How to Choose a Best PC Case for Build Your Computer

How to Choose A PC Case

If you want to build a computer, you may have already selected all the internal and external hardware. However, the PC case is equally important. I will share with you how to choose an efficient PC case.

Even though computer cases don’t play a direct role in the functioning of your PC – they are still important. The major function of the PC case is to cover and protect the components in your computer. It also plays a major role in facilitating airflow in the system.

There are a wide variety of case options that come in different sizes, designs, and features. However, you need to be cautious of the PC case that you choose for your system.

1. The Motherboard should fit perfectly

motherboard set

Choose a PC case that fits perfectly with your computer. In previous articles, we talked about a wide variety of common motherboard sizes. The motherboards fall into four categories depending on size.

Additionally, the chassis should enclose the motherboard, fans,CPU cooler, and other hardwareperfectly. You can view this in the chassis size parameter. There are different PC cases; full tower, mid-tower, Mini –ITX, and Micro-ATX.

  • Most PCs use the mid-tower cases since they aren't too large and readily available. However, the mid-tower isn’t appropriate for smaller motherboards because they can seem oversize.
  • The full towers are ideal for extended-ATX motherboards.
  • The Mini-ITX caseand Micro-ATX cases are for smaller PCs

2. Height of radiator

Height of radiator

The custom graphics card and CPU coolers are the two largest components of the computer. Therefore, after considering whether the motherboard will be fully enclosed, check whether the height of the two components will exceed the width of the chassis.

The height of the full-length graphics card shouldn't exceed the size of the chassis, and the length should be slightly shorter than the chassis. This is to reserve enough space in the front for air intake and heat dissipation. Hence, if you choose a small or too large chassis, it can inconvenience you.

In addition, consider the air CPU cooler tower height. This is because some graphics cards are longer than others. When buying a case, check the specification of the CPU cooler that it can accommodate.


3. Hard disk bay

Hard disk bay

Nowadays, PCs don’t always require optical drives. This prompts people to acquire more external hard disk drives. When people assemble computers, they use the Solid State Drive as their system and software disk, and the Hard Disk Drive for data storage.

Thereby, consider whether there is room for HDDs in your chassis.The PC case needs to have atleast 2.5-inches and 3.5-inches drive bays for the storage drives.  Depending on the number of drives you plan on putting in your PC, you may need an extra bay.


4. The case of ventilation

PC case ventilation

Another important factor is theairflow capability. There is a misconception that the bigger the chassis, the better the heat dissipation.However, the truth of the matter is that the design of the air circulation system is what determines the cooling capability of the case.

Some PC cases come with pre-installed fans while some provide the option to add fans. Hence, check the case’s fans configuration before buying to ensure the internal parts receive optimal airflow. This is to ensure the computer remains cool when in use.It is very important to prioritize maximizedairflow when choosing a computer case.

If you choose the silent design-focused case, be assured that itcan lead to high temperatures. However, on the bright side,they reduce the noise that gets out of the system. However,their counterparts;  the airflow-focused PCcases have mesh panels that allow the fans suck as much air as possible.

When choosing a PC case, consider the airflow, fans that can be mounted, and radiators. If the case has great airflow, that means the PC will run more quietly due to efficient heat dissipation. Fans are also essential to make the PC cooler and quieter. The radiators are an integral part of the custom liquid cooling system. Ultimately, larger PC cases will accommodate larger radiators.


5. Air Filter

Air Filter

There is a lot of dust in the air. The dust often enters the case when your computer is running. Hence, when you buy a case, it is best to choose one with an air filter.If not, you can buy them from online retailers.

If you live in a dusty environment, find a case with air filters. Moreover, you can put any intake fans where there are filters and put the exhaust fans where there are no filters. If dust and pet hair clogs up your computer it can cause an overheating and unreliable system. The major function of the case fans is to draw air in and out.


6. Power supply

Power supply

Pay attention to the air inlet and outlet of the power supply to ensure heat dissipation.The power supply also determines the kind of case that you can get for your PC. Nowadays, power supplies are rarely being pre-installed in computer cases. If you buy a case and PSU bundle separately, check the specifications. Make sure the power supply has enough capacity to power the computer.

However, there is no single, universal rule for selecting a power supply. Remember to buy the power supply from a reputable manufacturer, check the reviews before buying, and the connectors to confirm the unit is compatible with your system. Under all circumstances, try to avoid a generic power. Keep a closer look at the power outputs, rails, and efficiency.


7. Cable Management Detail

Cable Management

It is difficult to manage cables after installing a motherboard and power connector. Hence, try to choose a chassis with back wiring for neat cable management.

However, the case’s cable management doesn’t have an impact on the airflow. It just provides a healthier environment for your PC components. Before buying a case, read the case cable management options. Additionally, consider how much space is behind the panel, holes, hooks, rubber grommets, and PSU shrouds.


8. Front-Panel Port

Front Panel Port

On the front side of the chassis, you will often use ports, including MIC Jack, USB port, and so on. We recommend you reserve enough peripheral jack space. It is recommended to have a USB3.0 jack because the 3.0 rate can reach 500MB/s. On the other hand, the USB2.0 is around 30MB/s.The other ports are useful for the SD card jack, audio jacks, and type-c interface.

The front panel ports giveaccess to plug-in external storage. When choosing a case, consider the ports you want. Additionally, the motherboard should provide the connections needed to enable the ports to function.


9. Appearance

pc case Appearance

Yes, after the practical performance, the case still needs to look appealing. Remember to consider the RGB Lighting and Glass Side Panel.  Before purchasing a motherboard case, check it from various angles. Choose a case that has a cool shape because you will use it for a long time. They also come in different colors, materials, and designs.

Conclusion

A poorly designed case can ruin your PC build experience. As long as the case fits all your needs, the specific case is best for you.  Also, after making all the considerations, check your budget to ensure it is something that you can afford.

Choose the best quality PC case for more durability. Moreover, it is important to consider the compatibility of the case with the internal components. Due to the high power components of gaming computers, they may need larger cases.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *