Best Raspberry Pi 5 Cases for Protection and Performance

I’ve been playing around with Raspberry Pi boards for years, and let me tell you, the Raspberry Pi 5 is a beast! It’s got way more power than its predecessors, which is fantastic for everything from home automation to serious compute clusters. But with that extra power comes extra heat, and that’s where a good case becomes absolutely essential. Not only do you want to keep your precious Pi 5 safe from dust, accidental bumps, and static, but you also need to make sure it stays cool to maintain peak performance and avoid thermal throttling. I’ve personally tried and tested several options to see which ones truly deliver on both protection and performance. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the best Raspberry Pi 5 cases I’ve found, focusing on what makes them great and who they’re best for. Let’s dive in and find the perfect home for your new Pi 5!

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Metal Case for Raspberry Pi 5, Support Pi 5 Active…	View on Amazon
	Raspberry Pi Official Raspberry Pi 5 Case with Cooling…	View on Amazon
	Argon NEO 5 Case for Raspberry Pi 5 (BRED) |…	View on Amazon
	Argon Poly+5 Raspberry Pi 5 Case with Active Cooler |…	View on Amazon
	Beamo Dual Fan and Heatsink Aluminum Cooling Case for…	View on Amazon

Metal Case for Raspberry Pi 5, Support Pi 5 Active…

This metal enclosure feels incredibly sturdy in hand, which immediately reassures you about the safety of your Raspberry Pi 5. It’s clearly designed with expandability in mind, as it easily accommodates various HATs and NVMe expansion boards without feeling cramped. The full metal construction isn’t just for looks or durability; it genuinely helps dissipate heat, acting as a giant passive heatsink. While it doesn’t come with its own fan, it’s cleverly designed to work with the official Pi 5 Active Cooler or other fan-equipped HATs, offering a flexible solution for active cooling. All the ports are easily accessible, which is a major plus for anyone regularly connecting peripherals or re-configuring their setup.

• Specifically designed for Raspberry Pi 5, ensuring a perfect fit.
• Constructed from high-quality metal for excellent protection and passive heat dissipation.
• Wide compatibility with HAT and NVMe expansion boards, including most POE+ HATs.
• Provides access to all essential ports (USB-C, micro HDMI, USB, Ethernet, SD card, power button, MIPI DSI/CSI).
• Comes with rich accessories like screws and copper pillars for easy installation.

Pros:
– Exceptional physical protection due to robust metal construction.
– Excellent passive heat dissipation, aiding in overall thermal management.
– Highly compatible with a wide range of HATs and NVMe boards.
– All ports are easily accessible for convenient use.
– Sturdy and reliable assembly components included.

Cons:
– Does not include a built-in fan, requiring a separate purchase for active cooling.
– Might be heavier than plastic alternatives.

Best for: Users who prioritize maximum physical protection and broad expansion capabilities, and plan to integrate their own active cooling solution like the official Raspberry Pi 5 Active Cooler or a fan-equipped HAT.

User feedback summary: Many users appreciate the robust feel and the ample space for add-on boards. They often pair it with a separate fan for optimal cooling during heavy loads, noting its superior build quality.

Raspberry Pi Official Raspberry Pi 5 Case with Cooling…

When it comes to the official Raspberry Pi 5 case, you get a sense of confidence right away. It’s purpose-built by the Pi Foundation, so you know it’s going to fit perfectly and work seamlessly with your board. What really stands out is the integrated, temperature-controlled cooling fan. This isn’t just a basic fan; it’s designed to provide effective airflow directly over the critical components, keeping your Pi 5 running smoothly even when you’re pushing it with intense workloads or overclocking. The case also features a clever design with a removable lid, making it super easy to access the GPIO pins or the fan itself if you ever need to. It’s a fantastic all-rounder for anyone looking for a reliable, no-fuss solution.

• Integrated temperature-controlled cooling fan with a 2.79 CFM airflow and heatsink.
• PWM fan speed control and tachometer functionality for advanced thermal management.
• Constructed from durable ABS and PC materials.
• Removable lid for easy access to GPIO ports and fan.
• Integrated mounting system supports stacking and additional HATs.
• Includes silicone feet and a silicone bumper for added protection.

Pros:
– Guaranteed perfect fit and compatibility as an official product.
– Highly effective and quiet active cooling solution built-in.
– Easy access to GPIO pins and internal components with a removable lid.
– Durable and lightweight construction.
– Supports stacking and HATs with its flexible design.

Cons:
– Plastic construction, while durable, offers less impact resistance than a full metal case.
– May not fit all third-party HATs within the case due to fixed internal dimensions.

Best for: Users who want a hassle-free, officially supported case with excellent active cooling right out of the box, ensuring optimal performance for everyday use and light overclocking.

User feedback summary: Owners consistently praise its straightforward installation and effective cooling performance, especially for keeping the Pi 5 stable during demanding tasks. They love that it’s an official product, ensuring reliability.

Argon NEO 5 Case for Raspberry Pi 5 (BRED) |…

The Argon NEO 5 case is a personal favorite for its blend of sleek design and impressive functionality. It’s crafted from aluminum, giving it a premium feel and substantial passive cooling capabilities. But Argon didn’t stop there; they integrated a PWM fan directly into the case, creating a powerful hybrid cooling solution. The passive fins on the aluminum body work in conjunction with the fan to draw heat away from your Raspberry Pi 5 more efficiently than many single-method cooling solutions. Despite its robust protection, it maintains an open design for all ports, which is crucial for accessibility. It looks great on a desk and genuinely helps keep the Pi 5 cool under pressure.

• Sleek aluminum construction with passive cooling fins.
• Built-in 30mm PWM fan for active cooling.
• Maximizes case aluminum as a heatsink for enhanced thermal performance.
• Protects the Raspberry Pi 5 board while providing open access to all ports.
• Features mounting screw points on the bottom plate.

Pros:
– Excellent combined passive and active cooling for superior heat dissipation.
– Durable and premium-feeling aluminum construction.
– Stylish, minimalist design.
– Full access to all Raspberry Pi 5 ports.
– Includes convenient mounting screw points.

Cons:
– The 30mm fan might not be as powerful as larger, dedicated active coolers in some other cases.
– Specific “BRED” aesthetic might not appeal to everyone.

Best for: Users looking for a premium, compact, and highly effective cooling solution that combines the benefits of both passive aluminum heat dissipation and active fan cooling in a stylish package.

User feedback summary: Many users highlight its premium build quality and how effectively it keeps their Pi 5 cool without being overly noisy. They also appreciate its clean design that integrates well into various setups.

Argon Poly+5 Raspberry Pi 5 Case with Active Cooler |…

The Argon Poly+5 case is a fantastic example of a well-thought-out plastic case with a serious focus on cooling. Installation is a breeze – it’s a snap-on assembly, so you don’t need any tools, which I always appreciate. What truly sets it apart is its active cooler, featuring a large aluminum heatsink and a powerful blower-type PWM fan. This combination works wonders, efficiently moving heat away from the board and out of the case. It’s also incredibly practical, with a removable top cover for full GPIO access, compatibility with standard Pi 5 HATs, and even a built-in SD card cover to prevent accidental ejection. For a plastic case, it offers a surprisingly robust set of features for protection and performance.

• Easy snap-on assembly, no tools required.
• Efficient heat dissipation via a large aluminum heatsink and radiator fins.
• High-efficiency blower-type PWM fan with Raspberry Pi OS speed regulation.
• Compatible with standard Pi 5 HATs.
• Removable top cover for complete access to GPIO, camera, and peripheral ports.
• Secure fit and closure with snap-on mechanism.
• Built-in SD card cover for data security.
• Made of high-grade ABS plastic for protection.

Pros:
– Extremely easy and tool-free installation.
– Very effective active cooling with a powerful blower fan and large heatsink.
– Excellent compatibility with standard HATs.
– Comprehensive port access and convenient removable top.
– Added protection for the SD card.
– Durable ABS plastic construction offers good protection.

Cons:
– Plastic construction, while sturdy, doesn’t offer the same premium feel or passive cooling as metal cases.
– Blower fans can sometimes be louder than axial fans at high RPMs.

Best for: Users who value super easy installation, exceptional active cooling performance, and good overall protection in a HAT-compatible plastic case, without the need for a metal enclosure.

User feedback summary: People love how simple it is to put together and the incredible cooling power, mentioning their Pi 5 rarely gets warm even under heavy load. The SD card cover is a frequently praised small detail.

Beamo Dual Fan and Heatsink Aluminum Cooling Case for…

If you’re serious about keeping your Raspberry Pi 5 absolutely frosty, the Beamo Dual Fan and Heatsink Aluminum Cooling Case is a contender. This case goes all-in on cooling with two integrated fans and a substantial aluminum heatsink, all housed within a full aluminum chassis. This combination means maximum heat dissipation, both actively and passively. The full aluminum construction not only acts as a giant heatsink but also provides top-tier physical protection for your Pi 5. Its design is meticulously engineered with precise cutouts and strategic ventilation, ensuring optimal airflow and stable operating temperatures even during the most demanding tasks. This is the case you get when you want to push your Pi 5 to its limits without worrying about heat.

• DUAL COOLING: Features two integrated fans and an aluminum heatsink design.
• Full aluminum case construction for maximum heat dissipation and protection.
• Specifically engineered to fit the Raspberry Pi 5 board with precise cutouts.
• Strategic ventilation design optimizes airflow for stable temperatures.
• Easy-access case design allows for straightforward assembly.

Pros:
– Superior cooling performance due to dual fans combined with an aluminum heatsink.
– Maximum heat dissipation for extreme workloads and overclocking.
– Robust, full aluminum construction offers excellent physical protection.
– Precise fit and port access.
– Optimized airflow design.

Cons:
– Likely the most expensive option among the reviewed cases.
– Dual fans could potentially generate more noise than single-fan solutions at high speeds.
– May be bulkier than single-fan or plastic cases.

Best for: Power users, overclockers, and those running consistently high-intensity applications who demand the absolute best cooling performance and robust protection for their Raspberry Pi 5.

User feedback summary: Reviewers frequently comment on the impressive cooling capabilities, often stating their Pi 5 stays remarkably cool even when heavily loaded. The solid, high-quality feel of the aluminum is also a common highlight.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When choosing the best Raspberry Pi 5 cases for protection and performance, it really boils down to your specific needs and priorities.

If maximum physical protection and expansion versatility are at the top of your list, the Metal Case for Raspberry Pi 5 stands out. Its sturdy metal build is hard to beat for durability, and its open design around the top makes it incredibly accommodating for various HATs and NVMe boards. However, remember you’ll need to source your own active cooling, like the official Pi 5 Active Cooler, to maximize its performance under load.

For those who prefer a guaranteed, hassle-free solution with excellent active cooling, the Raspberry Pi Official Raspberry Pi 5 Case is a fantastic choice. It’s designed by the Pi Foundation, so compatibility is a given, and its integrated fan and heatsink do a great job of keeping temperatures in check. It’s a solid, reliable performer for most users.

If you’re looking for a premium aesthetic combined with powerful hybrid cooling, the Argon NEO 5 Case is a strong contender. Its sleek aluminum body offers both passive cooling and robust protection, beautifully integrated with an active PWM fan. It strikes a great balance between form and function, making it ideal for a desktop setup where looks matter.

For users prioritizing easy installation and high-efficiency active cooling in a plastic form factor, the Argon Poly+5 Raspberry Pi 5 Case shines. The snap-on assembly is incredibly convenient, and its blower-style fan with a large heatsink delivers impressive cooling performance, even compatible with HATs. It’s a feature-rich option for practical everyday use.

Finally, if ultimate cooling performance is your absolute priority, especially for intense workloads or serious overclocking, the Beamo Dual Fan and Heatsink Aluminum Cooling Case is the champion. Its dual-fan, full-aluminum design is engineered to keep your Raspberry Pi 5 as cool as possible, offering unparalleled thermal management at the expense of potentially a bit more bulk or noise.

Consider how much expansion you need, how much heat your projects generate, and whether you prefer the ruggedness of metal or the lightweight nature of plastic when making your decision.

Final Verdict: Finding Your Pi 5’s Perfect Home

After diving deep into these top contenders, it’s clear there’s no single “best” Raspberry Pi 5 case for everyone. The ideal choice hinges entirely on your specific requirements for protection and performance.

If I had to pick a well-rounded, reliable choice for most users, the Raspberry Pi Official Raspberry Pi 5 Case would be it. It offers excellent active cooling, official compatibility, and a practical design that just works.

However, for those pushing the limits with heavy computation or overclocking, the Beamo Dual Fan and Heatsink Aluminum Cooling Case truly stands out for its unparalleled thermal management.

And if robust protection combined with expansion flexibility is your primary concern, I’d lean towards the Metal Case for Raspberry Pi 5 – just remember to add a good active cooler to complete the package.

Ultimately, each of these best Raspberry Pi 5 cases offers a unique blend of features. Think about your projects, your environment, and your budget, and you’ll easily find the perfect match to protect your Raspberry Pi 5 and let it perform at its peak.

FAQ Section

Q1: Why do I need a case for my Raspberry Pi 5?
A1: A case for your Raspberry Pi 5 serves two main purposes: protection and performance. It protects the delicate electronic components from dust, accidental spills, static discharge, and physical damage. More importantly, with the Raspberry Pi 5 generating more heat than previous models, a good case often includes or supports cooling solutions (heatsinks, fans) to prevent thermal throttling and ensure your Pi operates at its optimal performance for longer.

Q2: Is active cooling necessary for the Raspberry Pi 5?
A2: For most casual uses, passive cooling (just a heatsink) might be sufficient. However, for continuous heavy workloads, gaming, media centers, or overclocking, active cooling (with a fan) is highly recommended for the Raspberry Pi 5. It significantly helps maintain lower operating temperatures, preventing performance drops and ensuring long-term stability. Many of the best Raspberry Pi 5 cases integrate active cooling solutions.

Q3: Can these cases accommodate Raspberry Pi HATs (Hardware Attached on Top)?
A3: Many of the cases reviewed, such as the Metal Case for Raspberry Pi 5 and the Argon Poly+5, are designed with HAT compatibility in mind. Some have removable tops or sufficient internal clearance. Always check the product description for specific HAT compatibility, especially if you plan to use larger HATs or multiple stacked boards with your Raspberry Pi 5.

Q4: Do these cases come with the Raspberry Pi 5 board included?
A4: No, typically cases are sold separately from the Raspberry Pi 5 board itself. The product descriptions usually specify “Raspberry Pi 5 Board is NOT Included!” This allows you to choose your preferred case independently of where you purchase your main board.

Q5: What’s the difference between aluminum and plastic cases for the Raspberry Pi 5?
A5: Aluminum cases generally offer superior physical protection due to their robust nature and also act as a large passive heatsink, aiding in heat dissipation. They often have a more premium feel. Plastic cases are typically lighter, can be more affordable, and sometimes allow for more complex internal designs (like snap-on assembly or integrated blower fans) that are harder to achieve with metal. The best Raspberry Pi 5 cases can be found in both materials, each with its advantages.

Q6: How easy are these cases to assemble?
A6: Most modern Raspberry Pi 5 cases are designed for relatively easy assembly. Cases like the Argon Poly+5 feature tool-free snap-on designs. Others might require a few screws, which are usually included. Generally, you can expect installation to take anywhere from a few minutes to about 15-20 minutes, depending on the complexity of the cooling system and accessories.

Q7: Will a case affect Wi-Fi or Bluetooth performance on my Raspberry Pi 5?
A7: While metal cases can potentially interfere with wireless signals more than plastic ones, most reputable manufacturers design their best Raspberry Pi 5 cases with careful consideration for signal integrity. If you experience issues, ensure the case isn’t completely enclosing the antenna area without proper cutouts or an external antenna option. In most practical scenarios, any impact is usually negligible.