Micro-ATX Cases - Shoebox Showdown

Final Words

Smaller and smaller cases are sure to come through our labs as customers clamor for ever more stylish and hidden computers to fit into their homes and offices, and it's nice to say that for the most part, we're still seeing improvements from our perspective. All three cases we looked at here were great examples of putting an emphasis on quiet computing, but in their own right each unit brings a unique offering which deserves recognition.

Priced at an affordable $90, the Ultra MicroFly appealed to us just as much as the Aspire X-QPack, for many of the same reasons. The included 400 watt power supply is beefy enough for most SFF builds, and the noise levels and temperature performance are right up there with some of the very best. If you want to use a different full-size ATX PSU, you can get the case only for as little as $50. The case isn't constructed to the same tolerances as the more expensive models, but for the price paid the quality doesn't disappoint. We have a feeling the option of having the benefits of the Chenming and Aspire layouts without the windows on the sides will become a popular choice for many people.

Available for as low as $100 online, the Antec Aria remains popular probably for its most obvious characteristic: its diminutive dimensions. Such a small size comes with a few tradeoffs, including additional heat and cramped working conditions inside, but nothing says portability like a full-fledged computer that can fit in any decent-sized backpack (we tried). It also includes a power supply powerful enough for its application, and stayed quiet even when heavily loaded. For frequent LAN attendees and recording technicians on the go, the attractiveness of the Aria could be hard to beat.

At the other end of the spectrum is the Rolls Royce of small form factor computer cases, the $275 Qmicra from PC Design Lab. Combining best-in-class manufacturing with a smart layout design, the Qmicra is really the case modder's dream-come-true for a micro-ATX build. Save for the smallest of minor complaints, most of which have already been addressed by the proactive, customer-focused company, the case has hardly anything to complain about besides its luxurious price tag. Considering the fact that the Qmicra doesn't come with any power supply or case fans, its pretty obvious that the market for the case won't be huge and will include mostly enthusiasts very well versed in case design and willing to spend the extra time, effort, and money to build their portable dream machine. On PCDL's website images of modded cases can be found of all varieties, from windows and lights to minimalist designs with stealthy drive bezels made from the aluminum of the drive bay covers. Currently the website allows for a custom configuration of the case for options like thumbscrew and fan grill colors, but the only finish available is a black powder coat which would of course look fairly different from the brushed silver finish on our review sample. You can check all of this out at PCDL's website.

It's great to see variety, and even better to see great values in different price segments regardless of the product type - but for the case industry as a whole, and particularly SFF cases, things are definitely on the right track. Much appreciation should go out to all three units' manufacturers.