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Like David versus Goliath, small but mighty is the name of the game with this list of the top 13 lightest PC cases of 2023.
Every case on this list weighs less than 9 pounds and features a slim design or small footprint, so if desk space or portability is important to you, look no further than this definitive list.
The lightest case we could find is the InWin B1, weighing in at 4.2 lbs. However, it’s by far outclassed by many other mini-cases, which are just a bit heavier.
That’s why we decided to order these lightweight cases from best to worst based on quality, features, and practicality, so you don’t end up buying a case you will regret in the future.
The Lightest PC Cases in 2023 Round-Up
The table below will give you a quick look at all the 13 lightest pc cases currently available on the market. To read a full review, simply click on ’review>>’ in the respective row.
Product | Image | Rating | |
1. Lian Li Tu 150 7.9 lb / 3.6 kg |  | 9.8 | |
2. Cooler Master H100 5.9 lb / 2.7 kg |  | 9.7 | |
3. SilverStone RVZ02 7.1 lb / 3.2 kg |  | 9.6 | |
4. Cooler Master Elite 110 5.9 lb / 2.7 kg |  | 9.5 | |
5. Cooler Master MasterBox Q500L 8.4 lb / 3.8 kg |  | 9.4 | |
6. InWin Chopin SECC 4.8 lb / 2.2 kg |  | 9.3 | |
7. DEEPCOOL MATREXX 30 8 lb / 3.6 kg |  | 9.2 | |
8. Thermaltake Versa H15 7.7 lb / 3.5 kg |  | 9.0 | |
9. Silverstone ML05 4.6 lb / 2.1 kg |  | 8.9 | |
10. SilverStone SG13 5.4 lb / 2.4 kg |  | 8.8 | |
11. InWin B 4.2 lb / 1.9 kg |  | 8.7 | |
12. InWin BP655 7.7 lb / 3.5 kg |  | 8.6 | |
13. Aerocool Cylon Mini 5.5 lb / 2.6 kg |  | 8.5 |
1. Lian Li Tu 150
(7.9 lb / 3.6 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX, DTX | Dimensions: 375 x 202 x 312mm / 14.8 x 8.0 x 12.2in | Weight: 7.9 lb / 3.6 kg | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, 1x USB 3.1 Type-C, 1x HD Audio | Drive Bay Support: 2x 2.5” or 1x 2.5” + 1x 3.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- Top-notch build quality
- Fits large air coolers and GPUs
- Attractive aesthetics
- Tempered glass side panel
- Great airflow
- Rich I/O (USB Type-c included)
- Retractable handle for portability
REASONS TO AVOID
- Sharp edges
- Awkward cable management
Our Rating: 9.8/10
Covered in polished aluminum and boasting a tempered glass left panel, the Lian Li Tu 150 brings a modern case design to the Mini-ITX market. Incredible build quality is the hallmark of this Lian Li case, and that’s apparent from the first time you lay your eyes on it. However, this style comes with some questionable cable layout design choices.
Despite the mini-case nature of the Lian Li Tu 150, it can pack some serious punch. It boasts housing for up to two hard drives, one slot for 2.5’’ SSDs and one for a 3.5’’HDD. You can even mount one SSD next to the glass side panel in a showcase fashion.
Unlike some other mini-cases, it also has room for a graphics card up to 320mm in length. It’s not an ideal high-end gaming rig, but it’s punching at the top of the Mini-ITX weight class.
Helping keep it all cool is an impressive array of cooling support. You can actually mount a smaller 160mm radiator in the Lian Li Tu 150, another feature most other mini cases don’t really have room for. In addition, it simultaneously houses four 120mm fans and boasts an array of ventilation cut-outs to keep your PSU cool.
All this room means the Lian Li Tu 150 is a bit larger and heavier than some other lightweight cases. It weighs 7.9 lbs but still makes it attractive as a portable machine, even when compared to some of the lightest cases on this list.
Why? The Tu 150 comes with a retractable handle located at the of the case, making it super easy to carry around. The handle is secure, so you won’t need to worry about it breaking off and ruining your build.
Like other mini-cases, this Lian Li struggles with cable management. While there is adequate room to hide all the cables, some are just not long enough. Like the PSU cable is just a little too short to be routed out the back of the machine, but there’s not quite room inside for cable extensions. You’ll need to get creative or opt for custom cables to get the most out of the Lian Li Tu 150.
Altogether, the Lian Li Tu 150 is a mini case with big aspirations. Its modern design borrows some elements from other, larger cases to great effect and the end result is a sleek-looking case with plenty to offer as far as output and connectivity, with its two USB 3.0 ports.
It’s a bit larger and heavier than other lightweight cases on this list, but the handle helps provide portability. On top of that, if you consider its build quality, price, and airflow, this case is easily one of the best lightweight PC cases on the market right now. Treat yourself to the Lian Li Tu 150–You won’t regret it.
2. Cooler Master H100
(5.9 lb / 2.7 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 312 x 216 x 301mm / 12.3 x 8.5 x 11.9in | Weight: 5.9 lb / 2.7 kg | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out, RGB Controller | Drive Bay Support: 1x 2.5”/3.5” combo, 4x 2.5” (3+1 combo)
REASONS TO BUY
- Super light, compact and portable
- Features a built-in handle
- Has room for full-sized GPUs
- Runs fairly cool
- Plenty of storage and cooling options
- High-quality construction
REASONS TO AVOID
- Tough cable management
- Upgrading requires disassembly
Our Rating: 9.7/10
With its mesh front panel, the Cooler Master H100 looks like a desktop subwoofer, but its performance will be music to your ears. This is an incredible tower that offers many premium features at a less-than-premium price point.
Behind that mesh front panel rests a truly massive 200mm fan that helps to keep everything cool. Additional fans of 120mm and 140mm fit behind the big one in the front. That huge fan is also RGB-compatible, so it’s stylish while it cools. Amazingly, the fan mounts also serve as radiator mounts capable of housing radiators the same dimensions as the fans they support. Cooling will never be an issue in the Cooler Master H100.
Storage-wise, the H100 boasts a decently impressive capacity of up to five 2.5’’ SSDs or three 3.5’’ HDDs. This puts it marginally ahead of the pack when it comes to hard drive compatibility. Each drive is housed in a built-in slot for easy installation. The case also supports a standard-size ATX power supply.
For connectivity, you’ll get the usual two USB 3.0 ports on the front panel. Nothing out of the usual is offered there, but it’s nice that the ports are on the front panel for easy access.
The Cooler Master H100 gets high marks for portability due to its built-in handle. The handle is very secure and folds down when not in use. At only 5.86 lbs, this tower is amazingly easy to carry. You wouldn’t have any issues bringing it to a friend’s house or taking it home for the holidays.
For the gamer on the go, this Cooler Master also boasts adequate room for a full-sized graphics card. Most other cases in its class only support slim cards, so the option to install a full-sized one is huge for gamers, helping turn the H100 into a portable LAN machine.
There’s not much to dislike about the Cooler Master H100 because the build quality is also great. All the edges are finished and smooth, and the side panels are strong and sturdy, giving you the confidence to cart this rig around town. The mesh fan cover can even be removed to clean and or paint if you so desire.
All in all, the Cooler Master H100 is a fantastic mini lightweight case. It ticks all the boxes and has every feature you’d be looking for in a mini case. It blows away all budget options – despite being only a little more expensive, it’s worth every penny you spend on it.
3. SilverStone RVZ02
(7.1 lb / 3.2 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Slim Tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 380 x 87 x 370mm / 14.9 x 3.4 x 14.6in | Weight: 7.1 lb / 3.2 kg | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 2x 2.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- Excellent build quality
- Beautiful design
- Excellent airflow design
- Fits up to a 13” graphics card
- Fits in almost any environment
- Tool-less 2.5” drive holders
REASONS TO AVOID
- Won’t fit standard-size ATX PSU
- Higher price
Our Rating: 9.6/10
Inspired by SilverStone’s Raven series, the SilverStone RVZ02 boasts superior build quality when compared with other cases in its class. The aluminum unibody construction is hands-down the best on the list with regard to build quality and makes this case an amazing value for what it provides.
The super-slim design makes the RVZ02 an elegant machine. The flat black aluminum looks like some sort of space-age technology, and the glowing power indicator on the front is almost sinister in appearance. SilverStone gets high marks for aesthetics.
Additionally, the build quality of the case is second to none. The unibody design means it’s incredibly strong and durable and won’t break no matter where you take it. The aluminum is thick to keep your internals safe as well.
Inside, you’ll find more high-quality craftsmanship. Two 2.5’’ hard drives are able to be installed without tools, a feature that will delight many PC builders. Another drive can be installed in the back, but that one doesn’t include a toolless mount.
In addition, You’ll have space for up to a 13’’ long expansion card, so high-end gaming is something that the SilverStone RVZ02 can easily achieve.
Besides that, you’ll also have room for three 120mm fans or a small radiator if you desire some liquid cooling. However, you won’t feel the need for liquid cooling in the SilverStone RVZ02 because the airflow design of this case is top-notch.
For connectivity, the RVZ02 features two USB 3.0 ports on the front panel and an audio and mic jack. Pretty standard stuff.
At just over 7 lbs, the SilverStone RVZ02 is pretty light, but carrying it around can be a struggle. The handle is flimsy and hollow, so it doesn’t inspire much confidence, while the underside of it is rather sharp and digs into your fingers. Portability may be a minor issue with this case, despite its slim design and good construction.
Overall, the build quality of the SilverStone RVZ02 is its defining feature. The aluminum panels are thick and protective, and the unibody construction means your machine and its components will always be protected.
On top of that, the case has great airflow, enough space for a powerful gaming system, and a very likable, unique design. All in all, the SilverStone RVZ02 is an excellent lightweight case and comes highly recommended.
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4. Cooler Master Elite 110
(5.9 lb / 2.7 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 260 x 208 x 280mm / 10.3 x 8.2 x 11.1in | Weight: 5.9 lb / 2.7 kg | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 3x 3.5” (or 2x 3.5” + 2x 2.5” or 1x 3.5” + 3x 2.5” or 4x 2.5”)
REASONS TO BUY
- High quality and durability
- Compact, will fit almost anywhere
- Great airflow, runs cool
- Tool-less panels for easy access
- Lots of storage options
- Budget-friendly
REASONS TO AVOID
- Difficult to build in
- Limited fan options
- Louder
Our Rating: 9.5/10
If you’re looking for a budget lightweight case for a mini build, the Cooler Master Elite 110 is an excellent choice. Due to its steel construction, the case boasts a superior build quality and features plenty of connectivity ports. While limited internal space is an issue, its toolless panels make building a breeze, and its small size makes it highly portable.
The exterior panels of the Cooler Master Elite 110 are made almost entirely of steel. This mark of high quality means the case is incredibly durable while still only being 5.9 pounds. Brushed with black paint, this tower will look elegant on your desk. However, caution should be used when building in the Cooler Master Elite 110 because these metal panels mercilessly scratch wood desks. Remember to put down a mat, and you should be good to go.
The metal mesh on the front of the tower aids in airflow and contributes to its premium look and feel while providing a home for the audio ports and two UBS 3.0 ports.
Despite its small size, the Cooler Master Elite 110 can pack quite a punch. Inside, you’ll find room for graphics cards up to 8.3’’ long and three HDDs or four SSDs. These options allow you to build a powerful little gaming rig for some portable casual play. You’ll be able to power it all with a standard full-size ATX power supply.
Of course, being small and light also comes with some drawbacks. First, the Cooler Master Elite 110 is cube-shaped, meaning it has a slightly different profile and footprint compared to other PC cases. This might be an issue if desk space is at a premium for you.
Additionally, it is not easy to build in this case. While the toolless panels are a nice touch, component installation requires an almost-surgical light touch. However, these minor drawbacks are to be expected if you’re looking at cases this size.
Overall, there’s a lot to like about the Cooler Master Elite 110. Its steel panels give the case a luxurious, high-quality look and feel, while the internal room is spacious enough for a powerful but limited build.
Airflow is great in this case due to the mesh front panel, so you’ll never worry about overheating, and the small size and cube shape make the case very portable. Build space inside the tower is limited but adequate, especially if you know what you’re getting into with a case size. All in all, Cooler Master Elite 110 is a great case and worth its modest price.
5. Cooler Master MasterBox Q500L
(8.4 lb / 3.8 kg)
Form factor: Mid Tower | Motherboard Support: ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 386 x 230 x 381mm / 15.2 x 9.1 x 15in | Weight: 8.4 lb / 3.8 kg | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 2x 2.5”/3.5” combo (each bay supports 1 HDD or 2 SSDs)
REASONS TO BUY
- Quality construction
- Minimalistic, modern design
- Great airflow
- Supports 5 120mm fans
- Comes with a versatile PSU bracket
- Comes with 3 magnetic dust filters
- Plenty of room inside (ATX mobo)
- Budget-friendly
REASONS TO AVOID
- Acrylic side panel
- Heavier than others
Our Rating: 9.4/10
Next up on our list of the lightest PC cases we got one of the few micro tower cases, the Cooler Master MasterxBox Q500L.
Completely devoid of branding, the linear designs on the front panel of the MasterBox Q500L look stylish and modern. This minimalistic approach to aesthetics gives this mid-tower an incredibly modern look, like something out of a high-fashion catalog. These good looks and attention to detail extend to the rest of Cooler Master’s great offerings.
For storage, this case is just about average. It features two mounting bays; each can hold two 2.5’’ SSDs or a 3.5’’ HDD. That’s not a world-beating amount of storage, but it will certainly suffice for someone looking into mini-cases. The mounting bays are a nice feature, but getting an HDD in them will require a deft touch.
Impressively, the Cooler Master MasterBox Q500L can support up to five total 120mm fans, two on the bottom, two on the front, and one on the back to serve as an exhaust port. Those same fan mounts can also support 120mm radiators on the bottom and front. Heat will never be an issue in this lightweight case.
Like some other lightweight cases, Cooler Master MasterBox Q500L can also be oriented vertically or on its side. This is accomplished with rubberized thumbscrews on the side that serve as feet when in horizontal mode. The ATX PS2 comes with a versatile PSU bracket to realign the power supply in this configuration as well. Clearance will be an issue here, though, and airflow may be inhibited. It’s best to stand this case vertically.
Experienced PC builders will have few problems with the cramped interior of the case, but newbies will definitely struggle with cable management. There aren’t enough tie-down spots, and routing the cables is a bit of a struggle.
As far as quality goes, the Cooler Master MasterBox Q500L is about average. The aluminum panels are decently thick and sturdy, and the dust covers are magnetic and removable for easy cleaning. The design on the front panel is also a nice modern touch. Unfortunately, the window on the side of the case is acrylic rather than tempered glass and is easily scratched, so keep that in mind.
Overall, the MasterBox Q500L is a pretty decent offering in every way. It offers a decent amount of hard drive support, a pretty impressive list of cooling options, great quality, and a modern design. For the price, you’re getting a quality tower with a good list of features and no real notable downsides aside from the acrylic side panel.
6. InWin Chopin SECC
(4.8 lb / 2.2 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 244 x 84 x 217mm / 9.6 x 3.3 x 8.6in | Weight: 4.8 lb / 2.2 kg | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 2x 2.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- Extra-light and compact
- Can be oriented horizontally or vertically
- Elegant, sleek, and quality design
- Great airflow
- Comes with a 150W PSU
- No sharp edges
REASONS TO AVOID
- Difficult cable management
- Won’t fit a discrete graphics card
Our Rating: 9.3/10
Designed with space-saving in mind, the InWin Chopin SECC is a very low-profile and very light Mini-ITX case. Brushed aluminum panels keep it extra-light and durable, while the two mesh side panels provide superior airflow.
The case is designed to be oriented vertically or horizontally, giving you options for storage and helping you keep your desk clean. The inside, however, is not nearly as clean as cable management quickly gets messy.
First things first, the build quality of the InWin Chopin SECC is amazing. The brushed aluminum panels are stunning, a great design choice that elevates the look and feel of the entire tower. Next to a flat-colored case, the InWin is a showstopper. Of course, the panels are also strong a durable while being a very light 4.8 lbs. For airflow, the case also features two mesh side panels, painted black to match the aluminum. Everything feels as high-quality as it looks.
Inside, the InWin Chopin SECC can house two 2.5’’ SSDs and a host of cooling options. It has mounts for multiple 120mm fans and or a radiator for water cooling. You’ll be able to mix and match your cooling options to your needs, something that is a huge unexpected bonus for a case this size.
With an eye toward ergonomics, the InWin can also be oriented to stand tall or lay on its side. While you’ll have to keep this in mind while building, having the option to rotate the case makes it ideal for small workspaces.
Unfortunately, the InWin Chopin SECC suffers from one sizable drawback. Despite its sleek, elegant exterior, the inside of the case quickly gets very messy. Cable management is exceedingly difficult in this case, and it takes a great deal of time, care, and planning to get everything hooked upright. The cord length of the 150W power supply is the main offender.
Despite its being very lightweight, the InWin Chopin SECC also isn’t as portable as other small cases. It doesn’t have a handle, and the panels are pretty slick, making it difficult to carry without putting it in a bag.
Overall, the InWin is a capable case with a lot of style. On the outside, it’s very sleek and aesthetically pleasing to look at, a direct contrast to its messy interior. Building in the InWin Chopin SECC will be a challenge due to its limited cord management solutions, but its high-quality materials and wealth of cooling capabilities mean that the end result will be worth the minor trouble.
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7. DEEPCOOL MATREXX 30
(8 lb / 3.6 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 406 x 193 x 378mm / 16 x 7.6 x 14.9in | Weight: 8lb / 3.6kg | I/O Ports: 1x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 1x 5.25”, 3x 3.5”, 2x 2.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- Great side panel for showcasing
- Very easy to build in
- Good cable management
- Plenty of storage options
- Lots of room for cooling
- Enough space for a powerful system
- Budget-friendly
REASONS TO AVOID
- Heavier than competition
- Average build quality
- Average airflow
Our Rating: 9.2/10
The DEEPCOOL MATREXX 30 is a budget case that emphasizes function over form. On the outside, it looks totally utilitarian, dressed in all-black plastic with a tempered glass side panel for just a little bit of flair.
If you can get around the budget looks, this is the ideal lightweight case because of its wealth of component support. Inside you’ll have a lot of space to work with. It offers one 5.25”, three 3.5’’, and two 2.5’’ drive bays and boasts a great amount of room to install cooling options.
It can even house two 120mm radiators, meaning custom cooling is maybe an option if you’re a skilled PC builder and can plan around the mini tower’s size. For fans, the case boasts support for two 120mm fans, so things will stay nice and chilled inside.
Cable management is also simple inside the MATREXX 30. It features plenty of cable tie-down spots and cut-outs to route cords through while also being able to route the standard PSU out the bottom. You’ll have an elegant build worth showing off with its tempered glass panel, a stark contrast to other lightweight cases that have nightmarish levels of cord management.
At just over 8 lbs, this is a heavier case for its size. It also doesn’t come with a handle, so portability might be an issue if you plan to take the case on the go.
While there’s a lot to like about this tower, it is major negative is its poor build quality. The aluminum panels are rather thin, and the plastic front panel feels flimsy to the touch.
Additionally, only the front panel is mesh for airflow. The top panel is completely solid plastic which puts a hard limit on the amount of free-flowing air. There is no bottom panel, so dust will be finding its way in regularly.
For a budget case, the DEEPCOOL MATREXX 30 does a lot of things right. It focuses almost exclusively on providing function and a good building experience and doesn’t get caught up trying to offer all the bells and whistles of more expensive towers.
With the MATREXX 30, you’ll have adequate storage capacity, room for creative cooling solutions, and plenty of room to manage your cords. The downside is the poor material quality, but if you’re shopping for a budget case, you’ll be ready to make some concessions. All things considered, this is a great choice for a light budget PC case.
8. Thermaltake Versa H15
(7.7 lb / 3.5 kg)
Form factor: Micro Tower | Motherboard Support: Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 378 x 198 x 411mm / 15 x 7.8 x 16.2in | Weight: 7.7lb / 3.5kg | I/O Ports: 1x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 1x 5.25”, 3x 3.5” or 3x 2.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- Quality construction
- Plenty of storage options
- Bottom PSU placement
- Total of 5 mounts for case fans
- Decent cable management
- Budget-friendly
REASONS TO AVOID
- Plastic thumb screws
- Poorly designed interior layout
- Heavier
Our Rating: 9.0/10
Dressed in all black, the Thermaltake Versa H15 features a polished and classy yet understated appearance. Its steel panels house an impressive array of features that make this the ultimate sleeper case.
First, the steel panels of the Thermaltake Versa H15 ooze class and quality. They are smooth to the touch and will provide sturdy protective housing for all your components. In spite of its budget price, the build quality is incredible. Everything else feels strong and high-quality; Thermaltake really hit it out of the park by being able to offer such a high-quality case at a budget price.
Under the hood, the Thermaltake Versa H15 features more drive bays than you’d expect from a mini lightweight case. The largest is a whopping 5.25’’ while it also offers three 2.5’’ bays and three 3.5’’ bays. That’s an impressive amount of storage for any case, let alone a mini. You’ll access that storage by way of one USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0 port.
For cooling purposes, the H15 also boasts the ability to install an all-in-one cooler. Virtually no other mini-case has the ability to house such a system. In addition, it features five total fan mounts, each capable of housing a 120mm fan. Things will stay cool under stress in the Thermaltake Versa H15. However, the fan mounts are unable to house larger fans, and the 240mm radiator option will be a very tight fit.
Unfortunately, the budget aspect of the rears its head in some unexpected places. While the build quality of the case is good, and the steel panels are a lovely touch, the plastic thumbscrews holding it together are a sizable letdown. It’s a jarring juxtaposition in quality, almost certainly a budget concession.
Additionally, the 5.25’’ drive bay is very impractical in use. You won’t be getting an mATX motherboard in there due to it impeding cord management, which is another big issue with the H15, especially if you plan on adding significant cooling capabilities. The interior layout of this case is just not well-thought-out or designed.
Overall, the Thermaltake Versa H15 is a budget mini case with some great features that just don’t quite measure up. The steel panels are classy and well-made to give the case a quality feel and appearance, and the Versa H15 does boast some impressive storage drive capacity and cooler integration. Undercutting that, however, are some questionable design choices and poorly-designed interior layout.
9. Silverstone ML05
(4.6 lb / 2.1 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 350 x 99 x 204mm / 13.8 x 3.9 x 8in | Weight: 4.6 lb / 2.1 kg | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 4x 2.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- Compact and super light design
- Support 37mm liquid CPU cooler
- Features a clever 4-in-1 bracket
- Plenty of storage options
- Budget-friendly
REASONS TO AVOID
- Plain looks
- Average build quality
- Won’t fit a standard-size GPU
Our Rating: 8.9/10
The tiniest case on the list, the Silverstone ML05 has an interior volume of only 7 liters and weighs only 4.6 lbs. Small but mighty, the ML05 leaves affectation behind to provide straightforward performance in a well-priced mini case.
To achieve its performance aspirations, the Silverstone ML05 comes with a unique multi-purpose four-in-one bracket. This lets you install a slim Optical Drive, a 3.5-inch hard drive, two 2.5-Inch drives, or a 120mm fan all in one little compact area. The bracket is ingenious and easy to use, making building in the tiny tower a joy that doesn’t require surgical precision. It also boasts SFX PSU compatibility.
Additionally, the ML05 supports a small 37mm CPU cooler to bring a little liquid-cooling ability to the case. Obviously, a tower of this size won’t be boasting extensive water-cooling set-ups or anything overly fancy of that nature, but the little boost of cooling really goes a long way when space is at such a premium.
The Silverstone ML05 supports up to four total 2.5’’ drives giving it a proper amount of storage capacity. You’ll interface with those via two USB 3.0 ports on the side.
Its small size makes this case incredibly portable. You’ll be able to take your PC just about anywhere due to the super lightweight and boxy design. It doesn’t have a handle, but you won’t really need one.
As far as construction goes, the Silverstone ML05 is about what you’d expect from a case on the cheaper end of things. The aluminum panels are on the thinner end of things, and the plastic isn’t of the highest quality. You get what you pay for when it comes to materials, especially if you’re not looking to sacrifice performance.
Unfortunately, the ML05 isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing case on the list. In fact, it’s rather workman-like in its appearance. The outside panels are painted flat black, with large gaping holes for airflow. There’s no RGB or tempered glass anywhere to be found on this case. No frills might be the generous way to describe it.
All in all, the Silverstone ML05 represents great value for its price. If you can look past the boring and uninspiring looks, you find that the four-way mounting bracket is awesome to build with and unique to this case. You’ll also like the amount of storage capacity and be surprised to even find some water-cooling ability, despite the small stature of this tower.
- READ ALSO: Best PC Cases for Water Cooling
10. SilverStone SG13
(5.4 lb / 2.4 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX, Mini-DTX | Dimensions: 222 x 181 x 285mm / 8.7 x 7.1 x 11.2in | Weight: 5.4 kg / 2.4 lb | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 1x 3.5” + 1x 2.5” or 3x 2.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- Light and portable design
- Supports both SFX and ATX PSUs
- Has room for standard-size GPUs
- Supports up to 3 2.5” SSDs
- Features two USB 3.0 ports
- Budget-friendly
REASONS TO AVOID
- Lack of airflow
- Runs hotter
- No real cable management
Our Rating: 8.8/10
The boxy SilverStone SG13 is a dynamite little budget case perfect for gaming. Its shape and lightweight at only 5.4 lbs means it’s very portable and easy to carry to LAN parties or wherever you game on the go. It even houses standard-sized graphics cards and boasts enough room for an all-in-one cooling system.
Building in the SilverStone SG13 is easy and enjoyable due to all the space inside the case. The cube shape allows for creativity in component arrangement and lets you maximize your build space. The case is capable of housing three 2.5’’ drives and comes with mounts for all of them.
Unfortunately, 3.5’’ drives aren’t supported by the mounts. You’ll also have room for a 10.5’’ expansion card and an all-in-one cooler up to 140mm in size. The SG13 also features two USB 3.0 ports on the front panel and a standard ATX power supply.
The portability of the SilverStone SG13 is one of its strongest attributes. The case is light and easy to carry due to its cube shape. It doesn’t have a handle, but you won’t really need one.
Build quality-wise, this case is on par with other budget options. Some of the metal has sharp edges, so take care not to scratch your desk while you build in it.
Otherwise, the panels are decently thick, and the case itself is quite sturdy, so handling and carrying it is easy. The mesh on the front panels looks a little bit gaudy but can be removed and even painted if you desire. SilverStone also offers a solid front panel to eliminate the mesh, but obviously, airflow will be impacted.
Airflow is the biggest strike against the SilverStone SG13. The case gets rather congested quite quickly, so air doesn’t have a path to flow freely and cool the internal components. It’s recommended you opt for the supported all-in-one cooler if you need to maximize your cooling capabilities.
All in all, the SG13 is a great lightweight gaming case. You’ll have the ability to stuff high-performance components inside the unique cube-shaped design, and the room for a cooler means you’ll get the performance you desire. It’s perfect for taking to a LAN party or for hiding under your desk out of the way.
11. InWin B1
(4.2 lb / 1.9 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 302 x 108 x 238mm / 11.9 x 4.3 x 9.4in | Weight: 4.2 lb / 1.9 kg | I/O Ports: 1x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 2x 2.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- Lightest case on the list
- Highly portable
- Decent build quality
- Room for two 2.5” drives
- Comes with a 200W PSU
REASONS TO AVOID
- Very few cooling options
- Limited airflow
- Not a high-performing rig
- Louder
Our Rating: 8.7/10
Looking like something out of a Star Wars movie, the InWin B1 is certainly an odd shape for a PC case. The small, oval-shaped case is covered in ribbed plastic and is the lightest on the list at 4.2 lbs, making it highly portable and the perfect companion for office work and some light gaming.
Despite the plastic exterior, the build quality of the InWin B1 is good. It’s a sturdy little rig that is fairly durable. The ribbing that surrounds the case houses vents to aid in airflow and features dust catchers to inhibit overheating. The case feels soft to the touch, indicating the high quality of plastic used in its construction.
Like other InWin cases, the InWin B1 can also be positioned on its side. Interchangeable stands make this a reality, and both stands adequately support the lightweight of the case. This is a major ergonomic success and means that you’ll always have room on your desk.
Inside, the B1 can house two 2.5’’ SSDs powered by an included 200w PSU. It won’t be a titan, but this mini-ITX case certainly provides capable performance. Unfortunately, cooling options are limited to a single 80mm fan, and there’s no room for anything else, like a radiator or larger fan. The 60mm heat sink will be working overtime if you decide to push the build limits of this case.
Portability is one of the InWin B1’s best qualities. You already know it’s incredibly light, at only 4.2 lbs, but its plastic exterior makes it highly durable and easy to transport. It won’t get scuffed in a bag and is easy to carry in your hands.
The biggest problem with the InWin is airflow and noise. It can get quite hot inside the case, with only a single fan keeping things cool. More cooling isn’t really supported without modifying the case itself to provide more room for more robust components. You won’t be packing in radiators or anything of that nature. Additionally, the provided 80mm fan is very noisy and can be distracting on video calls if you plan to use the InWin B1 for telecommuting or video chatting.
The lack of cooling options really limits what the InWin B1 is capable of being. What could be a killer LAN rig due to its light weight and portability instead is relegated to office duty. It looks nice on your desk, even if its shape is unconventional, and the quality of the components is great. Fan noise will be something to contend with, but all in all the InWin is a capable lightweight case.
12. InWin BP655
(7.7 lb / 3.5 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 310 x 100 x 265mm / 12.2 x 3.9 x 10.4in | Weight: 7.7 lb / 3.5 kg | I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, Audio In & Out | Drive Bay Support: 1x 5.25”, 2x 3.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- Decent build quality
- No sharp edges
- Comes with a 300W PSU
- Has an OD bay
- Decent storage support
- Budget-friendly
REASONS TO AVOID
- Full-sized GPU is not supported
- Plastic front panel
- Limited cooling
Our Rating: 8.6/10
Decked out in a glossy exterior, the InWin BP 655 is one of the few cases of its size to offer a full 5.25’’ drive bay, making this case somewhat of a curiosity. Its slim design and shiny finish give it the looks it needs to catch your attention, but the components it’s capable of housing are what keep it.
In addition to the full-sized drive bay, the InWin BP 655 also boasts two 3.5’’ bays. You’ll never lack hard drive capacity when you’re building in this tower. You’ll also have an expansion slot for a graphics card, but take care to remember that you’ll need a low-profile one in this case. Full-sized cards are not supported, which will limit the gaming abilities of this tower. Like most other mini-cases, you’ll have the usual two USB 3.0 ports for connectivity as well.
The build of the BP 655 is also satisfactory but not amazing. The edges are smooth, and the side panels are made of steel, differing from towers with aluminum construction, and offer superior protection for your internal components.
However, the front panel is plastic, which is a bit of a letdown given the steel side panels. It still feels sturdy and solid to the touch, but the glossy finish is sure to attract dust and fingerprints over its lifetime.
To keep things cool, a single 80mm fan is included. Unfortunately, that is all the cooling support the In-Win BP 655 offers. If you’re looking at a build that runs a little hot, you should skip this tower and instead find something that offers more fan support. It is nice, however, that the fan is included.
Another included bonus is the 300w power supply. This PSU is capable of drawing huge amounts of electricity to keep your machine running reliably and is double what comparative cases are using.
Weighing 7.7 lbs, this case is on the heavy side for a mini case. It also doesn’t have a handle, so you likely aren’t going to be taking it anywhere.
The In-Win BP 655 is a good tower for a work computer, with a wonderful storage capacity and powerful PSU. Unfortunately, this tower will not make for a good gaming rig due to the inability to accommodate a full-sized graphics card. The build quality is better than you’d expect at this price point, and it even looks good without sacrificing appearance for performance, a common theme amongst cases at its price point.
13. Aerocool Cylon Mini
(5.5 lb / 2.6 kg)
Form factor: Mini-ITX Tower | Motherboard Support: Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX | Dimensions: 382 x 186 x 373mm / 15 x 7.3 x 14.7in | Weight: 5.5 lb / 2.6 kg | I/O Ports: 1x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0, HD Audio | Drive Bay Support: 2x 3.5”, 3x 2.5”
REASONS TO BUY
- RGB lights with 13 light modes
- Tempered glass side panel
- Good storage capacity
- Supports GPUs up to 300mm long
- Decent cable management
- Budget price
REASONS TO AVOID
- Poor build quality
- Cheap materials used
- Poor airflow
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Fitted with RGB lights on the front panel and featuring a tempered glass side panel, the Aerocool Cylon Mini doesn’t look like a budget case at first glance. It houses a good number of components and even offers space for a radiator, but some build quality issues really limit this mini-ATX tower.
These days, RGB lights are all the rage in PC-building circles. Usually only available at higher price points, this luxury feature is the most impressive attribute of the Aerocool Cylon Mini. Its front panel is dazzling and eye-catching and gives this case a premium look at a budget price.
However, despite the premium looks, the build quality is just not up to par. The front panel is made entirely of plastic and feels cheap and flimsy to the touch. Additionally, the other side panels, while made of aluminum, are also quite thin. It’s apparent that budget concessions were made with regard to the build materials.
Under the hood, the Aerocool Cylon Mini is a capable tower with average capabilities. It houses two 3.5’’ storage drives and three 2.5’’ drives, giving it good storage capacity. It also supports a graphics card up to 300mm, so you won’t have to rely on an integrated chip. Connectivity-wise, you’ll find one USB 3.0 port and one USB 2.0 port on the front panel.
For cooling, you’ll be able to outfit the case with a small radiator up to 140mm in length and two 120mm fans behind the front panel. While this would seem adequate, the solid front panel renders the fans almost useless as no air can get behind it. Your little radiator will be working overtime to keep your rig cool, and frying your components is a big concern.
With the Aerocool Cylon Mini, it’s important to remember that this is a budget case. While it offers an average amount of component support, the build quality really suffers. Cheap plastic and aluminum are cost-cutting measures that really betray the case’s trendy, upscale aspirations.
The RGB lights on the front panel are a great little touch, but because of them, the front panel is solid and inhibits airflow. Altogether, this budget case is a poor choice as other cases at the price point offer more practicality. This one is all style and little substance.
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Final Words
There you have it; these are the top 13 lightest PC cases you’ll be able to find on the market in 2023.
If you found this article helpful, make sure to share it with your friends on your favorite social media.
Besides that, if you have any additional questions or are still not sure which PC case is best for your needs, feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll be more than happy to help you out.
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Imo, the dominating factor of what you can choose from is far and away your mobo size, so ranking should have been done per mobo types- tax, mini atx, micro etc etc etc…no sense reading about 3 boxes ranked ahead of one your considering because they weren’t designed for what you own. Negates the usefulness of the list.
Hi there,
Sorry if you find it inconvenient. See, the thing with these extra light cases is that a lot of them trade quality for a lightweight design. That’s why I placed the quality ones up front so people don’t have to scroll down or waste time reading about the not so good ones. But you have a good point, I might reorganize it in the future. Thanks for your input!
Richard
Mr Richard, the cyberwood micro atx case could of surely be on this list, it weighs less than 5 pounds but the material that it is made of is some what poor quality, you can check it out on Amazon.
Hey Mr. Ken,
That one looks cool! We’ll order one and maybe include it on the list once we try it out. Do you have experience with it?
Richard