There is much to consider when choosing a desktop case for your build. What is the right size? Do you value quick access to the inside? Do you want many clear panels to see all those RGB components? Will putting your favorite sticker on the case increase RAM and CPU speeds but also help keep the case as frosty as your favorite beverage? (Ahem, no. Sorry.)
Some of us may get so wrapped up in the other components of our build that little thought or consideration goes into the case we choose. While the case mostly depends on each individual’s taste and preferences, there are some important things to remember.
Under Pressure
Before slapping those fancy RGB fans into the case and lighting it up so the International Space Station can see your masterpiece you will want to consider how you want to orient your fans.
Positive Pressure cases will have all the fans blowing more air into the case whereas negative pressure cases push more air out. Which one is better? There is no right or wrong answer. Each build is different and one method may be better than another in certain situations.
Either way you will also want to remember…
Ventilation
Regularly clean those fans and the inside of your case to keep all those dust bunnies from retaining heat and adding stress to your components. If the fans are blowing in a lot of dust it can stick to the heatsinks, like on your CPU, and reduce its effectiveness to cool the CPU.
You will also want to select a spot in your room where you can have ample air space around the case. If you have objects in front of fans it reduces the amount of air it can pull in or push out (cfm) effectively.
Case Size Matters
Case size should never be taken lightly. Purchasing all of your components only to find out they won’t fit in the case is like the excitement of going down a slide only to hear the squeak of skin being remove from your legs and your hair sticking straight up. You want to cry but instead anxiously laugh.
Cases come in three sizes: Full tower, Mid tower, and Mini ITX. Each has its own function.
Full Tower: The largest of the standard size case. Typically measure around 20 inches tall and are wider and deeper than Mid Towers. These cases can fit the standard ATX motherboards and the Mini-ITX motherboards. It has all the room needed for extra add-ons like water cooling pumps and tubing.
Mid-Tower: Smaller than the Full Tower case but has many similarities. Measuring around 18 inches tall they are not as wide and deep as the Full Towers. They are the most common case and fit standard ATX motherboards and Mini-ITX motherboards. The Mid Tower case does not have all the extra room for all those fancy upgrades. Space is more limited but will fit a standard or entry level build.
Mini-ITX: Small cases that are built for small mini-ITX motherboards. These are great for basic builds that do not require the parts or performance of a gaming computer. These cases and builds could be for home theater systems, smaller offices or casual computing needs.
Material
Desktop cases most often are built from plastic, steel or aluminum. The material will have a bearing on the weight and durability of the case. Plastic will obviously be lighter but it not the most durable. Your situation and budget will affect which material you choose.
Case Study
Cases are like snowflakes, they are all different. Some cases have panels that are attached with screws while others have quick release panels. Business model computers usually employ a super quick and easy system to attach and detach internal components. Even opening the case is a quick process since business IT professionals want to spend time working on what needs to be fixed instead of unscrewing the case and parts.
Summary
Before purchasing any build components, take the time to plan out all the pieces and select a case size adequate for your build. Consider how you will orient your fans and if your build will be positive or negative pressure. Allow for sufficient space around your case to facilitate proper air flow and regularly clean and maintain the fans and case. Investing time on selecting a good case for your situation will pay dividends in the future.
Hopefully this helped you crack the case. Never underestimate the importance of a case or of wearing pants on a slide.
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Jellie Tech 