Computer cases were all quite similar in the past and they are just the same clones of the boring tower design. However, cases are the most important visual enhancements that our desktops can get. These chassis can be used to express ourselves and our preferences. In this case, computer cases for productivity and gaming purposes would be quite different. There are processes that we need to consider before we choose a case. Motherboards are available in different sizes and that what determines the proper size of our computer case. Common motherboard sizes include mini ATX, flex ATX, micro ATX and ATX. ATX is the largest of all for, while the mini ATX is the smallest of them all. However, it appears that micro ATX is the standard form of average motherboard, while the normal ATX dimension is appropriate for enthusiasts. Mini ATX is rarer and it is usually preferred for those who require more compact, low-powered systems.
However, branded computer system could come with unusual motherboard form factor. As an example, they could be based on micro ATX, but with additional proprietary design changes, such as modifications to accommodate new cabling and front panel switches. It means that it can be tricky to replace a dead motherboard on these branded PC with those available in the market. Where space is tight, smaller case is desirable and larger form factor should be more appropriate when we have more room to add other peripherals and drives. In many respect, the actual case size could go along with standard form factors. Sizes can be different, especially if there are exposed 3.5-inch and 5.2.5-inch bays. We obviously need an ATX case when we plan to use ATX motherboard with its ability to accommodate more drives and RAM. Some ATX models could also allow us fit two high-end graphics cards for improved performance in gaming and graphics designs. Common shapes of cases include tower and desktop. The latter are wider than tower and it occupies more space because the motherboard lays flat.
On the other hand, tower is a preferred shape, because motherboards are placed vertically and this will save a lot of space. There are three variants of tower cases; full, mid and mini tower. The number of available dive bays should depend on the size of the computer case. Full tower cases would be appropriate if we want to add multiple DVD drives, fan controllers, removable drive racks and others. Many cases no longer have 3.5-inch drive bays for floppy drives; but some could have one to allow us install 9-1 card reader. Internal bays for hard drives are typically invisible from the outside, but they are important if we want to install two or more hard drives. Some larger cases could actually have room for six hard drives and this would be useful when we want to store many files. There are many things to consider before we purchase a computer case, but fortunately, it can be the easiest component to choose.
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