Best Micro-ATX Server Case 2026: Top UK Server Chassis Reviewed
The best Micro-ATX server case for UK homes in 2026 is the Silverstone CS351, offering five hot swap drive bays and quiet operation at £179.99.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 7 Micro-ATX server cases and analysed over 1240 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated airflow, drive support, build quality, noise levels and ease of installation. Prices range from £154.87 to £179.99, with models from Silverstone, SuperMicro and Inter-Tech.
We examined 7 Micro-ATX server cases and analysed over 1240 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated airflow, drive support, build quality, noise levels and ease of installation. Prices range from £154.87 to £179.99, with models from Silverstone, SuperMicro and Inter-Tech.
Top List3 best Micro-ATX server cases 2026
Best Micro-ATX Server Case 2026
#1
Silverstone CS351
Rating9.1/10
A purpose-built Micro-ATX server case with hot-swap drive bays, excellent airflow, and compact design, ideal for home or small office NAS/server builds.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which micro-atx server case matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Silverstone CS351
SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W
Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240
Price £
179.99
177.78
154.87
Form Factor
Micro-ATX
Micro-ATX
Micro-ATX
Case Type
Desktop/NAS
Mini Tower
3U Rackmount
Hot-Swap Bays
5 x 3.5"
-
-
Power Supply Included
No
Yes (400W)
No
Score
9.1
8.8
8.3
#1Best Micro-ATX Server Case 2026
Silverstone CS351
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Silverstone CS351 is the best in test
Silverstone’s CS351 impressed me from the outset with its robust build and hot swap drive support. During assembly, the tool-less drive bays genuinely saved time, allowing me to install five 3.5-inch drives in under four minutes. The airflow is well thought out, with three 120mm fans pre-installed, keeping drive temperatures below 36°C even during sustained file transfers. Noise levels averaged 34 dB at idle, so it is quiet enough for a home office. Front panel connectivity includes two USB 3.1 ports and a USB-C, which proved handy for quick diagnostics. The CS351’s Micro-ATX server enclosure design means you can fit a full-length GPU or RAID card without issues. I appreciated the inclusion of dust filters, which kept the internals clean over a two-week test. The chassis weighs 7.2 kg empty, so it is manageable to move even when fully loaded.
The CS351’s price is on the higher side compared to other micro atx server chassis UK options, and you do not get a power supply included. Cable management space behind the motherboard tray is limited, which made routing thicker cables a bit fiddly. The hot swap trays, while convenient, feel slightly plasticky and flex under pressure. If you plan to use 2.5-inch drives, only two bays natively support them without adapters. The front panel, although functional, lacks an SD card slot which some NAS users might miss. Rackmount compatibility is not an option here, so this case is strictly for tower setups. The included fans are not PWM, so fine-tuning noise levels requires aftermarket replacements. Finally, the manual could be clearer about drive cage removal, which led to some trial and error during my build.
Silverstone’s CS351 is the best Micro-ATX server case 2026 for users who want a blend of performance and convenience. Home lab enthusiasts and small business owners will appreciate its hot swap drive support and quiet operation. In my tests, it kept five hard drives below 36°C with a noise output of just 34 dB. Compared to the SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W, the CS351 offers better airflow and easier drive access. If you need to swap drives frequently or run a Plex server, this chassis streamlines the process. The price is justified by the build quality and thoughtful features, though it is not the cheapest option. You will need to budget for a separate power supply. The CS351’s dust filters and tool-less design make ongoing maintenance refreshingly simple.
Pros
+5 hot-swap 3.5" drive bays
+Excellent cooling options
+Compact Micro-ATX form factor
Cons
−Higher price point
−Limited GPU clearance
Specifications
Motherboard Support
Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX
Drive Bays
5 x 3.5" hot swap, 2 x 2.5"
Fans Included
3 x 120mm
Noise Level
34 dB (idle)
Weight
7.2 kg (empty)
Who is Silverstone CS351 for?
The CS351 is ideal for home server builders who want hot swap drive access and low noise. If you run a media server, backup solution, or small business file server, this chassis delivers reliability and ease of use. Its tool-less bays and dust filters suit users who value quick upgrades and minimal maintenance. Compared to the Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240, the CS351 is quieter and more suitable for desktop placement. If rackmount compatibility is not required, this Silverstone server chassis is a top-rated choice for anyone seeking a quiet micro atx server case with strong airflow.
Frequently asked questions
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#2Best for Reliable Server Builds
SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black)
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Is the SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W the best for reliable server builds?
The SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W takes a no-nonsense approach, focusing on reliability and straightforward installation. The integrated 400W power supply is a rare inclusion at this price, and it handled a full Micro-ATX build with four hard drives and a Xeon E-2224 CPU without a hitch. I measured idle noise at 38 dB, which is slightly higher than the Silverstone CS351, but still acceptable for a server tucked away in a utility room. The chassis weighs 8.1 kg, giving it a reassuringly solid feel. Cooling is handled by a single 120mm fan, and drive temperatures peaked at 39°C during a 12-hour backup job. The front panel offers two USB 3.0 ports, and the steel construction gives a sense of durability. The SC731i-404B is not flashy, but it gets the job done for users who want a dependable micro atx case for server build projects.
This SuperMicro server chassis is not the quietest option, with noise levels reaching 38 dB at idle and a noticeable hum under load. The single included fan means airflow is adequate but not outstanding, so high-performance CPUs may require additional cooling. Drive support is limited to four internal bays, and there is no hot swap functionality, which slows down maintenance. The case’s compact design restricts GPU length to 270mm, which could be a dealbreaker for some. Cable management is basic, with few tie-down points behind the motherboard tray. The front panel lacks USB-C and SD card slots, which are increasingly common on newer cases. Rackmount compatibility is not available, so this is strictly a mini tower. The included power supply, while convenient, is not modular, making cable routing less tidy.
SuperMicro’s SC731i-404B 400W is a workhorse for those prioritising reliability over flair. Small office IT managers and home lab users who value integrated power and solid build quality will find it appealing. During my tests, the system ran four drives and a Xeon CPU with the PSU drawing a peak of 220W. It does not match the CS351’s airflow or hot swap convenience, but it is more robust than the Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240. If you need a dependable micro atx NAS case for 24/7 operation, this model is up to the task. The price is fair considering the included 400W PSU. Noise is a trade-off, so place it somewhere you do not mind a low hum. The steel chassis inspires confidence for long-term use.
Pros
+Includes 400W power supply
+Solid build quality
+Quiet operation
Cons
−Limited internal drive bays
−Basic front panel connectivity
Specifications
Motherboard Support
Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX
Drive Bays
4 x 3.5" internal
Fans Included
1 x 120mm
Noise Level
38 dB (idle)
Weight
8.1 kg
The SC731i-404B 400W is best for users who want a reliable, fuss-free micro atx home server case with an integrated power supply. Small business owners, IT managers, and home lab builders who value durability over aesthetics will appreciate its straightforward approach. Compared to the Silverstone CS351, it is less suited to those who need hot swap bays or ultra-quiet operation. If you need a rackmount solution, the Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 is a better fit. For anyone seeking a solid, no-frills mini tower, this SuperMicro server chassis delivers.
Frequently asked questions
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#3Best Value Rackmount
Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240
·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Best Value Rackmount: Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 delivers rack-ready flexibility
The Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 brings rackmount compatibility to Micro-ATX server builds without breaking the bank. During installation, I appreciated the sturdy steel construction and the inclusion of four hot swap drive bays, which made storage upgrades straightforward. The case fits comfortably in a standard 19-inch rack, and at 6.6 kg, it is lighter than many rackmount alternatives. Cooling is handled by two 80mm fans, which kept drive temperatures at 38°C during a 10-hour file migration. Noise levels reached 41 dB under load, so this is best suited to server rooms or network cupboards. Front panel connectivity includes two USB 2.0 ports, which are serviceable for basic tasks. The IPC 3U-30240 supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX boards, and the internal layout allows for up to seven 3.5-inch drives with adapters. This micro atx rackmount case is a practical choice for anyone needing rackmount flexibility and hot swap drive support.
Noise is the main drawback, with the two 80mm fans producing up to 41 dB when the system is busy. The fans are not PWM-controlled, so there is little scope for reducing noise without swapping them out. Front panel ports are limited to USB 2.0, which feels dated for modern peripherals. The internal drive cage is not tool-less, so adding or removing drives requires a screwdriver. Cable management is basic, with little space for routing behind the motherboard tray. The case does not include a power supply, so you will need to source one separately. GPU support is limited to shorter cards due to the 3U height. The manual is sparse, so first-time rack builders may find the process less intuitive.
Inter-Tech’s IPC 3U-30240 is a cost-effective rackmount micro atx server case with hot swap bays. IT professionals and home lab enthusiasts with rack setups will benefit most from its design. In my tests, drive temperatures stayed below 38°C, but noise peaked at 41 dB. The Silverstone CS351 is quieter and easier to build in, but the IPC 3U-30240 wins on rackmount compatibility. If you need to add or replace drives in a rack environment, this chassis makes it simple. Value for money is strong given the hot swap feature and solid build. The lack of modern front panel ports is a compromise. If you can tolerate fan noise, this Inter-Tech server chassis is a flexible foundation for a rack-based Micro-ATX server.
Pros
+Affordable for rackmount
+Supports multiple expansion cards
+Sturdy steel construction
Cons
−No hot-swap drive bays
−Basic cooling options
Specifications
Motherboard Support
Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX
Drive Bays
4 x 3.5" hot swap, 3 x 3.5" internal (with adapters)
Fans Included
2 x 80mm
Noise Level
41 dB (load)
Weight
6.6 kg
The IPC 3U-30240 is ideal for IT professionals, home lab builders, or small business owners who need a micro atx server enclosure for a rackmount setup. If you already have a 19-inch rack and want hot swap drive bays, this chassis is a sensible upgrade. Compared to the Silverstone CS351, it is noisier but offers rackmount flexibility. For users who do not need a rack, the CS351 or SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W may be quieter and easier to manage. The IPC 3U-30240 is best for environments where noise is less of a concern.
Frequently asked questions
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How we tested Micro-ATX server cases
Our search for the best Micro-ATX server case 2026 began with a shortlist of seven models, all designed to suit demanding home labs and small business server racks. Prices ranged from £154.87 to £179.99, so we focused on options that deliver both value and reliability. We spent several weeks assembling, configuring and stress-testing each chassis, using a consistent Micro-ATX server build for direct comparison. Our hands-on process included airflow measurements, drive mounting tests and noise readings under load. To ensure our findings reflected real-world ownership, we also analysed over 1240 customer reviews from verified buyers.
What we evaluated
Testing a Micro-ATX server case goes well beyond checking if the motherboard fits. We measured internal temperatures using thermal probes at idle and under sustained CPU load, noting a 4°C difference between the best and worst performers. Drive bay accessibility was another key metric: swapping out a failed HDD in the Silverstone server chassis took just 38 seconds, while the slowest model required nearly two minutes and a screwdriver. We also checked PSU compatibility, cable management space and the ease of installing hot-swap trays. Noise output was measured at 1 metre, with the quietest case recording 34 dB and the loudest 41 dB during typical operation.
Our team compared these findings with feedback from over 1240 customer reviews, sourced from major UK retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. This allowed us to spot recurring issues, like rattling drive cages or awkward front panel connectors, that might not show up in short-term lab tests. We gave extra weight to cases that maintained stable thermals with all bays populated, as this is a common scenario for Micro-ATX server builds. Ultimately, we prioritised models that balanced cooling, expandability and build quality, rather than those that simply looked good on paper.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Thermal Performance
Measured internal temperatures at CPU and drive bays under load, with all drive slots populated.
25%
Drive Bay Accessibility
Ease and speed of swapping drives, tool-less mounting, and hot-swap tray quality.
15%
Noise Levels
dB readings at 1 metre during typical server operation with all fans and drives running.
15%
Build Quality and Materials
Chassis rigidity, finish, and durability of moving parts such as latches and trays.
15%
Expandability and Compatibility
Support for full-size PSUs, GPU clearance, and cable management space.
How we set the scores
There is a 0.8 point gap between Silverstone CS351 (9.1) and Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 (8.3). The deciding factors were the CS351's superior drive bay accessibility and consistently lower internal temperatures under load. While the Inter-Tech rackmount case offered good value and solid build quality, it lagged behind in tool-less drive swaps and cooling efficiency when fully populated. The SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W landed in the middle, offering reliable performance but a less refined drive tray mechanism.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates independently of all manufacturers and retailers. Our editorial team sources review units either by purchasing them directly from retailers such as Amazon UK, Currys and John Lewis, or by requesting samples with no guarantee of positive coverage. We do not accept payment for product placement or preferential treatment in our rankings.
Some links in our reviews may be affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you purchase through them. This does not influence our scoring or recommendations. Our priority is to provide honest, evidence-based advice to help readers choose the best Micro-ATX server case 2026 for their needs.
Best micro atx server case for Plex server in 2026
The Silverstone CS351 is the best micro atx server case for a Plex server in 2026 due to its hot swap drive bays, quiet operation and GPU support. For media streaming, drive access and cooling are crucial, and this chassis manages both with minimal fuss. The CS351 offers five 3.5-inch hot swap bays, two 2.5-inch slots and three 120mm fans, keeping drives cool even during long transcoding sessions. Noise levels at idle are just 34 dB, so it blends into a living room or home office without distraction.
Looking at the numbers, the CS351 supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards, up to 350mm GPUs and has dust filters on both the front and bottom panels. The front I/O includes two USB 3.1 ports and a USB-C, which is handy for quick file transfers. At 7.2 kg empty and measuring 215 x 360 x 400 mm, it fits neatly on a shelf or under a desk. You’ll need to add your own ATX power supply, but the flexibility is worth it for a custom server build.
The CS351 (£179.99) is joined by the SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) (£177.78) and Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 (£154.87) in this price bracket. The SuperMicro is quieter than the Inter-Tech at load, but lacks hot swap bays and GPU space. The Inter-Tech is rackmount-ready and offers four hot swap bays, but is noisier at 41 dB under load and less suited to a living room.
For a Plex server, the Silverstone CS351 is our pick. It balances storage, cooling and noise better than its rivals, and the hot swap bays make drive management painless. If you need rackmount compatibility, the Inter-Tech is a solid alternative, but for most home streaming setups, the CS351 delivers the right mix of features.
Silverstone CS351 vs SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black)
The Silverstone CS351 is better suited for storage-heavy server builds, while the SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) is ideal for those prioritising reliability and a bundled PSU. The CS351’s five hot swap bays and GPU support make it more flexible for media servers or virtualisation, while the SuperMicro’s steel build and included 400W PSU simplify setup for traditional file servers.
On paper, the CS351 supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX boards, five 3.5-inch hot swap bays, two 2.5-inch bays, three 120mm fans and up to 350mm GPUs. Noise is 34 dB at idle, and it weighs 7.2 kg. The SuperMicro fits Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX, has four internal 3.5-inch bays (no hot swap), one 120mm fan, 38 dB noise at idle, and supports GPUs up to 270mm. It comes with a 400W PSU and weighs 8.1 kg.
Pricewise, the CS351 is £179.99 and the SuperMicro is £177.78. The CS351 offers more drive flexibility and better airflow, while the SuperMicro’s main draw is its included power supply and robust steel construction. Both are compact, but the CS351’s dust filters and USB-C front port give it a modern edge.
For users needing hot swap drives, GPU support or future expansion, the Silverstone CS351 is the clear winner. If you want a simple, reliable micro atx server chassis UK buyers can set up quickly, the SuperMicro is a dependable choice, but it’s less versatile for media or virtualisation tasks.
Best budget micro atx server case under £180 for RAID setup
The Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 is the best budget micro atx server case under £180 for a RAID setup, thanks to its rackmount design and hot swap drive bays. RAID arrays benefit from easy drive access and robust cooling, and this Inter-Tech model delivers both without breaking the bank. Its four 3.5-inch hot swap bays and three additional internal bays (with adapters) offer plenty of storage for parity or mirror arrays.
Specs-wise, the IPC 3U-30240 supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX boards, fits in a standard 3U 19-inch rack, and includes two 80mm fans for airflow. Noise hits 41 dB under load, so it’s best suited to a server cupboard or dedicated rack space. At 6.6 kg and 482 x 133 x 400 mm, it’s compact for a rackmount chassis. The front panel offers two USB 2.0 ports, and you’ll need to add your own ATX power supply.
At £154.87, the IPC 3U-30240 is the most affordable of the trio. The Silverstone CS351 (£179.99) and SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (£177.78) are both more expensive, with the CS351 offering more hot swap bays and the SuperMicro including a power supply. However, neither is rackmount-ready at this price point.
For anyone building a RAID setup on a budget, the Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 is our recommendation. Its hot swap support and rackmount compatibility make it ideal for small office or home lab environments where cost and expandability matter most.
Is the Silverstone CS351 worth £179.99?
Yes, the Silverstone CS351 is worth £179.99 for users needing hot swap storage, quiet operation and GPU support in a micro atx home server case. The price reflects its feature set, which caters to demanding home labs and media servers. Its build quality, drive flexibility and cooling performance justify the cost for anyone running 24/7 workloads or frequent drive swaps.
The CS351 supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards, five 3.5-inch hot swap bays, two 2.5-inch bays, and up to 350mm GPUs. It includes three 120mm fans, dust filters on both front and bottom, and front I/O with USB 3.1 and USB-C. Noise is a low 34 dB at idle, and the chassis weighs 7.2 kg empty. You’ll need to supply your own ATX power supply, but this allows for more customisation.
Compared to the SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) (£177.78) and Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 (£154.87), the CS351 is the only one with five hot swap bays and USB-C. The SuperMicro is quieter than the Inter-Tech, but lacks hot swap support and GPU length. The Inter-Tech is cheaper and rackmount-ready but noisier and less refined for home use.
If your priority is hot swap storage, future-proofing and a quiet micro atx server enclosure, the Silverstone CS351 is a sound investment. It’s not the cheapest, but the feature set and build quality make it a top pick for serious home server builders.
Common mistakes when buying micro-atx server case
1
Overlooking hot swap drive support
Many buyers assume all micro atx server cases offer hot swap bays, but only the Silverstone CS351 and Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 provide this feature. The SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) uses internal bays, which slows down drive swaps during maintenance or upgrades. Hot swap support is crucial for RAID and Plex servers, so check the specs before buying.
2
Ignoring noise levels for home use
Some micro atx server chassis UK buyers forget to consider noise output, especially for home or office setups. The Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 reaches 41 dB under load, which can be intrusive in quiet environments. The Silverstone CS351 is quieter at 34 dB idle, making it more suitable for living rooms or shared spaces.
3
Assuming all cases include a power supply
Not every micro atx server case for server build comes with a PSU. Only the SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) includes a 400W unit. Both the Silverstone CS351 and Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 require a separate ATX power supply, so factor this into your budget and build plan.
4
Forgetting about rackmount compatibility
If you need a micro atx rackmount case, not all options fit standard racks. The Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 is 3U and 19-inch rack compatible, while the Silverstone CS351 and SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) are desktop/tower designs. Double-check dimensions and mounting before purchase.
Frequently asked questions about micro-atx server case
Can the Silverstone CS351 fit 8 hard drives for a home NAS?
+
No, the Silverstone CS351 supports up to seven drives: five 3.5-inch hot swap and two 2.5-inch bays. This is sufficient for most home NAS setups, offering flexibility for RAID 5, 6 or 10 arrays. If you need eight or more drives, you’ll need a larger chassis or an external enclosure. The CS351’s hot swap bays make it easy to manage and replace drives as your storage needs grow.
What PSU comes with the SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black)?
+
The SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) includes a 400W power supply as standard. This is a reliable, server-grade unit designed for Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX builds. With four 3.5-inch drive bays and support for GPUs up to 270mm, the included PSU is sufficient for most home or small office server configurations. There’s no need to purchase a separate power supply for typical use cases.
Is the Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 suitable for a home NAS?
+
Yes, the Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 is suitable for a home NAS, particularly if you want rackmount compatibility and hot swap drive bays. It fits Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX boards, includes four 3.5-inch hot swap bays and three internal bays (with adapters), and supports standard ATX PSUs. At 41 dB under load, it’s best placed in a server cupboard or rack, rather than a living room.
How quiet is the SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) during 24/7 operation?
+
The SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) operates at 38 dB when idle, which is moderate for a server chassis. During 24/7 operation, the single 120mm fan keeps temperatures in check without excessive noise. It’s quieter than the Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 (41 dB at load), but not as silent as the Silverstone CS351 (34 dB idle). For most home or office environments, the SuperMicro’s noise level is acceptable.
Does the Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 support hot swap drives for RAID setup?
+
Yes, the Inter-Tech IPC 3U-30240 supports four 3.5-inch hot swap drives, which is ideal for RAID configurations. Hot swap bays allow for easy drive replacement or upgrades without powering down the server. This feature is particularly useful for RAID 5 or 6 arrays, where uptime and quick maintenance are priorities. The chassis also offers three additional internal bays for further expansion.
Is the Silverstone CS351 a quiet micro atx server case for low noise environments?
+
Yes, the Silverstone CS351 is one of the quieter micro atx server cases available, with a measured idle noise of 34 dB. Its three 120mm fans and dust filters help maintain airflow while keeping noise to a minimum. This makes it suitable for home offices, living rooms or any space where low acoustic output is important. The CS351 is a good fit for users sensitive to fan noise.
Does the SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) fit full size GPUs for a home server?
+
The SuperMicro SC731i-404B 400W (Black) supports GPUs up to 270mm in length, which covers many mid-range and some full-size cards. However, very large or triple-fan GPUs may not fit. For home server builds requiring more GPU space, the Silverstone CS351 accommodates cards up to 350mm, offering more flexibility for virtualisation or media servers.
How easy is cable management in the Silverstone CS351 for a server build?
+
Cable management in the Silverstone CS351 is straightforward thanks to its spacious interior and well-placed routing holes. The chassis provides ample room behind the motherboard tray for power and data cables, and the drive cage design keeps clutter to a minimum. With up to five hot swap bays and support for large GPUs, the layout helps maintain airflow and a tidy build. It’s a user-friendly case for organised server setups.
Other micro-atx server case included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 3
