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 cheap computer 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). Click here to view some home theater desktop computer cases.

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. You can look at some desktop computer cases here.

The disadvantage of this case is that it does not have enough drive bays and expansion slots for major upgrades.

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

• Mini:
  The mini size can be placed on top or below a desk. Because of limited space, this case is not suitable for upgrading.

• 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.

• 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.

  Although the full size tower will allow you to have more components, it will take up a lot of space. The mid-tower is the most popular since it provides a reasonable amount of bays and its size is moderate.

Click here to view some Computer Cases

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 since the older XT and AT form factors are now obsolete. A new form factor namely BTX has been introduced but more on this later....

• Choose a computer case with a power supply that can handle all of your present 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. Click here to look at some cheap computer power supplies.
  
  
• Cooling is a very important item to think about. High-end computer systems can generate a lot of heat. Therefore, the case needs to have sufficient cooling to ensure that your computer will run efficiently.

• Try to get a computer case with a removable motherboard tray so as 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. At least two 3.5 inch internal drive bays for hard disk drives and one external 3.5 inch drive bay for a combo floppy and 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. 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 computer case fans here.
  
  

• Today's high tech gaming systems using dual 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 and liquids is the "recipe" for short circuits).

• If you intend to install liquid cooling in your system, please do not cut corners. Acquire a reputable cooling 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.
• Be well designed.
• Be 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.