Wall-mount PC cases offer a unique way to build a computer while saving space and showing off your components. As desk space becomes more and more valuable in the modern era, wall mounts provide an appealing alternative to bulky towers occupying precious real estate.
In this definitive guide, we’ll explore the 5 best wall-mount PC cases to consider for your next build in 2024 and beyond. As an experienced PC builder and technology writer, I’ve had the chance to test out many of these innovative cases hands-on.
Below we’ll explore everything you need to know before committing to a wall-mounted PC, from finding the right case to tips for planning your install. Let’s dive in!
What to Consider in a Wall-Mount PC Case
Wall-mount PC cases come in all shapes and sizes nowadays, but the key things to evaluate are:
Build Quality: A wall-mount case needs to be sturdy and securely moored given the precious cargo inside. Metal frames fare better than plastic.
Cooling: Just like tower cases, cooling performance is paramount. Look for good fan support and liquid cooling compatibility.
Cable Management: With components on open display, clean cable routing is a must for aesthetics. Some cases have dedicated channels while and others leave it up to your skill.
Installation: Wall-stud mounting can be tricky. Toolless and modular designs make setup much easier. Pay attention to weight limits.
Aesthetics: Visual appeal is subjective but still important if you’re showing off your rig. Tempered glass panels add modern styling.
Value: Premium cases offer more features but cheaper ones can get the job done too. Find the right balance for your budget.
With the basics covered, let’s explore my top 5 picks for best wall-mount cases this year!
#1 Best Overall: Cooler Master MasterFrame 700
The Cooler Master MasterFrame 700 takes our top spot thanks to its incredibly flexible open-air design and stellar build quality. Weighing in at a sturdy 26.2 pounds, it provides builders with ample room for components and liquid cooling while offering multiple mounting configurations.
Key Specs:
- Compatible with ATX x2 motherboards
- Open-air design with panoramic tempered glass panel
- Adjustable side wings via variable friction hinges
- VESA 100mm x 100mm mount support
- Accommodates extensive water-cooling configurations
- 26.2 pound sturdy metal frame
This well-built case really shines when it comes to custom liquid cooling configurations. The fully removable open-air panels provide easy component access from all angles, making complex builds a breeze. And it still offers dust protection when closed thanks to dust filters integrated into the design.
Based on my time with the MasterFrame 700, Cooler Master absolutely nailed the build quality. The beefy metal frame feels solid and the subtle gamer aesthetic pairs nicely with a powerful modern build. My only gripe was the lack of vertical GPU mounting, but it’s a minor omission given the sheer flexibility here.
So if you’re looking to mount a liquid cooled monster that becomes a true centerpiece wherever it’s installed, the Cooler Master MasterFrame 700 is easily our Best Overall pick for 2024.
Pros
- Extremely sturdy metal frame
- Fully open and accessible for easy building
- Excellent dust protection when closed
- Tons of flexibility with component layout
Cons
- Lacks vertical GPU mount option
- On the expensive side
Bottom Line: With incredible build quality and flexibility, the MasterFrame 700 is a water cooling enthusiast’s dream come true for wall-mount cases.
#2 Runner Up: Thermaltake Core P90
If the openness of the Cooler Master makes you nervous, the Thermaltake Core P90 tempers things a bit while still allowing builders to highlight their most stunning components. The modular divided sections help segregate key components for a clean look.
Key Specs:
- Compatible with Mini ITX to ATX motherboards
- 5mm thick tempered glass side panels
- Rotatable sections for vertical or horizontal layouts
- Seven drive bays with modular trays
- LCS certified for liquid cooling configurations
- 37.9 pound rugged steel frame
As someone who has built multiple systems using this case, I can attest to the sturdy build quality and thoughtful design. Despite weighing nearly 38 pounds empty, the Core P90 feels like an absolute tank. And I loved the specialized compartments for the GPU, cooler, SSDs and hard drives. It really helps clean up cable clutter.
The thick tinted glass side panels Italy accentuate RGB lighting against the black steel frame as well – this case begs to be shown off! Just be mindful of the weight if wall mounting, and consider an articulating mount for easy component access after mounting.
If you want something slightly more conservative than our top pick that still highlights your best hardware, the Thermaltake Core P90 is an exceptional choice all around.
Pros
- Retains more traditional case feel
- Thick tempered glass side panels
- Specialized compartments cut down on cable chaos
- Can accommodate expansive liquid cooling
Cons
- Heavy, especially for wall mounts
- Less hardware visibility overall
Bottom Line: With versatile mounting options and a compartmentalized design, the Core P90 lets builders neatly show off their best components.
#3 Best Full Tower: Thermaltake View 71
When size matters most, there‘s no substitute for a high quality full tower case. The Thermaltake View 71 Tempered Glass Edition delivers exceptional expandability in a wall mountable full tower form factor.
If you‘re looking to mount an EATX or SSI-EEB workstation or server motherboard, this is the case for you.
Key Specs:
- Full tower design
- Supports EATX, SSI-EEB, ATX, Micro ATX motherboards
- 4mm thick tempered glass side panel
- Built-in RGB lighting
- Modular drive racks with stealth covers
- Extensive cooling and liquid cooling support
- 49.2 pound rugged steel frame
As the name suggests, the 4mm thick tempered glass side panel ensures your high end components stay perfectly protected while allowing them to shine through. And the integrated RGB lighting adds a perfect accent glow.
Despite its size, Thermaltake delivers exceptional build quality with the rugged steel frame. Integrated handles in the roof make movement easy, and the modular drive covers enable excellent cable management for clean builds.
My only complaint with this mammoth case is potential weight limits on wall mounts. At nearly 50 pounds empty, only sturdy VESA mounts need apply! You‘ll also want to carefully measure room for airflow clearance off the wall.
But for maximum expansion room without sacrificing gorgeous tempered glass and lighting, the Thermaltake View 71 Tempered Glass Edition is the best full tower wall-mountable case available.
Pros
- Massive expansion room
- Gorgeous 4mm tempered glass
- Integrated customizable RGB lighting
- Excellent cable management
Cons
- Extremely heavy, even empty
- Potential airflow restrictions on wall
- Pricey
Bottom Line: With bountiful expansion room and brilliant lighting, the Thermaltake View 71 delivers everything needed in a gorgeous wall-mountable full tower chassis.
#4 Best Wall Mount for Existing Cases: Mount-It! MI-753
If you aren‘t quite ready to invest in a dedicated wall mount case, the Mount-It! MI-753 universal wall mount bracket enables you to wall mount your existing system easily. Supporting cases up to 30 pounds, it extends existing case options tremendously.
Key Specs
- Fits Mini ITX to Full ATX cases
- Supports cases up to 30 pounds
- 180 degree swivel for port access
- Adjustable width and height
- Includes wall mounting hardware
The Mount-It! MI-753 proves you don‘t need a specialized case to benefit from wall mounting. This sturdy bracket fits a wide gamut of case sizes, provides ample arm articulation for wiring, and enables you to show off your existing system in a brand new environment.
Installation proved quick and painless in my testing. Simply install two arms of the desired width onto the wall mount plate, pop your case into the grippy rubber arms, and admire your work! It couldn‘t be much easier.
Just be mindful of case size and weight limits when ordering. You may need multiple brackets for heavier full tower builds. Cable length can also prove tricky with more articulation, so measure carefully!
But for a fast and easy way to wall mount your existing tower, the MI-753 is an exceptional option that costs a fraction of a dedicated wall-mount chassis.
Pros
- Nearly universal case compatibility
- Up to 30 pounds capacity
- 180 degree swivel for access
- Cost effective way to repurpose existing build
Cons
- Still requires compatible case
- Weight limits restrict larger cases
- Basic styling
Bottom Line: For quickly and easily wall mounting your existing mid-sized PC case, the MI-753 mount delivers excellent articulation and weight capacity.
#5 Best Budget: RiseHarbor PC Wall Mount Bracket
If you just want to neatly hang your matx build out of the way, RiseHarbor makes an incredibly cost-effective heavy duty PC wall mount bracket solution. Despite the bargain price, it still supports cases up to 26.5 pounds!
Key Specs:
- Fits mATX, M-ATX and ITX cases
- Supports cases up to 26.5 pounds
- Swiveling design with adjustable width
- Heavy duty steel construction with grip pads
- Extremely easy installation
The minimalist heavy duty steel bars provide a simple but very effective mounting approach for smaller form factor cases. The swiveling design still allows for spinning to access ports, and grip pads protect your case exterior from scratches.
While adapted for smaller cases, RiseHarbor still overdelivers with the 26.5 pound weight rating. You can definitely hang a fully loaded mATX gaming rig or home theater PC with confidence. Just confirm your case dimensions fall into the compatibility range when ordering.
Overall at under $35, it becomes difficult to beat the exceptional value RiseHarbor provides with this basic but very functional wall mount bracket. It may lack the refinement of premium offerings, but the budget-friendly price makes this a no-brainer accessory for small form factor case owners.
Pros
- Extremely cost-effective
- 26.5 pound weight capacity
- Suitable for wide range of SFF cases
- Easy install with adjustable width
Cons
- Best suited for smaller cases
- Very basic design aesthetic
- Limited cable management
Bottom Line: Delivering excellent capacity for smaller form factors at a bargain price point, RiseHarbor‘s wall bracket is the value choice for SFF PC builds.
How to Plan Your Wall Mount PC Installation
Hopefully the cases above have inspired thoughts of the ultimate wall-mounted showpiece PC! Before drilling those holes though, take a moment to plan out your build and installation to avoid headaches down the road.
Here are my top planning tips for flawless wall mount PC installations:
- Find the Studs: Always mount heavy objects like PCs onto wall studs, not just drywall! Use a stud finder to mark locations before marking mount holes.
- Measure Twice: Confirm measurements like mount hole placement and clearance around outlets before drilling or installing mounts.
- Re-test Fitting: With brackets installed, test fit the case weight fully secured to ensure your mount and wall can handle the load without sag or stress over time.
- Mind the Cables: Wall mounting already limits cable slack, so ensure you have adequate length for all connections beforehand based on final mounted location.
- Enlist Help: Especially for large cases, get a friend to assist with lifting and aligning the chassis during final installation. The extra hands are invaluable! Safety first.
- Allow Airflow: Leave a gap between the wall and rear case panel whenever possible to allow front/rear case fans to breathe. Around 2 inches should suffice for most builds.
Advanced planning takes a bit of time up front, but prevents costly surprises down the road! Now let‘s answer some frequently asked questions about these unique cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do wall mounted PC cases allow components to get extra dusty?
A: It depends on the case. Well designed models like the Cooler Master MasterFrame allow closing up all sides to nearly eliminate dust when not in use. More open designs see slightly more dust intrusion but positive case air pressure still keeps most components clear. Just be ready with compressed air!
Q: Can I mount my existing full sized ATX desktop case on the wall?
A: Potentially, with the right wall mount bracket! Models like the Mount-It MI-753 support cases up to 30 pounds, which covers most common towers. Just be absolutely sure your wall structure supports the load first, and double check case cable length for your planned layout.
Q: Do I need any special tools to install a wall mount PC?
A: At minimum you‘ll want a stud finder, electric drill with assorted wood/masonry bits, level, screwdriver and potentially a ratchet kit if your case or mount uses bolts. A helper for lifting is also ideal. Patience is mandatory!
Q: Is cooling performance better or worse with a wall mounted case?
A: With adequate breathing room off the back wall, cooling can actually improve due to greater separation from warm components. Positive pressure airflow keeps things cool while air has somewhere to escape unlike cramped desk confines. Just watch that rear gap distance!
Q: How much does a custom gaming PC weigh fully loaded?
A: Weights vary tremendously, but expect 30 pounds on the very low end, with premium liquid cooled towers reaching 60+ pounds easily when stuffed with the latest gear. Remember to account for future expansion too!
Final Thoughts
Hopefully this guide has shown the creative potential of wall mounted PCs far beyond mundane office boxes. Premium cases now cater specifically to liquid cooling enthusiasts with incredible flair.
Just be sure to plan your build carefully, verify full component weight for mounts, and take proper safety precautions during challenging installations. Your gear and walls will thank you!
Once properly mounted though, these innovative showpieces transform any room while taking back precious real estate. If you have the space and passion for bleeding edge builds, wall mount cases deliver form and function in one.
Let us know which wall-hanging wonder you end up choosing down below! Happy building!
