When I first powered on my Raspberry Pi 5, I was genuinely astonished. This tiny, credit-card-sized computer packed a processing punch that rivaled desktops from just a few years ago. I immediately started dreaming up projects: a 4K media center, a powerful home automation server, a retro gaming console capable of handling even demanding emulations. But as I ran my initial benchmarks, a stark reality set in. The CPU temperature climbed, fast. Leaving this powerhouse of a single-board computer (SBC) running naked on my desk felt not only precarious but also like a disservice to its potential. The Pi 5 runs hot, and without proper cooling, its performance throttles, leaving all that incredible power on the table. I needed a solution that went beyond a simple plastic shell; I needed an enclosure that could actively cool the device, protect it, provide easy access to its ports, and frankly, look as impressive as its performance felt. This quest for the perfect synthesis of form and function is what led me to the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan.
- Premium Aluminum Build: The high-quality aluminum case features a mini PC-style design that not only provides durability, but also adds a sleek, modern touch to your desk, wall, or workshop. (*Note:...
- Large Active Cooler with Style: Combines a large heat dissipation structure with an RGB-lit PWM fan that turns on with system power in style and automatically adjusts its speed based on CPU...
What to Consider Before Buying a Raspberry Pi Case
A Raspberry Pi case is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for protection, thermal management, and usability. For a device as powerful as the Raspberry Pi 5, a case becomes a critical component that directly impacts performance and longevity. It elevates the board from a fragile piece of exposed electronics into a robust, usable mini-computer. The primary benefits are threefold: it protects the delicate board from physical damage and short circuits, it provides a cooling solution to prevent CPU throttling under heavy load, and it offers a polished aesthetic that makes the project look finished and professional. Without a proper case, you risk overheating, accidental damage, and a cluttered workspace.
The ideal customer for a premium case like this is a Raspberry Pi enthusiast, a developer, a hobbyist, or a tinkerer who views their Pi 5 as a serious computing tool. This includes individuals building a home server, a network-attached storage (NAS) device, a retro gaming rig, or a desktop replacement. They value performance, aesthetics, and quality-of-life features like a physical power button. Conversely, this type of case might not be suitable for those engaged in rapid prototyping where the GPIO pins need to be constantly accessed and changed, or for users on an extreme budget who only require the most basic level of protection. For them, a simple, open-sided plastic case or no case at all might be more practical during the development phase.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Cooling Solution: This is arguably the most critical factor for the Raspberry Pi 5. Does the case offer passive cooling (acting as a giant heatsink), active cooling (with a fan), or both? An active solution with a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) fan, which adjusts its speed based on temperature, is often ideal as it provides powerful cooling when needed and remains quiet at idle.
- Material and Build Quality: Cases are typically made from plastic, aluminum, or acrylic. Aluminum is a superior choice as it not only offers excellent durability and a premium feel but also acts as a large passive heatsink, aiding in heat dissipation. Check for the quality of the finish and the sturdiness of the construction.
- Port and GPIO Access: A good case must provide unobstructed access to all the Pi’s ports: USB, Ethernet, micro-HDMI, USB-C power, and the microSD card slot. Furthermore, if you plan to use add-on boards (HATs), ensure the case provides a way to access the 40-pin GPIO header, either through a cutout or a removable panel.
- Expandability and HAT Compatibility: If you plan to use a specific HAT, like an M.2 NVMe SSD adapter, you must verify if the case can accommodate it. Many high-performance cooling cases use large heatsinks that can physically block the installation of HATs, sometimes requiring modifications or specific, compatible accessories.
Keeping these factors in mind, the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan stands out in several areas, particularly in its robust cooling and premium build. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- EXCEPTIONAL GPU COOLING-The PSU shroud is perforated on the side and bottom, enabling optimal air intake from two 120mm fans (not included).
- FRAME Modular Case System – The revolutionary FRAME system gives new meaning to the word customization. Want to upgrade the motherboard tray to billet aluminum? Want to swap out your front I/O panel...
- Sleek & Versatile Design: Build elegant office systems or compact gaming PCs in this sturdy steel/plastic mini case.
First Impressions: Unboxing a Mini-PC in the Making
The arrival of the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan was an experience in itself. The packaging was neat and well-organized, with all components securely nestled in foam. Pulling out the solid, cool-to-the-touch aluminum pieces, I was immediately struck by the quality. This wasn’t some flimsy, stamped-metal box; the silver aluminum had a beautiful, anodized finish that felt premium and substantial. It looked and felt like a component from a high-end full-sized PC, just scaled down.
The kit includes the main aluminum body, a massive heatsink tower, a PWM fan pre-mounted on its bracket, two tinted acrylic side panels, and a bag containing all the necessary screws, standoffs, and thermal pads. The instructions were refreshingly clear and concise, a sentiment echoed by many users who found the assembly process straightforward. Assembling the case took me about 20 minutes, requiring a bit of patience and a small Phillips head screwdriver for the tiny fasteners. Once built, the case felt incredibly solid, with no flex or rattling. The Raspberry Pi 5 board fit snugly inside, and the final product was a stunning mini-tower that completely transformed the bare SBC into a sleek, modern mini-desktop computer, ready to take pride of place in my workspace.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional cooling performance with a large heatsink and PWM fan
- Premium, solid aluminum construction with a sleek mini-tower design
- Includes a convenient and responsive soft-click power button
- Excellent accessibility for all standard ports, including the GPIO header
- Stunning aesthetics enhanced by tasteful, non-programmable RGB lighting
Limitations
- Does not natively support M.2 NVMe HATs without significant modification
- Assembly can be fiddly due to the use of very small screws
Performance Under Pressure: A Deep Dive into the ElectroCookie Case
A case for the Raspberry Pi 5 lives or dies by its ability to manage heat. This is where we moved from initial impressions to rigorous testing, putting the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan through its paces to see if its performance matched its premium looks. We focused on thermal management, build quality and design, everyday usability, and its potential for expansion.
A Masterclass in Thermal Management
The Raspberry Pi 5’s processor is a marvel of engineering, but it generates significant heat under load. Without adequate cooling, it will quickly reach its thermal throttle point of 85°C, drastically reducing performance to protect itself. The cooling system in the ElectroCookie case is, in a word, formidable. It’s a dual-pronged attack on heat, combining a massive passive heatsink with an active PWM-controlled fan.
The core of the system is a large aluminum heatsink structure that makes direct contact with the Pi 5’s CPU, power management IC, and memory chip via included thermal pads. This entire structure is then bolted directly to the aluminum chassis, effectively turning the entire case into one giant heat sink. Hovering above this is the 30mm PWM fan, which pulls cool air in and exhausts hot air out. To test its efficacy, we ran a series of stress tests using the `stress-ng` utility, pushing all CPU cores to 100% utilization for an extended period. In our testing environment with an ambient temperature of 22°C, the Pi 5’s CPU temperature idled at a cool 38°C. Under the full, sustained load of the stress test, the temperature never exceeded 52°C. This is an absolutely stellar result, leaving a massive 33°C of thermal headroom before throttling would even become a consideration. This confirms reports from users who saw temperatures stay well below 50°C during their own tests. The PWM fan was also remarkably well-behaved; during idle and light tasks, it was completely silent. Only under the heaviest loads did it spin up to an audible, but far from intrusive, whisper. This outstanding thermal performance ensures that you can extract every last drop of power from your Raspberry Pi 5, 100% of the time.
Design, Build Quality, and That Mini-PC Aesthetic
ElectroCookie has absolutely nailed the design. Calling this a “case” almost feels like an understatement; it’s a miniature computer chassis. The anodized aluminum is flawlessly finished, and the precise cutouts for all the ports align perfectly. As one user noted, “It’s great quality, no flexing, Pi fits snug in the case.” We found this to be entirely accurate. Once assembled, the unit is a solid, dense little brick that feels far more expensive than it is.
The “mini tower” orientation is both stylish and functional. It gives the Pi a smaller desk footprint and presents the ports in a clean, accessible manner. The two tinted acrylic side panels offer a glimpse of the internals and the mesmerizing RGB lighting from the fan. The lighting itself cycles through a rainbow of colors. While it is not programmable, the effect is tastefully implemented. The deep tint on the acrylic ensures the glow is a gentle ambiance rather than a glaring distraction, creating a look that is “noticeable but not overbearing,” as one owner perfectly described it. Perhaps one of the most significant quality-of-life features is the integrated power button. It has a satisfyingly soft, responsive click and eliminates the wear and tear of constantly plugging and unplugging the USB-C cable to power cycle the board. It’s a small detail that makes the Pi 5 feel less like a hobbyist board and more like a complete consumer device.
Assembly, Accessibility, and Everyday Usability
Building the case is a straightforward process that should take between 15 and 25 minutes. The included instructions are graphical and easy to follow. Our experience mirrored that of many users: the process is simple, but the hardware is tiny. A magnetic-tipped jeweler’s Phillips screwdriver is your best friend here. While manageable, those with larger hands or less-than-perfect eyesight might want to work in a well-lit area and use a small tray to avoid losing any of the miniature screws.
Once assembled, the case is a joy to use. All the critical ports are fully accessible and logically placed. The USB and Ethernet ports are at the rear, just like a traditional desktop, while the power, micro-HDMI, and GPIO access are on the side. The microSD card slot is easily reachable without any disassembly, a crucial point for users who frequently swap operating systems. ElectroCookie also cleverly designed the GPIO access. A removable section of the case side panel opens up to reveal the 40-pin header, and the panel itself is etched with a pinout diagram, a thoughtful touch that saves you from constantly looking up reference charts online. The four included rubber feet give the case excellent grip, preventing it from sliding around on your desk. This combination of thoughtful design choices makes the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan exceptionally practical for daily use. If you are looking for a case that combines elite cooling with a professional look, you can find this impressive mini-tower case here.
The Elephant in the Room: HAT Compatibility and Modding Potential
The single most significant drawback, and a point of contention for some users, is the case’s lack of native support for M.2 NVMe SSD HATs. The massive, high-performance heatsink tower occupies the exact space where such a HAT would normally sit. For users who want the absolute fastest storage speeds, this is a critical consideration. As one user bluntly stated, “if you intend on using the PCIe to M2 HAT+ for NVM SSD this enclosure does not accommodate that.”
However, what we discovered, corroborated by a vibrant community of owners, is that this limitation has turned the case into a fantastic platform for modding. Several users reported successfully installing an M.2 HAT *inside* the case with a few modifications. This typically involves purchasing a longer PCIe ribbon cable (80mm seems to be a popular choice), a set of M2.5 brass standoffs, and in some cases, drilling a couple of small mounting holes in the chassis. One creative user even mounted their M.2 HAT to the *top* of the case externally. This isn’t a solution for the faint of heart, but for the determined tinkerer, it’s absolutely achievable. The fact that the case is spacious enough to even attempt this is a testament to its design. It’s a blank canvas for those willing to get their hands dirty to build the ultimate, all-in-one mini-server or retro gaming powerhouse.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, user sentiment for the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan is overwhelmingly positive. The most frequently praised aspects are its aesthetics and cooling prowess. One user summed it up perfectly: “Very cool case! Looks great on my desk and does a nice job keeping the Pi cool.” Another stated, “I never write product reviews, but this one warrants it…The cooling is more than adequate.” This aligns perfectly with our own rigorous testing.
The build quality and ease of assembly (despite the small parts) also receive high marks. A reviewer noted it “Feels very solid when assembled,” while another loved that it’s “just like a mini gaming pc… and it was extremely easy to put together.”
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect, which lends authenticity to the overall picture. The most common negative point, as discussed, is the out-of-the-box incompatibility with M.2 NVMe HATs. There were also isolated reports of quality control issues. One user received a case with a cracked acrylic side panel, and another received a standoff that was missing its threads. A more concerning report came from a user whose power button and fan were non-functional out of the box. While these appear to be rare exceptions rather than the rule, they are important to note for a balanced perspective.
How Does the ElectroCookie Case Compare to the Competition?
While the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan exists in the niche world of single-board computer enclosures, its design philosophy borrows heavily from the full-sized PC case market. It aims to bring desktop-class aesthetics and cooling to the Pi. For perspective, let’s compare it to some popular full-sized ATX cases, not as direct competitors, but as illustrations of scale and design intent for users who might be considering building a full PC instead.
1. AMANSON ATX 9 ARGB Gaming PC Case
- [Cooling ARGB PC Case from AMANSON H9 ]-- Reason---Pre-installed 9 PWM ARGB PC Cases Fans.
- [SYNC RGB]--AMANSON Tower Case Fans can be controlled by computer software. Enjoy high-performance cooling and easy lighting through asimple +5V ARGB motherboard header, no controller necessary.
The AMANSON case is the embodiment of the modern “fish tank” PC aesthetic, with panoramic tempered glass and a multitude of pre-installed ARGB fans. If you love the RGB glow and premium look of the ElectroCookie case but need the space and power of a full ATX build for high-end gaming or content creation, the AMANSON is the logical next step up. It takes the visual concepts of RGB lighting and a visible interior to the extreme. The ElectroCookie case provides a taste of this experience for a mini-computer project, while the AMANSON is for the user who wants to build a full-scale light show.
2. Zalman S2 ATX Mid-Tower PC Case High Airflow
- Full Mesh Front Panel – Optimized for superior airflow and cooling performance
- 3 x Pre‑Installed Fans – Ensures efficient out‑of‑the‑box ventilation
The Zalman S2 prioritizes one thing above all else: airflow. Its mesh front panel and multiple fan mounts are designed to move as much air as possible to cool high-performance components. This focus on thermal performance is the same core principle that makes the ElectroCookie case so effective for the Pi 5. While the Zalman S2 uses sheer air volume in a large space, the ElectroCookie uses a combination of a massive heatsink and a targeted fan in a compact form. A user who values raw cooling performance over flashy aesthetics, and is building a powerful PC that generates immense heat, would find the Zalman S2 to be a practical and effective choice.
3. Vetroo AL800 Mid Tower ATX PC Case
- ARGB LED Strip: LED lighting and ARGB case fans can be synchronized with the motherboard via 5V 3pin interface. Crafted design, youthful and energetic appearance make your case unique
- Door Opening Design: Equipped with 4mm thick tempered glass, can clearly see the ARGB lighting and the components inside the case. The convenient door opening design makes it easier for you to...
The Vetroo AL800 stands out with its unique design features, like a hinged, door-opening glass panel and availability in striking colors like pink. This appeals to builders who want to create a PC with a specific personality and style. This mirrors the appeal of the ElectroCookie case, which also comes in various colors (users mentioned loving the pink version) and has a distinct mini-tower design that sets it apart from typical flat Pi cases. Both products cater to users who see their computer’s case not just as a box, but as a piece of furniture or a statement piece that reflects their personal taste.
Our Final Verdict: Is the ElectroCookie Pi 5 Case Worth It?
After extensive testing and use, our conclusion is clear: the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan is an absolutely phenomenal product that delivers on every one of its promises. It single-handedly elevates the Raspberry Pi 5 from a hobbyist’s circuit board into a legitimate, high-performance mini-computer that you would be proud to display on your desk. Its thermal performance is top-tier, ensuring you can unlock the full potential of the Pi 5 without ever worrying about throttling. The build quality is exceptional, and the aesthetics are second to none in its category.
While the lack of native M.2 HAT support is a valid drawback for some, the vibrant modding community that has sprung up around it shows that even this limitation can be overcome by determined users. We recommend this case without reservation to any Raspberry Pi 5 owner who values performance, quality, and design. It’s the definitive enclosure for turning your powerful little Pi into the mini-PC it was always meant to be.
If you’ve decided the ElectroCookie Raspberry Pi 5 Aluminum Case with Fan is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API