Overview

The Cooler Master MasterBox Lite 3.1 (model number: MCW-L3B3-KANN-01) is a mini tower PC case designed for Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards. Its glossy dark mirror front panel is a standout feature, complemented by three interchangeable trim parts in different colors so you can personalize the look. The full acrylic side panel lets you view the inside of your PC while it's running, which adds a nice visual element to your build.
This case ships with one 120mm fan at the rear and supports up to three cooling fans total. CPU cooler clearance is 158mm, and graphics card support extends to 380mm, which is generous for a mini tower in this class. Dust filters on the front and bottom help keep the interior clean over time.
In terms of market positioning, this is an entry-level to mid-range case for budget-conscious builders. It balances aesthetics, functionality, and expandability at a reasonable price point, making it a solid choice for those assembling a compact Micro-ATX system.

Compatibility Guide

Supported motherboards are Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX. Standard ATX boards will not fit, so verify your motherboard's form factor before purchasing.
CPU cooler clearance is limited to 158mm. If you're planning to use a large air cooler or an AIO liquid cooler, check the dimensions beforehand to avoid clearance issues.
Graphics cards up to 380mm in length are supported, which accommodates most modern high-end GPUs. However, if you install a radiator or additional fans at the front, you should leave some extra room for the card.
Storage options include two 3.5-inch HDD bays and one 2.5-inch SSD bay. If you need to install multiple drives, plan your storage configuration accordingly.

Product Info

This product comes with a 2-year warranty through the official Japanese distributor. The main materials are steel and plastic, with a total weight of approximately 4.4kg.
The I/O panel includes one USB 3.0 port, one USB 2.0 port, and audio in/out jacks. These are positioned at the top of the front panel, making them easy to access when the case is on a desk.
For cooling, a 120mm fan is pre-installed at the rear. Additional fans can be mounted at the front and top to improve airflow. The case also supports liquid cooling systems, with space for radiator installation.
This is an entry-level case in the market. Compared to recent cases with flashy RGB lighting and glass panels, this model offers a simpler, more practical design that prioritizes function over show.

Best Use Cases

First, this case suits first-time PC builders. Micro-ATX builds involve fewer components and are generally easier to assemble, and this case provides adequate cable management space, making the process smoother for beginners.
Second, users who want to keep their desk area compact will appreciate this case. The mini tower footprint takes up less space than a full tower, making it easier to fit into tight environments.
Third, enthusiasts who enjoy watching their PC components in action will like the acrylic side panel. You can observe the CPU cooler and graphics card fans spinning through the transparent panel.
On the other hand, users who need to install many HDDs or SSDs, or those planning a large custom water cooling loop, may find the drive bay count and expansion options insufficient.

Things to Consider

This case only supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards, so ATX builds are out of the question. If you're planning an ATX system, you'll need to look at other cases.
The dark mirror front panel looks great but tends to show fingerprints and dust easily. Regular wiping will be necessary to keep it looking clean.
Also, the acrylic side panel is more prone to scratches than glass panels, so handle it with care during installation and maintenance.
Compared to newer cases, the number of USB ports is somewhat limited. If you connect many USB devices, consider using a USB hub alongside this case.

FAQ

Q: Can I install an ATX motherboard in this case?
A: No, this case only supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards. For ATX boards, you'll need to choose a different case.
Q: Can I mount a 240mm radiator at the front?
A: This case supports liquid cooling, but the maximum radiator size is not officially specified. The front can accommodate two 120mm fans, but when installing a radiator, watch out for potential interference with the graphics card.
Q: What power supply should I use with this case?
A: Choose an ATX-compatible power supply. The recommended wattage depends on your component configuration, but for a typical mid-range build, around 650W should be sufficient. Refer to the spec table for details.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: Cooler Master
  • Seller: クリエイトハマダ
  • Fulfilled by: クリエイトハマダ
  • ASIN: B071GDSBMN
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.