Introduction
Nvidia’s RTX 4070 is one of the best graphics cards from their RTX 4000 series. Acting a solid mid-range option for gamers, the RTX 4070 is a GPU that offers competitive frame rates at 1440p, with some legs at 4K to boot.
And unlike its more powerful counterparts, it comes in a smaller form factor that will comfortably fit into most PC cases. This is great news for gamers, as it means more PC cases will be able to house the RTX 4070, leading to a wider variety of builds.
But with a wide range of PC cases to choose from for this GPU, which chassis should gamers pick up for their shiny new RTX 4070 graphics card? In this buyers guide, we’ll break down the best PC cases for the RTX 4070.
Suggested Article: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Review (Founders Edition Benchmarks)
The Best Case for the RTX 4070
1. Corsair 4000D Airflow
Corsair’s 4000D Airflow is a mid-tower case that is designed to make PC building and maintenance easier than ever. As the name suggests, this case puts a heavy focus on providing enough ventilation to give even the most demanding systems the airflow needed to run as cool as possible. On top of the airflow optimisation, the 4000D Airflow is well equipped to house upgrades to your build, including external storage expansions and a vertically mounted GPU.
In terms of design, the combination of steel, tempered glass, and plastic creates a unique look for this case that feels more premium than other airflow options available. The triangular front panel is the main standout in this design, offering an illusive glow when RGB fans are placed behind it.
Pairing this case up with other Corsair compatible products is also worth considering, as this opens up the possibility of synchronising lighting effects using Corsair’s iCUE software, which is arguably one of the best ways to customise a gaming PC.
But perhaps the best feature in this case is the integrated RapidRoute cable management system, as this makes it incredibly easy to secure cables into place and neaten up the back of a system. This is particularly ideal for less experienced builders, as routing cables can often be one of the trickiest steps when building a PC.
However, the budget-friendly price point of the 4000D Airflow does come with some limitations. Whilst the 4000D Airflow offers support for ATX, micro-ATX, and mini-ITX motherboards, it is too small to offer support for E-ATX motherboards. This won’t be too much of an issue for most RTX 4070 users, but is worth noting for those grabbing a high-end motherboard.
What comes as quite the surprise for a case with optimal airflow in mind is that it is only packaged with two included fans. This means consumers will have to pay for at least one extra fan on top of a CPU cooler in order to make the most of the ventilation provided in this case.
2. MSI MPG Gungnir 300R Airflow
MSI’s MPG Gungnir 300R Airflow is another PC case that puts an emphasis on keeping all of the components well-ventilated. In recent years, manufacturers have started to turn their attention towards designs that optimise airflow, with the evolution of the Gungnir range being a prime example of this. Whilst the Gungnir 110R opted for an eccentric front panel that combined tempered glass with mesh vents, the Gungnir 300R scraps the glass and replaces it with a full mesh front panel.
This decision results in a chassis that is better equipped to handle more powerful graphics cards from both AMD and Nvidia. However, it does come at the sacrifice of the unique half and half appearance that has been associated with most of MSI’s PC cases.
In terms of versatility, the Gungnir 300R Airflow includes plenty of design choices that make it easier for consumers to build their PC in a way that suits them. For example, the tool-less mechanisms means you don’t have to rely on a screwdriver to install each part. Additionally, the GPU bracket and rotational PCI-E slots makes it very easy to vertically mount a GPU, which allows users to show off their RTX 4070 graphics card in style.
The main downside to this design is the 360mm GPU clearance, as this limits the amount of cards that can take advantage of its creative mounting system. Whilst most RTX 4070 AIBs should fit into this case without any problems, other GPUs in the RTX 40 series like the 4080 and 4090 will struggle to slot into this case with other components.
3. HYTE Y40
For those gamers looking for a PC case that is a little more upmarket, then let us introduce you to the HYTE Y40. As the more concise version of the infamous HYTE Y60, the wrap-around glass panels featured on this design acts as a display piece, allowing gamers to show off every aspect of the gaming PC that has undoubtedly taken up a lot of time and money.
To help put the components of a build on full display, this case comes with a riser cable that lets you mount the RTX 4070 vertically and orients any front fans to face outwards. This opens up the components and lets the RGB lighting effects shine through while ensuring that airflow remains optimal.
Thanks to the smaller frame used on this design and the vertical mounting requirements, this case has plenty of room for large components, including all the flagship graphics cards. This means that all RTX 4070 cards should have no issues fitting into this case, and offers some more freedom when picking where to place components.
It may come as no surprise to see that such a premium design comes with an increased price tag. Though this case is by no means the most expensive option on the market, it is well above the average price point. Additionally, the abundance of glass naturally raises concerns about airflow, and the fact that only two fans are packaged with the HYTE Y40 adds to this. To ensure that the components placed inside this case are being regulated appropriately, users will need to pick up a strong CPU cooler.
4. Cougar DUOFACE Pro RGB
For those PC builders that favour versatility, then the Cougar DUOFACE Pro RGB is a PC case that will be the answer to all of your prayers. This mid-tower design looks like a fairly conventional design at face value, but this chassis has a neat party trick, swappable front panels! This lets consumers switch between a tempered glass or mesh design, which transforms the appearance and functionality of the design.
No matter what front panel PC builders decide to use for their system, the DUOFACE Pro RGB allows for plenty of airflow, mainly thanks to the four pre-installed fans and plethora of vents located around the chassis. On top of this, the DUOFACE Pro RGB includes a range of functional features, including an adjustable GPU holder and E-ATX support to accommodate for high-end motherboards.
What makes the inclusion of these features more surprising is the lower price point of this chassis. It’s quite rare for a PC case below the $100 mark to include an innovative feature like the swappable front panels on the DUOFACE, which makes this a very enticing option for budget and mid-range gaming PCs.
That being said, there are few limitations that are more reflective of DUOFACE’s price tag. Despite having two front panels to choose from, the overall aesthetic of this build remains fairly simplistic compared to other designs around a similar price point. In addition, there are some concerns with GPU clearance for higher-end models, especially when they are mounted verically.
RTX 4070 Size Comparison
For a full size comparison of Nvidia’s RTX 4070 and other GPU on the market, see the table below:
GPU | Dimensions |
---|---|
Nvidia RTX 4090 Founders Edition | Length: 304mm Width: 137mm |
Nvidia RTX 4080 Founders Edition | Length: 304mm Width:137mm |
AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX | Length: 287mm Width: 110mm |
AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT | Length: 276mm Width: 110mm |
Nvidia RTX 4070 Founders Edition | Length: 250mm Width: 112mm |
Nvidia RTX 3090Ti Founders Edition | Length: 336mm Width: 140mm |
Nvidia RTX 3070 Founders Edition | Length: 242mm Width: 112mm |
Read our roundup of the best power supplies to pair up with the RTX 4070
How We Picked the Best Cases for RTX 4070
When testing our selection of PC cases, there are a number of factors to determine whether a chassis is an ideal fit for the RTX 4070. These factors include:
- Design
- GPU clearance
- Versatility
- Aesthetic
- Airflow Optimisation
- Value for Money
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Clearance Do You Need for the RTX 4070?
As a general rule of thumb, we recommend opting for a chassis that offers 50mm of clearance or more beyond your GPU length, meaning that RTX 4070 users will need roughly 300mm of space in their PC, depending on the exact RTX 4070 model.
Do I Need a Case with High Airflow for the RTX 4070?
The RTX 4070 isn’t a particularly warm running GPU, but a case with strong airflow is always a good bet. Better airflow allows for lower temperatures, higher clock speeds and more longevity in the lifespan of the GPU.
Which Size PC Case is Best for the RTX 4070?
Generally speaking, a mid-tower PC case is the safest bet for anyone picking up an RTX 4070, as most of these cases will support this GPU without taking up too much space. Whilst smaller PC cases such as mini-ITX offerings will have enough space for the RTX 4070, you will need to check the amount of clearance they provide before picking one up and ensure airflow is adequate.