Question 1

What should you consider when choosing a case?

Accepted Answer

Cases come in many different sizes. We have grouped case sizes by motherboard compatibility. The most common motherboard size is ATX. For most people, the ATX size motherboard is excessive. Most of us do fine with a smaller mATX or even tiny mITX motherboard. However, the smaller the case, the more difficult it is to build the PC. Hence most people build in ATX size cases. Large cases have better airflow to all the parts and it's also easier to build and manage cables between components.

Once you have decided size, the exact case to buy is mostly down to preference. Some cases have window panes and RGB lighting for example. Others are built to be as quiet as possible.

Question 2

What are the pros/cons of a small PC case?

Accepted Answer

Smaller cases obviously take up less space but they are also more difficult to build in. You also really need to consider airflow in a small case. All the parts in a computer create heat when they are used, which needs to be removed so that the PC does not overheat. Airflow brings in cool air from the outside and expels the warm air. In a large case, it is pretty easy to make sure the parts get good airflow, but in a small case you have to make sure to position fans well and make sure to manage cables so that they do not interfere with the airflow.

New PCs are able to regulate speeds to make sure the parts do not overheat even if the cooling is insufficient, but this means you will give up performance if you do not get a case with adequate cooling. Many experienced builders enjoy building in small cases because of the fun challenge - but as a beginner you're most likely better off choosing a larger case.

Select Case

Size of motherboard

Full size (ATX+)

Mid size (mATX-ATX)

Compact (mITX-mATX)

Mini (mITX)