If you still rely on optical media for CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs, finding a PC case with a dedicated 5.25-inch drive bay is essential. Many modern cases have abandoned optical drive bays, but several manufacturers still offer models that accommodate legacy drives. In this guide, we evaluate six top-rated cases that include at least one external 5.25-inch bay, covering everything from compact mini towers to full-tower workstations. Whether you are building a home theater PC, a retro gaming rig, or a storage server, these cases keep your optical drive accessible. For more options, explore our full collection of PC case reviews.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a PC Case with an Optical Drive Bay

Number of 5.25-Inch Drive Bays

The most obvious factor is how many external 5.25-inch bays the case offers. If you need only one optical drive, a single bay is sufficient. However, if you plan to install multiple optical drives, a fan controller, or additional hot-swap drive cages, consider a case with multiple bays. The anidees AI Raider XL provides up to twelve 5.25-inch bays, while the Zalman T6 offers one. Assess your current and future storage needs before choosing.

Cooling and Airflow

An optical drive bay can obstruct airflow if not designed well. Look for cases with mesh front panels or side vents that allow air to reach the internal components. The DARKROCK Classico Storage Master features a mesh front and side panel for efficient cooling, and it supports a 360mm radiator. For more on airflow optimization, read our best PC case for air cooling guide.

Build Quality and Form Factor

The materials and construction determine longevity and ease of building. Steel chassis with powder coating resist corrosion, as seen in the Zalman T6 and IN WIN EN708. Consider the motherboard form factor: ATX, mATX, or Mini-ITX. Full-tower cases like the anidees AI Raider XL support XL-ATX and E-ATX, while the be quiet! Pure Base 600 is a mid-tower that fits standard ATX boards. If you prefer pre-installed fans, check our best PC cases with fans included list.

Storage Expansion and Versatility

Many cases with optical drive bays also double as storage servers. The DARKROCK Classico Max Storage Master supports up to thirteen hard drives, making it ideal for NAS builds. The be quiet! Pure Base 600 offers repositionable HDD slots and a removable ODD cage for customization. For dusty environments, consider cases with filtered intakes; see our best PC case for dusty environment recommendations.

Final Thoughts

After reviewing these six cases, our top recommendations cater to different needs. For a quiet, versatile mid-tower with excellent build quality, the be quiet! Pure Base 600 ATX Midi Tower PC Case stands out with its adjustable top cover and pre-installed Pure Wings fans. If you are on a budget and need a reliable case with a 5.25-inch bay, the Zalman T6 ATX Mid Tower Computer PC Case offers great value with its patterned mesh design and included fan. Both options ensure you can keep using your optical drives without sacrificing performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still find PC cases with optical drive bays in 2026?

Yes, several manufacturers continue to produce cases with 5.25-inch bays, especially for workstation and NAS builds. Brands like be quiet!, Zalman, and DARKROCK offer current models. The selection is smaller than a decade ago, but quality options remain available.

What is a 5.25-inch drive bay used for?

A 5.25-inch bay typically holds optical drives like DVD or Blu-ray readers and writers. It can also accommodate fan controllers, hot-swap drive cages, or front-panel accessories. Some users repurpose them for storage or custom panels.

Do modern PC cases support optical drives?

Many modern cases omit optical drive bays to prioritize airflow and minimalist design. However, some mid-tower and full-tower cases still include at least one external 5.25-inch slot. If you need an optical drive, look for cases specifically marketed with ODD support.

How many optical drive bays do I need?

For most users, one bay is enough for a single DVD or Blu-ray drive. If you plan to use multiple drives or add a fan controller, consider a case with two or more bays. The anidees AI Raider XL offers up to twelve bays for extreme expansion. For more on case features, check our PC cases with built-in displays guide.