7 Best Inverted PC Case in 2025: Left Side Desk Setup Tested

Here’s the deal:

Most people build with standard PC cases, but inverted PC cases are pretty darn cool too. And hey, why not be a bit different?

If you want to put your PC on the left side of your setup, or for some reason want to build your PC entirely upside down, I’ve compiled the 7 best inverted PC cases on the market today for every budget.

But if you want a quick scan, here are my top 3 recs:

  1. Best overall: Be Quiet! Silent Base 802
  2. Best mATX case: SilverStone LD01
  3. Cheap option: Thermaltake Core G3

Best Inverted PC Case

To pinpoint the top inverse PC cases, I tested a variety of models, immersing myself in the build process, cable management, and thermal performance of each one.

I didn’t just flip through spec sheets; I built with these cases, used them, and watched how they performed in regular life.

Here are my 7 reverse cases that actually work and I constantly suggest to my friends:

Best for Watercooling
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 287 mm / 11.299" w Drive Cages OR 432 mm / 17.008" w/o Drive Cages
    • Drive Bays: 3 x Internal 3.5" + 7 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 21.22" x 11.063" x 21.772"
Best for Airflow
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 345 mm / 13.583"
    • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 21.6" x 9.4" x 19.7"
Best under $150
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 330 mm / 12.992" w Drive Cages OR 450 mm / 17.717" w/o Drive Cages
    • Drive Bays: 4 x Internal 3.5"
    • Dimensions: 19.685" x 10.551" x 21.063"
Best with RGB Lights
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 285 mm / 11.22"
    • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 19.055" x 8.465" x 19.094"
Premium Pick
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 320 mm / 12.598" w Drive Cages OR 490 mm / 19.291" w/o Drive Cages
    • Drive Bays: 1 x External 5.25" + 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 25.157" x 12.047" x 25.63"
Inverse mATX case
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 309 mm / 12.165"
    • Drive Bays: 1 x Internal 3.5" + 1 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 9.055" x 10.433" x 16.299"
Cheap Option
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 310 mm / 12.205"
    • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5"
    • Dimensions: 14.606" x 5.512" x 17.874"
Best for Watercooling
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 287 mm / 11.299" w Drive Cages OR 432 mm / 17.008" w/o Drive Cages
  • Drive Bays: 3 x Internal 3.5" + 7 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 21.22" x 11.063" x 21.772"
Best for Airflow
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 345 mm / 13.583"
  • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 21.6" x 9.4" x 19.7"
Best under $150
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 330 mm / 12.992" w Drive Cages OR 450 mm / 17.717" w/o Drive Cages
  • Drive Bays: 4 x Internal 3.5"
  • Dimensions: 19.685" x 10.551" x 21.063"
Best with RGB Lights
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 285 mm / 11.22"
  • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 19.055" x 8.465" x 19.094"
Premium Pick
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 320 mm / 12.598" w Drive Cages OR 490 mm / 19.291" w/o Drive Cages
  • Drive Bays: 1 x External 5.25" + 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 25.157" x 12.047" x 25.63"
Inverse mATX case
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 309 mm / 12.165"
  • Drive Bays: 1 x Internal 3.5" + 1 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 9.055" x 10.433" x 16.299"
Cheap Option
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 310 mm / 12.205"
  • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5"
  • Dimensions: 14.606" x 5.512" x 17.874"

Interesting list, right? Now let’s review each one in detail:

1. Be Quiet! Silent Base 802: Best Overall

Expecting a hot-running build? This has the perfect airflow to keep the temperature under control.

Best for Watercooling
be quiet! Silent Base 802

If you are in the market for a minimalist PC case to set up a top-notch water-cooling arrangement, the Be Quiet! Silent Base 802 is a good case to consider.

From its interchangeable panels to support for silent operation, this inverted ATX case has everything you could ask for.

Pros:
  • Versatile panel options
  • Spacious internals
  • Low noise levels
  • Excellent water cooling support
  • Enhancement for easy cable management
Cons:
  • A tad bulkier than expected
  • Little expensive
Check Price on Amazon

The cooling versatility takes the cake. For starters, a reverse PC case is usually better at the cooling dynamics, courtesy of the fact that GPU fans face upwards. As the reward for direct cooling in more, the Be Quiet! Silent Base 802 stands out as it is equipped with three Pure Wings 2,0 fans, which are each 140mm and capable of operating at the lowest possible noise.

While testing this inverted ATX case, what stood out for me was the ability to switch to the airflow configuration mode, allowing for better thermal performance.

Plus, this case is ready for the 420mm radiators, which is the best thing you can get for a water-cooling-friendly setup.

As for the customizable aspects, Silent Base 802 is packed with three internal 3.5” HDD-friendly units and seven 2.5-inch SSD-specific units.

Plus, there are seven expansion slots in play, allowing for any kind of GPU you want it to accommodate.

Then, there is a modern and fun-looking I/O panel, making room for the USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, a fan controller, and other elements.

Type
ATX
Airflow
Great
Design
Great
Window
Yes
Spacious
Yes
Noise
No

This ATX case, courtesy of its inverted, offers ample cable routing space.

Even with all the relevant cables specific to the power supply and more, you can expect the interior to be clutter-free.

The PSU also shrouds cables owing to its invented nature. Some of the highlights in terms of cable management include the grommeted routing holes and the massive area that’s behind the motherboard tray.

The entire form factor is steel-clad. Plus, when checked from the inside, the case packs insulation mats to dampen the audio interference. There is a side-facing tempered panel lending the aesthetic touch to this ATX case.

As mentioned earlier, the noise levels are negligible. When tested, the 25 dB level wasn’t breached. As for the dust filters, the quality is mid-range, and they do require frequent cleaning.

I could install or put together the same in under 45 minutes, all thanks to the relocatable motherboard tray and the modular top bracket. It looked perfect as a PC case for the left side of my desk.

Overall, at under $180, this reversible PC case is pretty handy to get, provided you are a high-end gamer or a content creator who expects the PC to heat up a lot.

Also, if you are interested in a bigger case, with eight expansion PCIe slots in comparison to seven offered by the Be Quiet! Silent Base 802, the Dark Base Pro 900 can be a good option.

Unlike the mid-tower Silent Base, the Pro 900 is a full-tower case, comes in Orange, and is even compatible with the XL ATX motherboards. It can accommodate GPUs as big as 472mm and even boasts two external 5.25” bays, unlike the 802 model.

2. Segotep T1: Best for Airflow

Another great case with an awesome airlfow and cooling system. Get this one if you want a modular case.

Value for Money
Segotep T1

This inverted case is known for supporting the best-in-class cooling arrangement, all thanks to the ability to make room for up to 7 case fans.

Pros:
  • Dedicated PSU shroud
  • Space for cable sleeves
  • Access to seven fan slots
  • Decent water cooling support
Cons:
  • Can be hard for new builders to put together
Check Price on Amazon

The Segotep T1 is a more relatable inverted ATX PC case on the list, especially if you are interested in a piece that excels in airflow. It is more of a left-side PC case that wins the aesthetic game, offering the best possible component visibility.

The detachable fan bracket alone can house three 120mm or even 140mm fans.

Three fans can go into the rear, and one 120mm goes up top. Plus, there is space for two 360mm radiators for a decent water cooling performance, if needed.

This case supports the vertically mounted GPU, as sizable as 345mm. I ended up testing the case with the RTX 3080 model, and there was hardly any heat-specific issue.

As for the bays, you get two internal 3.5” units and two 2.5” inch points for plugging in HDDs and SSDs.

Then, there are eight PCIe expansion slots followed by a loaded I/O panel. It comprises USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, a Type-A port, and even USB 2.0 Type-A ports.

Type
ATX
Airflow
Great
Design
Great
Window
Yes
Spacious
Yes
Noise
No

What stands out is the power supply shroud, helping with seamless cable routing. Even post-setup, the internal space felt adequate for a mid-tower case.

As for the build quality, the white color scheme stands out.

What caught my attention was how aesthetic the tempered glass panel looked. The ability to pack RGB-powered fans can easily win the Segotep T1 the best-inverted case with a lights tag.

The low noise profile is also one of its wins. However, as for any mid-range ATX case, the noise filters, despite being robust, require frequent cooling.

While installing, the inverted layout did require some adjustment on my part.

As it was a vertical GPU, I had to use the PCIe riser cable. And yes, you need to be strategic with the fan placement. Also, the space inside is adequate for the cable sleeves, in case you prefer insulating.

The Segotep T1 stands out in terms of air cooling support, allowing access to seven fan slots.

However, what isn’t noticeable is the DIY modularity offered by the case, which I noticed while putting the same together.

3. Thermaltake Core P3 Pro E-ATX: Best under $150

If you don’t want to spend a fortune and yet want a top-notch case, this one is for you.

Best under $200
Thermaltake Core P3 Pro

This case is a solid deal for under $200. It keeps things cool without a fuss, has plenty of room for all your parts, and the setup is straightforward.

Plus, it looks sharp with that clear side panel. Just watch out for dust, as it's pretty open.

Pros:
  • Exceptional cooling performance
  • Open-frame layout
  • Versatile mounting options
  • Supports large GPUs
  • Compatible with EATX motherboards
Cons:
  • Requires careful cable management
  • Might not be ideal for dust-prone regions
Check Price on Amazon

When it comes to cooling, this Thermaltake Core P3 Pro is easily the best option under $150, with AIO cooler support.

The support for a 360mm radiator ensures that you can play any game without breaking a sweat, both literally and figuratively.

The recessed design for mounting radiators ensures that a lot of space is left even post the setup. And yes, the cooling mounting bracket ensures that the airflow is consistent.

The P3 Pro packs four internal bays for hard drives, followed by eight expansion slots for peripherals and graphics cards.

I ended up pairing the same with a high-end EATX motherboard, and the fit was excellent.

Then, there is the rotatable PCIe slot that supports vertical GPU mounting. As for the GPU, I tested the same with the RTX 3080, based on the fact that this case supports a card up to 450mm.

The front I/O ports are loaded in numbers, with Thermaltake opening doors to Type-C and Type-A orifices.

I didn’t have issues with cable management, all thanks to the open-frame layout. While there wasn’t any PSU shroud offered, the space behind the motherboard tray was expansive enough to include most power supply units.

The cable routing holes on offer were strategic enough.

Type
ATX
Airflow
Great
Design
Good
Window
Yes
Spacious
Yes
Noise
No

The steel frame stands out, followed by a transparent tempered glass panel that looks virtually non-existent, lending a premium feel to the case.

The natural airflow support keeps the noise levels to a minimum. Also, I noticed that as compared to other products on the list, the noise filters on the Thermaltake Core P3 Pro were easy to clean.

The installation, or rather putting together the Thermaltake Core P3 Pro E-ATX, felt smoother, all thanks to the 3-way placement layout and the strong, steady feet, offering a stable base.

This way, every possible case setup becomes a reality. Then, there are RGB-friendly components to help you maximize the oomph.

But then, if you prefer models or cases with cube layouts, the Thermaltake Level 20 VT could be a good option. Unlike the Core P3 Pro, the 20 VT brings support for two SSDs. There are USB 2.0 slots on offer, followed by an all-side glass construction. Even though it supports the micro ATX motherboards, it is the interchangeable panel layout and the top-notch aesthetics that stand out.

As for the radiator support, you can fit in anything up to 420mm. And yes, smaller GPUs would be better companions to the slightly more affordable PC cases.

4. Sharkoon Rev200: Best with Lights

While the side glass panel adds to the aesthetics, the advanced airflow setup is worth investing in.

Best with RGB Lights
Sharkoon Rev200

This inverted PC case packs some real heat, all thanks to the support for five aRGB fans that come integrated with the same.

Besides the optimal thermal performance, it wins the airflow segment by directly pushing out the heat away from the graphics card.

Pros:
  • Built-in with five 120mm RGB fans
  • Adequate space for a 240mm radiator
  • Seamless cable hiding support
  • Compatible with Asus Aura Sync and other light sync modules
Cons:
  • Limited GPU compatibility
  • Lacks Type-C ports
Check Price on Amazon

The Sharkoon Rev200 is an ideal PC case if you’re interested in setting up a glitzy little piece of hardware for gaming and much more.

When it comes to the availability of slots, the Rev200 is loaded with options.

For starters, you can fit in both HDDs and SSDs with this one, all thanks to the 2 2.5” and 2 3.5” slots.

You can even make use of the seven full-fledged expansion slots to fit in graphics cards and other components.

As for the cards, anything up to 285mm can be accommodated with ease. For me, it was the GTX 1070, which I tested with the Rev200 without experiencing any hiccups whatsoever.

The front I/O consortium includes all the relevant Type-A ports but misses out on the Type-C inclusions.

Type
ATX
Airflow
Great
Design
Good
Window
Yes
Spacious
Yes
Noise
No

The neat organization post setting up the panel ensures seamless cable management. Then, there is the pass-through support for the additional cables, clips, and other relevant entities.

The case design stands out, all thanks to the minimalist front panel, steel-clad chassis, and the availability of a crystal-clear tempered glass panel.

The noise levels max out at 32 dB, which is relatively quiet for an affordable inverted case like this.

Then there are dust filters on the side, but they do require regular cleaning.

The clear access points, followed by a spacious internal setup and a volume of 50.5 ltr, helped me put together the same pretty easily.

As a mid-tower right window PC case, plus with support for an external RGB controller, it is easily one of the best entities if you want to play around with lights.

5. Coolermaster Cosmos C700P: Best for Gaming

Want absolute best? This is a premium case for your build.

Premium Pick
Cooler Master Cosmos C700P

This is not your typical mid-tower case. Instead, it is a full tower inverted computer case, supporting multiple fans.

But you can ditch the fans for two 420mm radiators, opening a host of opportunities for liquid cooling concerns.

Pros:
  • Massive size
  • Flat radiator brackets
  • Supports water cooling
  • Useful for 4090 graphics cards
  • Optical drive support
Cons:
  • Pricey
  • Overkill for basic users
Check Price on Amazon

Well, the Coolermaster Cosmos C700P, at under $500, is anything but affordable. But then, if you are strictly into gaming, this PC case, led by a host of liquid cooling solutions and more, is the best possible option.

This full-tower PC case is loaded with two SSDs and two HDD bays — 2.5” and 3.5”, respectively.

You can even pair external storage modules using the eight expansion slots on offer, allowing access to multiple GPUs, sound cards, storage expansion cards, and whatnot.

The I/O module features Type-C and Type-A ports.

As for the graphics card, I tested the same with the GeForce RTX 3090, assuming the fact that anything up to 490mm can be accommodated. The union felt smooth, and there were no fitting-related hiccups.

Type
ATX
Airflow
Great
Design
Good
Window
Yes
Spacious
Yes
Noise
No

The cable management is hardly an issue with this full tower case around. From flat radiator brackets to make space for the thicker cables to the PSU shroud, the case never feels cluttered despite adding multiple elements.

As for my technical findings, the highlights would be the grommeted cable routing holes, spacious interior, access to velcro straps behind the motherboard, and cover plates for hiding the PSU.

The C700P boasts a steel and aluminum frame and also includes a tempered glass panel. However, the panel sports a slight tint. Design-wise, the curved edges stand out.

There is support for RGB lightning elements, if needed, followed by access to cosmetic bars on the outer side.

The case itself features noise-dampening elements, ensuring that the setup doesn’t exceed 30 dB under any circumstance.

There are top, bottom, and front-facing dust filters in sight, which are easy to clean. There are five mesh panels in place, which require regular maintenance.

When it comes to the personal installation experience, this modular PC case stood out. The cable cover system allowed me ample scope to insulate the braided options.

Plus, with the inverted setup, I could get access to a customized layout and a chimney, allowing me to play around with the position of the motherboard tray and the GPU.

Despite the massive price tag, the C700P is worth every buck, mostly due to its aesthetics and sheer size. even while not being a classic inverted case.

6. SilverStone LD01: Best Micro ATX case

This one is spacious, looks cool, and makes setting up your PC pretty straightforward.

Inverse mATX Case
SilverStone Technology LD03B

It's got this unique setup where the motherboard is flipped upside down, so your graphics card ends up near the top, which is neat for cooling.

The case looks sharp with a lot of glass, but it's different because you see the inside from the right side, not the left.

There's enough room to fit your drives and big parts like the CPU cooler and graphics card.

Pros:
  • Airflow
  • Full tempered glass
  • Awesome design
Cons:
  • Limited hard drive storage
  • No fans included
Check Price on Amazon

Although SilverStone LD01 supports micro ATX motherboards its size makes it seem like a standard mid-tower case.

And like the other cases on our list, the motherboard is mounted upside down, leaving the graphics card near the top of the case and the CPU cooler towards the bottom.

The LD01 has a large vent on top of the case which the GPU can use to pull cool air, which should have a positive impact on cooling performance.

Sleek lines and a crap load of glass make for an incredibly good-looking case. But this one has its internal components visible from the right side of the case instead of the left.

In terms of storage space, there is a three-drive hard drive bay in the power supply shroud which can be moved to three different locations, in case you need some extra space down there for a power supply or a front radiator.

Each drive bay is adjustable and can house either 3.5″ HDD drives or 2.5″ SSDs.

There are also two additional 2.5″ mounting options behind the motherboard tray for traditional SSDs.

Here are the case’s maximum sizes:

  • CPU coolers up to 168mm
  • GPU up to 370mm
  • PSUs up to 160mm (or 220mm with the drive bays all the way forward)

With that in mind, if you’re going to mount a front radiator on this case I’d suggest a 140mm or 150mm power supply to make your life way easier.

Type
mATX
Airflow
Great
Design
Great
Window
Yes
Spacious
Yes
Noise
No

One of the case’s main drawbacks (aside from somewhat limited drive storage) is that the LD01 doesn’t ship with any stock fans.

It can fit two 120mm or 140mm fans in the front, and one on top. It can also fit a 120mm fan on the rear and has support for up to 280mm radiators on the front and top.

SilverStone did come through with the dust filters though, because they fully cover the fans without leaving any room for dust to get sucked in. Cable management in this case is a breeze – three grommets next to the motherboard tray make it easy to run your cables, and there’s sufficient space between the motherboard tray and the back left panel to hide your cables.

Cable management doesn’t actually impact your airflow, but it definitely affects the look of your build.

And if you’re buying an inverted case just to see your components, they ought to look good.

You can learn more about cable management and airflow by clicking that link to read our full guide. And for more awesome cable management cases, we’ve got a guide on that too!

There are even pre-existing cable ties to help you keep things nice and tidy – overall, building in this PC is quite easy, considering the spacious interior and easy cable management.

7. Thermaltake Core G3: Best under $100

Want a slim case that’s also budget-friendly? Check this PC case with glass on right side.

Cheap Option
Thermaltake Core G3

This is a slim ATX case with a right-side panel window and an inverted configuration.

It can’t support big graphics cards or tall CPU coolers, but if you’re looking for a basic inverted PC case on a budget, this is my top pick.

Pros:
  • Quality design
  • Low cost
  • Solid construction
Cons:
  • Cable management
Check Price on Amazon

Somehow Thermaltake Core G3 can house a full-sized ATX motherboard despite how slim it is.

One of the cool things about this inverted PC case is that it can be stood up like a regular tower, or laid down on its side to put under your TV.

They’ve managed to cram a full ATX motherboard inside of a case that’s not particularly large. The G3’s width is easily its smallest dimension (140mm), which is why it made it on our list of small and slim ATX cases.

For those of you who want a slim inverted PC case with a right-side panel window and don’t have a huge budget, this is the case for you.

One of the main drawbacks of the G3 is it can only fit a low-profile CPU cooler of no more than 110mm, which is quite small.

But once you get past that, it’s surprisingly fully featured. You can put a liquid cooler on the front or the roof without much trouble, and it has pretty good airflow.

Type
ATX
Airflow
Average
Design
Good
Window
Yes
Spacious
Average
Noise
No

Since it’s an inverted case (like the rest on this list) the motherboard is upside down and the acrylic side panel window is on the right side. You can stand the PC upright on the left side of your desk and see the internals, or lay it down like a horizontal PC case and use it underneath your TV or monitor.

One of the keys to this case’s ability to get away with such a slim profile is the fact that it can only support an SFX power supply, not a full ATX power supply.

The case also makes use of a vertical GPU mount which is pretty cool, and comes with a riser cable so you don’t have to worry about that.

What is an Inverted PC Case?

Standard PC cases have a left-side panel window and a vertical motherboard configuration where the GPU is mounted horizontally, below the CPU socket.

Conversely, an inverted PC case has its motherboard mounted so that the GPU is on top and the CPU is on the bottom.

inverted PC case example
Source: PC Centric

In addition, inverted PC cases have their side panel window on the right side instead of the left.

If you only have enough desk space to put your PC on the left side of your monitor, having a side panel window on the left side of your case isn’t going to do you much good. You won’t be able to see your components, effectively wasting the whole point of having a window in the first place.

That’s where an inverted PC case comes in. Inverted PC cases have a right-side panel window so you can see your components even when your PC is on your left.

In addition, motherboards are typically installed backward in an inverted PC case, meaning the GPU lives at the top of the case, above the CPU.

Quick Note

Not sure which PC case size fits your build? Whether you need maximum space for water cooling or a compact setup for your desk, our PC case Form Factor guide will help you choose between Full Tower, Mid-Tower, and smaller options.

Why Buy an Inverted PC Case?

There are only three reasons (at least that I can think of) why you want to build your PC with an inverted case. Either you have limited desk space, you think it’ll improve cooling performance, or you’re just one of those guys who always has to be different.

Desk Space Limitations

This is the most common reason why people build with inverted PC cases, and it’s also the most understandable.

For some reason a lot of PC case manufacturers have opted to put their side panel windows on the left side panel, assuming everyone wants to put their PC on the right side of their setup.

But if you have limited desk space and plan on putting your PC on the left side of your setup, having an inverted PC case with a right-side panel window is important. At least, it is if you want to see your components.

You Want to Be Different

Maybe you can put your case on the right side of your build, but you want to be unique. Not everyone has an inverted case – in fact, most people don’t. Building your PC upside down in an inverted PC case is sure to attract the attention of anyone who steps into the room.

Alright, maybe not your girlfriend’s attention – but anyone who builds PCs will surely notice and appreciate the change of pace.

You Want Better Cooling Performance

The last reason why you might want an inverted PC case is because you think it’ll have better cooling performance than a traditional case.

Let me explain:

Heat rises, and if you have your GPU on top, the heat should rise easily to the top case fans without any obstructions, which is not the case with a traditional setup.

While that makes sense in theory, you probably won’t experience any noticeable performance difference in the real world.

With so many other factors at play, the configuration of your motherboard in a traditional or inverted fashion probably won’t have a noticeable impact on cooling.

Is an Inverted PC Case Worth It?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question – it all depends on your specific situation.

Choosing a PC case is hard enough, and throwing inverted configurations into the mix isn’t making things easier. If you want to learn more about how to choose a PC case, click that link to check out our complete guide.

Anyway, for the most part, there isn’t a tangible difference between a standard and inverted PC case that I can see. Theoretically, it might have better cooling performance, but in the real world that’s not the case.

All in all the only real difference is the aesthetic look of the case. I’d say an inverted PC case is worth it if you want to place your case on the left side of your desk, or you want to make your build stand out in an upside-down configuration.

This is, of course, assuming you have the budget to spend on an inverted PC case. If you’re trying to build a budget PC you should allocate most of your money to the CPU and GPU, not the case.

And if you don’t know how much you should be spending on your gaming PC, check out our guide by clicking that link.

Although this video is a few years old and the 600C is no longer on the market, it does a great job talking about inverted PC cases in general:

Review Summary

Inverted PC cases are a bit weird but can be pretty awesome in the right situations. Here are the top 7 inverted or backwards pc cases on the market:

Best for Watercooling
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 287 mm / 11.299" w Drive Cages OR 432 mm / 17.008" w/o Drive Cages
    • Drive Bays: 3 x Internal 3.5" + 7 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 21.22" x 11.063" x 21.772"
Best for Airflow
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 345 mm / 13.583"
    • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 21.6" x 9.4" x 19.7"
Best under $150
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 330 mm / 12.992" w Drive Cages OR 450 mm / 17.717" w/o Drive Cages
    • Drive Bays: 4 x Internal 3.5"
    • Dimensions: 19.685" x 10.551" x 21.063"
Best with RGB Lights
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 285 mm / 11.22"
    • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 19.055" x 8.465" x 19.094"
Premium Pick
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 320 mm / 12.598" w Drive Cages OR 490 mm / 19.291" w/o Drive Cages
    • Drive Bays: 1 x External 5.25" + 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 25.157" x 12.047" x 25.63"
Inverse mATX case
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 309 mm / 12.165"
    • Drive Bays: 1 x Internal 3.5" + 1 x Internal 2.5"
    • Dimensions: 9.055" x 10.433" x 16.299"
Cheap Option
  • Specs:
    • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
    • Max Video Card Length: 310 mm / 12.205"
    • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5"
    • Dimensions: 14.606" x 5.512" x 17.874"
Best for Watercooling
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 287 mm / 11.299" w Drive Cages OR 432 mm / 17.008" w/o Drive Cages
  • Drive Bays: 3 x Internal 3.5" + 7 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 21.22" x 11.063" x 21.772"
Best for Airflow
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 345 mm / 13.583"
  • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 21.6" x 9.4" x 19.7"
Best under $150
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 330 mm / 12.992" w Drive Cages OR 450 mm / 17.717" w/o Drive Cages
  • Drive Bays: 4 x Internal 3.5"
  • Dimensions: 19.685" x 10.551" x 21.063"
Best with RGB Lights
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 285 mm / 11.22"
  • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 19.055" x 8.465" x 19.094"
Premium Pick
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C + USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 320 mm / 12.598" w Drive Cages OR 490 mm / 19.291" w/o Drive Cages
  • Drive Bays: 1 x External 5.25" + 2 x Internal 3.5" + 2 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 25.157" x 12.047" x 25.63"
Inverse mATX case
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 309 mm / 12.165"
  • Drive Bays: 1 x Internal 3.5" + 1 x Internal 2.5"
  • Dimensions: 9.055" x 10.433" x 16.299"
Cheap Option
Specs:
  • Front Panel USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A + USB 2.0 Type-A
  • Max Video Card Length: 310 mm / 12.205"
  • Drive Bays: 2 x Internal 3.5"
  • Dimensions: 14.606" x 5.512" x 17.874"