Cubitek Mini-Tank is a Mini-ITX Badass Chubby Computer Case

If I were to build a mini-ITX computer, I would use the Cubitek Mini-Tank case for four reasons: 1) it can handle a full-sized power supply, 2) it has the width for a real pixel pushing video card like the nVidia GeForce GTX 580, 3) it has plenty of room for a large CPU cooler (or water cooling!), and 4) it looks as badass as a chibi AT-AT walker!

Unlike many mini-ITX cases, which focus on a smaller size for the HTPC (home theater personal computer) builder, Cubitek has combined the small and large in a case that is nearly as big as a micro-ATX case that gives lots of expansion options for the mini-ITX builder.

If you are not familiar with the mini-itx standard, there is a good description of its dimensions and development on Wikipedia here. Basically, mini-itx is a low-power motherboard that measures 17 x 17 cm square. Some manufacturers including Intel, Zotac, and Gigabyte build mini-itx boards that support desktop processors and dedicated video cards that connect via a PCI Express expansion slot.

Generally, mini-itx boards rely on smaller power supplies, because they require less power than their larger micro ATX and ATX siblings. However, a mini-itx board combined with a higher-end video card will more than likely need the additional power supplied by an ATX power supply.

For more details on the Cubitek Mini-Tank and other itx cases reviewed by Tom’s Hardware, go here: Cubitek Mini-Tank : DTX Lives! Four Double-Slot Cases For ITX Gaming Machines.

Published by Jason W. Ellis

I am an Associate Professor of English at the New York City College of Technology, CUNY whose teaching includes composition and technical communication, and research focuses on science fiction, neuroscience, and digital technology. Also, I direct the B.S. in Professional and Technical Writing Program and coordinate the City Tech Science Fiction Collection, which holds more than 600 linear feet of magazines, anthologies, novels, and research publications.