SGPC 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case or SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX? Which SGPC Model to Buy
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This sgpc k39 5l mini itx vs k49 mini itx case comparison helps you choose the right small form factor build. Both chassis support Mini-ITX motherboards and use 1.5mm steel for durability. They also both require a separate GPU riser cable for installation. The main difference lies in their internal volume and component compatibility. The K39 offers a tighter 5.1L layout, while the K49 provides a more spacious 7.1L interior. You need to decide which size fits your specific hardware and desk constraints.
Key differences
| Aspect | SGPC 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case | SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case |
|---|---|---|
| Case Volume | 5.1L | 7.1L |
| Max GPU Length | 185mm | 300mm |
| PSU Support | Flex-1U | SFX (SFX-L not compatible) |
| Storage Options | 2x 2.5" bays | 1x 2.5" bay |
| Side Panel Material | Ventilated steel | SPCC steel and 3mm acrylic |
Which one should you choose?
Choose SGPC 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case if
- You need a smaller footprint for tight spaces or backpack transport.
- You plan to use a Flex-1U power supply for maximum space savings.
- You want to install two 2.5-inch drives for additional storage.
Choose SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case if
- You require support for longer graphics cards up to 300mm.
- You prefer using standard SFX power supplies instead of Flex-1U units.
- You want an extra acrylic side panel option for different looks.
Verdict: The K39 is the better choice if you prioritize extreme compactness and Flex-1U compatibility. The K49 suits builders who need more room for larger GPUs and standard SFX power supplies. Your decision should depend on your specific GPU length and power supply requirements.
SGPC K39 5L vs K49 7.1L Comparison
Case Volume
The SGPC K39 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case offers a compact 5.1L internal volume. This tight layout fits small desks and backpack-friendly setups for builders who want a real small form factor PC. In contrast, the SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case provides a larger 7.1L volume. This extra space accommodates bigger components and improves airflow potential. The K49 measures 130 x 304 x 179 mm, while the K39 is smaller at 4.7 x 8.7 x 7.7 inches. You should choose the K39 if portability is your top priority. Choose the K49 if you need more room for components and cooling.
GPU Compatibility
Graphics card support differs significantly between these two cases. The SGPC K39 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case supports GPUs up to 185mm in length and 43mm in thickness when used with a compatible dual reverse riser cable. This limits you to short, low-profile cards. The SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case supports much larger GPUs up to 300mm in length and 45mm in height. The K49 also specifies a shoulder height limit of 27mm. Both require a separate riser cable. If you plan to use a standard-sized or larger graphics card, the K49 is the clear choice. The K39 is strictly for very short cards only.
Power Supply Type
The power supply requirements are a major differentiator. The SGPC K39 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case is built for Flex-1U power supplies. This specialized form factor saves space but can be harder to find and often costs more. The SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case supports standard SFX PSUs with a maximum size of 125x100x64mm. SFX-L PSUs are not compatible with the K49. Standard SFX units are generally more common and easier to source than Flex-1U options. This makes the K49 more practical for most builders. You will have fewer compatibility headaches with the K49 due to the standard PSU support.
Storage Options
Internal storage capacity varies between the two models. The SGPC K39 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case includes two 2.5-inch SSD or HDD bays. These bays feature anti-vibration mounts to ensure stable operation for your drives. This allows for more flexible storage configurations. The SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case supports only one 2.5-inch SSD or HDD. If you need to install multiple storage drives, the K39 provides the necessary space and mounting points. The K49 limits you to a single drive. For builders who prioritize storage expandability, the K39 is the better option. The extra bay in the K39 is a practical advantage.
Side Panel Material
Both cases use 1.5mm steel for their primary structure, but the side panels differ. The SGPC K39 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case features vented steel panels. This maintains a uniform material look and provides airflow. The SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case includes two original SPCC steel side panels but also comes with an extra 3mm acrylic ventilated side panel. This gives you a material choice between steel and acrylic. The acrylic option offers a different aesthetic while still providing ventilation. The K49 provides more versatility in side panel materials. You can choose the look that best fits your build style with the K49.
Weight
Portability is affected by the weight of each chassis. The SGPC K39 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case weighs 4.14 pounds. This lighter weight makes it easier to carry in a backpack or move around frequently. The SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case weighs 5.45 pounds. The additional weight comes from the larger volume and the inclusion of an extra side panel. The K49 also includes two carrying handles, one plastic and one PU leather. While the K49 is heavier, the handles mitigate the inconvenience. The K39 remains the lighter option for pure portability. Choose the K39 if minimizing weight is critical for your transport needs.
Choose the Right SGPC SFF Case
Ultra-compact portable build seekers
The SGPC K39 offers a tight 5.1L volume. Its dimensions of 4.7 by 8.7 by 7.7 inches make it highly backpack-friendly. You get ventilated steel panels for airflow in this dense layout. It supports GPUs up to 185mm long. This model prioritizes minimal footprint for small desks.
High-performance GPU builders
The SGPC K49 supports graphics cards up to 300mm in length. This allows for larger, more powerful GPUs. It also accepts SFX power supplies, offering more PSU options than the Flex-1U layout in the K39. The 7.1L volume provides necessary clearance for these larger components.
Storage and cooling focused users
The K49 includes an extra 3mm acrylic ventilated side panel for improved thermal performance. It supports CPU air coolers up to 56mm high. While it has only one 2.5-inch drive bay, the larger 7.1L volume and superior cooling design benefit sustained performance builds.
The products compared
SGPC 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case
Best for: portable Mini-ITX builds with riser cables
- Motherboard Support
- Mini ITX
- Case Type
- SFF
- Side Panel
- Ventilated Steel
- Max GPU Length
- 185mm
- Case Volume
- 5.1L
- Tower Size
- Small Form Factor
View on Amazon: SGPC 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case Affiliate link
The SGPC K39 is a 5.1L Mini-ITX chassis designed for portable, space-saving builds. It supports GPUs up to 185mm long when paired with a dual reverse riser cable. The case uses Flex-1U power supplies and features ventilated steel panels for airflow. It includes USB 3.2 Type-C ports and two 2.5-inch drive bays. This compact unit suits builders prioritizing small form factor efficiency.
Pros
- True 5.1L volume fits small desks and backpacks
- Supports GPUs up to 185mm with compatible riser cable
- Ventilated 1.5mm steel panels aid airflow
- Includes USB 3.2 Type-C front I/O ports
Cons
- Requires a compatible dual reverse riser cable for GPU installation
- Not recommended for novice builders without prior experience
- Strict 185mm GPU length limit restricts component choices
Good fit if
- You need a truly portable Mini-ITX system under 6L
- You already own a compatible dual reverse riser cable
- You want a compact gaming build with steel construction
Skip if
- You prefer a larger case with more GPU clearance
- You are building your first PC without prior research
- You require a standard ATX power supply layout
Verdict: The SGPC K39 5L Mini ITX Case delivers a genuine small form factor for users who already have the necessary riser cable and experience. It fits best for builders who prioritize portability and compact dimensions over ease of assembly.
SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case
Best for: Portable builds using SFX power supplies
- Motherboard Support
- Mini ITX
- Case Type
- Small Form Factor
- Side Panel
- SPCC steel, 3mm acrylic ventilated
- Max GPU Length
- 300mm
- Case Volume
- 7.1L
- Dimensions
- 12.1 × 5.12 × 6.89 inches
View on Amazon: SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case Affiliate link
The SGPC K49 is a 7.1L portable Mini-ITX chassis measuring 130 x 304 x 179 mm. It includes two carrying handles for easy transport. The case uses 1.5mm SPCC steel and features a ventilated 3mm acrylic side panel. It supports SFX power supplies and CPU coolers up to 56mm in height. You can install one 2.5-inch drive and a GPU up to 300mm long. This model is ideal for users who need a compact, durable build with strong airflow capabilities.
Pros
- Includes two carrying handles for portability
- Supports CPU coolers up to 56mm height
- Ventilated 3mm acrylic side panel for airflow
- Accepts GPUs up to 300mm in length
Cons
- SFX-L power supplies are not compatible
- GPU riser cable must be purchased separately
- Only supports one 2.5-inch storage drive
Good fit if
- You need a portable case with carrying handles
- You plan to use an SFX power supply
- You want a ventilated side panel for cooling
Skip if
- You require SFX-L power supply support
- You need to install a large ATX motherboard
- You want a pre-installed GPU riser cable
Verdict: The SGPC K49 7.1L Mini-ITX Case offers a compact, portable design with strong cooling potential through its ventilated panel. It fits users who prioritize portability and SFX PSU compatibility, provided they source their own riser cable.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SGPC 5L Portable Mini-ITX Case | SGPC K49 7.1L Portable Mini-ITX Case |
|---|---|---|
| Motherboard Support | Mini ITX | Mini ITX |
| Case Type | SFF | Small Form Factor |
| Side Panel | Ventilated Steel | SPCC steel, 3mm acrylic ventilated |
| Max GPU Length | 185mm | 300mm |
| Case Volume | 5.1L | 7.1L |
| Tower Size | Small Form Factor | not stated |
| Use | Gaming | not stated |
| Dimensions | 7.7 × 4.7 × 8.7 inches | 12.1 × 5.12 × 6.89 inches |
| Weight | 4.14 pounds | 5.45 pounds |
| Color | WHITE | white |
| Model | K39 | K49-STEEL |
| Size | not stated | basic with no riser |
Frequently asked questions
Which SGPC case is better for backpacking?
The SGPC K39 5L is the better choice for portability. Its dimensions are 4.7 by 8.7 by 7.7 inches, making it compact enough for backpacks. It weighs only 4.14 pounds. The K49 is larger at 5.12 by 6.89 by 12.1 inches and weighs 5.45 pounds. The K39’s smaller footprint fits tight spaces better.
Do I need a riser cable for these cases?
Yes, you need a separate GPU riser cable for both models. Neither case includes the cable in the box. You must source this accessory yourself to install a discrete graphics card. This requirement applies to the K39 and the K49. Plan your build components accordingly before purchasing.
Can I use an ATX power supply in the K49?
No, the SGPC K49 is designed for SFX power supplies. It does not support standard ATX units. This limitation is part of its compact portable design. If you already own an ATX PSU, you will need to purchase an SFX unit separately. Check your power supply size before buying.
What is the main difference in size between the K39 and K49?
The K39 is significantly smaller and more cube-like. It measures 4.7 inches wide and 8.7 inches tall. The K49 is wider and longer but shorter in height. It measures 5.12 inches wide and 12.1 inches long. The K49 offers more internal length for longer components.
Which case supports Mini-ITX motherboards?
Both the SGPC K39 and the SGPC K49 support Mini-ITX motherboards. They are both classified as Small Form Factor cases. You can install any standard Mini-ITX board in either chassis. The choice depends on your preferred dimensions and power supply type rather than motherboard compatibility.
Is the SGPC K39 heavier than the K49?
No, the SGPC K39 is lighter. It weighs 4.14 pounds. The SGPC K49 weighs 5.45 pounds. The K39’s lighter weight contributes to its portability. If you plan to carry your PC frequently, the K39 offers a weight advantage over the larger K49 model.