Computer Cases
Buying a computer case may seem like a pretty inconsequential thing, especially when compared with thinking about the rest of your computer's components, but there are some practical concerns that a buyer really should keep in mind. Afterall, being a smart computer shopper isn't limited to just the big processor and video card purchases.
Cool Computer Cases
| PC Magazine's Highest Rated Cases |
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PC Magazine called the X-UFO the "Humvee of computer cases," giving it a perfect five rating. The industrial strength aluminum case features cool lighting, lots of storage, custom cooling bays, room for eleven fans, a chassis and more. You pay for all those goodies ... $300 or more. |
The Antec Super LanBoy combines portability with stability. Its lightweight, but also durable, and certainly spacious. It also comes with near-silent fans, a carrying strap, hard drive shock absorber devices, and an accesories drawer. The case is $90, but comes without a power supply. |
The Kingwin KT-424 is made of aluminum with a brush metal finish. The case also comes with ten drive bays. Adjustable fan speed, hard drive shock absorbers, and the ability to slide out the motherboard tray, power supply and card rack at once make the KT-424 a strong choice. |
Things to Keep In Mind
Motherboard Compatability
First and foremost, find a case that will work with your motherboard. If you're shopping for your case before the rest of the computer, you should probably change your approach. Remember, what you need to do with your computer is vastly more important than what the device looks like (though you can certainly find some very nice looking cases regardless of your desired specs).
Size
The vast majority of computer cases are tower designs, though there are a scant few desktop-style ones still available. Going with a tower will provide more internal space and is almost certainly the proper avenue to take. Tower cases typically come in three sizes-mini, mid-sized, or full.
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| Mini Tower Cases- Mini towers
 can fit almost anywhere.
- Component installation can be a hastle. Often feature less capacity than other cases.
If you don't have the room to choose a slight larger option, go with a mini-case that has a removable chassis for convenience and storage. |
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| Mid-Sized Tower Cases- Mid towers are the most common case and thus the most competitive and feature-oriented market.
- Compact enough to fit undernearth certain desks and tables and sturdy.
Mid-sized tower cases are the choice for most first-time case or computer buyers. They have room for expansion, but are still relatively easy to store. They also come with diverse feature sets and different looks. Shop around. |
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| Full Tower Cases- Full towers have tons of room for users who plan on having a super machine.
- Often too large to fit under desks and in compact spaces.
Full-sized towers can be inconvenient, but if you plan on filling up your computer with graphics card, multiple processors and other powerful features, it's the way go. |
Layout and Design
Your case's layout has to be catered to your systems components and peripheral devices. Pay closest attention to the available drive bays in the case. When expanding your computer's capabilities, you'll need to have extra drive bays or go with external components. It's also important to pay attention to where those drive bays are located. You don't want your internal components running into each other.
Power Supply
If you plan on buying high-end components that eat alot of power, be sure to purchase a case that has or supports a power supply that can handle your gear. Most computers use 300 watt supplies. Cheap power supplies have caused headaches for computer users, a topic immortalized in this classic TG Daily article. Many case producer haave taken to not including a power supply with the case, passing the saving onto consumers and letting them pick their own supplies. Tom's Hardware recommend Antec or Enermax power supplies.
Cooling Abilities
Computers require cooling. The faster and hotter the processor, the more cooling it requires. Your cases cooling capabilities need to echo this sentiment. Also keep in mind that the more fans you need, the louder your computer will be. There are some companies (Vantek is one example) working to produce quieter fans. Water-cooling devices are another option for users looking for silence out of their computers.
Construction
Do you want a heavy-duty case that offers significant protection? Or maybe an aluminum case that directs heat better? Many manufacturers use light materials in an attempt to cut costs. Be wary of poor construction. The welding of steel cases should be examined or riveting in the case of aluminum. Also, be wary of sharp edges. Down the road, they may cause scrapes when opening your case.
Aesthetic
Your computer case tells the world (or at least your wife) a little about your personality. Whether it be through a see-through case, high-tech looking infrared case or a case that look more like alien invaders than PCs, the depth of complex expression available with a PC case is quite possible limitless.
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