Selecting a Cheap Computer Case

Selecting a cheap computer case can be overwhelming since there is such a wide variety available. Click here to view some cases.

A computer case houses all the main components of the computer system. The case is also called the chassis. After deciding on what type of computer system you intend to build, choosing the right case is extremely important.

The Desktop and the Tower are the two main basic designs of the computer case.

Desktop:
The desktop design lost popularity but, today, it is regaining its popularity through the introduction of home theater PCs (HTPC).

You can use the desktop case if you want your computer to be on top of your desk. The monitor could then be placed on top of it to save some space.

The disadvantage of this computer case is that it does not have enough drive bays and interior space for major upgrades.

Tower:
The tower is the most popular computer case today. It comes in three basic sizes - the micro, mid and full.

• Micro:
  The micro sized cheap computer case can be conveniently placed on top of a desk. This case can hold a microATX or miniITX motherboard but due to its limited internal volume, it is not suitable for upgrading.

  My choice is as follows:

  Thermaltake Core V1 SPCC Mini ITX Cube Gaming Computer Case Chassis

• Small Form Factor Builds.

• Supports Mini ITX Motherboard.

• 2x USB 3.0, 1x Headphone, 1x Mic Front Ports, Internal Bay: 2x 3.5", 2x 2.5" 1 x 200mm fan, 2 x 80mm turbo fans (optional).

• Interchangeable Side Panels: Symmetrical panels to build the system with personality.

• Adjustable I/O Panel Location. Extreme Air/Liquid Cooling Configurations Options and Dual Modular Drive Rack Design.

• Chambers Concept. Advanced Ventilation.

• Great Expansion in Compact Size : install up to 2 data storage devices. VGA with the length up to 285mm, CPU cooler with height up to 140mm, together with a high wattage PSU of length up to 200mm.

• 3 year warranty.

• Handy I/O Ports.
  
  
• Mid:
  This is the most popular size and is an excellent choice for all computer users whether for business or personal use. The mid-tower has plenty of space for upgrading.
  

  My choice is as follows:

  Corsair Carbide 270R Mid-Tower Computer Case, Window Side Panel

• Builders-friendly internal layout: simple and intuitive internal layout enables quick and Easy building.

• Versatile cooling options: room for up to 360mm radiator in front, 240mm radiator in the top, and 120mm radiator in the rear.

• Expansive storage space: rugged steel Drive trays provide ample room for multiple drives.

• Clean and minimalist exterior design: unobstructed panels deliver an understated Look.

• Built-in cable routing: cable routing compartments enable effortlessly clean builds.
  
  
• Full:
  This is an excellent choice to be used as a server or for gaming. Because of its size, it requires more space for installation but allows easier access for installing and removing internal components. It has a very large amount of space for upgrading.

  My choice is as follows:

  Thermaltake View 71 RGB 4-Sided Tempered Glass Vertical GPU Modular E-ATX Gaming Full Tower Computer Case

• Supports Mini ITX, Micro ATX, ATX, E-ATX Motherboard.

• 2x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, 1x Headphone, 1x Mic Ports.

• 4-Sided 5mm Thick Tempered Glass Panels with Swing Door Windows.

• 4 Accessible 3.5” or 2.5” with HDD Rack + 3 x 3.5” or 6 x 2.5” with HDD Tray Drive Bays.

• Vertical Radiator Viewing with Floating GPU Mounting.

• AIO / DIY Liquid Cooling Capable. 140mm Riing RGB Fan x 3 Pre-installed.

• 3 Year Warranty.
  

Buying a Cheap Computer Case - What to look out for:

• Ensure that your case is sturdy and will fit into your designated space. Avoid plastic cases. My choice is aluminium since it is lighter and dissipates heat quicker.

• Choose an ATX form factor computer case. A new form factor namely BTX was introduced but apparently it 'fell by the wayside'. There are ATX full tower versions that are non-standard for installation of certain motherboards such as the Gigabyte GA-890FXA-UD7 that is an XL-ATX form factor.

• Computer cases rarely come with reasonable sized power supplies that can handle most of your system requirements with some reserve for future upgrades. You can view my Cheap Computer Power Supply Guide here.

• ALWAYS ensure that your choice of motherboard and power supply is compatible with your computer case form factor.

• Proper cooling is extremly important. High-end computer systems can generate a lot of heat. Therefore, the case needs to have sufficient cooling to ensure that your PC will run efficiently and your components will last longer.

• Try to get a computer case with a removable motherboard tray to enable easier installation of your motherboard.

• There should be sufficient external 5.25 drive bays for your different optical drives such as DVD-ROM, CD burners and DVD burners. Multiple 3.5 inch internal drive bays for hard disk drives and one external 3.5 inch drive bay for a media card reader.

  If there are not enough drive bays, you will not be able to expand your system in the future.

• Ensure that there is ample ventilation such as case fans and vents. Also, if case fans are not included with your computer case, check to see that there are available ports for installing fans. Check out some great deals on cheap PC fans here.

• Today's high tech gaming systems using multiple video cards in SLI or Crossfire configurations generate excessive heat. Normal air cooling is insufficient to keep these "monsters" at normal operating temperatures hence the need for liquid cooling.

• A liquid cooling system has to be safely and properly installed since we all know that the slightest leak can be devastating (electricity + liquid = short circuit).

• If you intend to install liquid cooling in your system, "please do not cut corners". Acquire a reputable one or settle for an all-in-one system.

• Choose an aluminium case because this material dissipates heat better than other materials.

• Get a cheap computer case with front USB, FireWire and audio ports. This will provide the convenience of connecting accessories such as digital cameras, camcorders, etc. instead of having to move your computer to gain access to the rear.

Conclusion

Your cheap computer case should be:

• Durable.
• Well designed.
• Upgradeable.
• Have adequate cooling capabilities.
• Portray your personality.

Click here to read about the functions of the computer case.

If you would like to learn to Build Your Own Cheap Computer
using cheap computer parts click here.