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dual-system PC case

10 Best Dual-System PC Cases – [Mar 2024]

If you’re in search of a dual-system PC case then you’ve come to the right place.

What is a dual-system PC case?

A dual-system PC case allows you to build two full systems within a single enclosure. Generally, they will fit an ATX system for gaming along with a mini-ITX system for encoding streams. This benefits gamers who would have otherwise had to buy a second case for their dedicated streaming PC.

Of course, there are plenty of other advantages e.g. being able to share a PSU, which we will explain in more detail further on.

But first, let’s take a look at some of the best dual-system cases on the market right now.

Contents:

1. The 10 best dual-system cases.
2. Two PSU options for a dual-build PC case.


What is the best dual-system PC case?

10. Thermaltake Core W200

Engineered to be the ultimate dual-system PC case, the Core W200 chassis is large enough to house two completely separate systems – without an oversized footprint. Smartly designed and pretty sleek, this case looks like a miniature server and measures 29.5” x 27.1” x 15”.

The modular nature of the W200 helps to separate it from the rest of the pack. Building a dual-system PC inside is simply a matter of mounting two PCs back to back. The modular design then makes running wires and optimizing airflow simple and straightforward, too.

On the back of the Core W200, your I/O panel is very smartly laid out. Each bay has upper and lower tabs that can be replaced with I/O support, with built-in redundancy at each level to keep things neat and orderly. You get four USB 3.0 ports, and support for Mini-ITX up to e-ATX motherboards.

Dual system PC builders will appreciate the support for water cooling systems, extra storage space for SSD’s and traditional HDD drives. There’s lots of room for oversized graphics cards and other accessories, too. Add in top-tier build quality and it’s easy to see why people like this case so much.

Pros
  • Huge case volume (+33% total)
  • Fantastic design with Interchangeable parts
  • Plenty of places to mount fans/ radiators
  • Clear Plexiglas panel is thick and sturdy
  • Heavy-duty casters
Cons
  • Heavy
  • Requires internal extension cables
  • Does not come pre-built

9. Raijintek Enyo

Those wanting to a build dual-system PC that they can put on display will love this case. The almost 100% transparent design guarantees that your RGB lighting and high-end components are the star of the show, with two symmetrical independent chambers to make each build a breeze.

Although not quite as modular as the Thermaltake highlighted above, intuitive wiring channels and mounting brackets do run through the center of the case. This makes wiring up a dual system more feasible. Airflow issues are less of a concern as there’s support for multiple 480mm radiators, too.

The entire outer enclosure can be totally separated from the main pillar structure on this case. This allows for open and easy access to all of your individual components. As a result, you won’t have to worry about fishing your hands into tight corners or spaces when installing wires or hardware.

To keep things further nice and neat, a single column on the rear of the case accommodates your I/O’s. Here, you’ll find the power button, two 3.5mm jacks, and four USB 3.0’s. Drive storage, as well as fan and water-cooling mounting points are also plentiful around this dual-build PC case.

Pros
  • Hides cables in the center
  • Open-frame, low temps
  • Easy access to I/Os
  • Supports five 480mm rads
  • Space for dual PSUs
Cons
  • May accumulate dust
  • Shipping from Europe

8. Phanteks Enthoo Elite Extreme

The Enthoo Elite Extreme is a super tower PC case with dual system support. Built from premium-engineered materials that focus on utmost attention to detail, it screams of quality while providing its users with way more capacity than they will actually need.

For materials, four-millimeter thick sand-blasted aluminum panels form the exterior of the chassis, and a 4mm tempered glass door hinges on the front. Multiple precision cut aluminum parts also come with the deal such as an ITX tray, side radiator brackets, and removable top cover panels.

Inside the case, a tri-chamber design separates the main compartment from the bottom and the back. The main chamber can house up to e-ATX motherboards, full-size GPU’s, and an m-ITX Mobo. The ITX Mobo sits on the tray in a horizontal position just beneath the primary motherboard.

The bottom chamber is effectively multi-purpose. Here you can accommodate a PSU and six modular drive caddies, however, you could also use the isolated storage space for water cooling. The back chamber offers extra room for drives, a second PSU, and an abundance of space for cables.

Just as you would expect with a case of this size, it provides fan support for all sizes. Five fans are included, where you will find three at the top, one at the front, and one at the rear. Also included is integrated RGB lighting on accent strips that run along the side and the tops.

Overall, it’s a solid case that comes with everything you need for a monster setup.

Pros
  • Premium build quality
  • Many configuration options
  • Multifunctional cable cover
  • MSI Mystic Light compatible
  • Good ventilation
Cons
  • Big and heavy
  • No extension cable for power adapter

7. Cougar Gemini X

The Cougar Gemini X is a massive, dual-chamber, “Alien-looking” case that allows you to build two systems in a single enclosure. This is particularly useful for streamers who may need the extra CPU power from a dedicated PC, while still sharing the same PSU.

Although both chambers are symmetrical, the primary chamber is specific to your gaming system and can house ATX size motherboards. Alternatively, the secondary chamber fits a smaller Mini-ITX board. In addition to the power supply unit, cables, and storage drives. 

Another unique aspect of this PC case is that you can position it both ways. Rubber tips on all four edges of the “X” enable it can keep a steady grip in either orientation. As a result, you can choose which components are front-facing, depending on your setup.

To provide maximum airflow to your internal components, each elongated chamber acts as a lateral vent. Unfortunately, case fans are not included with the Gemini X, however, there is room for four fans per chamber, with dual 120mm fans at both ends.

Overall, it’s a highly versatile PC case that’s nothing less than a work of art.

Pros
  • Plenty of room to work with
  • Sturdy construction/ heavy grade glass
  • Carry handles for portability
  • Choice of orientation
  • Great airflow with fans
Cons
  • Heavy
  • Unintuitive installation
  • Requires four fans per side

6. T-WINGS Chassis – CMT710

Available in Red or Gold, the CMT710 is an open-frame, Power Ranger looking chassis that boasts a dual-system design. Much like the Cougar Gemini X, it offers its users the unique ability to combine two high-end PC systems into a single case.

Unlike some of the other crazy designs on this list, the T-WINGS is a relatively straightforward PC case to suss out. An anodized aluminum center frame separates the two chambers while also working as a cable shroud to keep everything neat and tidy.

In the main chamber on the right, there’s room for your primary gaming system. This supports motherboards up to e-ATX in size, 380mm graphics cards, and an ATX PSU. Conversely, the smaller “subsystem” chamber on the left can fit ITX motherboards and SFX-L power supplies.

Both sides share some common ground by providing room for 360mm radiators at the front, liquid cooling systems, as well as space for their own VGA cards. Apart from this, the symmetrical aesthetic has tempered glass panels and openings in the top for a beautiful 360-degree view.

All in all, If you’re ready to treat yourself to something special, you will love this awesome case.

Pros
  • Unique design with RGB
  • Well-ventilated
  • Center cable shroud
  • Room for dual GPUs/ PSUs
  • Easy installation
Cons
  • Pricey
  • No pump /reservoir mounts
  • Storage implementation

5. Phanteks Enthoo 719 (Luxe 2)

The Phanteks Enthoo 719 is a high-performance, full tower PC case with dual-system support. As you can see, the design is a noticeable merger between the Luxe one and the Enthoo Elite, taking inspiration from both chassis to achieve the ultimate blend.

Although the dimensions of the 719 are considerably smaller than the Elite, the case still offers more than enough space to house an e-ATX system up top as well as an ITX board underneath. As a result, this addresses the enormous size of the Elite to become more practical for the everyday user.

One way it does this is by opening up the main chamber so that the interior is more like the Enthoo Luxe. Similarly, there’s a shroud just beneath the primary motherboard. On the outside, this can either fit an ITX motherboard in the vertical position or a second PSU on its side.

Unfortunately, choosing between dual motherboards or dual PSUs is one compromise you would have to make with the 719. For this reason, a dual-system PSU such as the Revolt X would be required to power two systems.

Much like the Enthoo Elite, the 719 can accommodate a ridiculous number of fans and storage drives all around the chassis. Aesthetically, the design looks very similar from the front and sides, where you will also notice the same addressable RGB strip.

Overall, it’s a fantastic case with tons of space and great cable management.

Pros
  • Attractive design
  • Impressive build quality
  • Four 360mm+ radiator mounts
  • Plenty of cable management room
  • Great value
Cons
  • Quite tall for desks
  • Dual motherboards or dual PSUs

4. Phanteks Enthoo Evolv X

The Enthoo Evolv X is a mid-tower ATX chassis that offers excellent flexibility. Constructed in a way so no space is lost, the feature-rich interior pays extra attention to detail in all areas of the case, allowing you to customize your desired configuration.

To achieve this, the design is highly modular and there’s a selection of optional upgrades that can be bought to compliment the build. In particular, the dual-system ITX upgrade kit (that comes at an extra $20) and allows you to mount an additional ITX system at the top of the PC case.

With this installed, your PCI-e slots exit out of the top-back of the chassis horizontally. It does not affect your primary motherboard either, which sits just below in its natural position. The main chamber also has room for six 3.5” drive caddies and multiple radiator support.

In the bottom chamber, there’s room for a dual-PSU and four more 3.5” drive caddies. This area can easily be accessed from the back of the case, thanks to two panels that flip open. Besides hiding cables, they have secondary functions to hold additional SSD storage. 

The Evolv X comes with three 140mm fans, including one rear exhaust and two front intake fans. The manufacturer fans are not RGB, however, it does include two flashy 2 LED strips on the front of the case that are controllable via your motherboard.

Overall, it’s a premium case that does nearly everything right.

Pros
  • Sleek design
  • Excellent build quality
  • Plenty of room
  • Integrated RGB LEDs
  • Three 140mm fans
Cons
  • Must purchase ITX mount separately
  • Thermals aren’t the best
  • No dust filter on the top
  • Does not include SSD brackets

3. Phanteks Eclipse P500A

The Eclipse P500A is a stylish, mid-tower case that achieves excellent airflow. It features an ultra-fine mesh panel on the front for optimal cooling performance and a hinged tempered glass panel on the side to showcase your build. The interior shell is simply a refined version of the acclaimed Evolv X.

In terms of appearance, the case comes in three styles including Black, Black with RGB fans, or White with RGB fans. Personally, we think the white style looks best as it shows a nice contrast with the black frame, feet, and vents above the mesh panel.

As previously mentioned, the interior shell is heavily based upon the Evolv X. Measuring 20.5” (H), 9.5“ (W), and 20” (L), the dimensions are practically the same. Furthermore, the layout matches almost identically to provide dual-system support.

At the top of the PC case, it’s still possible to mount the optional dual-system ITX upgrade kit for a dual streaming build. Underneath, there’s room for an e-ATX system with a 435mm GPU length. The main chamber also has room for a 420mm radiator at the front and a 360mm radiator at the top.

A full-length PSU shroud is located at the bottom of the main chamber. This can house a 195mm PSU with four 3.5″ drive caddies or a 250mm PSU without them. Six more 3.5″ drives are supported at the front of the case for massive storage capacity.

At the back, the chassis is missing the flip-out panels like you would find on the Evolv X. However, there is room for three additional 2.5” SSD drives midway up the case and the same Velcro ties for organizing your cables.

In short, the P500A is a fantastic case that offers excellent airflow, looks, and enough space for a dual PC build.

Pros
  • Sleek, minimalistic style
  • Fantastic ventilation/ dust filters
  • Excellent cable management
  • Hinged glass door
  • Great value
Cons
  • Must purchase ITX mount separately
  • Only comes with 2 front fans

2. Phanteks Eclipse P600S

The Eclipse P600S is an interchangeable hybrid of silence and high-performance. Built with a removable acoustic panel and high-airflow fabric at the front of the chassis, the design allows you to find the optimal configuration by switching between each mode.

This versatility makes it a great choice for a range of different scenarios. When performing heavy CPU or GPU intensive tasks, simply flip open or remove the front plate to maximize air intake. Conversely, close everything back up to find peace when you need it.

Besides the front panel, the interior shell is heavily based upon the distinctive Evolv X. Measuring 20.5” (H), 9.5“ (W), and 20” (L), the dimensions are practically the same. Furthermore, the layout matches almost identically to provide dual-system support.

The top of the main chamber can mount the same dual-system ITX upgrade kit for a professional streaming setup in your home. Then underneath, there’s room for an e-ATX system with a 435mm GPU. The main chamber also has room for a 420mm front radiator and a 360mm radiator at the top.

A full-length PSU shroud is located at the bottom of the main chamber. This can house a 195mm PSU with four 3.5″ drive caddies or a 250mm PSU without them. Six more 3.5″ drives can be supported at the front of the case for massive storage capacity.

At the back, the chassis is missing the flip-out panels for additional SSD storage like you would find on the Evolv X. However, there is room for three 2.5” SSD’s midway up the case and the same Velcro ties for organizing your cables.

Overall, the P600S is a quality case that offers tons of space and excellent airflow, while effectively managing to stay quiet.

Pros
  • Intuitive design
  • Lots of room for cable management
  • Low noise/ fantastic ventilation
  • Hinged side doors open very easily
  • Solid build quality
Cons
  • No filter option filter on top
  • Non-removable PSU shroud
  • Cheap I/O jacks

1. Corsair Obsidian Series 1000D

The Obsidian Series 1000D is the next super tower chassis on our list. Needless to say, this case is massive, with the design capable of housing dual systems simultaneously for the most epic PC builds.

Much like the Phanteks Elite Extreme, the 1000D takes advantage of a triple-chamber layout. This consists of the main chamber, a bottom ATX PSU shroud, and a back chamber. To provide easy access to all compartments, hinged tempered glass panels feature on both sides of the chassis.

In the main chamber, there’s room for an e-ATX Mobo up top as well as an ITX system mounted horizontally above the bottom ATX PSU shroud. Eight expansion slots in the top allow you to position your ATX GPU in dual orientations, however, the ITX’s GPU only mounts vertically.   

At the rear of the case, a nice set of aluminum French doors provide a clean and tidy way to conceal any cables. We particularly like that they open out from the middle so you won’t worry about them closing properly. Furthermore, as a secondary function, they can store eight SSD’s on the insides.

Also in the back of the case and behind the French doors is a standard 3.5” drive cage as well as space for a second SFX PSU unit. The drive cage contains five vertical caddies and is tucked away securely in a shroud at the bottom of the chassis.

For cooling, It’s worth noting that the 1000D does not come with any fans, as it’s generally recommended for running custom loops. The deal does however come with a free Corsair Commander Pro that’s compatible with six three or four-pin case fans for connecting radiators.

Overall, it’s a gorgeous and extremely well-made case with a clean and professional look.

Pros
  • Gorgeous and quality construction
  • Slide-out tempered glass doors
  • SSD and HDD mounts in good locations
  • Customizable radiator trays
  • iCUE lighting from Corsair
  • Plenty of room
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Heavy
  • No fans

What is the best PSU option for a dual-system PC case?

1. Phanteks Revolt X PSU

The Revolt X is only one of a handful of PSU’s engineered to power dual systems at once. Its pioneering patented technology is what makes this unit so special. Enjoying 80+ Platinum efficiency and a hybrid mode for near-silent operation, the unit is cool, powerful, and quiet.

The X’s efficient power regulation across two PCs is fantastic. The system is engineered with continuous load sharing, improving the overall efficiency of this PSU compared to running two separate PSUs at once. It doesn’t hurt that this hybrid unit also has a much cleaner cable management setup.

Stability and reliability are critical when you invest in a PSU. Thanks to the high-end construction materials, smart engineering, and 100% cable-free internal connections of the Revolt X, you don’t have to worry about much. Add in a next-generation PCB design for this PSU and you’ll be good to go for years.


2. Phanteks Combo Device

Designed primarily to be used as a redundant power supplies setup, a lot of people are using this hardware in dual build PC configurations to run two separate PSUs at once. Smartly laid out (with symmetrical redundancies for each power supply), it’s very easy to install and use.

The beautiful thing about this combo device is that it guarantees that both dual PCs running off of this unit stay powered on even if one power supply fails. This protects your data and devices from becoming corrupted or damaged. It also provides a lot of peace of mind against hardware failures of all types.

Best of all, installation of this combo device into cases designed with dual PCs in mind is pretty much “drag-and-drop”. The unit ships with Velcro attachments that can be applied to the reverse of the device and on to PC cases. This allows you to position the unit anywhere and clean up your wiring.


What is a Dual System PC Case?

A dual-system PC case allows the user to build two full systems within a single enclosure. Typically, they will house a dominant ATX system along with a mini-ITX system for encoding. This benefits those who would have otherwise had to buy a second chassis for their secondary system.

In most dual-system cases, the larger, ATX motherboard will mount in the normal position. This leaves the smaller ITX motherboard to either mount in the roof of the case or on the power supply shroud. Other dual-system cases will have a sandwich design with the motherboards on either side.

To host a second motherboard, a dual-system case will need to include some additional expansion slots for the I/Os of the second system. Moreover, sometimes additional mounting brackets are necessary. This is common for smaller Phanteks cases, which require an ITX Upgrade Kit.

Dual system PC cases are not very common because only a few niches, (such as streaming, etc.) need this type of build. Nonetheless, there is enough of a market, with several innovative options to buy.

Raijintek Paean Aluminium ATX dual-system pc case with two of my systems fitted.

Is it Worth Getting a Dual System Case?

The worth of a dual system case lies in what you value. The applications that benefit most from these builds include:

  • Combining a rendering workstation with a gaming setup
  • NAS combined with your regular PC
  • Streaming and gaming from a single case
  • Separate levels of security between systems

While you can do all of this using two completely separate systems, a dual system case reduces the real estate that your components take up. Additionally, they reduce some of the hardware that you actually need. Due to both motherboards being nearby, only one high-powered PSU is necessary.

There are a few downsides to consider as well. Keeping two systems in the same case means you have more heat to deal with, especially if you are using a 1200W+ power supply unit.

Moreover, as the volume of a single chassis is going to be less than two, things can get a bit cramped in there. As a result, you’re going to need more precise cable management.

As long as the benefits outweigh these issues, you can start looking for a dual system PC case that works best for you.

Unboxing my Lian Li PC-O8 dual-system case

How to Choose the Best Dual System PC Case in 2024

Setting up a dual system goes beyond buying the first case that you see.

You need to take the time to research your options and find an appropriate case that can accommodate your systems and keep them safe.

Size and Capacity

Look for a dual system PC case with dimensions that can accommodate both of your existing systems or the components you plan to use in this build. While it will take up less space than two separate systems, you still need ample room to keep everything safe and secure.

The PC case also needs enough room for an advanced cooling system. Decide whether you want separate control panels and ports early on to narrow down your search.

Built Quality/ Materials

It is better to lean on the side of higher build quality and materials, especially when it comes to a dual PC case. When you have twice as much weight inside the case, you need a structure that will not falter.

High-quality PC cases put more thought into heat management, and they show more effectiveness at maintaining safe temperatures. Using better materials also sets you up for advanced cooling systems like water-cooling.

Cooling Support

Heat is the enemy in most builds, but it’s more difficult to deal with when you have twice the components in a closed area. In these situations, it’s better to use high-power cooling systems like water-cooling.

Your dual-system PC case needs a cooling support system capable of handling all the components of water-cooling, especially the additional weight.

Cable Management System

One of the major downsides of implementing a dual system is finding a way to handle all the cables in one place. Some cases tackle this problem with more efficiency than others, saving you from the headache.

An effective cable management system also reduces your workload in the future when you perform maintenance on your PC. This will not solve the cramped workspace, but you won’t spend half the time detangling and sorting through cables.

Features

Cases of all kinds come with advanced features, including:

  • Expansion slots
  • Enhanced cooling
  • Ideal port placement
  • Unique cable management

At the least, make sure the dual system PC case you choose features enough ports to handle both systems and the hardware you need to attach.

Additional Hardware/ Parts

Consider any additional parts or hardware you need to make your dual system PC case work.

For example, Phantek cases require additional parts to convert the case to a dual mount system.

These parts come at an additional cost, but they can also improve the quality and organization of your two-system setup.

Make sure the case can also accommodate two power supply units, or look for a dual power supply that fits inside the case.

How to attatch a Phanteks ITX Upgrade Kit to a dual-system pc case


We hope you found a dual-system PC case on this list!

Click here for the 12 Best Dual-Chamber PC Cases!

Click here for the most Unique PC Cases!








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