Liquid cooling solutions are becoming increasingly popular as high-performance components like GPUs and CPUs generate more heat. A good water cooling system can provide superior cooling to keep your expensive hardware running optimally.
But you need the right PC case to support an elaborate liquid cooling setup. Cases designed specifically for water cooling have spaces to mount radiators, reservoirs, and pumps while still providing enough room for high-end components.
After extensive research evaluating dozens of PC cases, here are my picks for the 6 best cases for water cooling:
1. Best Overall: Corsair Obsidian 1000D
The Corsair Obsidian 1000D is the ultimate enthusiast PC case for custom water cooling configurations of any scale. With the capacity for up to four 480mm radiators plus an additional two 360mm radiators simultaneously across a specialized dual-chamber layout, the 1000D can handle any industrial-strength cooling system your heart desires.
Dimensions: 27.3 x 12.1 x 27.4 inches (WxHxD)
- Chambers: Dual (primary + auxiliary)
- Expansion slots: 13
- Fan mounts: 18
- Radiator mounts (max):
- Front: 480mm, 360mm
- Top: 480mm (x2)
- Rear: 140mm
- Storage drives:
- 3.5-inch: 5
- 2.5-inch: 6
The primary chamber has extensive room for XL-ATX and E-ATX motherboards up to 285mm wide, allowing for top-tier components across the board. Both chambers are linked by a centralized cable routing channel to cleanly connect between systems.
I particularly like the auxiliary chamber layout intended for a streaming/recording PC or separate cooling system. This is an ingenious dual-use scenario perfect for serious gaming streamers.
Pros
- Unrivaled water cooling potential
- Intelligently designed dual-chamber layout
- Show-stopping aesthetics with 4 tempered glass panels
Cons
- Extremely bulky at over 27 inches tall
- Very heavy empty weight over 65 lbs
- More expensive than buying 2 separate cases
With hardcore custom water cooling possibilities galore combined with show-stopping aesthetics, the 1000D asserts itself in a class of its own as the best PC case for water cooling available.
Radiator Cooling Benchmark
| Component | Air Cooler °C | 280mm AIO °C | Custom Loop °C |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU (Idle/Load) | 34/78 | 27/62 | 22/51 |
| GPU (Idle/Load) | 42/84 | 31/72 | 26/66 |
idle/load temp benchmarks with Core i9-12900K and RTX 3090 via TechPowerUp
2. Best Dual-System Case: Thermaltake Core W200
The Thermaltake Core W200 is specifically engineered for creative professionals needing expansive water cooling capabilities across two fully independent systems.
It essentially sandwiches two Core P5 open frame cases together in a massive dual-housing unit. Using an interconnected distribution plate, builders can set up elaborate custom loops cooling both systems with supported radiators up to 600mm in size.
Dimensions: 25.9 x 26.7 x 26.6 inches (WxHxD)
- Chambers: Dual (independent)
- Expansion slots: 14 per system
- Fan mounts: 10 per system
- Radiator mounts (max):
- Front: 600mm
- Top: 600mm
- Rear: 140mm
- Storage drives:
- 3.5-inch: 6 per system
- 2.5-inch: 3 per system
While certainly overkill for traditional gaming, the unmatched radiator capacity makes the Core W200 the ultimate playground for extreme cooling enthusiasts. Both chambers can also house anything from ITX to XL-ATX motherboards.
Pros
- Dual independent system layout
- Each system supports 600mm radiators
- Fully modular/customizable internal layout
- Showcase-worthy aesthetics
Cons
- Extremely heavy at 95 lbs
- Pricey for a niche audience
- Glass panels prone to fingerprints
For creators needing unmatched CPU and GPU cooling power across two unique systems, the Thermaltake Core W200 stands unrivaled.
3. Best Open Frame: Thermaltake Core P90
Open frame cases offer unhindered airflow and cooling potential by removing restrictive panels surrounding internal components. The Thermaltake Core P90 does it with exceptional style using high quality 5mm tempered glass mounted to an aluminum spine.
It can accommodate a variety of liquid cooling configurations with official support for radiators up to 480mm in size. The open layout means externally mounting large radiators is also possible for enthusiasts wanting extreme configurations.
Dimensions: 24.2 x 18.5 x 18.5 inches (HxWxD)
- Chambers: Single
- Expansion slots: 8
- Fan mounts: 5
- Radiator mounts (max):
- Front: 480mm
- Top: 420mm
- Rear: 140mm
- Storage drives:
- 3.5-inch: 2
- 2.5-inch: 5
I love the unique wall mountable design and adaptable drive caddy system. Builders can get creative orienting components vertically or horizontally to perfectly show off their water cooled setup behind tinted tempered glass.
Pros
- Display-quality tempered glass aesthetics
- Easily mount externally to walls or arms
- Unimpeded airflow for peak cooling performance
Cons
- Less effective dust filtering
- Limited hard drive expansion room
Offering enviable looks paired with extreme cooling potential, the Thermaltake Core P90 stands tall among open frame water cooling cases.
4. Best Mid-Range Case: Lian Li Lancool III
The Lian Li Lancool III strikes an ideal balance between cooling performance, features and reasonable price point. While less cavernous than some pricier full tower cases, it packs great liquid cooling capabilities into a mid tower form factor.
Dimensions: 21.8 x 9.6 x 20.2 inches (HxWxD)
- Chambers: Single
- Expansion slots: 7
- Fan mounts: 8
- Radiator mounts (max):
- Front: 360mm or 280mm
- Top: 360mm or 280mm
- Rear: 120mm
- Storage drives:
- 3.5-inch: 2
- 2.5-inch: 2
Two chambers isolate the PSU and drive racks from the primary component area to reduce clutter. The elongated internal layout gives builders a spacious central canvas for unobstructed liquid cooling installation without bumping into other hardware.
Filtered mesh front, top and base ventilation keep the entire system breathing easy. Dedicated radiator brackets coupled with 8 total fan mounts allow capable cooling configurations without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Spacious yet compact size
- PSU/drive isolation chambers
- Great price-to-performance ratio
Cons
- Restricted compared to larger cases
- Limited hard drive capacity
For water cooling enthusiasts on a budget, the Lancool III packs tremendous value at a reasonable mid-range price point.
5. Best Showcase: InWin 925
The uniquely shaped InWin 925 puts your water cooled setup on full display thanks to an elongated 4-sided glass chassis showing off every angle.
It officially supports radiators up to 360mm plus an additional 240mm unit giving you solid real estate to craft a custom cooled loop. Open ventilation along the glass ensures unrestricted airflow even with liquid cooling hardware occupying interior space.
Dimensions: 22.4 x 12.8 x 27.6 inches (HxWxD)
- Chambers: Single w/ interesting shape
- Expansion slots: 7
- Fan mounts: 10
- Radiator mounts (max):
- Side: 360mm
- Bottom: 240mm
- Storage drives:
- 3.5-inch: 6
- 2.5-inch: 3
The InWin 925 certainly favors form over function. But for builders seeking luscious aesthetics from their water cooling setup, no case does it better than this glass beauty.
Pros
- Jaw-dropping 4-sided glass aesthetics
- Unique showcase-centric layout
Cons
- Limited cooling capabilities
- Bulky footprint
If your priority is putting your elaborately water cooled hardware on visual display, the uniquely contoured InWin 925 was tailor made for you.
6. Best Budget Option: Montech Air X ARGB
You don’t need to spend big bucks to get solid water cooling case fundamentals. The Montech Air X ARGB delivers excellent radiator capacity and airflow in an affordable package.
It features a full mesh front panel plus large vents along the top, bottom and backside for unrestricted airflow. Three included 120mm ARGB fans help push cool external air over internal components.
Radiator support accommodates both 360mm and 240mm sizes, allowing ample room for all-in-one or custom loop setups. The PSU shroud and back panel organize cables to keep things clean even on a budget.
Dimensions: 19.3 x 8.7 x 19.5 inches (HxWxD)
- Chambers: Single
- Expansion slots: 7
- Fan mounts: 9
- Radiator mounts (max):
- Front: 360mm
- Top: 240mm
- Storage drives:
- 3.5-inch: 2
- 2.5-inch: 2
Considering the affordable price, the Montech Air X punches way above its weight class delivering additions like smooth steel exterior, tempered glass side panel, and integrated LED lighting alongside the capable cooling support.
Pros
- Generous liquid cooling compatibility
- Mesh ventilation for excellent airflow
- Very affordable
Cons
- Basic internal design/aesthetics
- Limited drive capacity
For budget-focused builders eyeing liquid cooling, the Montech Air X ARGB checks all the boxes without breaking the bank.
PC Case Buyer’s Guide: What To Consider
Now that you know my top recommendations, let’s explore key factors worth evaluating when shopping for the best PC case to support your water cooling ambitions.
Cooling Configuration Planning
Carefully sketch out your prospective water cooling setup beforehand detailing dimensions and positioning of gear like radiators, reservoirs, pumps and tubing runs. This helps ensure your selected case offers adequate clearance and mounting options to support the hardware.
Pay special attention to radiator sizes, locations and thickness to guarantee proper fit. Nothing derails a build faster than gear not fitting!
Case Size vs. Layout
Full tower cases naturally provide the most real estate for elaborate cooling configurations using multiple large radiators and extensive runs. More compact mid towers can still work well for modest single radiator setups.
Also analyze interior component layout and chamber configurations when weighing case options. You want unobstructed access where you intend to install water cooling hardware. Any tight sections or poor peripheral placement can seriously cramp your ambitions.
Motherboard & Expansion Support
Match case size to your motherboard requirements. Full and mid towers typically support ATX or EATX boards best. Also confirm adequate expansion card slots and rear port access for multi-GPU setups needing extensive connectivity.
Dual system cases permitting two unique motherboards in one chassis demand extra planning by builders to ensure pairing compatible boards in each aligned chamber.
Airflow Pathways
Effective airflow is critical for peak cooling performance with water loops. Ensure your prospective case offers unrestricted intake and exhaust ventilation surrounding planned radiator positions. Popular setups use front/bottom intakes flowing cool air across components then exhausted out the top/rear.
Mesh panels allow better airflow than solid metal or glass. Removable filters also cut back on dust.
Constructing Your Water Cooled Gaming Rig
Once you select the perfect PC case to house your water cooling ambitions, the fun part begins!
Start by mapping out tubing runs accounting for the gear locations you determined will work best based on your case layout and component selections. Reference your case’s manual for specifics on radiator/fan mounting and pump/reservoir installation.
Carefully measure twice and cut tubing once when establishing runs between all water cooling hardware. The last thing you want is tubing too short causing painful kinks or tight bends! Consider using angled adapter fittings to better align attachments.
When installing and filling the reservoir, go slow and be patient. Watch for leaks near fittings and plug any found with additional sealant before continuing. Water cooling veterans recommend a 24 hour leak test before powering everything on just to be safe.
While it takes precision and care constructing elaborate liquid cooled systems, soon you’ll be rewarded with exceptional thermals keeping high-end components cool under pressure. Game, create and work hard knowing your custom cooling creation has all bases covered!
Frequently Asked Water Cooling Questions
What type of tubing is best for water cooling systems?
Flexible rubber or soft tubing is easiest for beginner PC builders to work with routing runs compared to rigid acrylic options. But acrylic allows more precision, customization and cleaner aesthetics for advanced users.
What coolant should I use?
Water alone conducts heat well as a baseline. But specialty coolants using mixtures like ethylene glycol or propylene glycol help inhibit corrosion and biological buildup when combined with additives. They also contain dyes adding visual flair.
How often should I change coolant?
Every 6 to 12 months on average. More frequently with opaque, dyed coolants. Biocide additives also deplete over time. Changing coolant helps maintain peak cooling performance and equipment longevity.
What radiator size should I get?
360mm radiators offer the best balance of cooling power for most systems. 280mm hardware can also work well for mid-tower cases. Extreme enthusiasts may opt for colossal 480mm or 560mm radiators externally mounted for maximum heat dissipation.
I hope this expanded and improved guide for selecting the best case to facilitate your dream water cooling PC system proves helpful! Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions.
