Zalman CUBIX Compact Micro-ATX Case Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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If you are shopping for zalman cubix compact micro atx matx mini itx PC case alternatives, you likely want a small chassis that still supports standard desktop components. The Zalman CUBIX features a compact 17.1-liter volume built with 0.8T steel. It accommodates Micro-ATX and Mini ITX motherboards alongside a standard ATX power supply. For cooling and expansion, the case includes a pre-installed 80mm fan, clearance for a 137mm CPU cooler, and space for a 260mm graphics card.
You might look for an alternative if your configuration needs different clearances, cooler support, or drive options. Hardware configurations requiring graphics cards longer than 260mm, CPU air coolers taller than 137mm, or liquid cooling radiators require a different layout. Other builds may benefit from 140mm cooling fans, SFX power supply layouts, or a 5.25-inch optical drive bay. The 6 alternatives below were selected because their core specifications overlap with the original, helping you compare physical dimensions, motherboard form factors, and component allowances.
Our top pick: Zalman CUBIX Compact Micro-ATX Case.
Comparing Zalman CUBIX to Alternatives
UTLGAMENG Micro ATX Case with 80mm Fan
The UTLGAMENG Micro ATX Case matches the Zalman CUBIX by supporting standard ATX power supplies and Micro-ATX motherboards alongside an included 80mm cooling fan. However, it tightens your component restrictions with a maximum graphics card clearance of 250mm, which is 10mm shorter than the 260mm limit on the CUBIX. It also lacks the specific 0.8T steel thickness noted on the Zalman chassis. You give up that extra graphics card space and defined front I/O ports. Choose this case instead if you are assembling an entry-level compact desktop with a short graphics card and want a straightforward layout that keeps standard ATX power supply compatibility.
Iesooy Micro ATX Compact Case
The Iesooy Compact Case accommodates CPU coolers up to 140mm tall, providing slightly more vertical clearance than the 137mm limit on the Zalman CUBIX. It also supports 140mm and 80mm fan sizes, whereas the CUBIX focuses around an 80mm fan setup. However, the Iesooy requires an SFX power supply, forfeiting the standard ATX power supply compatibility offered by the Zalman model. Furthermore, GPU length is restricted to under 250mm, which is more restrictive than the 260mm allowance in the CUBIX. You should pick the Iesooy if you plan to build around an SFX power supply and prioritize a 140mm air cooler over graphics card clearance.
Cooler Master N200 Mesh Mini-Tower
The Cooler Master N200 Mesh Mini-Tower expands your internal configuration options by supporting liquid cooling and multiple storage drives, which the compact 17.1-liter Zalman CUBIX does not provide. In exchange, the N200 takes up significantly more desk footprint, measuring 7.9 inches wide, 14.9 inches high, and 17.5 inches long, compared to the Zalman’s slimmer 6.29 by 13.9 by 12 inches. It is also noticeably heavier at 9.5 pounds versus the 5.73-pound CUBIX. You give up the portable, ultra-compact profile of the Zalman. You should pick the N200 if your build requires liquid cooling or several storage drives and you have ample room for a larger mini-tower chassis.
SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case
The SilverStone SG11B handles full-length graphics cards alongside a standard ATX power supply, offering greater graphics card compatibility than the 260mm limit on the Zalman CUBIX. However, it severely cuts your CPU cooling height down to 82mm, whereas the CUBIX allows taller 137mm tower coolers. The SG11B is also substantially larger and heavier, measuring 15 inches wide, 13 inches high, and 19 inches long at 13.5 pounds, compared to the 5.73-pound, 6.29-inch-wide Zalman. You give up cooler headroom and lightweight portability. Choose the SilverStone case if you need to run a full-length performance graphics card with an ATX power supply and can use a low-profile CPU cooler.
Chieftec Micro-ATX Case
The Chieftec Micro-ATX Case supports graphics cards up to 320mm in length, easily surpassing the 260mm GPU capacity of the Zalman CUBIX. It also includes a 5.25-inch external bay for an optical drive and provides multiple internal drive bays. However, it requires considerably more physical space on your workspace. The Chieftec measures 18.1 inches wide, 13 inches high, and 15.7 inches long, and it weighs 11.2 pounds, roughly double the 5.73 pounds of the Zalman. You sacrifice the slim, 17.1-liter footprint of the CUBIX. Pick the Chieftec case if your build requires an optical disc drive or a long 320mm graphics card and desk space is not a concern.
Cooler Master Q300L Modular Micro-ATX Case
The Cooler Master Q300L provides higher graphics card clearance and versatile cooling placement within a modular layout. It is exceptionally lightweight at 1.06 pounds compared to the 5.73-pound 0.8T steel build of the Zalman CUBIX. However, the Q300L has broader dimensions at 9.06 inches wide, 15 inches high, and 15.4 inches long, occupying more room than the Zalman’s 6.29 by 13.9 by 12-inch profile. The CUBIX also provides a pre-installed 80mm cooling fan and a compact 17.1-liter steel chassis. Choose the Cooler Master Q300L if you want modular component flexibility, lower chassis weight, and room for longer graphics cards rather than the compact tower dimensions of the CUBIX.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Zalman CUBIX Compact Micro-ATX Case
Best for: compact Micro-ATX builds using ATX power supplies
- Motherboard Support
- Micro-ATX, Mini ITX
- Included Fans
- 1x 80mm
- Max GPU Length
- 260mm
- Case Volume
- 17.1 L
- Dimensions
- 12 × 6.29 × 13.9 inches
- Weight
- 5.73 pounds
The Zalman CUBIX is a 17.1-liter steel enclosure built for Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards. It pairs a perforated front panel with a pre-installed 80mm exhaust fan for ventilation. Inside, the 0.8T steel frame accommodates standard ATX power supplies, graphics cards up to 260mm, and CPU coolers up to 137mm tall. It suits you if you want a compact desktop footprint without switching to specialized small-form-factor power supplies.
Pros
- 17.1-liter volume with rigid 0.8T steel construction
- Accepts standard ATX power supplies
- Perforated front panel with pre-installed 80mm fan
- Supports graphics cards up to 260mm long
Cons
- Restricts CPU cooler height to 137mm
- Maximum GPU clearance limited to 260mm
- Front I/O omits USB Type-C
Good fit if
- You want a 17.1-liter footprint that still uses standard ATX power supplies.
- You build with a Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX board and a card under 260mm.
- You need standard front panel USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 connectivity.
Skip if
- You use a graphics card longer than 260mm.
- You plan to install a CPU air cooler taller than 137mm.
- You require a front-panel USB Type-C connector.
Verdict: Zalman CUBIX Compact Micro-ATX Case delivers a balanced 17.1-liter layout that fits full-sized ATX power supplies alongside smaller hardware. Its 260mm GPU limit and 137mm CPU clearance define clear boundaries for compact system builds.
UTLGAMENG Micro ATX Case with 80mm Fan
Best for: compact Micro-ATX builds using ATX power supplies
- Motherboard Support
- Micro ATX, ITX
- Case Type
- Micro ATX
- Side Panel
- Steel plate, magnetic mesh pad
- Included Fans
- 1x 80mm PWM
- Max GPU Length
- 220mm (with HDD), 250mm (without HDD)
This compact enclosure accommodates Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards alongside standard ATX power supplies. It features a steel structure with a large magnetic mesh side panel pad and an included 80mm PWM exhaust fan. You get front I/O ports for USB 3.0 and USB 2.0. Because graphics card clearance maxes out at 250mm and CPU cooler height is capped at 135mm, you will want this for space-conscious, low-profile desktop builds.
Pros
- Compatible with standard ATX power supplies
- Includes an 80mm PWM temperature control fan
- Magnetic mesh side panel pad for airflow
- Supports both Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards
Cons
- Only one fan can be installed in the chassis
- Graphics card length limited to 250mm, or 220mm with an HDD
- CPU cooler clearance capped at 135mm
Good fit if
- You use a compact graphics card up to 250mm long.
- You want to fit a standard ATX power supply into a compact chassis.
- You need a Micro-ATX enclosure with an included 80mm PWM fan.
Skip if
- You plan to mount multiple chassis fans for extra cooling.
- You use a dedicated graphics card longer than 250mm.
- You need clearance for a CPU air cooler taller than 135mm.
Verdict: UTLGAMENG Compact Micro-ATX Case delivers a space-saving layout compatible with ATX power supplies and Micro-ATX boards. Its single-fan capacity and 250mm GPU limit suit basic, compact configurations.
Iesooy Micro ATX Compact Case
Best for: Air-cooled compact builds with 140mm coolers
- Motherboard Support
- Micro ATX, ITX
- Side Panel
- Acrylic
- Max GPU Length
- 250mm
- Fan Size
- 140mm, 80mm
- Connectivity
- USB 3.0
- Compatible Device
- CPU Cooler
This compact desktop enclosure accommodates Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards within a 12.01 by 6.69 by 13.78-inch footprint. It provides clearance for a 140mm CPU cooler, a 250mm graphics card, and up to two 120mm front intake fans. You also get an acrylic side panel plus mounts for one hard drive and two solid-state drives. It suits you if you want a tall cooler inside a space-saving desktop footprint.
Pros
- Supports CPU air coolers up to 140mm tall
- Mesh front panel with space for two 120mm fans
- Holds one 3.5-inch HDD and two 2.5-inch SSDs
- Front I/O includes USB 3.0, USB 2.0, and dedicated audio jacks
Cons
- Dedicated cable management space is only usable with Mini-ITX motherboards
- Graphics card clearance is limited to 250mm
- Requires detaching the front panel to install front cooling fans
Good fit if
- You need clearance for a 140mm CPU air cooler.
- You use a compact graphics card under 250mm in length.
- You build with an SFX power supply.
Skip if
- You require cable management space while running a standard Micro-ATX board.
- You use a graphics card longer than 250mm.
Verdict: Iesooy Compact Micro-ATX Mini PC Case fits a 140mm CPU cooler and an SFX power supply into a slim, space-saving frame. It works best when you pair it with a compact graphics card under 250mm.
Cooler Master N200 Mesh Mini-Tower
Best for: Liquid-cooled Micro-ATX builds with multiple storage drives
- Motherboard Support
- mATX, Mini-ITX
- Case Type
- Mini Tower
- Radiator Support
- 240mm
- Max GPU Length
- 355mm (14 inches)
- Dimensions
- 17.5 × 7.9 × 14.9 inches
- Weight
- 9.5 pounds
The Cooler Master N200 is a mini-tower case built for Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards. It provides clearance for graphics cards up to 355mm long and CPU air coolers up to 160mm tall. You also get front support for a 240mm liquid cooling radiator and space for up to seven drives. It suits you if you need compact dimensions alongside extensive drive storage and full-size component clearance.
Pros
- Supports graphics cards up to 355mm long
- Accommodates front 240mm liquid cooling radiators
- Houses up to three 3.5-inch HDDs and four 2.5-inch SSDs
- Fits CPU air coolers up to 160mm tall
Cons
- Requires 17.5 inches of desk depth
- Does not support full-size ATX motherboards
Good fit if
- You need clearance for long graphics cards up to 355mm.
- You plan to mount a 240mm front liquid cooling radiator.
- You run multiple storage drives, including up to three 3.5-inch hard drives.
Skip if
- You need support for a standard ATX motherboard.
- You have a shallow desk with under 17.5 inches of depth.
Verdict: Cooler Master N200 Mesh Mini Tower delivers extensive storage capacity and liquid cooling support inside a compact footprint. It provides generous hardware clearance without taking up mid-tower desk space.
SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case
Best for: compact builds needing full-length graphics cards
- Motherboard Support
- Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, Mini-ITX
- Case Type
- SFF
- Max GPU Length
- Any length
- Tower Size
- Small Form Factor
- Dimensions
- 19 × 15 × 13 inches
- Weight
- 13.5 pounds
View on Amazon: SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case
This SilverStone SFF chassis accommodates Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, and Mini-ITX motherboards alongside standard ATX power supplies. It supports graphics cards of any length, making it a flexible compact option for full-sized video cards. However, you are limited to CPU coolers with a maximum height of 82mm. It suits you if you want a compact build without sacrificing graphics card length or standard power supply compatibility.
Pros
- Supports graphics cards of any length
- Compatible with standard ATX power supplies
- Accepts Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, and Mini-ITX motherboards
- High capacity for 2.5-inch drives
Cons
- Restricts CPU cooler height to 82mm
- Heavy chassis weight at 13.5 pounds
Good fit if
- You need room for any length graphics card inside a compact case.
- You plan to use a standard ATX power supply with a Micro-ATX board.
- You require dedicated mounting capacity for multiple 2.5-inch drives.
Skip if
- You plan to install a CPU air cooler taller than 82mm.
- You want an ultra-lightweight case under 13.5 pounds.
Verdict: SilverStone SFF Micro-ATX Case accommodates full-length graphics cards and standard ATX power supplies in a small form factor layout. It is an efficient choice provided your CPU cooler does not exceed 82mm.
Chieftec Micro-ATX Case
Best for: Micro-ATX builds needing an optical drive
- Motherboard Support
- mATX
- Max GPU Length
- 320mm
- Dimensions
- 15.7 × 18.1 × 13 inches
- Weight
- 11.2 pounds
This Chieftec micro-ATX chassis gives you room for standard builds with legacy storage support. You get clearance for graphics cards up to 320mm long and CPU coolers up to 150mm tall. Front connectivity includes two USB 3.0 ports and one USB 2.0 port. Drive capacity covers an external 5.25-inch bay, two 3.5-inch bays, and three 2.5-inch mounts. It fits your needs if you want optical drive support alongside modern hardware.
Pros
- Supports graphics cards up to 320mm long
- External 5.25-inch drive bay included
- Internal capacity for two 3.5-inch and three 2.5-inch drives
- Front I/O features two USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0 ports
Cons
- Maximum CPU cooler height capped at 150mm
- No pre-installed fans listed in the specifications
Good fit if
- You need an external 5.25-inch bay for an optical drive.
- You plan to install a graphics card up to 320mm long.
- You require multiple dedicated 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch storage bays.
Skip if
- You plan to install a CPU cooler taller than 150mm.
- You need a case with pre-installed cooling fans.
Verdict: Chieftec Micro-ATX Case with 5.25-Inch Bay delivers ample GPU clearance and multiple drive bays for builders keeping an optical drive. It accommodates hardware up to 320mm while maintaining micro-ATX motherboard compatibility.
Cooler Master Q300L Modular Micro-ATX Case
Best for: compact builds needing long graphics cards
- Motherboard Support
- Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX
- Side Panel
- Transparent
- Radiator Support
- 240mm
- Max GPU Length
- up to 360mm
- Dimensions
- 15.4 × 9.06 × 15 inches
- Weight
- 1.06 pounds
This Cooler Master Q300L Micro-ATX Case fits both Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards inside a compact frame. It accommodates graphics cards up to 360mm long, CPU coolers up to 159mm tall, and a 240mm liquid cooling radiator. You also get support for up to five fans and an adjustable modular I/O panel. It suits builders who want a small footprint without sacrificing room for full-length graphics cards or multiple cooling options.
Pros
- Accommodates graphics cards up to 360mm long
- Supports a 240mm liquid cooler and up to 5 fans
- Modular I/O panel mounts at front, top, or bottom on either side
- Clearance for CPU air coolers up to 159mm
Cons
- Power supply length is restricted to 160mm
- Does not support standard full-size ATX motherboards
Good fit if
- You need room for a long graphics card up to 360mm.
- You plan to install a 240mm liquid cooling setup.
- You want an adjustable I/O panel layout on your chassis.
Skip if
- You use a power supply longer than 160mm.
- You need clearance for a CPU cooler taller than 159mm.
Verdict: Cooler Master Q300L Micro-ATX Case delivers versatile cooling support and high GPU clearance within a compact micro-ATX chassis. It provides flexible component placement for small builds without requiring specialized miniature hardware.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Zalman CUBIX Compact Micro-ATX Case | UTLGAMENG Micro ATX Case with 80mm Fan | Iesooy Micro ATX Compact Case | Cooler Master N200 Mesh Mini-Tower | SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case | Chieftec Micro-ATX Case | Cooler Master Q300L Modular Micro-ATX Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motherboard Support | Micro-ATX, Mini ITX | Micro ATX, ITX | Micro ATX, ITX | mATX, Mini-ITX | Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, Mini-ITX | mATX | Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX |
| Case Type | not specified | Micro ATX | not specified | Mini Tower | SFF | not specified | not specified |
| Side Panel | not specified | Steel plate, magnetic mesh pad | Acrylic | not specified | not specified | not specified | Transparent |
| Included Fans | 1x 80mm | 1x 80mm PWM | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Radiator Support | not specified | not specified | not specified | 240mm | not specified | not specified | 240mm |
| Max GPU Length | 260mm | 220mm (with HDD), 250mm (without HDD) | 250mm | 355mm (14 inches) | Any length | 320mm | up to 360mm |
| Case Volume | 17.1 L | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Tower Size | not specified | not specified | not specified | Mini-Tower | Small Form Factor | not specified | not specified |
| Fan Size | 80mm | 80mm | 140mm, 80mm | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Connectivity | not specified | not specified | USB 3.0 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Compatible Device | not specified | not specified | CPU Cooler | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 12 × 6.29 × 13.9 inches | not specified | not specified | 17.5 × 7.9 × 14.9 inches | 19 × 15 × 13 inches | 15.7 × 18.1 × 13 inches | 15.4 × 9.06 × 15 inches |
| Weight | 5.73 pounds | not specified | not specified | 9.5 pounds | 13.5 pounds | 11.2 pounds | 1.06 pounds |
| Size | Small | not specified | not specified | N200 | not specified | One Size | Micro-ATX |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | N200 | Black (SG11) | Black | Dark Gray |
| Model | not specified | not specified | PS096 | NSE-200-KKN1 | SG11B | CI-01B-OP | MCB-Q300L-KANN-S00 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Zalman CUBIX alternative supports an optical drive?
The Chieftec Micro-ATX Case includes a dedicated 5.25-inch bay for an optical drive. While the Zalman CUBIX lacks external bays, this Chieftec chassis accommodates standard disc drives alongside Micro-ATX motherboards. It also provides internal clearance for components measuring up to 320mm in length, giving you more installation room for expansion cards.
What is the CPU cooler height limit on the SilverStone SG11B?
The SilverStone SG11B limits your CPU cooler height to 82mm. This small form factor chassis fits standard ATX power supplies and full-length graphics cards, but requires a low-profile CPU cooler. In comparison, the Zalman CUBIX provides 137mm of cooler clearance, while the Iesooy Micro ATX case accommodates larger 140mm cooling hardware.
Can you install an ATX power supply in compact Micro-ATX cases?
Yes, several compact Micro-ATX options fit standard ATX power supplies. The Zalman CUBIX, UTLGAMENG Micro ATX Case, and SilverStone SG11B all support full-sized ATX power supplies in space-saving layouts. However, some compact models differ. The Iesooy Micro ATX Compact Case requires a smaller SFX power supply to fit inside its slim chassis frame.
Which compact Micro-ATX case alternative supports liquid cooling?
The Cooler Master N200 Mesh Mini-Tower is built to support liquid cooling setups. Unlike compact cases like the Zalman CUBIX that rely strictly on 80mm air fans, the N200 mini-tower accommodates liquid cooling alongside multiple storage drives. Its dimensions of 7.9 inches wide and 17.5 inches long provide room for radiator hardware.
How does GPU clearance compare between the Zalman CUBIX and Cooler Master Q300L?
The Cooler Master Q300L provides higher GPU clearance than the Zalman CUBIX. The Zalman CUBIX restricts graphics card lengths to 260mm, which limits your card options. The modular Q300L accommodates longer graphics cards within a chassis measuring 9.06 inches wide, 15 inches high, and 15.4 inches long, allowing more component flexibility.
What fan sizes fit inside the Iesooy Micro ATX Compact Case?
The Iesooy Micro ATX Compact Case supports both 140mm and 80mm fans. This chassis accommodates a 140mm CPU cooler inside its slim footprint, delivering larger air-cooling capacity than cases limited to 80mm fans. It also provides front USB 3.0 connectivity and restricts your graphics card length to under 250mm.
How do the exterior dimensions of the Zalman CUBIX compare to alternatives?
The Zalman CUBIX measures 6.29 inches wide, 13.9 inches high, and 12 inches long, creating a 17.1-liter footprint weighing 5.73 pounds. Most alternatives take up more desk width. For example, the Cooler Master N200 measures 7.9 inches wide, while the SilverStone SG11B measures 15 inches wide.