How to choose a PC case

Hi everyone. We continue our topic of how to byild a computer for beginners and in this article we will discuss how to choose a PC case. Why do we need a case and do we need it at all? What are the types of PC cases, and how do they differ. I immediately draw your attention to a small map of this series of articles, in case you missed the introductory part and want to read it.

1. How to build a computer for beginners (overall)
2. How to choose a PC case [you are here now]
3. How to choose power supply for PC
4. How to choose a motherboard
5. How to choose a CPU
6. What is RAM?
7. How to choose a graphics card for PC

What is a personal computer case and how to choose it?

Excellent PC system unit!

A little introduction to the essence of the matter, because if you want to know how to choose a computer case, you need to know what it is in general terms. So, what is it? In fact, this is a box that contains all the necessary components of your computer.

OK, why do we need this box? – you will say. Of course, that there are fans of “bare iron” — this is when all the components are simply scattered on the table or on the floor. And everything works just fine. There is even a plus in such approach – the equipment does not heat up so much. But it’s still much nicer to look at a neat and even stylish computer system unit than at a pile of iron. So let’s choose this “box” for you.

Types of PC cases

Speaking about the types of PC cases, first of all you should know that they come with and without built-in power supplies (PSUs). And the cooler the case, the more likely it will be without power supplies.

Why is that? In order to be able to pick up the PSU individually for your system and for your budget. Because it often happens that you liked the case, but the PSU in it is rather weak. And it turns out that you paid for this part, and then removed it and put it in a junk box, replacing the PSU with a more powerful one.

Types of PC cases: mini ITX, mini tower, mid tower, full tower.

Computer cases come in different form factors. Vertical (tower) and horizontal (desktop). Horizontal ones are more compact than vertical ones, but this is both their plus and minus. Their small dimensions limit the free space for components, both in quantity (RAM, hard drives) and in size (for example, video cards are quite large). Also, the dimensions of the horizontal “boxes” complicate the process of removing hot air. Because there is not enough space, the components are crammed almost closely, and there is not enough free space for air exchange.

Vertical PC cases (tower) are more common nowadays and, in turn, are also divided into several subtypes:

1. MiniTower (approximate  dimensions 178 × 432 × 432) – the smallest towers. They are designed for low-power computers. . They used to be very common, but now they can only be used for office versions of computers due to their low power.
2. MidTower (approximate  dimensions 183 × 432 × 490) – also called MiddlTower – these are the most commonly used types of PC cases in the modern world. Their sizes quite satisfy almost any average buyer. All the main hardware in them feels quite normal and does not conflict with each other due to lack of free space.
3. FullTower (approximate  dimensions 190 × 482 × 820) – or BigTower – is the largest type in the PC case family. It can satisfy the most sophisticated needs, up to installing several gaphics cards and a large number of hard drives. Also well ventilated. It is used either by gamers who stuff them with top-end components, or are used as servers.

Proper cooling of the PC case

Speaking of cooling the PC case, they mean additional fans inside the system unit. They play a very important role in the life of computer components.

Sometimes there are cases without additional coolers. The entire load in this case falls on the fans of the central processor and the power supply. But in reality, this is not the worst option yet.

The worst thing is when you put several fans on the case and they all blow out. In this case, the air density inside the system unit became very low and the fans have to work even harder to resist the air that is trying to get in from the outside. Never do that! It is better not to install any fans at all than to put them all on blowing out.

Proper cooling of the PC case. Air is blown in from below and blown out at the top.

Hot air always rises. That’s why:

1. If you have only one fan, then it is best to put it on the front bottom on blow-in.
2. If you have two fans, then put one on the intake in front from the bottom, and the second on the exhaust at the back under the power supply (if the power supply is on top). If the power supply is on the bottom, then the second fan should be placed above it on the back wall.
3. If there are three fans or more, then continue with the air movement logic that I set. And look at the picture above!

That’s the whole point of proper cooling PC cases. There is nothing difficult. Create a draft! And it is desirable that the amount of air blown in corresponds to the amount of air blown out. You do not need, believe me, zones of high or low air pressure inside the case! 😉

Briefly about choosing a computer case

1. Pay attention to the number of slots for additional coolers. This will significantly extend the life of your computer components.
2. Try to choose a medium or large computer case. They will give you more options in terms of upgrading your computer.
3. Choose a good-looking case! Just why do you need an ugly monster in the middle of your room?
4. Take a “box” without a power supply and pick up a good PSU separately.

That’s it. There is not much to tell here. I think now you understand how to choose a PC case. If I haven’t fully covered the topic, write about it in the comments.