As an avid gamer and custom PC builder, I live for tricking out hot rod computer setups. And the foundation for these killer configs starts with the chassis. As games and GPUs advance to 4K 120 Hz or even 8K resolutions, you need a giant case ready for liquid cooled power.
I’ve built over 200 gaming computers, and today I’ll walk you through the 6 biggest, baddest PC towers available in 2024. From their massive dimensions to extreme cooling support, these cases redefine “big” in the pursuit of housing the ultimate battlestation.
Let’s dive into what to know before buying one of these giant chassis, features that matter most, and where the market could expand next!
A Brief History of Oversized Cases
It wasn’t long ago when most builders considered a full tower case under 30 liters to be spacious. But as graphics cards gained more CUDA cores and CPUs boosted clock speeds, thermals became a concern. Gamers increasingly utilized liquid cooling methods to efficiently dissipate heat versus stock air coolers.
This custom loop trend sparked demand for bigger cases that could install beefy radiators. Fast forward to today where we have multiple 120+ liter options!
So what changed to make the industry standard shift from cavernous to epic? Let’s quickly recap.
2010 – After Nvidia’s hot running GTX 480, the PC community realizes liquid cooling should become more mainstream to sustain boost clocks.\
2014 – Corsair releases their Air 540 model with dedicated compartments to isolate hot components.\
2016 – GPUs now routinely require 220+ watt power draws under load while CPUs climb to 140 watts.\
2019 – Lian Li’s release of the O11 Dynamic with 120mm fan + radiator support on three sides sets a new bar.\
2022 – The 1000D Super Tower launches at a towering 123 liter capacity.
As you can see, enthusiasts have driven case sizes up over the years in lockstep with thermal demands from advancing hardware. I predict by 2026 we could see 140L+ mainstream cases!
Why Bigger Cases Keep Getting More Massive
Now that you understand how we got to where cases stand today, you might ask – why keep making them larger? It mainly comes down to two growth factors:
1. Cooling – Giant cases give flexibility to install triple fan radiators, custom piping runs, reservoirs and more that couldn’t fit before. With 4K 144 Hz gaming producing 300+ watt heat output alone from GPUs, space helps.
2. Expandability – A considerable footprint enables upgrading to next generation hardware without limitations. Rather than worrying your GPU is too long or the CPU cooler too tall, bigger removes constraints.
Ultimately when investing $5,000+ building an elite level rig, enthusiasts want assurance it won’t become obsolete quickly. Plus liquid cooling capacity for silent operation. Thus the market responded with ever increasing case sizes.
History Computer’s Top 6 Giant PC Cases
Now let’s examine today’s leading behemoths when it comes to colossal PC cases! I sorted them by interior volume in descending order. You’ll quickly observe the Corsair Obsidian 1000D standing taller than all rivals.
I’ve included key specs like radiator capacity, drive bays, component clearance and external aesthetics. Carefully read through each before deciding which super tower fits your ambitions best!
| Case Model | Dimensions | Volume | Radiator Support | Drive Bays | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corsair 1000D | 27.3 x 12.1 x 26.2 in | 123L | 4 x 480mm | 13 HDD, 7 SSD | 43 lbs |
| Thermaltake Core W200 | 25.7 x 12.1 x 26.7 in | 124L* | 2 x 560mm | 4 HDD, 2 SSD | 65.3 lbs |
| EVGA CLX SET | 29.9 x 9.8 x 22.8 in | 113L | 2 x 480mm | 6 HDD, 6 SSD | 43.2 lbs |
| Lian Li O11D XL-X | 28.7 x 16.6 x 19.3 in | 113L | 3 x 480mm | 12 HDD, 4 SSD | 31.3 lbs |
| Phanteks Enthoo Elite | 27.3 x 27.2 x 15.7 in | 102L | 2 x 560mm | 6 HDD, 6 SSD | 52.9 lbs |
| Thermaltake View 91 | 27.2 x 12.1 x 27.2 in | 90L | 4 x 480mm | 14 HDD, 2 SSD | 62.8 lbs |
* Dual system case with 2x PSU and motherboard chamber
Observing the data reveals key insights:
- The 1000D far exceeds other cases, hitting 27” height and a cavernous 123L internal capacity
- Majority support 3 to 4 x 480mm radiators, enabling elaborate custom cooling configurations
- Mid range options like Lian Li’s O11D XL offer solid value and aesthetic appeal
As you browse different models, consider which case strengths suit your build best. I‘ll next guide you through prioritizing key purchasing criteria.
6 Things To Evaluate with Ultra Large Tower Cases
Let’s examine six essential factors I analyze whenever selecting giant chassis.
1. Interior Volume
While not always decisive, interior volume correlates strongly with expandability and cooling capacity. Cases exceeding 100 liters enable installing latest EATX motherboards without compromising clearance for massive GPUs and taller CPU coolers. They also guarantee adequate breathing room for routing rigid tubing while preventing dangerous kinks.
Personally I suggest targeting at least 90 liters minimum, and preferably 110+ if budget allows. Remember you’ll likely retain ownership for 5+ years. Invest upfront in enough space you won‘t outgrow!
2. Radiator Support
Given our liquid cooling discussion earlier, radiator compatibility represents a pivotal specification. Look for chassis accommodating multiple 480mm (or even 560mm) radiators to enable push/pull fan configurations. This arrangement sandwiches fans on both sides of a radiator for superior cooling efficiency.
Also having room for a thick 80-90mm radiator provides more surface area. This further lowers water temps compared to slimmer models.
Ideally target at least 2-3 x 480mm mounts (intake and exhaust) if building a custom loop today. For hardcore enthusiasts, cases with 4-5 x 480mm capacity offer nearly unlimited expansion.
3. Motherboard Compatibility
While EATX motherboards grow less common as more functionality integrates into CPUs, ensure your case includes this as an option.
EATX dimensions measure 13 inches tall and can become problematic in mid size towers. But you‘ll gain zero clearance issues purchasing an already massive chassis!
4. Storage Flexibility
To exploit your cavernous case interior to the fullest, consider available storage bays for both solid state and traditional spinning hard drives.
For general use gaming rigs on a mainstream budget, I suggest targeting at least 4x SSD mounts using 2.5” form factors. This enables a speedy OS drive, a few favorite games, and backup storage.
Regarding HDDs, reserve a few 3.5" bays to optionally install high capacity 4TB+ drives later. While M.2 NVME SSDs keep dropping in price, mechanical drives offer far cheaper bulk storage for your Steam library and media files.
5. Aesthetic Appeal
I won’t disregard the importance of visual presentation for your ultimate gaming PC. While case performance matters most, giant chassis looking like a rusty tower crane won’t inspire.
Evaluate external traits like:
- Premium matte coatings with anodization or UV treatments
- Tempered glass panels across available sides
- Integrated customizable RGB lighting zones or strip mounts
- Logo etchings and precision manufacturing
Little design nuances differentiate budget gamer cases from prestige models that make statements. Identify cases aligning with your style sensibilities if showing off matters!
6. Budget Thresholds
Finally given their elite stature and advanced engineering, don’t expect bargain pricing on these giant cases! While values span from $250 to $700+ for obscenely sized options, expect median prices around $350.
I suggest mapping your overall build budget, then allocating 10-15% towards the tower foundation. This prevents overspending disproportionately on a chassis when core components need funding too.
Once establishing a target price ceiling for a case, filter options staying under that cap. Compromises made pursuing the absolute lowest quote generally backfire long term.
FAQ – Common Questions About XXL Cases
Let’s answer a few frequently asked questions PC builders have when evaluating the largest cases:
Do biggest cases have longer warranties?
- Generally 1-2 years represents the standard coverage period across most case manufacturers. Some premium brands extend this to 5 years for expensive full tower options. Just don‘t expect 10 years from everybody matching your laptop!
Can these cases ship internationally?
- Nearly all major case brands sell worldwide these days. However verify specific models are available in your region before pulling the trigger! Certain niche manufactuers may warehouse exclusively domestically.
What should I know about cooling performance?
- By enabling more and larger fans plus radiator space, cooling efficiency improves substantially over mid towers. However giant cases still require proper fan configuration and positive pressure tuning. Physical size alone doesn‘t guarantee better thermals automatically.
Can I install two systems in one case?
- A few niche super tower cases support dual motherboards, power supplies and GPUs. This allows running two independent systems like an ATX and a Mini ITX machine within one chassis. Examples include the Thermaltake Core W200 and Phanteks Enthoo Elite.
How difficult are giant cases to move?
- Empty weights ranging from 40 to 65+ pounds present challenges physically maneuvering these brutes! I strongly advise having an assistant when needing to lift or transport oversized cases. Removing side panels helps reduce mass if configuring temp workspaces.
What about small motherboard fits?
- Nearly all super tower cases focus on ATX builds. However a few accommodate ITX, Micro-ATX or even server grade Extended-ATX dimensions for added flexibility. Just expect excess unused space with smaller form factors. Scale case size appropriately to your actual motherboard.
History Computer’s Recommendations
If digesting all the above hasn‘t overwhelmed you yet, let me share my top giant case recommendations for 2024 and beyond!
Overall Best Case – For builders wanting the ultimate chassis with no compromises, the Corsair 1000D stands tallest. Just beware the equally giant price tag!
Runner Up – The Lian Li O11D XL-X delivers solid 98% performance at 60% cheaper cost. For more budget conscious buyers look here.
Best Dual System – The Thermaltake Core W200 unlocks running two PCs simultaneously. A niche pick but noteworthy going beyond XL to XXL scale.
Best Mid Size – While not quite a towering behemoth exceeding 100L, the Lian Li PC-O11 Dynamic still provides excellent cooling capacity at just under $200. I suggest this case to most gamers.
Conclusion – The Sky‘s the Limit for Case Size!
I hope this guide serves you well navigating the fledgling market segment of super massive cases. Finding the ideal chassis for your dream gaming rig or workstation takes time. Identify priorities around cooling, storage, GPU lengths and budget first.
Then narrow the playing field to a few short list options before pulling the trigger. Remember to allocate enough headroom so future upgrades several years down the road remain possible.
With 4K 240 Hz or even 8K resolution gaming on the horizon, the industry shows no signs of stunting case scale ambitions. We live in an era where 1000D behemoths over 120 liters might become mid size models soon!
Let me know which giant case you end up with and how your maxed out build turns out! I’m always glad to help a fellow PC enthusiast take their setup to the extreme tier.
