Graphics card max lenght
The maximum length of a graphics card that can be installed in this case.
Modern mid-range and top-end video cards with high performance often differ in considerable length, which is why such a card can not fit into any case. So before collecting components, it is worth evaluating the length of the proposed graphics card and choosing a case in which it is guaranteed to fit. This forethought is useful anyway, but it's especially true if you're building a system that requires a powerful graphics adapter, such as a high-end gaming PC or 3D design workstation.
Fan max height
The highest cooler height allowed for this case.
In this case, we mean a cooler used to cool the processor — such a component is found in the vast majority of modern PCs. Height is measured relative to the motherboard.
Sidewall thickness
The thickness of the side walls used in the case. When choosing a thickness, manufacturers have to compromise between several points at once. On the one hand, thin walls are inexpensive and heat dissipates faster through them, which has a positive effect on cooling efficiency. On the other hand, powerful systems inevitably require thick walls, otherwise the case may simply not withstand the weight of advanced high-performance components. Thirdly, steel is a fairly durable material even with a relatively small thickness. In light of all this, in most models this indicator does not exceed
0.7 —
0.8 mm, and more often it is about
0.5 –
0.6 mm.
Lighting type
The type of
illumination provided in the body design.
The backlight plays mainly a decorative role, it gives the computer an original appearance, which is appreciated by fans of external tuning. Lighting can be mounted separately, but it is easier to purchase a case where it was originally provided. The types of illumination can be as follows:
— Illuminated fan. One or more coolers are illuminated, facing the side or top surface of the case.
—
Cases with backlight. Separate parts of the body are illuminated, usually from the inside, in such a way that the illumination can be seen through a transparent window / windows or a lattice surface. Sometimes external lighting can be provided.
There are cases in which both types of illumination are provided simultaneously. And for office needs
, cases without backlight are suitable.
PSU
The presence of a power supply unit (PSU) in the scope of delivery of the case. Such equipment saves the user from the need to purchase a PSU separately and from the hassle of compatibility — a complete power supply, by definition, is optimally suited for the case. On the other hand, this PSU may not be suitable for the system that is planned to be assembled — for example, due to insufficient power or the lack of the required number of connectors. Therefore, before buying, you need to find out the detailed characteristics of the complete PSU and make sure that it is suitable for the selected configuration. If the configuration is not exactly known (for example, it is planned to buy more components gradually, or you have not yet decided on a specific set of components), it may be worth choosing a
case without a power supply unit and acquiring a power supply last when the requirements for it are finally clear.
Integrated PSU power
The output power of the power supply supplied with the chassis (see "Power Supply"). This power should not be lower than the total power consumption of the system that is planned to be assembled in the case — otherwise the PSU will simply “not pull out” the system.
Screwless
The ability to use special latches (instead of screws) to mount peripheral devices in 3.5" and 5.25 bays, as well as cards in expansion slots. This
screwless mounting greatly simplifies the installation and replacement of system components.
Fans total
The
more fans provided in the design, other things being equal, the more intense the cooling will be and the more powerful (and, accordingly, “hot”) hardware can be placed in the case without the risk of overheating. For everyday tasks, a case with
one,
two or
three factory fans is enough. At the same time, when comparing, it is worth considering not only the number, but also the performance characteristics of the fans (diameter, speed). Also note that there are
cases without fans on the market with free space for fans, which allows, if necessary, to supplement the cooling system and improve its performance.
Fans (front)
The number of fan slots
on the front of the case, and the size of the fans these slots are designed for. The presence of the fans themselves in the kit should be specified separately.
The larger the fan, the more advanced it is considered: a large diameter allows you to work efficiently at relatively low speeds, which reduces the noise level and energy consumption. Case fans are available in several standard diameters; specifically for the front panel, the size
up to 92 mm is considered relatively small,
120 mm — medium,
140 mm — large, and in the most advanced solutions, fans of
180 mm or even more can be installed.
Also note that most often the holes for installing fans are designed for one specific size, however, there are also “multi-size” seats, for 2-3 options. Moreover, these options may differ both in diameter and in quantity: for example, it may be possible to install two 140 mm fans or three 120 mm fans.
