I'm looking to upgrade my current PC case (NZXT H200i) because it feels a bit cramped for my setup. Right now, I have my GPU radiator mounted externally. My goal is to find a case that can fit a 240mm radiator as an exhaust while also accommodating my NH-D15 cooler. It's been tough to find suitable options because most specifications focus on CPU fan and radiator compatibility, and they often seem at odds with each other. For reference, my motherboard is ITX, and I'm using an SFX power supply, but I want to get an ATX case for future upgrades.
3 Answers
There are quite a few options out there! You might want to check out cases like the Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact or the Meshify 3. The Fractal Design Define series (R4, R5, R7) is also solid. The Corsair 4000D is pretty popular as well. In general, any standard ATX case that has a width of at least 170mm should work for fitting both components together.
You mentioned that the specifications often seem mutually exclusive for radiators and CPU fans. But why is that? You’re just mounting a radiator on top that fits, like in your H200i. The case and radiator don’t differentiate between CPU or GPU; they just work as they are.
It’s because there’s a CPU heatsink in the way when trying to fit everything together!
I recommend finding a case that looks cool and then checking the manufacturer's website for the dimensions you need. That way, you can be sure everything will fit.
Yeah, but I've noticed there's usually not enough space above the motherboard to fit the radiator, fans, and the Noctua cooler all together.
But just to clarify, I want to use the radiator as an exhaust with the Noctua cooler installed. I could switch the airflow and put the radiator in front, but that can create other issues.