retro pc cases
Take a trip down memory lane with our selection of retro PC cases! These nostalgic designs bring back the charm of the 80s and 90s, while still offering practical storage solutions for your modern computing needs. Whether you're a fan of the iconic Commodore 64 or the sleek Apple IIc, we've got you covered in our roundup of the best retro PC cases on the market.
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Reviews
Retro Walnut Wood Cooling Fusion PC Case: 4 ARGB Fans & Type-C Port
Experience a fusion of natural elegance and high-performance technology with the Okinos Walnut Wood PC Case. Featuring pre-installed 4 ARGB PWM fans, this case boasts an advanced cooling system and effortless connectivity options for a seamless computing experience. The 35mm gap between the fans and the GPU ensures ample cooling space for even the latest graphics card models. Immerse yourself in the ultimate retro PC case that combines timeless design with modern functionality.
Micro Tower Bubble Pink PC Case with Cooling System and LCD Display
The Thermaltake Tower 300 Bubble Pink Micro Tower Chassis is a stunning, retro-inspired case that houses up to an M-ATX motherboard. Its octagonal prism design not only offers a unique appearance but also supports up to eight fans for optimal cooling. With a separate Chassis Stand Kit purchase, you can elevate your setup for a one-of-a-kind view. This tower chassis is a must-have for those who appreciate both style and functionality in their PC cases.
Thermaltake The Tower 300: Retro Racing Green Micro Tower Chassis
Introducing the Thermaltake Tower 300 Racing Green, a stunning addition to any gaming setup. This sleek micro tower chassis boasts a 4090 GPU compatibility and supports 420mm radiators, ensuring optimal performance and cool temperatures. With its modular design and support for up to 120/140mm fans, this Racing Green gem offers excellent hardware expandability without sacrificing style. Experience the perfect blend of performance and aesthetics with the Thermaltake Tower 300 Racing Green.
ALAMENGDA Retro Mini PC Case with Full Side Glass
Breathe life into your computer build with the ALAMENGDA SUMIX-500 Mini Portable M-ATX/ITX Computer Case. This mini-tower case, featuring full side glass, exudes a nostalgic charm that's perfect for any DIY desktop enthusiast. The case accommodates GPUs up to 320mm in length, ensuring your components stay cool even under heavy workloads with space for a 138mm CPU cooler. This versatile case comes equipped with a power supply length limit of 150mm and includes USB 3.0 and Type-C ports on the front panel. It's the ultimate solution for all your fundamental needs.
HYTE Y60 Snow Modern Midi Tower PC Case with Vertical GPU Mounting and Cold Floor Cooling
Presenting a refined and contemporary appearance, the HYTE Y60 Snow PC Tower Case White showcases a captivating, spacious PC tower that flaunts a remarkable vertical GPU mount. Its layout ensures effortless viewing and cooling, and it boasts a dual-chamber layout that promotes efficient cable management. The cold floor cooling system incorporates unobtrusive lateral vents and three pre-installed Flow FE12 fans, guaranteeing near-silent operation. With versatile compatibility for different motherboard formats, the Y60 is a stunning pick for a powerful, classic-style PC case.
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Retro ATX Mid-Tower PC Case with Advanced Cooling and GPU Compatibility
This versatile mid-tower case by Cooler Master, named TD500 Max, is perfect for accommodating long graphics cards – it can cater up to a 380mm card, when equipped with an AIO on the front. Say goodbye to cluttered cables, as the unique patent of its two-stage power connector simplifies management for a neater build. Keeping the temperature low is made easy thanks to the custom Atmos 360 AIO cooler, 3 Mobius 120P ARGB fans, and the pre-installed GX II Gold 850W ATX 3.0 MAX PSU. The dimensions are conveniently designed for easy handling - 19.65 inches in height, 8.27 inches in width, and 19.69 inches in depth. With plenty of space for 3.5-inch drives, this is a great option for those on the lookout for a reliable retro PC case.
Retro Lian-Li A3-MATX M-ATX Micro Tower Computer Case
Immerse yourself in the world of retro computing with the Lian-Li A3-mATX M-ATX Micro Tower Case. This versatile and stylish case combines the classic wood and black aesthetic with modern features for a unique blend of nostalgia and functionality. Powerful enough to accommodate large components, it's perfect for building a custom M-ATX PC tailored to your needs, all while maintaining a minimalist and minimal chassis size.
NZXT H5 Flow Starfield Edition: Mid-Tower PC Case for Interstellar Expeditions
Embark on a captivating voyage with the NZXT H5 Flow Starfield, a mid-tower case that caters to the adventurous spirit. This stylish and well-ventilated case, designed with unparalleled precision, guarantees a hassle-free building experience. Experience seamless thermal efficiency thanks to its innovative cooling system, which enables you to tackle your expeditions with confidence. Take flight as this case is fully prepared to shelter your cosmic equipment with style and efficiency.
Cooler Master MasterCase H100: Compact, Mesh-Fronted Mini-ITX Gaming PC Case (Black/Iron Gray)
The Cooler Master MasterCase MCM-H100-KANN-S00 is a sleek and versatile PC case, perfect for a variety of builds. Its steel and plastic build enhances its structural integrity, while the mesh front panel allows for efficient airflow and a touch of style. With support for dual-fan cooling and sturdy construction, this case is perfect for portable gaming rigs and compact office setups alike.
Thermaltake Retro Turquoise ATX Gaming PC Case
The Thermaltake Core P6 Turquoise Mid Tower Case stands out with its vibrant turquoise color, inspired by its larger sibling, the Core P8 Full Tower Case. This compact yet powerful case seamlessly transforms from an open-styled design to a closed form, allowing for a versatile and unique build. Featuring an array of modular components, such as Rotational PCI-E Slots and an extra GPU bracket, the Thermaltake Core P6 Turquoise supports a variety of fans and radiators, making it a top choice for a retro computer setup.
RGB Black Steel PC Case with Tempered Glass Side Panel
Experience a vibrant and stylish ATX mid-tower setup with the Bgears b-Vigor RGB computer case. Featuring a sleek black design, this steel and tempered glass case is equipped with a captivating RGB front panel for eye-catching visual appeal. With its compact dimensions and customizable RGB lighting, this computer case is perfect for building a stylish and efficient gaming setup.
Buyer's Guide
Retro PC cases combine the charm of nostalgia with modern functionality, providing a unique computing experience. These cases are designed to rekindle memories of classic computing devices while offering a practical and stylish space to store and safeguard your current computer setup. In this comprehensive guide, we will outline the key aspects to look for when purchasing a retro PC case and offer valuable advice on how to maximize your investment.
Design and Aesthetics
Retro PC cases place a strong emphasis on their unique design and aesthetic appeal, making it a crucial factor to consider when making a purchase. Contemplate factors like the overall shape, color scheme, and materials used in constructing the case. Some retro cases might resemble vintage computing devices, while others could incorporate contemporary design elements with a nostalgic twist. Opt for a case that resonates with your personal style and evokes your fondest memories of computing.
Storage and Expandability
A quality retro PC case should provide ample storage space for your components. Ensure it contains enough bays to accommodate your drives, opticals, and other peripherals. Furthermore, consider the level of expandability the case offers. Will it support future upgrades or allow for the addition of additional components as needed?
Materials and Build Quality
When investing in a retro PC case, it is essential to ensure that it is constructed from high-quality materials and boasts solid build quality. Look for cases made from robust materials like aluminum or steel and inspect them for any signs of poor craftsmanship or construction. A well-built case not only endures the test of time but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your system.
Compatibility and Dimensions
Before making a purchase, confirm that the retro PC case is compatible with your system's components and dimensions. Measure your current setup to ensure it will fit within the case, and that all components, including the motherboard, graphics card, and power supply, are compatible with the case's internal layout. Additionally, verify that any additional accessories or peripherals you intend to use, such as cooling fans or LED lighting elements, will also fit within the case.
FAQ
What are retro PC cases?
Retro PC cases are designer computer cases that aim to emulate the vintage look and feel of classic desktop computers from the past. These cases often feature retro aesthetics, such as wood or plastic textures, and may mimic vintage designs from manufacturers like Apple and IBM. By using these retro cases, users can create a nostalgic computing experience that harks back to the early days of personal computing.
Retro PC cases usually include slots and mounting points for all standard internal components, meaning they can house modern components as well as older hardware. The addition of a retro case can enhance the user experience of an older PC system or even an air-bricked modern computing device. They are perfect for those who want to enjoy the aesthetic appeal of classic computing alongside the functionality of their newer equipment.
How can I tell if a retro PC case will fit my components?
Before purchasing a retro PC case, make sure to measure your computer components and compare them to the dimensions provided by the manufacturer of the case. Pay attention to aspects like motherboard size, optical drive placement, and expansion card clearance. If your components match the dimensions of the case, you should be able to fit them into the case without modification.
In case some of your components are larger or more modern than the case's dimensions, you may need an adapter or consider other alternatives such as replacing the components or downsizing the motherboard. You should consult the case manufacturer's documentation or contact their customer support for further guidance on adapting your components to the retro case.
Can I use a modern computer with a retro PC case?
Absolutely! Retro PC cases are designed to house a wide range of components, both old and new. As long as your modern components fit within the dimensions of the case, you can easily install them, along with your older components. You will typically be able to use an ITX or Micro-ATX motherboard, along with most standard components, such as a graphics card, cooling system, and storage drives.
However, before fitting your modern components, you should thoroughly review the manual and specifications to ensure compatibility with the case. If needed, you may also need to use accessory items like adapters or brackets to fit your components properly. With proper preparation and care, you can successfully place your modern computer into a retro PC case.
What features are commonly found in retro PC cases?
Retro PC cases come with several features to enhance your computing experience, even while emulating the past. Some examples of these features are: customizable lighting, including ambient or RGB LEDs; adjustable fans to regulate cooling and noise; and removable side panels for convenience and easy access to internal components.
Additionally, some retro cases may have built-in USB ports, audio connectors, and LAN jacks on the exterior, providing convenient connectivity for your peripheral devices. Some cases also offer additional support for mounting various optical drives, such as CD, DVD, and Blu-ray drives. Depending on the model, retro cases may be available in various form factors, including tower, mini, and cube styles, to suit different computing needs and preferences.
How can I maintain my retro PC case and components?
To keep your retro PC case and components in optimal condition, it's important to follow some basic maintenance tips. Regularly clean the exterior of the case using a microfiber cloth and a mild cleaning solution, paying attention to dust and fingerprints. It's advisable to avoid using liquids or abrasive materials, as these could damage the finish or surface of the case. Additionally, dust inside the case can impact the performance and lifespan of your components - thus, ensure regular cleaning of the internal components.
To preserve the overall condition of your retro PC case, it's advisable to store it in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight and moisture. This will help minimize the impact of environmental factors such as humidity and temperature fluctuations on the case and its components. If any modifications are made to the interior of the case, ensure they are done with care, and in a clean and well-ventilated environment. When troubleshooting, consult the manufacturer's warranty details and any available guides or documentation to avoid causing further damage to your case or components.
What are some popular retro PC case models?
There are numerous retro PC case models available in the market, each with its unique design and features. Some popular retro cases include: the Apple Macintosh Classic LC case, which is designed to emulate the iconic 1990s Macintosh computers; the IBM ThinkPad T440P laptop case, which offers both a classic laptop design and a retro PC case for internal components; and the Dell Inspiron 1100 notebook case, which is often used for custom-built gaming and retro systems.
When choosing a retro PC case model, consider your preferences, such as size, form factor, desired appearance, and compatibility with your components. Additionally, reading user reviews and researching the reputation of a particular retailer can help ensure you're making an informed decision. Always remember to thoroughly review the case's dimensions, mounting points, and compatibility with your components to ensure a seamless integration into your retro computing setup.
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