Choosing a PC Case
Terms to Know
If you already know everything you need to about cases, then use the contents at a glance section above to navigate to the PC cases that most interest you.Motherboard Compatibility
You can usually find your cases motherboard compatibility in the manufacturer's specifications or technical details section.
ATX - ATX or Advanced Technology eXtended is a form factor which was designed by Intel in order to make parts and design for all computer cases more standard. The standard size for ATX motherboards is 12 × 9.6 in (305 × 244 mm).
Micro/Mini ATX - The standard size for Micro ATX boards is 11.2 in (284 mm) x 8.2 in (208 mm).
Mini ITX - This is a low power design standard which measures even smaller than Micro-ATX cases at 17 x 17 cm (or 6.7 x 6.7 inches).
Case Sizes and Types
The size of your case is generally determined by the size or form factor of the motherboard. Because efficient and open cord and component placement can improve the air flow of your case a smaller case is not ideal for performance enthusiast and gaming type builds.
Micro/Mini - Generally a micro tower case is anything under 16 inches. HTPC and ITX cases are made even smaller for discreet placement.
Mid Desktop Tower - Typically a mid-sized desktop tower is up to 18 inches and has up to 4 external drive bays.
Full Tower - A full-sized desktop tower is generally up to 22 inches tall with up to 6 external drive bays.
Case Materials - Steel Vs. Aluminum
Steel and aluminum are the most common types of material used in modern case construction. The major advantage for aluminum cases is that they are more lightweight. While some would claim that an aluminum case keeps your core temperatures down, most serious overclockers say it doesn't make a difference. Steel cases tend to be heavier and therefore more durable and won't scuff or strip as easily as aluminum.
Case Expansion
Case expansion consists of the number of external 5.25" drive bays and internal 3.5" drive bays. This number is especially important if you plan on installing many drives. Pay attention to your cases capacity for expansion as well as it's compatibility with the drives you plan on purchasing. This is especially important for those of you considering a 2.5 inch solid state drive as a separate mounting kit may need to be purchased with your case.
Cooling Systems
Fan Sizes - Fans are an example of active cooling because they draw in cooler air from outside the case and push out warm air from the inside. Fans generally come in standard 40, 60, 80, 92, 120, and 200mm sizes. Check your cases specifications in order to understand how many and what sizes of fans it can accommodate.
Fan Expansion - Most cases come with at least one fan and can be expanded upon from there. Most modern components need active cooling in order to achieve optimum performance levels and durability and many of today's latest CPU and GPU come with their own fans. Separate CPU coolers are sometimes used for increased performance through overclocking.
The need for additional fans or liquid cooling can be determined by the temperature of your computer's components. Air generally flows by entering the front of your case and exiting the back of your case where your power supply resides.
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