Compact Atx Cases: Composition, Classification, and Industrial Applications

Types of Compact ATX Cases

A compact ATX case is a space-efficient computer chassis designed to accommodate an ATX motherboard while minimizing footprint and volume. These cases are ideal for users who want full-featured desktop performance without the bulk of traditional tower cases. Whether for gaming, home offices, or compact workstations, choosing the right type of compact ATX case ensures optimal component compatibility, airflow, and system longevity.

Mini Tower ATX Case

A compact yet versatile option that strikes a balance between size and expandability. Mini tower cases are slightly smaller than mid-towers but still offer sufficient internal space for standard ATX motherboards, full-size GPUs, and multiple storage drives.

Advantages

• Supports full ATX motherboards
• Adequate space for high-performance components
• Good cable management options
• Easier to fit on desks or under monitors

Limitations

• Larger than micro or ultra-compact cases
• Limited vertical clearance in tight spaces
• May restrict use of oversized coolers or PSUs

Best for: Gamers and power users needing ATX features in a manageable size

Micro ATX Case

Designed specifically for Micro ATX motherboards (typically 9.6" x 9.6"), these cases are significantly smaller than full ATX enclosures while still offering strong performance potential. They support shorter GPUs and smaller PSUs, making them ideal for compact builds.

Advantages

• Space-saving design without sacrificing core functionality
• Lower cost than full-tower alternatives
• Suitable for SFF (Small Form Factor) builds
• Often includes modern features like USB-C and mesh fronts

Limitations

• Reduced expansion slots (usually 2–4)
• Limited room for large coolers or radiators
• Fewer drive bays and storage options

Best for: Home offices, media centers, and budget-friendly compact PCs

Compact ATX Case

These cases are engineered to house a standard ATX motherboard in a minimal footprint. Despite their narrow and often shallow designs, they maintain compatibility with full-sized components through clever engineering, vertical GPU mounts, or modular layouts.

Advantages

• Full ATX motherboard support in a small chassis
• Ideal for space-constrained environments
• Modern aesthetics with clean, minimalist profiles
• Often supports up to 300mm GPUs and 240mm radiators

Limitations

• Tight installation process due to limited clearance
• May require low-profile or SFX power supplies
• Thermal management can be challenging without proper planning

Best for: Enthusiasts seeking full ATX capabilities in a desktop-friendly size

Hybrid Compact ATX Case

Featuring modular interiors, hybrid cases allow users to reconfigure or remove internal components such as drive cages, fan brackets, or PSU shrouds. This flexibility enables customization based on build priorities—whether it's maximizing airflow, adding liquid cooling, or optimizing cable routing.

Advantages

• Highly customizable interior layout
• Supports both air and liquid cooling setups
• Easy upgrades and maintenance
• Improved airflow when components are removed

Limitations

• Higher price point due to advanced design
• Assembly may require more time and planning
• Modularity can lead to unused space if not optimized

Best for: Builders who value flexibility, future upgrades, and personalized configurations

Case Type	Size	Motherboard Support	Expandability	Ideal Use Case
Mini Tower ATX	Medium	ATX, Micro-ATX	High	Gaming, general performance desktops
Micro ATX	Small	Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX	Medium	Home office, media PCs, budget builds
Compact ATX	Small-Medium	ATX, Micro-ATX	Medium	Space-saving desktops with full ATX features
Hybrid Compact	Small-Medium	ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX	High (Modular)	Custom builds, upgradable systems, cooling-focused setups

Expert Tip: When building in a compact ATX case, prioritize component dimensions—especially GPU length, CPU cooler height, and PSU compatibility. Measuring your parts before assembly prevents frustration and ensures optimal fit and cooling performance.

Industry Trends in Compact ATX Cases: Innovation, Design, and Sustainability

Compact ATX (Advanced Technology Extended) cases have evolved significantly in recent years, driven by changing consumer demands, technological advancements, and environmental awareness. These mid-sized enclosures offer a balance between space efficiency and expandability, making them ideal for gaming rigs, home workstations, and compact high-performance builds. As the PC hardware ecosystem advances, so too do the design philosophies and engineering innovations behind Compact ATX cases. Below are the most influential trends shaping the current and future landscape of this dynamic market.

Increased Popularity of Gaming PCs

The surge in gaming popularity—fueled by esports, streaming platforms, and demanding AAA titles—has led to a significant increase in demand for high-performance gaming PCs. Gamers require systems capable of handling powerful GPUs, multi-core CPUs, and fast storage, all while maintaining reliability and visual appeal.

Compact ATX cases meet these needs by offering sufficient internal space for full-sized components, support for advanced cooling solutions, and room for future upgrades. Their standardized dimensions allow compatibility with a wide range of motherboards, power supplies, and expansion cards, making them a versatile choice for both entry-level and enthusiast builds.

Additionally, modern gaming-focused cases emphasize aesthetics with features like tempered glass side panels, customizable RGB lighting, and clean cable management systems, allowing users to showcase their hardware while maintaining optimal performance.

Rise of Vertical Designs

One of the most notable shifts in case design is the growing popularity of vertical tower configurations. Unlike traditional horizontal layouts, vertical Compact ATX cases orient the motherboard and GPU in an upright position, resembling a mini-tower or even a media console.

This design offers several advantages: improved airflow dynamics due to natural convection, enhanced visibility of components (especially vertically mounted GPUs), and better space utilization on desks with limited footprint. Many vertical cases also include dedicated GPU brackets or riser cables to ensure stability and reduce strain on PCIe slots.

Aesthetically, vertical cases stand out with sleek, modern profiles that blend well in living rooms or minimalist workspaces. They also facilitate creative lighting setups and are increasingly favored by content creators and streamers who value both form and function.

Emphasis on Eco-Friendly Materials

Sustainability has become a key consideration in the tech industry, and PC case manufacturers are responding by adopting eco-conscious practices. Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of electronics, prompting brands to explore recyclable materials, reduce plastic use, and minimize carbon footprints in production.

Leading manufacturers are incorporating steel and aluminum with high recycled content, using water-based paints, and eliminating harmful chemicals from finishes. Some companies are also designing cases for easier disassembly and recycling at end-of-life, aligning with circular economy principles.

Certifications such as RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and EPEAT (Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool) are becoming more common, signaling a brand’s commitment to green manufacturing. This trend not only appeals to environmentally conscious buyers but also enhances brand reputation and long-term market competitiveness.

Enhanced Cooling Solutions

As CPUs and GPUs become more powerful, they generate more heat—especially in compact builds where airflow can be restricted. To combat thermal throttling and maintain system stability, manufacturers are integrating advanced cooling solutions directly into Compact ATX case designs.

Modern cases now support multiple fan configurations (often up to 120mm or 140mm), include optimized venting patterns, and offer dedicated mounting points for liquid cooling radiators (up to 240mm or 360mm in larger compact models). Mesh front panels have become standard in many designs, significantly improving air intake without compromising dust protection.

Thermal management is further enhanced through intelligent layout planning—such as separating power supplies and drives from critical components, elevating motherboards for underfloor airflow, and incorporating modular shrouds that can be removed for better ventilation. These innovations ensure that even densely packed systems remain cool and efficient under load.

Tool-less Design Features

User-friendly design has taken center stage, with a strong emphasis on tool-less installation mechanisms. These features simplify the building and upgrading process, making PC assembly more accessible to beginners while saving time for experienced builders.

Common tool-less innovations include snap-in drive trays, sliding GPU supports, quick-release side panels, and modular motherboard trays. Cable routing is also streamlined with pre-installed rubber grommets, Velcro straps, and spacious behind-the-motherboard channels.

These design elements not only improve build efficiency but also contribute to cleaner internal layouts, which enhance airflow and aesthetic appeal. As the DIY PC market expands beyond hardcore enthusiasts to include casual users and first-time builders, tool-less functionality will remain a key differentiator in competitive product offerings.

Trend	Key Benefits	Examples in Market
Gaming-Centric Design	Support for high-end GPUs, RGB lighting, tempered glass	FSP Vertex, NZXT H510, Lian Li Lancool II Mesh
Vertical Orientation	Better airflow, space-saving, aesthetic appeal	Phanteks Enthoo Evolv X, Corsair 7000D Airflow (vertical mod)
Sustainable Materials	Reduced environmental impact, recyclability	Fractal Design (eco-conscious line), SilverStone’s recycled steel models
Advanced Cooling	Thermal efficiency, overclocking support	be quiet! Pure Base 500DX, Cooler Master MB520
Tool-less Assembly	Ease of use, faster builds, cleaner interiors	Thermaltake Versa H18, Deepcool MATREXX 40

Important: When selecting a Compact ATX case, consider not only current hardware needs but also future upgrade paths. Prioritize airflow, build quality, and ease of access. Staying informed about industry trends ensures you invest in a case that balances performance, sustainability, and longevity in an ever-evolving tech landscape.

Specifications and Features of Compact ATX Cases

Compact ATX cases offer a balance between full-sized desktop performance and space-saving design, making them ideal for home offices, compact gaming rigs, and media centers. These enclosures support standard components while optimizing internal layout for efficient airflow and cable management. Understanding their specifications and proper usage ensures optimal system performance, longevity, and ease of maintenance.

Form Factor & Compatibility

Compact ATX cases are engineered to support a range of motherboard sizes without sacrificing essential features. While compact in external dimensions, they maintain compatibility with full ATX standards where possible.

• Supported Motherboards: Full ATX (12" x 9.6"), Micro-ATX (9.6" x 9.6"), and Mini-ATX, ensuring flexibility across builds
• Mounting Precision: Integrated standoffs and alignment guides prevent short circuits and ensure secure fitment
• Internal Layout: Optimized chassis design maximizes usable space for CPU coolers, GPUs, and storage drives

Key consideration: Always verify motherboard compatibility using case specifications before assembly

Build Materials & Durability

The choice of materials directly impacts the case’s weight, durability, thermal performance, and acoustic properties. Most high-quality compact cases use a combination of materials for optimal balance.

• Steel Chassis: Provides structural rigidity and reduces vibrations; commonly used for the internal frame
• Aluminum Panels: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, often used for side panels and front bezels
• Tempered Glass: Featured on modern cases for aesthetic appeal and visibility of internal components
• Plastic Components: Used sparingly for non-structural parts like drive trays or I/O covers

Pro tip: Look for SECC (Steel, Electrogalvanized, Cold-Rolled, Coated) steel for superior durability and anti-rust properties

Cooling & Airflow Design

Despite limited space, compact ATX cases are designed with intelligent airflow management to prevent thermal throttling and ensure component longevity.

• Fan Support: Typically includes 1–2 pre-installed fans (120mm or 140mm), with additional mounts for intake and exhaust
• Liquid Cooling: Many models support radiators up to 240mm or 280mm on the top or front panel
• Ventilation: Mesh front panels and strategically placed vents enhance passive airflow
• Dust Filters: Magnetic or removable filters on intake fans reduce dust accumulation

Critical factor: Ensure clearance for CPU air coolers (often up to 160mm) and GPU length (up to 330mm)

Expansion & Storage Options

Modern compact ATX cases offer generous expandability despite their size, supporting a wide range of storage and add-on cards.

• Expansion Slots: Usually 7 slots to accommodate high-end GPUs and additional PCIe devices
• Storage Bays: Supports 2–4 drives including 3.5" HDDs and 2.5" SSDs, often tool-less for easy installation
• Optical Drive Support: Some models retain 5.25" bays for DVD/Blu-ray drives or fan controllers
• Modular Trays: Removable drive cages allow for custom configurations and better cable routing

Smart choice: Choose cases with vertical GPU mounting options for enhanced aesthetics and airflow

I/O Panel & Connectivity

The front-facing I/O panel provides convenient access to essential ports, improving user experience and peripheral connectivity.

• USB Ports: At minimum, two USB 3.0 Type-A ports; premium models include USB 3.2 Gen 2 and USB-C
• Audio Jacks: Standard 3.5mm headphone and microphone inputs for headsets and microphones
• Power & Reset: Tactile buttons with LED indicators for system status
• Additional Features: Some cases include quick-access buttons for fan speed control or RGB lighting modes

Note: USB-C ports are increasingly standard for high-speed data transfer and device charging

Cable Management & Interior Design

Efficient cable routing is crucial in compact cases to maintain airflow and a clean appearance.

• Routing Cutouts: Multiple rubber-grommeted holes behind the motherboard tray for clean wire passage
• Velcro Straps & Ties: Included or built-in solutions for securing cables
• PSU Shroud: Hides the power supply and cables, improving aesthetics and airflow separation
• Space Behind Tray: Minimum 15–20mm clearance for hiding excess cables and extensions

Time-saving tip: Use flat or braided cables for easier routing in tight spaces

Installation Guide: Step-by-Step

• 1. Prepare the Case: Remove both side panels using thumbscrews or tools. Lay the case on a non-conductive surface to prevent static damage.
• 2. Install the Power Supply: Slide the PSU into the designated shroud (top or bottom), align screw holes, and secure with four screws. Ensure the fan faces downward (if bottom-mounted) or toward ventilation (top-mounted) for optimal cooling.
• 3. Pre-build the Motherboard: Before mounting, install the CPU, CPU cooler, RAM, and M.2 SSDs onto the motherboard outside the case to avoid workspace constraints.
• 4. Mount the Motherboard: Align the I/O shield with the cutout, insert the motherboard into standoffs, and secure with screws. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damage.
• 5. Install Storage and GPU: Slide SSDs/HDDs into drive bays and secure with clips or screws. Insert the GPU into the PCIe x16 slot, press firmly until it clicks, and fasten to the case with screws.
• 6. Connect All Cables: Connect 24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU, GPU PCIe, SATA power, and front-panel headers. Route cables through rear channels and secure with ties to maintain airflow.

Pro advice: Test the system on a bench before final assembly to confirm boot capability and component functionality.

Maintenance & Long-Term Care

• Regular Dusting: Clean internal components every 3–6 months using compressed air or soft brushes. Focus on fans, heatsinks, and filters to prevent overheating.
• Cable Management Check: Re-tighten loose cables and re-route any that obstruct airflow or touch fans.
• Temperature Monitoring: Use software like HWMonitor or SpeedFan to track CPU/GPU temps. Sudden spikes may indicate cooling issues.
• Fan Replacement: Replace worn or noisy fans every 3–5 years. Match voltage (12V), size (120mm/140mm), and connector type (3-pin/4-pin PWM).
• Hardware Inspection: Periodically check for signs of wear, bulging capacitors, or loose connections on GPU, PSU, and drives.

Preventive tip: Keep the case away from carpets and walls to ensure adequate airflow and reduce dust intake.

Professional Recommendation: When selecting a compact ATX case, prioritize airflow, build quality, and cable management over aesthetics. A well-ventilated, durable case will outperform flashy designs in the long run. For users upgrading components frequently, choose models with modular interiors and tool-less drive bays for easier access. Always verify compatibility with your GPU length, CPU cooler height, and radiator size before purchase.

Feature	Standard Range	Premium Range	Notes
Supported Motherboards	Micro-ATX, ATX	ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX	Check clearance for ATX mounting holes
GPU Clearance	300–320mm	Up to 360mm	Measure your graphics card before buying
CPU Cooler Height	155–165mm	Up to 180mm	Affects air cooler compatibility
Fan Support	2–3 x 120mm	Up to 6 fans + radiator mounts	Premium models support 280mm radiators
Storage Bays	2x 3.5", 2x 2.5"	4x 3.5"/2.5" (tool-less)	Some use brackets instead of trays

Additional Considerations

• Noise Reduction: Cases with sound-dampening foam lining reduce operational noise, ideal for office or bedroom setups
• RGB Lighting: Built-in addressable RGB strips or support for third-party lighting enhance visual appeal
• Tool-less Design: Quick-release drive trays and thumbscrews simplify upgrades and maintenance
• PSU Clearance: Bottom-mounted PSUs with shrouds save space and improve airflow separation
• Brand Reputation: Trusted brands like Fractal Design, NZXT, and Corsair offer better build quality and customer support

Quality and Safety Considerations for Compact ATX Cases

Selecting a high-quality Compact ATX (Advanced Technology Extended) case is essential for ensuring the longevity, performance, and safety of your PC build. Due to their smaller footprint, these cases present unique challenges in terms of airflow, component clearance, and structural rigidity. This guide explores the key factors—material quality, structural integrity, safety features, and thermal management—that should be evaluated when choosing and maintaining a compact ATX chassis.

Safety Warning: Always power down and unplug your system before performing internal cleaning or maintenance. Use anti-static precautions such as grounding straps or touching unpainted metal to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) that could damage sensitive components.

Quality of Materials

The materials used in constructing a Compact ATX case significantly influence its durability, weight, and thermal properties. Most cases are made from SECC (Steel, Electrogalvanized, Cold-Rolled, Coated), which offers excellent strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to corrosion. Higher-end models may incorporate aluminum or tempered glass for aesthetic appeal and improved heat dissipation. Avoid cases made from thin, low-gauge steel or brittle plastics, as they offer poor protection and can warp under heat stress.

Maintaining cleanliness is crucial in compact builds due to limited internal space. Dust accumulation can obstruct airflow, insulate heat-generating components, and reduce cooling efficiency. To prevent this:

• Clean your system every 3–6 months, depending on your environment
• Use soft-bristled brushes or compressed air cans designed for electronics
• Avoid excessive force or moisture when cleaning internal components
• Consider installing dust filters on intake fans to reduce long-term buildup

Structural Integrity

In compact ATX cases, structural integrity is paramount. Limited space increases the risk of component interference, poor mounting, and vibration-related wear. A well-built case should feel solid—without creaking, flexing, or loose panels—when handled or touched during operation.

Key aspects of structural reliability include:

• Firmly secured drive cages, fan mounts, and motherboard standoffs
• Reinforced screw points to prevent stripping or warping
• Proper alignment of I/O panels and expansion slots
• No rattling or vibration from fans or power supplies during operation

Ensure all components—including GPU, PSU, and storage drives—are securely mounted using appropriate screws and brackets. This prevents internal movement that could lead to short circuits, connector damage, or physical wear over time.

Safety Features

Safety should never be compromised, especially in tightly packed systems where heat and electrical density are higher. Many quality Compact ATX cases integrate or support several protective mechanisms:

• Power Supply Integration: Cases designed for standard ATX PSUs often include safety switches that cut power during overloads, short circuits, or voltage spikes
• Insulated Interiors: Rubber grommets and plastic liners prevent exposed metal edges from contacting circuitry or cables
• Cable Management: Built-in routing channels and Velcro straps reduce clutter, improve airflow, and minimize the risk of accidental disconnections
• Secure Mounting Points: Sturdy brackets and tool-less drive trays keep components stable, reducing the chance of hardware shifting or failure

Additionally, look for cases with EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) shielding to protect internal components and ensure regulatory compliance.

Heat Dissipation and Thermal Management

Overheating is one of the most common issues in compact ATX builds due to restricted airflow and proximity of high-performance components. Effective heat dissipation is critical to maintaining system stability and preventing thermal throttling or permanent hardware damage.

To optimize cooling in a small form factor:

• Choose cases with strategically placed intake and exhaust vents
• Install high-efficiency fans (92mm or 120mm) with PWM control for variable speeds
• Use high-quality thermal paste between the CPU and cooler to enhance heat transfer
• Consider low-profile or compact liquid coolers compatible with the case’s clearance limits
• Ensure unobstructed airflow paths—avoid cable clutter or component overhang that blocks vents

Some advanced cases feature mesh front panels, top-mounted radiators, or vertical GPU mounts to improve airflow. Always verify component clearances (CPU cooler height, GPU length, PSU depth) before assembly to avoid thermal bottlenecks.

Design Factor	Recommended Standard	Risks of Poor Implementation	Verification Tips
Material Quality	SECC steel (0.8–1.0mm thickness), aluminum accents	Panel warping, noise, reduced durability	Check weight, feel for rigidity, inspect finish quality
Structural Fit	No flex in side panels, aligned screw holes	Loose components, grounding issues	Assemble without components first; test panel fit
Thermal Ventilation	Front intake + rear exhaust, mesh panels	Overheating, fan strain, throttling	Monitor temps under load; inspect airflow paths
Safety & Insulation	Rubber grommets, EMI shielding, secure PSU mount	Short circuits, ESD damage, fire hazard	Inspect interior edges and cable routing zones
Maintenance Access	Tool-less panels, removable filters, cable trays	Dust buildup, difficult upgrades	Evaluate ease of opening and internal access

Expert Tip: After building your system, conduct a "burn-in" test using stress tools like Prime95 or FurMark to monitor temperatures and stability. This helps identify potential cooling or power delivery issues before regular use.

Additional Best Practices

• Regularly inspect and clean dust filters and fan blades to maintain optimal airflow
• Update thermal paste every 2–3 years, especially in high-heat environments
• Use modular PSUs to reduce cable clutter and improve air circulation
• Label cables during installation for easier troubleshooting and upgrades
• Choose cases with tool-less drive bays and quick-release panels for convenient maintenance

In conclusion, while Compact ATX cases offer space-saving advantages, they demand careful attention to material quality, structural design, safety, and thermal performance. Investing in a well-engineered chassis not only protects your components but also enhances system reliability and longevity. Always prioritize build quality over aesthetics, and perform routine maintenance to keep your compact build running safely and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions About Compact ATX PC Cases

Q1: What is a Compact ATX case?

A Compact ATX case is a mid-sized computer chassis designed to support multiple motherboard form factors, including Mini-ITX, Micro ATX, and full-sized ATX motherboards. While smaller than traditional full-tower cases, these enclosures maintain compatibility with standard ATX components, making them ideal for users seeking a balance between space efficiency and system expandability.

These cases are particularly popular among users who want a clean, minimalist desktop setup without sacrificing performance or upgrade potential. Despite their reduced footprint, many Compact ATX cases still offer support for high-end GPUs, multiple storage drives, and robust cooling solutions like air or liquid cooling systems.

Q2: What is the difference between a Micro ATX and a Compact ATX case?

While both are designed for smaller builds, there are key differences in size, compatibility, and flexibility:

Feature	Micro ATX Case	Compact ATX Case
Motherboard Support	Micro ATX and Mini-ITX only	ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX
Dimensions (Typical)	16–18 inches tall	18–20 inches tall
Expansion Slots	4–6 slots	7–8 slots (supports full-length cards)
Internal Space	Limited room for large GPUs or radiators	More clearance for high-end components and better cable management
Use Case	Budget builds, HTPCs, small offices	Gaming rigs, compact workstations, upgrade-friendly systems

In essence, a Micro ATX case is optimized for compactness and cost-efficiency, whereas a Compact ATX case offers greater versatility by supporting full-sized ATX motherboards while still maintaining a relatively small footprint compared to full-tower designs.

Q3: Are Compact ATX cases suitable for gaming PCs?

Yes, Compact ATX cases are an excellent choice for gaming builds. They strike a smart balance between size and performance, offering enough internal space to accommodate:

• High-End Graphics Cards: Most models support GPUs up to 300–350mm in length, fitting modern cards like the NVIDIA RTX 4070 or AMD RX 7800 XT.
• Cooling Options: Support for multiple fans (120mm or 140mm), top-mounted radiators (up to 240mm or 280mm), and improved airflow designs help manage heat during extended gaming sessions.
• Cable Management: Dedicated routing channels and Velcro straps keep the interior tidy, improving both aesthetics and airflow.
• Storage Expandability: Room for 2–4 SSDs/HDDs, ensuring ample space for games and media files.

Additionally, many Compact ATX cases feature tempered glass side panels, RGB lighting support, and mesh front panels for enhanced visual appeal and thermal performance—making them a favorite among gamers who want a powerful yet space-saving rig.

Q4: What does an ATX motherboard mean?

An ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended) motherboard is the most common form factor used in desktop computers today. Defined by Intel in 1995, the standard ATX motherboard measures 12 inches × 9.6 inches (305mm × 244mm), providing a solid foundation for performance, expansion, and power delivery.

Key features of ATX motherboards include:

• Expansion Slots: Typically 4–7 PCIe slots for graphics cards, sound cards, Wi-Fi adapters, and other peripherals.
• RAM Slots: Four DIMM slots, supporting up to 64GB or more of DDR4/DDR5 memory.
• Power Delivery: Robust VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) designs capable of handling high-performance CPUs.
• I/O Panel: Full range of rear ports including USB, Ethernet, audio, HDMI/DisplayPort, and more.
• Derivative Form Factors: Smaller variants like Micro ATX (9.6" × 9.6") and Mini-ITX (6.7" × 6.7") are based on the ATX layout but offer reduced expansion options.

Because of their widespread adoption, ATX motherboards benefit from broad compatibility with cases, power supplies, and cooling solutions. A Compact ATX case that supports full ATX motherboards gives users access to this ecosystem while maintaining a sleek, space-conscious design.