If you’ve ever tried to build a high-performance gaming PC in a compact form factor, you know it’s a tightrope walk between airflow, compatibility, and clean cable management. Enter Cooler Master’s NR200P series — a pair of small form factor (SFF) cases that have quickly become cult favorites among enthusiasts, and for good reason.
With a surprisingly spacious 18-liter volume, clever layout decisions, and options for both entry-level tinkerers and high-end power users, the Cooler Master NR200P and its sibling, the NR200P MAX, are some of the most well-rounded Mini-ITX cases on the market today.
Let’s break them down and see why they’re still dominating the SFF scene in 2025.
Cooler Master NR200P & NR200P MAX Review: The SFF Kings of Convenience
🏗️ Design & Build Quality – 9/10
The NR200P doesn’t just look good — it feels solid. Its steel construction, tool-less panels, and included both a mesh and tempered glass side panel make it feel premium despite its sub-$130 price. It’s thoughtfully designed, with cutouts for cable routing, ventilated top and side panels, and reinforced GPU support brackets.
The MAX variant takes this same chassis but pre-installs a 280mm AIO cooler and an 850W Gold-rated SFX PSU — both tailored perfectly for the internal dimensions. If you hate cable clutter or fiddling with cooler/PSU compatibility, the MAX is a game changer.
Minor Nitpick:
The finish on the case is clean but basic — no brushed metal or fancy textures. And if you’re looking for RGB, you’ll have to add it yourself.
🔧 Compatibility & Layout – 9/10
Despite its small size, the NR200P supports:
- Mini-ITX and Mini-DTX motherboards
- Full-sized triple-slot GPUs up to ~336mm
- CPU coolers up to 155–158mm (when using mesh panel)
- Radiators up to 280mm (top or side, depending on configuration)
This is exceptional flexibility for an 18L chassis. The original NR200P lets you mount the GPU horizontally or vertically using the included PCIe riser. The NR200P MAX, however, is preconfigured for vertical GPU mounting only — a decision that streamlines airflow but limits layout flexibility slightly.
🌬️ Cooling & Airflow – 8.5/10
The NR200P series is built for airflow. Ventilation is everywhere — top, sides, bottom. With mesh panels and top-mounted fans, thermals are excellent for a case this size.
In testing, the NR200P MAX (with its mesh side) maintained:
- CPU temps around 70°C under load
- GPU temps around 60°C
Switching to the glass panel does raise GPU temperatures significantly (up to +13°C), so thermal-conscious builders will appreciate the mesh option.
🔊 Noise Levels – 8/10
Thanks to the large 140mm fans in the MAX’s AIO, cooling is efficient without generating a lot of noise. Under load, sound levels hover around 39–40 dBA — audible but unobtrusive. Using a glass panel can dampen fan noise slightly, while mesh increases airflow at the expense of acoustics.
🧰 Features & Extras – 9/10
Here’s where the NR200P shines. Even the standard model comes with:
- Mesh and glass side panels
- PCIe riser cable for vertical GPU mounting
- Two pre-installed 120mm fans
- Tool-free top and side panels
The MAX version adds tremendous value by including:
- A custom 280mm AIO cooler
- A pre-routed 850W SFX PSU (80+ Gold)
- Tailored-length cables for clean routing
What’s Missing?
The only major omission is USB-C front I/O. Both versions still rely on dual USB-A ports and a 3.5mm jack.
🛠️ Build Experience & Cable Management – 8.5/10
Tool-less access, modular panels, and a clean internal layout make this one of the most enjoyable SFF cases to build in. The original NR200P is a bit tighter and may require patience, but the MAX version removes much of the cable-routing guesswork with its pre-installed PSU and custom-length cables.
Builders new to Mini-ITX should expect a steeper learning curve than ATX towers, but the payoff in portability and aesthetics is worth it.
💵 Value – 8/10
- NR200P: Typically retails for $99–$130 USD. For what you get — two side panels, a riser cable, excellent airflow — this is a top-tier value in the SFF world.
- NR200P MAX: At
$349 USD, it’s significantly more expensive, but when you factor in the included PSU ($130) and AIO (~$100–120), the value becomes clear.
You’re not just buying a case — you’re getting a partially pre-built ecosystem designed to work harmoniously.
Ratings Table
| Category | Rating (1–10) |
|---|---|
| Design & Build Quality | 9 |
| Compatibility & Layout | 9 |
| Cooling & Airflow | 8.5 |
| Noise Levels | 8 |
| Features & Extras | 9 |
| Build Experience | 8.5 |
| Value | 8 |
🏁 Overall Score: 8.7 / 10
Rounded Up Final Rating: 9/10
🔍 Summary
Whether you’re building your first SFF PC or your tenth, the Cooler Master NR200P series stands out for its exceptional design, cooling flexibility, and builder-friendly features. The original NR200P offers tremendous value and flexibility for tinkerers, while the NR200P MAX simplifies the entire process for those who want performance without the hassle.
🧠 Final Verdict
- Buy the NR200P MAX if you want a near plug-and-play SFF build with excellent thermals and minimal stress. It’s ideal for gamers, creators, or prosumers who want performance in a tiny footprint.
- Get the standard NR200P or NR200P V2 if you prefer to pick your own components and don’t mind the DIY route.
Few cases strike a better balance between size, performance, and polish. The NR200P doesn’t just punch above its weight — it sets the standard for compact PC cases in 2025.
Overview and Design
The Cooler Master MasterBox NR200P is a celebrated mini-ITX chassis that marries form with function, catering to discerning PC builders who prioritize both aesthetics and compatibility in a compact format.
Aesthetics and Build Quality
Crafted from a blend of steel and plastic, the NR200P’s robust frame stands out with a choice of distinct colors: Flamingo Pink, Caribbean Blue, Sunset Orange, and Nightshade Purple, making it as eye-catching as it is sturdy. The inclusion of a tempered glass side panel adds a touch of elegance, showcasing the internal components while maintaining a sleek exterior profile.
Compatibility and Dimensions
Despite its compact size, the NR200P punches above its weight in terms of component support. It boasts the capacity to fit a wide array of hardware, including up to a 280mm radiator, CPU coolers up to 155mm in height, and even full-size 3 slot GPUs. Measuring just 376 x 185 x 292mm (LxWxH), this mini-ITX case is designed to maximize space efficiency without compromising on performance capabilities.
Hardware Support and Cooling
The Cooler Master NR200P stands out for its support of wide-ranging PC hardware and adaptable cooling options, catering especially well to small form factor builds.
Power Supply and GPU Compatibility
The NR200P chassis accommodates various power supply units, specifically an SFX or SFX-L PSU, which are compact in size and fit neatly in the limited space. For gamers and professionals who use high-end graphics cards, the NR200P supports triple-slot GPUs up to 336mm in length. This is facilitated by a vertical GPU mounting option with a riser cable, ensuring powerful performance while maintaining the case’s compact footprint.
Cooling Solutions and Airflow
Cooler Master includes a well-designed cooling system in the NR200P. It handles up to seven fans, maintaining efficient airflow throughout the case. The chassis supports CPU coolers up to 155mm in height and radiators up to 280mm in length, which denotes that it’s capable of running a robust 280mm AIO liquid cooler. Two 120mm Sickleflow fans come pre-installed, promoting consistent airflow across the system components. Additionally, the case’s design with ample perforation and optional mesh panels maximizes the effectiveness of both air and liquid cooling setups. Users also have the flexibility to install bottom fans for additional cooling if needed.
Assembly and Features
The Cooler Master NR200P offers a blend of form and function that will resonate with PC enthusiasts. It prioritizes space efficiency while maintaining a sleek appearance, designed with ease of assembly and a versatile feature set for top-tier builds within a mini-ITX form factor.
Building Process and Expansion
Building in the Cooler Master NR200P is straightforward, making it a joy for newcomers and veterans alike. The mini-ITX case provides tool-free access to its side panels, allowing for quick entry into the case. For expansion, the NR200P is equipped with a metal mounting bracket that supports multiple 2.5-inch drives and a PCIe 4.0 riser cable for vertical GPU installation. This facilitates not only enhanced cable management but also improves thermal performance for high-end gaming setups.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Expansion Slots | Three slots available for additional hardware. |
| Drive Support | Ample space for 2.5-inch storage solutions. |
| Riser Cable | Includes PCIe 4.0 riser for vertical GPU mounting. |
Connectivity and User Experience
The case’s I/O panel is thoughtfully placed for easy access, including USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports and a headset jack, ensuring necessary connectivity is always within reach. A front I/O panel further enhances the user experience with additional ports. As for assembly, the Cooler Master NR200P features a straightforward interior layout that aids in managing cables and streamlining the building process, so users can focus more on enjoying their setup rather than fretting over installation quirks.
| Connectivity | Description |
|---|---|
| USB 3.2 Ports | High-speed connections for peripherals via the front I/O panel. |
| Headset Jack | Easily accessible port for audio devices. |
Frequently Asked Questions
When considering the Cooler Master NR200P MAX, there are several common inquiries that often come up. This section provides concise answers to help you understand the essentials about this Mini-ITX PC case.
What components are included in the Cooler Master NR200P MAX?
The Cooler Master NR200P MAX typically comes with a chassis, a vented side panel, and various mounting hardware for components. However, the exact contents can vary, so it’s best to check the specific product listing.
Can the NR200P accommodate full-sized GPUs?
Yes, the NR200P can house GPUs up to 13.2 inches long. This means most full-sized GPUs will fit, but space for storage drives may be reduced depending on the GPU size.
How does the airflow perform in the NR200P with different fan configurations?
The NR200P case is designed to support several fan configurations, which can greatly influence airflow. Its highly vented side panel promotes substantial air movement, but optimal airflow depends on how fans are arranged and the components inside.
Are there any color variations available for the Cooler Master NR200P case?
Initially available in standard black and white, the NR200P now comes in additional colors like Flamingo Pink, Caribbean Blue, Sunset Orange, and Nightshade Purple, reflecting user preferences for customization.
What is the maximum cooler height supported by the NR200P?
The NR200P supports CPU coolers up to a certain height, which is typically specified in the case’s manual or product listing.
How does the build quality of the NR200P compare to other SFF cases?
The Cooler Master NR200P is known for its robust build quality, often compared favorably to other small form factor (SFF) cases in its class. The materials and design elements contribute to its durability and performance.
