Introduction and Case Exterior

A premium micro-ATX case for less than $70

The In Win 301 is a mini tower case with a tempered glass side panel that sells for less than $70. How good is it? Dollar for dollar it could be the best affordable case on the market right now. That's a pretty bold statement, and you'll just have to read the whole review to see if I'm right.

In Win is one of the most unique enclosure makers in the industry, with designs running from elegant simplicity to some of the most elaborate and expensive cases we’ve ever seen. Though well-known for the striking tou 2.0 and the show-stopping (and motorized) H-Frame, in recent years In Win has expanded its offering in the affordable enclosure space, and there is no better example of this than the case we have for you today.

The 301, smaller sibling to the 303, is beautiful in its simplicity, thoughtfully designed for ease of use (as we will see here), and very affordable – even with its tempered-glass side panel, a signature of In Win enclosures. Sound too good to be true? It is limited to micro-ATX and mini-ITX motherboards, but if you’re looking for an option for a small form-factor build with room for full-sized components, this might just end up on your short list. Let’s take a close look at this stylish mini-tower case!


Specifications:

  • Colors: Black, White (as reviewed)
  • Case Type: Mini Tower
  • Case Material: Tempered Glass, SECC
  • M/B Compatibility: Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX
  • Expansion Slots: PCI-E x4
  • Internal Drive Bays 1x 3.5"/2.5", 2x 2.5"
  • Component Clearance:
    • VGA Card Length: 330 mm
    • CPU Heatsink Height :158 mm
    • PSU Length: 160 mm
  • Thermal Solution Compatibility
    • 2x 120 mm Front Fan / 240 mm Radiator
    • 1x 120 mm Rear Fan / 120 mm Radiator
    • 2x 120 mm Bottom Fan (Occupy a PCI-E slot)
  • Front Ports: 2x USB 3.0, HD Audio
  • Product Dimension (HxWxD): 365 x 208 x 370 mm (14.3 x 8.1 x 14.6 inches)
  • Net Weight: 6.57 kg (14.4 lbs)

In Win 301 Mini Tower pricing/availability: 

Case Exterior

We have the white version of the In Win 301, and this finish provides a nice contrast between the body and tinted glass side panel (and the case feet).

The front I/O is surrounded by a trim that lights up blue when the case is powered up, which the black version trades for a red color.

The glass side of the 301 – like most tempered glass cases – is virtually impossible to photograph without reflections. It looks fantastic in person, of course.

The rear side panel has an interesting venting system with a honeycomb pattern.

This side is attached with a pair of captured thumbscrews at the top and it quite easy to remove.

The back of the case is standard micro-ATX, with four expansion slots, a 120 mm fan mount, and upper PSU location.

The bottom of the case is supported by a stable plastic base that is finished with four rubber feet. As the bottom of the case can be used for fan intake there is a full-length screen filter that is easy to remove from the side:

On the next page we'll take a look inside the 301 and try out the build process.

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