So many cases, so many sizes. How, then, do you pick a PC case for your new PC build? Relax, we've got you covered.

If you're looking to build a PC and look at your case options, you might be overwhelmed with the number of available cases to choose from. You'll find several size options from a full tower all the way down to a small form factor PC, as well as different designs and airflows.

But which should you choose? Should you go for the large, flashy one? Or is it better to pick the small, inconspicuous model?

Here's what you need to know when picking out the case for your PC.

There are currently four common computer case sizes: Full Tower, Mid Tower, Mini Tower, and Small Form Factor (SFF). While there are no standardized specifications manufacturers must follow for case sizes, a case's designation is usually determined by its number of 3.5-inch bays. The number of expansion slots at the back of the case also helps determine its size classification.

Here's a table showing the number of bays, expansion slots, and maximum motherboard size each case can accommodate. Note that maximum motherboard size takes precedence when determining case size. So, even if the case you're looking at only has eight expansion slots but can accommodate an EATX motherboard, it can be considered a Full Tower case.

When you're building a computer, a PC case might be the last thing on your mind. However, you shouldn't overlook this, as its size and layout determine what parts you can install. It can also affect the performance of your final build due to thermal issues.

So, when choosing a PC case, here are some things you should consider.

Space is one of the biggest considerations when choosing a PC case. If you only have a small desk and want to keep your CPU on it (or even hanging under the table), then you should go for a small form factor or mini-tower case.

You should also choose the smaller case when placing it on a shelf or in small, cramped spaces, like a sliding cabinet. Many small form factor computers are great for use as a home theater PC. They're also perfect for minimalists who like clean and elegant spaces.

If you're planning to build a full-on gaming PC—running the latest games on the latest hardware at maximum specifications—then the smallest case you should go for is Mid Tower. If you have the space and budget, and if you can find one that fits your aesthetics, a Full Tower case is much more ideal. There are also cases that are specifically built with gaming in mind.

The interior space of these larger cases lets you put in the latest hardware without worrying about space. Their large volume also helps air cooling, allowing you to install numerous fans and heatsinks.

You could even install multiple AIO cooler solutions (one for your CPU and another for your GPU) and have space for two radiators. And, if you want a custom water cooling system, the best way to install it is with a Mid or Full Tower case.

If you're building a server, especially one with a ton of hard drives, lots of RAM, SSDs, and even two processors, then you're only choice is a Full Tower case. It's the only one that will accommodate everything you need and have the interior space to prevent overheating all those components.

But a Small Form Factor case is more than enough if you're planning to use the PC just as a place to store movies or stream to your living room TV. A Mid Tower case should also suffice for more ordinary users who simply use their computers for basic office applications and online browsing but don't want a laptop.

Some users want a small, minimalistic PC but still demand a powerful system. While this is possible with a Small Form Factor or Mini Tower case, you must choose your components carefully. That's because you might run into issues fitting the large footprint of an RTX 3080 Ti video card into a compact case.

Furthermore, you might need a GPU riser cable since Small Form Factor cases usually can't accommodate a video card directly attached to the motherboard.

But if you're running a basic PC—one that runs a processor with integrated graphics and doesn't require massive cooling—a Small Form Factor or Mid Tower case should be more than enough for your needs.

If you're planning to work on the go, a laptop is your ideal solution. But if you have two workstations—say, your office desk and your home office—and need the power of desktop-level chips, then a powerful Small Form Factor case is ideal.

With a Small Form Factor case, you can easily unplug all your peripherals and take the PC between your two work desks. Some of these cases also have built-in handles, allowing you to carry it with one hand. And since they're modular, it's easier to upgrade the storage, RAM, GPU, and processor on these PCs than on laptops.

You can also go for the non-standard Mini PC. However, this even smaller case has more caveats than the slightly larger Small Form Factor case.

The most affordable cases on the market are usually Mini Tower size. So, if you only want something that will work and have no performance or aesthetic considerations, this is the best option. But if you can shell out a little more, consider getting a Mid Tower case, as its bigger size lets you have more performance and upgrade leeway.

Full Tower and Small Form Factor cases are usually on the expensive end of the spectrum. You don't usually need to spend extra with Full Tower cases, as almost all peripherals and cards will fit.

But if you're planning to get a Small Form Factor case, you might need extra or specialized parts. For example, some Small Form Factor cases don't accept standard ATX power supplies. Instead, you have to get an SFX power supply to power it.

A Mid Tower case will suffice for most users' computing needs. But if you're saving money, you should also look at the Mini Tower, as it will provide what you need without breaking the bank. But, if you have the space and want the best possible performance from all your parts, then a Full Tower case might be just what you need.

However, if you're fancy and put a premium on aesthetics, investing in a Small Form Factor case is a definite must.

Jowi is a writer, a career coach, and a pilot. He developed a love for anything PC ever since his father bought a desktop computer when he was 5 years old. From then on, he has been using and maximizing technology in every aspect of his life.

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