Review on SilverStone Technology Ultra Compact Mini-ITX Computer Case With Solid Front Panel Black (SST-SG13B-Q-USA) by Daniel Woods

I've always been a fan of small form factor gaming PCs. I don't even often wear them to parties or anything, but I still enjoy them. A few years ago I built a small gaming PC in one of Silverstone Tek's other Mini-ITX cases, which was placed vertically. It was a great case, but it was a rat's nest. Part of my fault is bad build order and wiring, but also just bad layout. This SG13 case uses an improved layout that offers actual white space and ventilation if you assemble it in the right order and spend serious time wiring it. I have a mesh front and I can honestly say the waffle pattern isn't that noticeable in the picture in person. The metal (sides and top are one piece) isn't very thick but seems strong enough to take the load. It tends to protrude a bit, but that's a minor annoyance. When it came to building, I felt it was very easy to work with. I won't list my full build, just what's relevant to this case. Motherboard, CPU, RAM, and storage are nothing more than a preference, although I'd recommend it if you can get by with a single 2.5" drive (I used a 250GB SSD) to avoid the need for a top one to negate the drive bay. Graphics Card: EVGA GTX 980 SC ACX 2.0 EVGA GTX 980 SC ACX 2.0 4GB GDDR5 Graphics Card 04G-P4-2983-KR This is the absolute longest graphics card that fits in the front panel without modifications. Choose wise. PSU: Corsair 600W Modular PSU Corsair CX Series 600W ATX/EPS Modular 80 PLUS Bronze ATX12V/EPS12V 552 The CX600M ATX PSU will work, but I recommend a modular design to avoid cable clutter. The fan faces outward so it gets cool air. First install the 2.5 inch drive and then mount the already assembled motherboard. Manage cables along the way. The graphics card must be the latest. Long graphics cards (like mine) either need to be front mounted, or at least that side of the faceplate needs to be exposed to make room for the back first. The case is amazing and I would highly recommend it, just be aware of its limitations. By following the correct steps and stuffing spare wire across the heatsink, the real center of my case is the open space. No cables, just good air exchange. As others have pointed out, a 140mm cooler is problematic for the graphics card and drive bay when you end up using it. Happy building.