Throughout the pandemic, plenty of people turned to online gaming as a new way to connect with others. As things slowly return to normal, many gamers decided to continue to pursue their newfound hobby. Some people have the skill and patience to build their PCs from the ground up. If you want to customize your own computer, there are a few things you should keep in mind. And they all start with deciding what kind of computer case you want to use.
Your computer case plays a decent role in how well your PC cools down as well as how much space it takes up. It will also determine which components you can install.
The NZXT H500i Compact ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case offers an attractive display that will keep your PC operating in style for years to come.
What to know before you buy a cheap computer case
Buy a tower that fits your needs
While there is no perfect computer case for every PC, it’s crucial to keep in mind how big your components are instead of how big the case is. Chances are, if you’re building your own PC, you have gaming in mind. So making sure you have enough room for your Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is key. Remember, the less money you spend on your computer case, the more you’ll have for important hardware, like RAM and a decent processor.
Function over fashion
There are plenty of companies that claim to go above and beyond when designing a computer case. These can look futuristic and offer high-quality cooling features to prevent your PC from overheating. The reality is that while most computer cases do play a role in keeping your system cool, it’s better to invest in a reliable fan setup. Now, this does not mean you have to opt for an unoriginal, plain computer case. However, it’s more important to focus on function over fashion when buying a case.
Cheap computer case features
Cable management systems
Keeping track of the cables in the back of your machine can be a real pain. When it comes to building your own PC from scratch, it’s crucial to keep track of every cable so that you can maintain a well-organized system in your case. This will save you a ton of time and energy when building your dream machine. And for gaming rigs, a clean wiring setup makes your PC look good as well as avoiding unnecessary technical issues.
Water cooling systems
While there are debates about PC cooling methods, the water-cooling method has several advantages. It can redirect heat from essential components utilizing the system’s radiator to remove excess heat. In addition, water cooling reduces more ambient fan noise, compared to air-cooling systems. Finally, unlike air cooling systems, you can arrange the water-cooling radiator in various configurations to optimize temperature control.
Optimizable fan performance
When it comes to finding a cooling fan for your brand new computer case, you should consider buying one that you can optimize easily. To clarify, there are two fans that regulate airflow and temperature control in your computer case, namely intake and exhaust. The intake fan is responsible for drawing air into the computer case, and the exhaust fan removes warm air. This helps stabilize a good operating temperature for your PC.
Generally speaking, you should have more intake fans than exhaust fans, usually by at least three to one. You’ll want to place the intake fan at the front of the case and the exhaust fan at the back. Try to purchase the largest fan your case can accommodate to ensure a cool and quiet operation for your PC.
Cheap computer case cost
A cheap and effective computer case typically runs between $50-$200.
Cheap computer case FAQ
What kind of cable management solutions should I look for?
A. It’s best to look for cases with cable management features such as rubber grommets, cable tie-downs and clear openings for cables to pass through.
What kind of computer case should I buy?
A. It depends on whether you want a PC for gaming, business or academic use. This is because the components needed for each vary greatly. For example, gamers generally focus on space for graphics components and cooling systems, while business users tend to need expansion slots. Students will want to have USB ports and easy portability.
Which cheap computer case should I get?
Best of the best cheap computer case
NZXT H500i Compact ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case: available at Amazon
Our take: A stylish computer case that expertly mingles form and function.
What we like: Striking RGB display with a digital fan controller, fully-tempered glass panel and water-cooling systems.
What we dislike: Users have reported issues with missing screws and narrow fan openings.
Best bang for your buck cheap computer case
ROSEWILL ATX Mid Tower Gaming Computer Case: available at Amazon
Our take: A professional, affordable computer case with plenty of room for components.
What we like: Tool-free installation of 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch drives, easy I/O port access and solid steel design.
What we dislike: It only has air-cooling, and some users reported missing screws and troublesome installations.
Honorable mention cheap computer case
Corsair Crystal 570X RGB Mid-Tower Case: available at Amazon
Our take: An attractive computer case with a glass chassis to show off your hard work.
What we like: Room to install up to six cooling fans, velcro straps for cable organization and is compatible with radiators from 120-360 mm.
What we dislike: Case lacks any USB-C ports, and some users noticed heat issues with the tempered glass.
Daniel Martin is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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