How to choose a Computer Case ?
- Computer Expert
- 15 lut 2021
- 11 minut(y) czytania
Table of content:
Choosing a computer case may seem like a simple activity. It's important that she looks nice, isn't it? Well, not really. And while it does not really affect performance, it is a key element of a computer when it comes to its work culture. So, learn how to choose a PC case.
Compatibility of components with the PC case
Reviewing each enclosure separately is time-consuming. You just need to follow the criteria presented below. This way, you will quickly find a structure that meets your expectations.
If you ask yourself the question "which PC case to choose?", You probably have all the components ready. The first, most important criterion for your selection should be the compatibility of the selected components with the potential case. What does it mean?
First of all, pay attention to what format your motherboard is in. If you have a gaming model, it is most likely ATX, while the cheaper model is probably mATX. Don't worry, it may sound complicated, but you can mount both of these boards in the most popular cases.
Another important thing is compatibility with the graphics card and the CPU cooler. Here, too, there is nothing to be afraid of - the manufacturers of GPU and CPU coolers provide the dimensions of their products, and the specifications of most cases include compatible components. The stairs start when you choose water cooling. You will not find information everywhere, which heat sink will fit on the front or top panel. The safest solution is to choose a larger case.
And the last aspect regarding the components, i.e. the power supply. Although in this case the likelihood of a mistake is the smallest, you still have to take into account its size - especially if you want to choose a smaller case. There are two sizes of power supplies - ATX and SFX, the former being larger and more popular. Both of these formats fit most enclosures, while only SFX will fit into smaller designs.
So much for the compatibility inside the case. However, you can not forget where the case will stand. Under the desk? On the desk? Depending on where you plan to place the computer, carry out the dimensions of the selected place and on this basis choose the appropriate case size.
Own criteria
You have to ask yourself one very important question. What do you expect from the case? Some people are looking for structures that will stun their friends. Others choose muted enclosures that will effectively dampen sounds from inside. And what are you looking for? Depending on your answer, you need to pay attention to the aspects that you will read about next.
Types of computer cases
Before we go any further, let's introduce the division of cases by size and construction. As you know from the previous part of the guide, compatibility with components is very important when choosing a case. Producers want the choice to be as simple as possible, which is why this division was created. Thanks to it, you will be able to assess at the very beginning whether the case will be compatible with your components or not.
which computer case to choose
There are several types of cases. Below we present the most popular and interesting types:
Big Tower cases
Big Tower cases are one of the largest structures. When deciding on such a case, in most cases you do not have to worry about compatibility with components. It can even accommodate powerful 420mm liquid cooling heatsinks. You can fit ATX and SFX power supplies into such cases. When it comes to motherboards, the vast majority of these models will accommodate the following formats:
ATX
microATX
Mini-ITX
EATX
Due to their size, these boards are recommended mainly to gaming enthusiasts and professionals. You can even mount a few graphics cards, a dozen disks and high CPU cooling systems. They often have 8 or more slots for expansion cards. An interesting example of such a case is the bequiet! Dark Base Pro 900 Black Rev.2 where you can even reposition the motherboard tray.
Mid Tower cases
They are also often called mid-tower or midi-tower and are the most popular designs. Their sizes are slightly smaller than their predecessors, but you can also fit most of the component models into them. Almost each of them is compatible with standard, 240 mm air coolers and ATX and SFX power supplies. When it comes to motherboards, you will include ATX in almost all models, and in some - even larger. The most commonly compatible formats are:
ATX
microATX
mini-ITX
Due to their popularity, Middle Tower cases such as be quiet! Pure Base 500 Window Black, will work well for players, professionals and offices. They will accommodate two graphics cards and most tower coolers. Starting with these cases, it is worth checking their dimensions. Some longer cards, larger large-profile coolers, or higher coolers may not be compatible with them. They usually have 7 slots for expansion cards.
Mini Tower cases
Mini Tower type cases are the second most popular format. They are smaller than the Middle Tower, so the number of compatible components is also decreasing. These constructions are mainly supported by coolers with one fan, usually 120 mm. In turn, the ATX standard power supplies will fit into the vast majority of Mini Tower models. Some will still accommodate motherboards in ATX format, but mini-ITX format is the leading one. The most commonly compatible formats are:
mini-ITX
microATX
ATX
Mini Tower cases are most often used in multimedia computers mainly due to their compact dimensions. Most of them have 4 slots for expansion cards, although, for example, Fractal Design Define Mini C TG has 5 slots. Graphics cards up to 350 mm in length should be compatible with most models.
Small Form Factor (Small Form Factor)
SFF cases are quite a rare standard. They are narrow, not very deep, but relatively tall. The power supply should be in SFX format and motherboards in mini-ITX format. You should also opt for short graphics cards up to 350 mm long. Although there are exceptions in the form of the Fractal Design NODE 202 SFF, which allows the GPU to be mounted horizontally.
Cube type cases
Cube type cases, such as the Fractal Design Node 304, resemble a cube in shape. Most often they are small in size and the motherboard is mounted on their base. Motherboards should be micro-ATX or mini-ITX format, occasionally they will fit ATX format. Graphics cards up to a length of about 300 mm will fit most designs. These cases are mainly intended for multimedia computers or building home NAS servers.
HTPC cases
HTPC cases are used for simple multimedia computers that function as a smartbox, DVD or blu-ray player. Some of them, like the Jonsbo G3, resemble the once popular VCRs. Due to their dimensions, graphics cards are usually not installed in them. The CPU cooler can be a few centimeters at most. Most often, motherboards in mini-ITX or microATX format are installed in them.
What should the PC case contain?
You already know what type of case to choose, so that it is compatible with your components and expectations. Now let's discuss things that are directly related to the case design. At first glance, these may be details, but nothing could be more wrong.
The power supply
Let's start with two things related to the power supply. First of all, if you have such an option, do not choose enclosures with PSU (Power Supply Unit) included. The vast majority of them are of unknown origin and often without basic security measures. I guess we don't need to mention what the threat is? It is definitely better to buy a new power supply.
The second thing is the location of the power supply in the case. Currently, you can come across two options:
The power supply is mounted on the top of the case, with the fan facing downwards (inside the case),
The power supply is mounted on the bottom of the case, with the fan facing downwards (outside the case).
Of course, the second option is more advantageous, as the fan then has constant access to cool air from outside the case. In the first variant, the power supply will try to cool its components with air that has already been heated by other computer components.
Dust filters
It is very important to properly filter the case. Over time, dust settles on the fans and heat sinks, reducing their efficiency and leading to significant drops in component performance - primarily the processor and graphics card. Therefore, it is worth paying attention to whether the case has filters at all, in what number and in which places. The most common are mesh filters (often with an additional sponge on the front of the case) and mesh filters. It is worth remembering that you usually do not remove the former from the case.
Almost every design has a mesh filter on the front. It is also good to check if it is located on the bottom of the case, i.e. in the place where the power supply fan will be located. Almost all places where you can place fans should be filtered - the exception is usually the back of the case.
Also, pay attention to the possibility of removing the filters from the case - is there such an option at all and whether access to them is easy. Remember to clean them once in a while, otherwise they can severely restrict the smooth flow of air.
Fans
There are many aspects to consider when it comes to fans. First of all, your expectations of the case. If you want your components to perform under the best possible conditions, choose a model with more fans - three or four. Do you expect your computer to work quietly? There should be less fans - one or two.
However, this is not a universal rule. Their quality and size are also important. Larger fans (e.g. 140mm) achieve the same airflow level as smaller models (e.g. 120mm or 90mm) while rotating more slowly. What does it mean? Exactly that they work quieter. In turn, by reaching a higher rotational speed, they are able to force into the case or draw more air from it.
And if you want to replace the fans or add a few additional ones to the casing - in the x-kom store you will find many models of fans. Before making your selection, be sure to check which sizes are compatible with your case.
Port panel
Which ports should be on the case depends on your requirements. Standard today are USB ports as well as microphone and headphone connectors. If you are involved in photography or video processing, you will also need an SD card reader. In addition, a quite popular solution is the mounting of a revolution controller. With its help you can easily control the speed of rotation of the fans. The HDMI output may also be useful, to which you connect, for example, VR goggles.
These are just typical solutions. You will also find cases that, apart from a set of connectors, offer, for example, an inductive charger, like in the bequiet! Dark Base Pro 900 rev.2, or the case lighting controller. Also remember that in the x-kom store you will get control panels and controllers that will increase the functionality of the case.
Cable management system
Under this concept we will include everything related to the cabling in the case. Let's start with the holes. These are mainly on the right side of the place where the motherboard is located. If you choose an enclosure with a window, look for a model with rubber flanges on the ribs, which act as masking panels.
Another thing is the additional embossing on the motherboard tray. Such holes should be in its lower part and in the upper left corner. The former allow cables to be pulled from the front panel. The latter allows you to easily connect the processor power cord.
Cases overlooking the interior
If you choose a case with a view of the interior, you will have a choice - acrylic or tempered glass. The superiority of the latter seems obvious. First of all, it looks much nicer, it is more solid, it does not scratch so easily. As usual, you have to pay extra for quality, but in this case it is definitely worth it.
If you reach for the case with a window or with an entire glass panel, you probably want a stunning computer interior. The x-kom offer includes many useful accessories, such as braided cables or LED backlight.
Soundproofing mats
It is the basic element of silenced enclosures. Typically, such mats are located on the side panels, and in some models they also include the front panel and the top and bottom of the structure. It is known - the more mats, the less sound comes from the inside. Remember, however, that such silencing can significantly increase the temperature inside the case.
Of course, nothing prevents you from silencing your case yourself. The soundproofing mats in x-kom are among the accessories for enclosures.
Unusual PC cases
Or maybe you are looking for something unusual? An enclosure that will make your friends' jaws drop? We have good news - you will not be disappointed.
Cases with a liquid cooling system included
Deepcool is a company that has produced several computer cases with built-in liquid cooling systems. Choosing such a solution gives you, above all, a guarantee that the cooling is compatible with the case. You do not have to wonder if the selected cooling can be installed - it is already there.
Desk and PC case in one
Computer case and desk in one? Exactly. An ordinary desk from the outside, and PC components are hidden under the tabletop. The enclosures-desks that you can find in the x-kom offer are undoubtedly unusual designs that will make you amaze your friends. Apart from the originality of such case, they allow you to save quite a lot of space.
Recommended computer cases
The Middle Tower case with a side panel made of tempered glass and LED backlight is the perfect configuration for every enthusiast of electronic entertainment. The interior will accommodate motherboards in mini-ITX to ATX format and the most efficient graphics cards with a length of less than 37 cm.
For all who strive for maximum performance and especially with water-cooled systems, the Pure Base 500DX with its extremely air-permeable front and top cover is the right choice. The dust filters on the front and bottom are easy to remove for cleaning.
Mid Tower with a rather spacious interior. The glazed side panel and the tinted front provide a view into the interior of the case. Inside, there will be room for 380 mm long graphics cards and cooling cards up to 158 mm high. The case will accommodate motherboards in ATX, microATX and mini-ITX formats, so you can freely choose all components for it.
The H510 and H510i compact mid-tower ATX cases are both stunning and an excellent value. Perfect when you want a small-footprint ATX case without sacrificing features. A removable radiator mounting bracket, flush tempered glass window, multiple fan filters, and front USB 3.1 Gen 2 type-C are just some of the amenities.
A lot of good will fit into the small interior of the Core 500. The compact design can accommodate graphics cards up to 310 mm in length and is compatible with coolers up to 170 mm. It has a 140mm R3 series fan to which you can add an additional 2 of the same size and a water cooler up to 280mm long. The whole is completed with magnetic dust filters on the top, side and under the power supply.
The smallest H Series case, the H210 and H210i come in at a slim 27 liters but give up nothing. The full tempered glass showcases your mini-ITX build with glorious clarity and the front mounting bracket allows installation of radiators up to 240mm. Supporting both SFX and ATX power supplies and front USB 3.1 Gen 2 type-C, you don’t need to make any compromises with this build.
This is an enclosure for those who, apart from great visual gaming experiences, also appreciate the visual dimension of their desktop. The futuristic design of the case emphasizes its rich interior. You do not have to limit yourself to the selection of components, because the Cosmos C700M will accommodate a motherboard even in E-ATX format, a graphics card with a length of 490 mm or a CPU cooler with a height of 198 mm. A further 9 or water cooling radiators with a maximum size of 420 mm can be added to the 4 pre-installed fans.
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