A computer case encloses all the components of a computer system and is an essential part of a custom build computer. There are many reasons to build your computer such as wanting a high-end gaming machine, special work features or as part of a home theatre. Creating your own equipment gives you the features and specifications you want. You don’t need to build it all at once; you can start with a basic build and add in extra features as you can afford or want them.
The main reasons for using a computer case are:
- It holds all the components of the computer together. You don’t need a case for that, you can wire everything together, and it will work. This messy approach will result in a short computer life span. A computer case with built-in fixing points and cable management makes the build process more comfortable and more enjoyable.
- A computer case keeps all the components out of sight unless you opt for a chassis with tempered glass walls.
- Dust is terrible for electronic components. Your computer case provides a dust-free environment provided you pay attention to the dust filters. It also stops children or pets from accessing the parts.
- Computer components get hot in use and need to be cooled down. The case allows for the right cooling system to keep everything working well and not overheating.
- Fans and other components generate noise. By using a computer case and the option of having additional sound dampening, you have a quieter life.
Other names for computer cases include cabinet, systems unit, tower, and chassis.
Best Full Tower
Cooler Master Cosmos C700P
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Best Mid Tower
NZXT H710i
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Best Mini Tower
IN Win A1 Plus
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Best Full Towers
The size of a full tower computer case tends to put it straight in the high price point category. We have managed to find a budget model under $100 – the Phanteks Enthoo Pro.
Cooler Master Cosmos C700P
(High Price Point expect to pay around $300)
This full tower computer case fits every size of motherboards up to and including E-ATX. The motherboard frame measures 12” by 11”. It features radiator supports covering radiators from 120mm up to 140mm. The I/O ports provided are 1 Audio/microphone, 1 USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, and 4 USB 3.0. The drive bays are two 2.5” and eight 3.5”.
It features an integrated RGB lighting system, which is not a functional feature but an attractive one. The light bars are at the top and bottom of the case. The design incorporates a curved glass panel and a lot of plastic.
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Corsair Obsidian 1000D
(Very High Price Point)
This super large tower has a super large price to match. This computer case will accommodate large motherboards (ATX, EATX) and smaller motherboards (mini-ITX, SS1 EEB, micro-ATX), and it will house at the same time an EATX and a mini ITX build.
The big size includes many cooling options; you can fit all sizes of radiators up to 480mm (four of them) and up to 18 fans in addition to any cooling radiators you install. The computer case includes three chambers.
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Phanteks Enthoo Pro
(Low Price Point)
Choose this full tower computer case if you are on a tight budget but still need to accommodate a big build. The smallest motherboard it will accept is ATX, but it will fit EATX, mATX, and SSI EEB boards.)
Other supports provided include seven 2.5” and six 3.5” drive bays, a standard audio/microphone port, and two USB 3.0 and two USB 2.0 ports.
There are two preinstalled fans, 140mm fan in the rear, and a 200mm fan in the front. The top panel has support for a 420mm radiator for you to increase the interior cooling. There are also preinstalled cable ties, which is a nice bonus in a low-priced computer case of any size.
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Best Mid-Towers
NZXT H710i
(Mid-Price Point)
This mid-tower computer case will support motherboards up to and including EATX, but the dimensions must be under 10.7”. The radiator support fitted at the front of the case will house two 140mm radiators or three 120mm radiators. At the top, you can fix two 140mm or three 120mm radiators, and at the rear, you have a choice of fitting 120mm or 140mm radiator. The I/O ports provided are one audio/microphone, two USB 3.1 Type-A Gen 1, and 1 USB 3.1 type-C Gen 2. The drive bays consist of seven 2.5” and two plus two 3.5”.
The additional features include integrated RGB lighting around a tempered glass side panel. Software built into the case controls this lighting. This software also controls the fan speeds. The case contains four preinstalled 120mm fans.
The cables fit into cable channels built into the back of the case and fix in place with integrated Velcro straps.
The price point is to the top of the mid-range category.
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Nanoxia Deep Silence 3
(Low price point)
As the name suggests, this mid-tower computer case has included plenty of sound insulation inside the case. It will support mini-ITX, Micro-ATX and ATX motherboards. There are supports for all radiator sizes and a reasonable number of ports – one headphone, one microphone, two USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0. The drive bays included consist of three 2.5” and five 3.5”. There are seven expansion slots above the motherboard tray. A combination of plastic and metal components are in the interior of the case.
The panels screw into position so that you will need a screwdriver. The motherboard tray has plenty of cutouts to accommodate your build. There are many cable tie points to assist with cable management. You can adjust the drive bays to fit an extra-long graphics card. The front divides into two spaces. The dust filter is positioned to protect the bottom to protect the PSU bay.
Black painted metal forms the rame and panels of the computer case. The front door is plastic but has been finished to resemble brushed aluminum. This quiet computer case is a reasonable price.
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Corsair Carbide 275R
(Low Price Point)
This mid-tower computer case is at a budget price. It will accommodate mini-ITX, Micro-ATX and ATX motherboards. It will support radiators to the large 360mm. It will support up to six small fans (120mm). It will support up to six small fans (120mm). A small number of I/O ports – one audio/microphone and two USB 3.0, together with a small amount of drive bays – three 2.5” and two 3.5”.
The Corsair Carbide 275R does not provide excellent support for cable management, but it does come with full-length dust filters. Steel, glass, and plastic are all part of the construction of the case. If you opt for a glass side panel, you will need a hex tool to remove it. You can choose an acrylic panel to keep the price down. The color options are black or white.
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Best Mini Towers
NZXT H200i
(Mid-Price Point)
This mini- ITX tower case will house a mini-ITX or a micro-ATX motherboard. There is support for 120mm and 240mm radiators. You get one audio/microphone port and two USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports along with four 2.5” bays and one 3.5” bay.
An RGB lighting strip and two preinstalled fans can with integrated software are built into the case.
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Fractal Design Define Nano S
(Low Price Point)
This small computer case is 16.2” deep and 13.5” high, and this makes it slightly larger than the typical mini-ITX case. If a quiet computer is a priority for you, then this case provides excellent sound insulation. If you opt for the windowless version, you get dampening on the top and front panels and both side panels. The ports are on top of the chassis towards the front. You get two USB 3.0 ports, headphone, and microphone jack and power button and reset button. The power button has a blue led light to let you know it is on.
There are mounting points for either a 240mm or 120mm radiator if you want to install water cooling. Otherwise, you fit two 120mm fans. There are some mounting points on the back panel for either a 120mm fan or a 120mm radiator. There are no mounting points for an external liquid cooling option. There are predrilled holes to accommodate the installation of a water reservoir and pump.
There is a 140mm fan installed in the front. You can replace this with a radiator up to 280mm.
This case features two dust filters on the front panel. One is simple to remove and clean, but the other one requires you to remove the entire front panel. There are excellent anchors and hook and loop tie-downs to assist with cable management.
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IN Win A1 Plus
(High-end Mini Tower at a mid-price point)
This computer case has some excellent preinstalled features – a 650W power supply and all its cabling and wireless charger for your phone. It will support a mini-ITX motherboard and provides ports for headphones and a microphone along with two USB 2.0 ports. There are two preinstalled fans.
This mini-tower is very compact and will take up very little space on your desk or in your living room. The integrated RGB lighting is a nice touch to this computer case. It is well built with tempered glass and is robust enough to be moved around. The computer case has an impressive warranty.
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Silverstone FT03-Mini
This small unit is an extremely compact case measuring 7.4” by 9.3” and 15.6” high. It will fit a mini-ITX motherboard, but it will require an SFX form factor power supply. It has two expansion slots, a 140mm intake fan, two USB 3.0 ports, and a connection for headphones and a microphone. It has some light but sturdy aluminum panels with a steel structure. The interior is black, painted steel. The compact size means you will need to be careful to do your build in the right order. The instruction manual is precise and detailed.
The assembly is straight-forward if you pay attention, and this is an example of a small object being beautiful.
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Computer Case Buying Guide
There are three considerations in choosing a computer case:
- Budget.
- Functionality.
- Appearance.
Budget
The amount of money you spend on a computer case will determine the features available and the quality and durability of the product.
However small or large the budget you will find a computer case. The quality will vary because the cost savings for a budget model must come from somewhere. A high-quality case will cost more, but you will use it for many years. You don’t want to be buying a new case every time you decide to upgrade the components.
A cheaper case is likely to have sharp edges where a more expensive computer case will have rounded corners. You need extra care when installing the components to avoid cuts. The more costly units have a higher quality finish and are sturdy in their construction.
You can pay between $40 and $80 (low price point is under $100) for a small computer case that will accommodate a small motherboard. You will get more features if you can afford to pay up to $140 (mid-price point: $100-300). Above this price (high price point – $300+), you expect a big case or many premium features.
Top Tips for Finding a Quality Case at Your Price Point
Pay attention to the materials
High-end cases use high-quality materials, but there are well-constructed cases at more affordable prices. Steel is economical and cheaper than aluminum. You must be careful to avoid thin, flimsy panels in either material. Plastic cases are not as durable as metal, but they are light and economical.
Computer Case Size
More significant sized units use more materials and cost more. The very smallest case may require more expensive components. The size you need will depend on the motherboard and the number of extra parts. Be sure you know exactly how much space you need to choose the most economical case size.
Modularity
The freedom to rearrange the interior of the computer case comes with a higher price tag. If the budget is tight, you may have to omit this feature.
Mounting Points and Space
A good case will give you plenty of flexible mounting points for all the components. You will also need plenty of space for your desired parts as otherwise you may be forced to mount them on the outside of the case. This solution is undesirable as it exposes those parts to dust and damage, as well as ruining the appearance of the build.
A quality case will include a central post to hold the motherboard in place and a cutout panel on the motherboard for the CPU.
Air Filters
A quality case will have air filters with a mesh that will trap dirt but not adversely affect airflow. It will also be quick to remove and clean and replace.
Available Ports on Front and Back Panel
The number of ports on the case should match the available port support on the motherboard. There should be a suitable number of ports on the front panel for accessories.
Thoughtful Cable Management Features
A quality computer case will have all the features necessary to allow expert cable management – rubberized holes, cable tie-down points, and Velcro straps. A lower quality case will not have these features.
Overall Finish and Appearance
The quality of the paint, both inside and outside the case and consistent color matching, will indicate care and attention to detail. Small finishing details are essential in a well constructed and durable computer case.
Functionality
The case needs to contain all the components of your build. The types, quantity, and size of elements will determine the type of computer case required. The case must be strong enough to support the installation of all the components of the computer build and to protect them from damage.
Standard components:
- Motherboard – ATX is the standard.
- Drive bays
- Expansion slots
- Fans and other cooling systems.
- CPU Unit – possibly two.
- Power Supplies.
If you want to add more components, then you will need to leave room for expansion.
Modularity
Modularity is the freedom to take out and rearrange the interior of the computer case. The quality computer cases will allow you to remove the drive bays as a unit so that you can put them in a different part of the case. The very best computer cases will allow you to remove all the fittings as discrete modules, so you have complete freedom to arrange the inside of the computer case to your preferred layout.
Support Structures
The support structures are the internal features of the computer case that hold all the components in place, even when the computer is moved or jolted. Sometimes all or some of the chassis will be described as tool-free or tool-less. This term means that you don’t have to use a screwdriver to install the components. Instead of bolting the parts into place, the support structure will have Twist-On or Snap-On brackets. This feature can save time while building the computer inside the case and is more straightforward than trying to maneuver a screwdriver into a confined space.
The tool-free design can also be used to refer to the side panels. These can be released with the press of a button or can be slid out, rather than attached with screws. You gain quick access to the inside of the case for additions and modifications.
Motherboard Support
The motherboard needs to lie flat, either horizontally or vertically. The dedicated space inside the case can either be at the top or the bottom. The motherboard tray is typically held in with two retention screws.
The case may have standoffs – these are spacers that keep the motherboard away from the top or bottom panel of the computer case. If the unit does not have standoffs fitted, it should have holes for the motherboard’s standoffs to connect. The standoffs will either screw into position or slot in with a simple push-in fitting.
The standoffs are essential because if the motherboard was in contact with the (often metallic) case, the small soldered points could short circuit. All computer cases come with standoffs, but a cheaper case may require you to put them into position.
The case may have a removable motherboard tray that slides in and out for ease of installation. New PC cases come with a center post that will secure the motherboard in place in addition to the retention screws.
Expansion Slots
An expansion slot is a place in the computer where expansion cards fit. The expansion cards are circuit boards that provide additional functions. These can be video, audio, graphics, memory, USB interface or Wi-Fi.
The expansion card fits into the extension slot with an edge connector. There is a set of contacts to establish a connection with the motherboard. Expansion slots in a new case will be PCI, PCI-X, or PCI Express types. PCI (Peripheral Component Interface) provides direct access to system memory and a smooth connection to the CPU. The motherboard must have enough expansion slots to accept the expansion cards. It is the capabilities of the motherboard that determine how many expansion cards you can install. The expansion “slots” in the computer cases are like shelves for books.
When comparing computer cases, check the flexibility for positioning the motherboard and the availability of a central post for keeping it in place.
Drive Bays
Drive bays are for additional hardware to add to the computer. There are three standard sizes of drive bays: 5.25”, 3.5” and 2.5”. Often the 3.5” and 2.5” drive bays can be used for either drive. The bays take their names from the old system of floppy discs.
5.25” bays are for optical drives, hot-swap bays, fan controllers, or a water reservoir. They are often part of the external build. 3.5” bays are for smart card and memory card readers. They can also add additional USB ports. Other hardware that can slot into the drive bays in the computer case includes I/O bays, extra fans, RAID controllers, system monitor LCDs. You can also utilize this space for tool storage and general storage with the addition of small drawers into the drive bay.
The drive bay in higher priced models can be a module that can switch to another location in the computer case. This feature allows you to plan your computer layout. If you need to install a water reservoir for a cooling system, then the excess drive bays can often be removed to make space.
Space to Install a CPU
The central processing unit (CPU) is a vital component in your computer build. It interprets and executes the commands from the other circuits, the CPU slots directly into the motherboard. A cut-out space in the motherboard tray for the CPU is useful if you want to install additional components at a later stage. If the motherboard tray does not have the cutout for the CPU, you will need to install this component first. Otherwise, you could face dismantling and rebuilding.
The CPU heats up while operating, and it is necessary to install a fan or a radiator or other heat sink directly on top of the CPU. Your computer case needs the support structures to enable this.
Mounting structures for Cooling Equipment
The components generate heat, and it is essential to have excellent airflow through the case. Fans assist this airflow. Radiators using the same mount points can replace the fans. Fans pull fresh air in, and fans blow hot air out. The incoming air is the intake and the outcoming air is the exhaust.
When buying a computer case, check how many fans it can accommodate. The balance should be more fans pulling in cold air than hot fans blowing out warm air. You need to check the size of fans that will fit inside the case. Smaller fans diameter measures 120mm or 140mm; the next fans come in 180mm, 200mm, and 220mm diameters. Large fans move more air and are quieter to run.
The fan placement is essential – a combination of fams mounted in the rear, front and top are not uncommon. Preinstalled fans are ready to use, or the mount points are for bought fans.
As an alternative to airflow cooling the components, you can opt for closed-loop coolers or the more expensive custom liquid cooling. When buying a computer case, check that it can accommodate your chosen cooling system.
Air Filters
Dust, hair, and debris will damage the circuits, so you need to keep these out of the computer case. Air comes into the unit and is exhausted out of it through air filters. The intake area will be covered by a mesh filter that will act as a barrier to dirt being sucked in with the air.
The hex mesh typically used will act to reduce the airflow, but it will trap dirt. Built-up dirt can clog the air filter and reduce the airflow and the cooling of the components. You need to clean the filters regularly and will want them to be easy to remove and replace. Magnetic catches are an excellent feature that holds the air filter in place and allows quick removal for cleaning.
Inputs and Outputs (IO) on Front and Back Panel
You want plenty of ports on the front panel for the accessories you will want to use most often. These could include headphones, microphones, VR headset, USB ports, and card readers. On the back panel, you will want ports for apparatus that you do not need to disconnect regularly, such as keyboards, monitors, printers and power supplies.
When selecting a computer case, remember that it is the motherboard that supports the use of the ports on the computer case. You want a case that matches the number of inputs and outputs that can be supported by the motherboard so you can use the motherboard to its full potential.
Space for Cable Management
The components inside the case need to be connected, and this means there are a lot of cables. It makes sense to be neat and tidy with your cables. This cable management allows you to know the complete connections and, more importantly, allows excellent airflow through the case. An added consideration if your case has clear panels is that the cabling will be visible. Well organized cables indicate a careful computer build.
A quality computer case will provide holes to pass the cables through, preferably lined with rubber to prevent damage to the connecting cables. A Large case offers more space for cable management; smaller computer chassis are more limited. A unit may come with Velcro straps or cable tie-down points to allow you to clip your cables together neatly. A well-designed case will allow plenty of space underneath the motherboard to enable some cables to hide.
Cable management can be complicated in a computer case that costs less than $50. The savings are at the expense of some features. Cable management is an optional extra at the lower end of the budget scale.
Motherboards, computer cases, and power supplies come in many different sizes or form factors. The motherboard name ATX means Advanced Technology eXtended. The motherboard is likely to be the most significant component, and the case will be chosen to accommodate it. But the case needs to be large enough to fit all the planned parts and any future additions.
There are four standard desktop computer case sizes:
- Small Form Factor (SFF) or Mini-ITX case
- Mini Tower or Micro-ATX case
- Mid Tower or ATX case
- Full Tower or EATX case.
Small Form Factor
A small form factor computer case will accommodate the smallest mini-ITX motherboard (6.7” square) along with 1-5 cooling fans, a graphics card, two expansion slots, and a few drive bays (only one 5.25” and a couple of 3.5” and 2.5”). This size of the computer case is perfect for housing an HTPC (Home Theater Personal Computer) as these don’t require an immense amount of processing power. An HTPC’s primary functions are to store and play music and videos and to store and display photographs.
It is small (about the size of a large shoebox) and compact and so ideal for a cramped apartment or shared accommodation or if you move often. It is light and portable, and depending on the components installed; it weighs between 4 and 7kg.
The components that you can install in the SFF computer case may be more expensive as you will need an SFX power supply and the graphics card must be low profile.
Mini Tower
This computer case will house a micro-ATX motherboard measuring 9.6” square or a little smaller. You can put in the smaller mini-ITX board if that is all you need. Mini towers are an economical computer case with a simple design and fewer materials used in the build.
You can fit standard sized components into the mini-tower that are economical and simple to source. There is enough room to fit the parts. The mini-tower will accommodate up to 4 cooling fans, up to 4 expansion slots, and two graphics cards. The case has room for a good selection of drive bays, one or two 5.25”, four to six 3.5” and the option for up to four 2.5”.
It’s a reasonable size, not too big to sit on the desk, but it won’t look silly on the floor.
Mid Tower
The next size of the computer case will house an ATX motherboard, measuring 12 by 9.6 inches. Of course, you can fit a smaller motherboard if preferred. The bigger size allows a lot more of everything – fans (3-9), graphics cards (2-3), expansion slots (7-8) and many drive bays. Up to ten 2.5”, six to eight 3.5” and two to five 3.25”. That’s a lot of components.
This computer case is the smallest that a dedicated gamer will consider. High-end graphic cards are long (12.1”), and they need two expansion slots. Most players (95%) are going to need two high-end graphics cards; the elite will demand three. All graphic cards heat up under use, reaching 90°C, almost hot enough to boil water. There is a CPU in the case that will heat up to 70°C. All that heat must be cooled down using airflow, fans, and heat sinks.
Full Tower
This computer case is for the dedicated gamer, the one who pushes all the equipment to its maximum performance and all other dedicated PC Users who demand the very best equipment. If you have all the toys, then you need a big case to put them in.
This unit will house the EATX motherboard or an SSI CEB server board. There is plenty of room for drive bays, expansion slots, graphic cards, and cooling fans. If you want to put in a water-cooling system or radiators, you have plenty of space.
Test Bed Case
The other, more niche computer case is the Test Bed Case. This case has no sides to facilitate regular changes in the components. The disadvantage of this type of computer case is that it does not prevent dust from getting to the parts. It looks unsightly because all the pieces are on display.
The advantages of a large computer case are:
- You have more room, which is handy when you are fixing components in place, and for beginners, it is much easier to connect everything.
- You have plenty of space at the back for the cables.
- Room for extra sound insulation gives a quieter running computer.
- Better air circulation through the system and more room for cooling systems keep the temperature down inside the case.
The benefits of a smaller computer case are that the unit is more portable and has a smaller footprint, an ideal solution for limited space or if you must move your computer around the place. Petite cases cost less than larger cases but will only accommodate a smaller motherboard and fewer components.
The significant disadvantage of the smaller computer case is that the restricted space makes it tricky to install the components. When you want to add extra parts, you may have to take the existing components out and rebuild the inside to add the new elements. The smaller size gives less room for cable management, and this can impede the necessary airflow. The lack of space available restricts additional sound insulation and future expansion of the system.
Computer Case Materials
In theory, you can build the computer case out of anything, and some intrepid DIY enthusiasts have done that by repurposing other objects and scratch building in plywood.
Typical materials in a commercial case are steel, aluminum, plastic, and tempered glass.
Steel
The steel used is SECC – Steel, Electrogalvanized, Cold-rolled, Coil. An electro galvanization process covers the steel with zinc. These steels can be used in areas with a lot of moisture in the air – the average home – as the coating means that they will not rust. This high-quality steel product is for building computer cases and some motor cases and tanks. Japan is a major supplier of this type of steel.
Steel is an economical choice for building computer cases as it is very affordable with its strength. A quality steel case weighs more than an aluminum case. It provides a rigid frame and sturdy side panels. It is an ideal base for paint. If you are buying a computer case intending to modify it for your requirements, then steel is easy to drill into with power tools.
Steel is a magnetic material, a useful property if you want to use magnetic lighting or cover it with fridge magnets.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a light metal used extensively in the aircraft industry because it provides good strength for very little weight. It is simple to form and shape and can be brushed to give an attractive silver metal finish. Pure Aluminum is resistant to finger marks (unless covered in oil and gunk), but aluminum alloys may show up finger marks and need to cleaning.
Aluminum is more expensive and costs more to repair than steel. If you are prone to putting dents in your computer case, then it will cost more to replace the Aluminum side panel than a steel one. Plus, steel is less likely to dent in the first place. Aluminum has excellent resistance to corrosion without needing to be painted or coated. Also, if that coating becomes scratched, the underlying metal will not rust.
Aluminum is an excellent choice if you need a portable computer. Because Aluminum is expensive, manufacturers try to economize by using as little of the metal as possible. This choice can result in thin side panels that warp and break. Lightweight panels allow more noise t from the computer’s fans to escape into the room. A high-end quality computer case has thick panels made from pure Aluminum. The case looks excellent, but you will pay more for it.
Aluminum is a non-magnetic material, so you will not be able to apply magnetic lights to it.
Plastic
The plastic used in computer cases is ABS plastic. The ABS is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. In common with most plastics, it is not suitable for outdoor use as it becomes damaged by sunlight. Even inside, you must keep it in the shade. It is resistant to damage from impact and chemicals.
Plastic does not conduct electricity, it is light, easy to shape into smooth curves, and it does not corrode or rot. Plastic components come in a broad range of colors.
Plastic is not as durable as steel or aluminum, but it is considerably cheaper. If you are starting out learning to build your computer or you are on a tight budget, then a plastic computer case may be the place to start.
Plexiglass or Acrylic
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is more commonly called plexiglass or acrylic. There are many trade names, such as Lucite, Plexiglas, and Acrylite. This thermoplastic is a transparent, light and shatter-resistant alternative to glass.
This popular material is for those who want to build a computer case. This transparent material shows all the components and internal lighting enhances the display of parts. Acrylic is challenging to drill, but you can purchase ready-made acrylic components to fix together into a custom case. Alternatively, you can buy a complete acrylic case for a low price.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass has been processed to be stronger and safer than standard glass. If it breaks, it falls into small chunks rather than deadly shards. Car windows and diving masks use this type of glass.
This robust and attractive material is used as panels to provide a window into the computer rather than being the sole material used in the case construction. It is durable, does not conduct heat and helps to cut down the noise coming from your computer. The glass panels are easy to clean. Selecting a computer case with tempered glass panels will stretch your budget, but the case will be an attractive addition to your home.
Wood
Wood, in all its many types, is an excellent and beautiful material for constructing any furniture. There are competitively priced wooden computer cases as well as expensive custom-built cases. These cases tend to be aimed at the home theater market and are designed to fit into a classy living room. They are also available for small desktops.
If you are seeking a unique computer case, then you will find that the upcycling community likes to repurpose old wooden radios into stylish computer cases. A keen DIY enthusiast could build a wooden computer case as there are designs to buy and download. A note of caution – be sure to seal the inside as well as the outside of the computer case, as computer components generate heat. Wood is an excellent material for soundproofing but needs care and attention if it is to retain its natural good looks.
Combined Materials
Many computer cases use a combination of the above materials to produce attractive and affordable towers.
Color and Finish
You are going to spend time, money and effort on building the best computer for your needs. A high-quality and good-looking computer case will showcase this. Cases come in a broad range of colors and finishes.
The material used to build the computer case will influence the appearance. Natural wood, brushed metal, colored plastic, or very transparent tempered glass are all available finishes. Steel cases are an excellent base for a paint finish in any color or pattern. If you opt for a painted finish, check that the finish applies to the interior.
Another quality point with paint finishes is to ensure consistency of color throughout the case. White is a color that can vary markedly from component to component. If you have a white unit, you want a clean, consistent white throughout the case. The depth and quality of the paint finish will also depend on the price point.
Many components are colored, and you may want a case that complements them. In the finish and appearance, it is the details that are important. Are the edges smooth and contoured or sharp? Is there a well thought out and attractive appearance to the whole case? You are going to be looking at the computer case for a very long time, so it helps if you find it pleasing.
A small important detail lies underneath the case. Does the case come with rubber feet? These feet raise the case off the floor and allow air to flow underneath. Any feature that helps to keep the computer cool is helpful. Rubber feet are useful in protecting your desk from scratches when moving the computer around, help to reduce vibration and noise, and provide some stability and grip on polished surfaces.
Conclusion
There are many features to consider when choosing a computer case because you want the best unit for your budget. The chassis is an essential part of your computer build as it is the most visible component, and its interior features will either help or hinder you in your mission to build the very best computer for you.
It is worth investing in the best case you can afford with room for expansion because you can swap out and upgrade all the components inside. An excellent chassis will give you many years of use as you build and rebuild your ideal computer. We’ve looked at the best computer cases on the market today, not only appearance but their functionality and capacity to meet your needs.
