How to Buy One of the Best Computer Cases

This article will give you some pointers on buying one of the best computer cases. Computer cases are one of the most overlooked components of a computer.

The best computer cases are essential to hold together and support the separate components that make up the computer.

The computer case also aids in cooling components, reducing noise from fans and drives, and blocks harmful radio frequencies from entering or leaving your computer.

The form factor is basically an agreement reached among manufacturers as to the size, shape, and physical specifications of a piece of hardware. In this case, ahem, the computer case. Form factor also applies to most other components in your PC.

Motherboards, power supplies, and drives, etc., fit into computer cases because of this form factor standardization.

Currently the most common computer case form factor is the ATX standard. There are other case form factors, but the ATX is the one most suited to building your PC. Why you ask? Your choices are much greater at this point in time with ATX. ATX cases are dominant right now. However, the BTX form factor is now on the market and promises improvements over the ATX form factor.

Other Important Considerations for the Best Computer Cases

Some other features to keep in mind when choosing one of the best computer cases follow.

• Size. It's recommended that you choose a mid-size or full-size ATX tower case. Either size will give you plenty of room for future expansion and insure that your components stay cool. Make sure it conforms to the ATX standard.
• Aluminum Case. Aluminum is lighter and has better heat dissipating capabilities. You will appreciate this light weight the more you work with and/or transport your computer.
• Make sure it is easy to get the side covers on/off. A single latch or button to release the side panels is nice.
• Removable hard drive cage. This consists of a metal cage that can be easily removed and reinstalled in your computer case. This allows you to remove and upgrade your hard drives with ease.
• Front panel USB ports, firewire, and audio jacks make it easier to attach peripherals to your computer.
• Cooling. An important function of one of the best computer cases is to eliminate heat buildup internally. This is accomplished by fan mounts (on front and back of the case) with intake and exhaust fans attached to force air in and out of the computer case. The 12 cm fan mounts are ideal because this size of fan is quiet and moves a lot of air through the case. Make sure the case you select has adequate cooling measures. Heat is the number one reason components fail prematurely.
• Thumbscrews. Oversized heads on screws securing often removed components and side covers will save you a lot of hassle. It's very easy to remove/install this type of screw with your hand.
• Drive Bays. Make sure the computer case you select has plenty of 3 1/2" and 5 1/4" drive bays for your hard drives, zip drives, floppy drives, optical drives, etc.

Power Supply

Even the best computer cases sometimes come with a cheap power supply. It is best to replace this power supply with a name brand Thermaltake or similar quality power supply. Please go to the computer power supply section for an in depth look at how to select the best power supply for your computer.

Conclusion

Select a midsize or full-size aluminum ATX tower computer case with the features discussed above. Find one of the best computer cases online here.


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