Optimized Downsizing: Comparing the NFC S5M, FormD T1, NCASE M2, and NCASE M3
Caley Popoca
Choosing Your Chassis: The Art of Optimized Downsizing
Choosing a PC case used to be a battle between size, compatibility, and performance limits. At NCASE, we believe you shouldn't have to.
Our solution is Optimized Downsizing. It’s the art of stripping away the "wasted space" of traditional towers without sacrificing the high-end coolers or massive GPUs that modern pros and gamers actually use.
If you’re deciding between the FormD T1, the NCASE M2, or the NCASE M3, you are not just choosing a size - you're choosing a thermal strategy. This guide breaks down exactly which case fits your desk and your hardware.
At a Glance: T1 vs. M2 vs. M3 Comparison
| Feature | NFC S5M (Console Style Mini-ITX) | FormD T1 (Mini-ITX Density Purist) | NCASE M2 (The Sweet Spot) | NCASE M3 (The Quiet Powerhouse) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Design Intent | Smaller SFF-Ready GPUs & Coolers Console Form Factor Backpack Portability |
Smaller SFF-Ready GPUs & Coolers Peak Density Backpack Portability |
Flagship GPUs & Coolers SFF Pro Versatility Backpack Portability |
A bigger M2 to fit big CPU Air Coolers and the massive GPUs without a PCIe Riser |
| Total Volume | (Coming Soon) | 9.95L (<10L) | 15.7L (<16L) | 19.0L (<20L) |
| GPU Capacity | (Coming Soon) | 3.25-Slot, Up to 325mm * Must use PCIe Riser for all GPUs |
4-Slot, Up to 359mm * PCIe Riser Required for the biggest 5090 GPUs |
4-Slot, Up to 359mm * Fit the biggest 5090 GPUs without a PCIe Riser |
| CPU Cooling | (Coming Soon) | 240mm AIO / Low-Profile Air Coolers | 280mm AIO / 145mm Air Coolers | 280mm AIO / 168mm Air Coolers |
| Motherboard | Mini-ITX Only | Mini-ITX Only | Mini-ITX and M-ATX | Mini-ITX and M-ATX |
FormD T1: The Sub-10L Standard
The FormD T1 is for density purists. Its sandwich layout relies on a PCIe Riser Cable, adding potential system instability in exchange for extreme compactness, with a footprint about 40% smaller than the M2.
- 🚀 Why it wins: The ultimate "backpackable" PC. The only sub-10L case that fits a high-end SFF-Ready GPU.
- 🛠️ The Build: Requires precision. Best for "SFF Veterans" who enjoy fine-tuning cable management and airflow.
NCASE M2: The Modern SFF Standard
The M2 is the "Sweet Spot." A compact 15L case built for reliability, with a direct-to-motherboard GPU layout that avoids the failure risks of PCIe Riser Cables. It supports big coolers and big GPUs.
- 🏆 Why it wins: It delivers the best performance per liter for high-end gaming. It fits the massive 4-slot GPUs that power 4K gaming while remaining small enough for a backpack.
- 🤝 The Build: Very friendly for first-time SFF builders with a straightforward classic layout.
NCASE M3: The Workstation Powerhouse
The M3 is built for Creators and AI Developers. It solves the toughest challenge in SFF: maintaining peak performance quietly while supporting multiple GPUs. With just enough space for 168mm air coolers and dual-GPU configurations, it delivers sustained, reliable, low-noise performance under heavy workloads.
- 💻 Why it wins: It supports Micro-ATX motherboards comfortably. This means space for dual-GPU setups, capture cards, 10GbE networking, or extra NVMe storage without the "SFF Tax" of expensive ITX parts.
- 🏗️ The Build: Our most spacious interior. If you want the reliability of a massive Noctua air cooler and room for future GPU growth, the M3 is the choice.
Design & Customization: Beyond the Specs
We believe a chassis should be as beautiful as it is functional. All three models feature our signature CNC-machined aluminum and modular panels.
- 🎨 Aesthetic Choice: Choose between our high-airflow Grater pattern or the sleek, minimalist Round pattern.
- 🌈 Color Strategy: While Black and Silver are our staples, we are known for single-batch "Limited Editions" (like the Rose Gold M2).
Pro Tip: If you are a fanatic about a specific color, let our team know. We produce new colorways based on real community demand, but they move fast — often selling out in a single drop.