Checking fit...
Enter your GPU and case specs, then click Check Fit
What Is PC Case GPU Clearance?
GPU clearance is the maximum length of a graphics card that fits inside a PC case without touching the front fans, radiator, drive cage, or power supply shroud. It is one of the most common first-build mistakes: a buyer picks a compact case and a flagship GPU, then discovers the card is 30 mm too long to close the side panel.
This calculator compares your GPU length and slot thickness against your case's stated max GPU length. It also subtracts real-world allowances for front-mounted radiators and the bend radius required by ATX 3.0 / 12VHPWR power cables. The result is a clear fit verdict, risk level, and actionable warnings.
How the Calculator Works
Start with the GPU length and slot thickness from the manufacturer's product page, then enter the case's official GPU clearance. The tool applies three extra reality checks:
- Slot thickness: Cards above 3 slots need a case with matching expansion-bracket clearance.
- Front radiator: A front AIO radiator plus fans typically consumes 25–35 mm of effective GPU space.
- ATX 3.0 cable: 12VHPWR / 12V-2x6 connectors need roughly 36 mm of bend radius for safe, reliable power delivery.
The output shows effective clearance, length headroom, and a verdict ranging from "Fits comfortably" to "Does not fit."
Common GPU Lengths and Slot Thickness
Always check the exact model you own: partner cards can be 20–50 mm longer than NVIDIA or AMD reference designs. The numbers below are representative reference or common partner sizes.
GPU Size Reference Table
| GPU | Length | Slots | Case clearance target |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTX 5090 | ~340 mm | 3.5 | 380 mm+ with cable bend |
| RTX 4090 | ~336 mm | 3.0 | 370 mm+ with cable bend |
| RTX 4080 | ~310 mm | 2.5 | 340 mm+ with cable bend |
| RX 7900 XTX | ~287 mm | 2.5 | 320 mm+ with cable bend |
| RTX 4070 FE | ~244 mm | 2.0 | 270 mm+ |
| RTX 4060 Ti | ~244 mm | 2.0 | 270 mm+ |
Partner cards vary. Always verify the exact length of the SKU you are buying, not just the GPU chip family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an RTX 5090 fit in my PC case?
The RTX 5090 reference design is roughly 340 mm long and 3.5 slots thick. It needs a case with at least 350–380 mm of GPU clearance after accounting for the ATX 3.0 power cable bend radius. Compact and many mid-tower cases will not fit it without removing drive cages, using a custom cable, or choosing a smaller partner card.
How much extra space does an ATX 3.0 cable need?
A 12VHPWR or 12V-2x6 cable needs about 36 mm of clearance from the connector to form a safe bend. Bending the cable tighter than 35 mm can damage pins, cause intermittent power, or melt the connector on high-wattage cards like the RTX 4090 and RTX 5090. Right-angle adapters or custom cables can reduce this requirement.
Does a front-mounted radiator reduce GPU clearance?
Yes. A 360 mm AIO radiator is about 27–30 mm thick, and the fans add another 25 mm, for a total depth of roughly 55 mm in front of the GPU. Most case manufacturers measure GPU clearance without a front radiator installed, so subtract 30 mm from the published number when using a front-mounted AIO.
Is GPU clearance the same as max graphics card length?
Usually, yes. Case manufacturers use both terms interchangeably to describe the longest GPU that fits in the main chamber with the side panel closed. However, that measurement often assumes no front radiator and does not include power-cable bend clearance, so real-world usable clearance can be 30–70 mm smaller.
What if my GPU is only 5 mm shorter than the case max?
A 5 mm margin is technically a fit, but it is very tight. Power cables, anti-sag brackets, or GPU sag over time can reduce the usable space. It also makes installation difficult and limits airflow around the card. Aim for at least 20–30 mm of clearance for a comfortable, safe build.
Related Calculators
AIO vs Air Cooler Decision Calculator
Pick the right CPU cooler size for your case and workload.
PSU Wattage Calculator
Size the power supply for your new GPU, including ATX 3.0 needs.
PC Build Budget Planner
Split your total budget across GPU, case, PSU, and cooling.
PC Cable Length & Management Calculator
Plan cable lengths and routing once your GPU and case are chosen.
CPU & GPU Bottleneck Calculator
See if your CPU can keep up with the GPU you are planning to install.