your CPU if this is what you are looking for. The RVZ03 is an excellent vertical as well as a horizontal computer case. It also looks great when used horizontally. The case should not be too hot, so you can monitor the CPU thermals.
Factors to Keep in Mind While Shopping Best Horizontal PC Case
Motherboard
Make sure your case is compatible with the form factor of your motherboard before you consider a horizontal computer case for your PC. Similar to a vertical case, the dimensions of your case need to match the dimensions of your motherboard. Also, you must ensure that your case has enough room for the components you will be attaching to your motherboard during the build.
Form Factor
Make sure your case is compatible with the form factor of your motherboard before you consider a horizontal case for your PC. Similar to a vertical case, the dimensions of your case need to match the dimensions of your motherboard. Also, you must ensure that your case has enough room for the components you will be attaching to your motherboard during the build.
Size
A horizontal case is better than a standard vertical one because of its size. It is important to ensure that the size and dimensions of your horizontal PC cases are appropriate for your workspace before you decide to buy one. Horizontal PC cases are a great way to save space, but they also take up a lot more space in terms of length and width.
Clearance
Like the form factor, it is important to make sure that the horizontal case you choose has sufficient clearance for your CPU, GPU, and PSU. These specifications, as well as the dimensions of the chassis, can be found on manufacturers’ websites. You want to make sure there is enough space to fit everything, but enough to allow for proper airflow. This will not limit future upgrade options.
Front Panel
Front panel features are regularly updated with new USB ports and headphone jacks. Power buttons are also added. This is something you should check before you buy a horizontal case for your PC. The specifications and information about the front panel can be found on most manufacturer’s websites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Are case fans compatible with horizontal PC case?
Many cases have dedicated slots for cooling fans. Even if your PC is horizontal, you still have the option of installing the cooling fans that you prefer. For optimal airflow in your case, ensure that the fans are correctly oriented. The fans that are made for standard PC cases can usually be fitted into a horizontal computer case.
Q2. If space is not a concern, should I opt for a horizontal PC case?
The benefits of horizontal cases go beyond small footprints. It all depends on the build you plan and what your needs are. Horizontal cases are not recommended if you intend to build a gaming rig that is high-end and features all the bells, whistles, and other sports-related goodies. Although you can do many cool things with a vertical case, it is difficult to match the space-saving, display-worthy vertical towers that are available on the market. You should do what is right for you, your build & your budget.
Q3. Will a standard PC work with a horizontal orientation?
Standard PC cases can be used horizontally without any problems. Only one requirement is that all components be placed in a horizontal configuration. There are no moving parts on any of the important PC parts so orientation shouldn’t be a problem. If you want to place the computer case horizontally, it is a good idea to get a quality case.
Q4. Does the PC case need a power supply shroud?
PSU shrouds do not affect the performance of your system or the PSU powering it. However, the PSU shroud does make your computer look cleaner and more attractive. Many users like this feature. A PSU shroud can conceal most of the cables from the PSU. You will be able to organize your cables and customize your PC with dedicated lights or figurines.
Q5. Can horizontal cases be vertically oriented?
It depends on what case you choose and which manufacturer it comes from. Some cases can be used vertically and horizontally. However, if the case is advertised as a horizontal PC case I recommend it to be oriented horizontally. But don’t take my word on it. Look at the manufacturer’s website and read other reviews about your case. Then make a decision. It is possible to damage your components and lose your chance of returning your horizontal case if you buy a case that has been set up horizontally. A vertical tower is better if you need a horizontal PC case, but plan to use it vertically.
