Oddly enough, often before buying a new computer, people do not always think about the size and type of future PC (form factor). Most often, this falls on the shoulders of sellers who are not always interested in the needs of the CLIENT, simply put - whichever case they got - they put it in it... However, often this parameter is important, both for the user and for the computer itself. How important is it? Many important parameters depend on the form factor of the PC (and on the correctness of its choice, of course...): ease of use, noise level, case temperature, and from this follows: the “health” of the components inside (primarily hard drives- which store your information - and this is known to be the highest value), ease of use, etc., etc. ... So, how to choose the right size system unit future PC?

To begin with, I propose to consider them in more detail one by one:

At the beginning, it must be said that the size of a PC depends not only on the size of the case itself. The size of the case must also correspond to the dimensions of the components - the motherboard in the first place, the video card, the power supply and other devices. For example, you cannot place an ATX motherboard in a miniTower case, or a video card like GeForce 9800GTX in the same case - it simply won’t fit. And even if it does fit, it will get so hot that the small space will not allow heat to be effectively removed, and overheating will threaten all devices...

So, let's look at the form factors of the cases - their size can be said to be directly proportional to the capabilities of the future PC, because it determines the size of components that can “fit” into it. And modern components are often large (for example, powerful video cards). Therefore, in a sense, we can give the following advice: the more powerful the PC is planned, the larger the case...

Full Tower: Dimensions of this case: width 15-20cm, height 50-60cm. Such a case has from 4 to 9 bays for 5.25-inch devices (example: DVD-ROM drive), has from 6 to 12 bays for 3.5-inch devices (example: hard drive), and has the ability to install seven expansion cards (for example, TV tuner, sound card). This case can also accommodate a full-size ATX motherboard (we'll talk about their sizes later). To put it simply, cases of this type are the largest, and their capacity for various hardware is enormous. But here, of course, everything depends on the motherboard - how many hard drives, expansion cards it allows to connect (which then find a place in the spaciousness of the case), etc. Application: Mainly for powerful computers, focused exclusively on high performance, because Such system units contain many fast components, which, as you know, emit a lot of heat, and in such a large case cooling is not difficult.

Mid Tower: Perhaps the most common size among households desktop computers. Its dimensions: width 15-20cm, height 43-45cm. These cases can accommodate a full-size ATX motherboard, a full-size power supply, multiple hard drives, and quite a few hard drives. Application: One might say - universal. Dimensions are acceptable for both high-performance PCs and average PCs home computer. The space inside the case allows air to circulate inside, usually without hindering the cooling of the case and devices. I recommend it for PC building - if your PC size requirements are normal, and if you don't need a computer “on the shelf”.

Mini Tower: Mainly distributed in the sector office computers. Due to their small size (width 15-20cm, height 33-35cm) they allow you to install little: (1-2 optical drive, 1-2 hard drives and approximately 4 expansion slots) and devices of average or lower performance. Firstly, due to size, and secondly, due to heating. There is not enough space in such a case - and therefore the requirements for the temperature of devices are higher, so as not to create unpleasant fan noise and overheating of devices. But in such a case you can fit components that are quite enough for office work with text, presentations and spreadsheets.

Mini PC (Small Form Factor): Given their dimensions (width 20 cm, height 18-23 cm), they can accommodate a maximum of 2 expansion slots, a few hard drives and include a compact power supply. This assumes that the user will mainly use components built into the motherboard (which, by the way, is also small) such as built-in video and sound. In appearance, these cases resemble household appliances. Their use - as office PCs or as a basis home theater. There is no question about cooling here, because... There are very few devices and, by their intended purpose, they generate little heat.

There are also form factors Micro PC(which have even smaller dimensions compared to Mini-PCs, but due to their size they have even greater limitations) and desktop (horizontal cases located on the table), but they are less common and you are unlikely to have to deal with them.

So, we looked at the form factors of the cases. I hope you choose something suitable for yourself. If not, you can seek individual advice.

In the following articles from the series of form factors, we will generally consider the form factors of the components of the system unit and other devices.

The design of the system unit is one of the important components of self-assembly. Exactly appearance influences the first impression of a computer. This is why we will consider best cases for PC 2019.

How to choose a case

Before purchasing, you need to know exactly what components you plan to install. This is to avoid running out of space. For example, you have 3 video cards, but in the system unit there is only room for two - an unpleasant situation? Is not it? The most popular manufacturers:

Budget
1. Cooler Master
2. Thermaltake
Middle price segment
1. Aerocool
2. Fractal Design
3. Corsair
Premium
1. Cooler Master
2. Thermaltake

Best models

So that you can pick up best option, we have compiled a table containing models of different price categories.

Name	Type of shell	Peculiarities	Price
Premium class
	Full-Tower	Unusual design, quick HDD replacement	17500 rub.
	Full-Tower	Transparent window, RGB backlight, quick HDD replacement	13500 rub.
Middle price segment
	Mid-Tower	Good ergonomics and cooling system	9000 rub.
	Mid-Tower	Transparent wall, plenty of space	8000 rub.
Budget options
	Mid-Tower	Front RGB panel, transparent wall	3000 rub.
	Mid-Tower	Ultra-budget, transparent wall	1100 rub.

Now let's take a closer look at each option.

Premium class

Thermaltake Level 10 GT

Another bright representative of functional cases with an unusual design. This solution, when opened, resembles a safe due to its design and door. There are HDD slots for quickly replacing drives. Buttons and connectors are located in convenient places.

The cooling system consists of 4 coolers located in different places of the system unit. A nice bonus is the presence of a headphone mount on the side. It feels like this “system unit” is part of the ammunition of a clone from Star Wars.

Characteristics
Model	Thermaltake Level 10 GT
Type of shell	Full-Tower
Dimensions, mm	584(H) x 282(W) x 590(D)
Material	Steel, ABS plastic
Weight, kg	12,7
Color	Black White
Form factor	E-ATX / ATX / MicroATX / Mini-ITX
5.25″ devices	4
3.5″ external devices	1
3.5″ internal devices	5
	8
Fans	front - 1 x 200 mm (installed) upper - 1 x 200 mm (installed) side - 1 x 200 mm (installed) rear - 1 x 120/140 mm (installed) lower - 1 x 120 mm (optional)
Interface connectors

Cooler Master HAF X

Powerful solution from famous brand. The case is made in a harsh, massive design. By choosing the right components, you can achieve something that is clear even from its appearance - this is a powerful gaming PC.

Dimensions allow you to install boards up to XL-ATX. A large number of slots for hard drives (with support for quick replacement), card slots, the ability to install up to 4 coolers - this is how the system unit can be characterized.

Characteristics
Model
Type of shell	Full-Tower
Dimensions, mm	230(W) x 599(H) x 550(D)
Material	SECC 1.0 mm, plastic inserts
Weight, kg	14,35
Color	Black
Form factor	XL-ATX, E-ATX, ATX, microATX, Mini-ITX
5.25″ devices	4
3.5″ external devices	2, hot-swappable
3.5″ internal devices	5
Supported number of expansion cards	9
Fans	1x 230 mm front 1x 140 mm rear 2x 200 mm top and side
Interface connectors	2x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, 1x FireWire, 1x eSATA, microphone input and headphone output

Middle price segment

The golden mean of our review is cases that are cheaper than the previous ones, but are not budget.

Be Quiet! Silent Base 800

The first “system unit” of a German company that produces cooling systems, power supplies and other similar components. The case has a harsh design - it looks great from the outside. Somewhat reminiscent of Sony PS 4.

Note! There is a version without color inserts - a completely black block.

It is immediately clear that the design was developed by a company that produces cooling elements - the housing is well ventilated. There are holes for installing a dropsy. There is enough space for large components.

Characteristics
Model	Thermaltake Level 10 GT
Type of shell	Mid-Tower
Dimensions, mm	559 × 266 × 495
Material	Steel 0.7 mm, black ABS plastic
Weight, kg	9,31
Color	Black
Form factor	ATX / Micro-ATX / Mini-ITX
5.25″ devices	3
3.5″ devices	7
2.5″ devices	4
Supported number of expansion cards	7
Fans	Front Panel: 2 × 120 mm or 2 × 140 mm;Top panel: 2 × 120 mm or 2 × 140 mm; Back panel: 1 × 120 mm; Base: 1 × 120 mm or 1 × 140 mm (if the PSU length does not exceed 160 mm); Side panel: 1 × 120 mm.
Interface connectors	USB 3.0 × 2, USB 2.0 × 2, HD Audio × 1

Corsair Carbide 400C

This unit looks especially good when using a water cooling system and lighting. The side is completely transparent. The remaining edges are made in a minimalist, strict style.

The internal space is not limited by partitions. The 400C is an excellent option for those who plan to build a powerful PC with a large number of components. On the top edge there are USB connectors and power buttons.

Characteristics
Model	Cooler Master HAF X (RC-942-KKN1)
Type of shell	Mid-Tower
Dimensions, mm	425 x 215 x 464 mm
Material	Steel, ABS plastic
Weight, kg	8,2
Color	Black White
Form factor	Mini-ITX, MicroATX, ATX, E-ATX
2.5″ devices	2
3.5″ devices	3
Supported number of expansion cards	7
Fans	Front - 3x120 mm or 2x140 mm Top - 2x120/140 mm Rear - 1x120 mm
Interface connectors	4 x USB 2.0, 2 x USB 3.0, eSATA, microphone input and headphone output.

Budget options

Now let's move on to budget models. They are made of lower quality material than premium devices, but still fully perform their functions.

Frontier Rainbow

An unusual budget solution that instantly attracts attention due to the front panel with RGB backlighting. From the front, the block resembles a huge column due to its rounded edges. You can complement the “rainbow” by installing backlit components - side panel transparent.

98% of positive user reviews confirm that this case is value for money. The maximum supported form factor (dimensions) of the motherboard is ATX. Otherwise, there is more than enough space for installing components. One cooler on the rear side is responsible for cooling. It is possible to additionally install on the top and front panels.

Characteristics
Model	FC-RB06A
Type of shell	Mid-Tower
Dimensions, mm	450 x 190 x 453
Material	Steel 0.5 mm + ABS plastic
Weight, kg	4
Color	Black
Form factor	ATX / MicroATX / Mini-ITX
5.25″ devices	4
3.5″ devices	2
2.5″ devices	2
Supported number of expansion cards	8
Fans	Rear: 1 x 120mm fan (installed) Front: 2 x 120mm fan (support) Top panel: 2 x 120mm fan (support)
Interface connectors	1 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, Audio connectors

GameMax MT521-NP

An ultra-budget model that can be equipped no worse than the premium version. You shouldn’t count on high-quality materials, but from a distance the “system unit” looks great. One of the best options for the lowest cost.

The maximum allowed motherboard form factor is ATX. The power supply is installed on top, which may seem inconvenient to some. On the top edge there is a recess for a phone or other item.

Characteristics
Model	MT520-FAN
Type of shell	Mid-Tower
Dimensions, mm	370 x 180 x 412
Material	Steel SGCC 0.5 mm
Weight, kg	3,5
Color	Black
Form factor	ATX, microATX
5.25″ devices	1
3.5″ external devices	3
3.5″ + 2.5″ internal devices	4
Supported number of expansion cards	7
Fans	1x 120 mm rear (not installed)
Interface connectors	1 x USB 3.0 2 x USB 2.0 1 x headphone output 1 x microphone input

conclusions

Choosing the right case will not be difficult due to the variety of models on the market. You should choose an option based on reviews and the budget that you are willing to pay for the system unit.

14. 02.2017

Blog of Dmitry Vassiyarov.

The system case is a home for your hardware

Hello dear readers.

Today we will talk to you about the system unit case, consider its types, as well as its purpose.

So, what is this system case? As we understand it, a system unit is a kind of box in which all the elements of a computer are installed: motherboard, video card, HDD and so on. If you remove all these elements from the system unit, all that remains is the box or case.

The housing is designed to protect the “filling” from mechanical damage and other unnecessary influences. Depending on what hardware you have chosen for your computer, you need to select a certain type of case.

They differ primarily in form factor. Roughly speaking, the form factor is the size of the motherboard. This means that only certain equipment can be inserted into a certain enclosure. In addition, the cooling system of the system unit differs, since powerful hardware is more susceptible to overheating due to its high performance, and they need to choose the right system unit case.

Types of system unit cases

Initially, system unit cases come in three types: vertical, horizontal and for server (rackmount).

Horizontal cases, or as they are also called Desktop (from English “desktop”), are shaped like a DVD player. Place it on the desktop under the monitor (lying down). With the advent of lighter (LCD monitors), interest in them has increased somewhat compared to previous large monitors. In turn, horizontal housings are divided into several subclasses (by size):

Full Desktop (540 x 420 x 150mm);
Slim Line (406 x 406 x 101mm).

"Towers"

Now let's move on to the classification of the more common, vertical buildings, or as they are also called Tower (from the English “tower”):

compact enclosures

This is very good decision, if you have very little space on your desk. But when buying such a case, you should think about a high-quality cooling system in advance.

This type of case is prone to rapid dust formation due to the small space inside. Dimensions 178 x 432 x 432mm.

Big Tower (Super-Tower).

This case is used by advanced users.
Absolutely any motherboard can be installed. Ideal ventilation system (installation of a sufficient number of coolers). Your PC will definitely not overheat or become clogged under a layer of dust. The housing data fits maximum amount devices measuring 5.25 inches.
Dimensions 190 x 482 x 820mm

Full Tower

And finally, my favorite size :-).
In fact, this standard size is the same as the Big Tower, only even larger.
You can fit five or more 5.25 devices into this case. There is a lot of space inside, due to which you can install full-fledged water cooling and a large number of fans.
These cases are also used as home servers.

The sizes are different.

The main difference between tower-type cases is the number of bays for 5.25 drives (devices). Micro – 1, mini – 2-3, midi – 3-4, big – 4, full tower – 5 or more compartments and dimensions accordingly.

What's there for servers?

File-Server case.

Used to create servers. Includes up to ten bays for 3.5" devices and several bays for 5.25" devices.

It is also provided with compartments for installing additional ventilation and power supplies (to ensure uninterrupted operation).

Form factor

Let's now talk about form factors. The form factor of cases is essentially a standard size for motherboards. Different types buildings can have different shapes - factors. There are a lot of them, I will describe only the most popular ones here:

AT is a very old form factor for motherboards, which was popular until 2000 (at this moment not used or used in “ancient” PCs).
ATX is a standard that is present today for personal computers. ATX (305x244mm) is a form factor for a full-size motherboard in a PC (it determines the size of the case, the number of connectors, the location of fasteners, and other characteristics). As for micro ATX and mini ATX, these are smaller connectors for motherboards that are used for compact PCs (can be cut down to 170mm).
ITX and Mini ITX - very small size (170 x 170 mm). I rarely use this size for home computers. But in principle, for Full Desktop and Slim Line cases this is quite a good option. Like the micro and mini ATX form factors, it is typical for compact, inexpensive computers that are not designed to perform complex operations.

It seems like I told you everything the main thing is.

Well, I didn’t cover any monsters like these:

Because I think in home use they are unlikely to fit, they are mainly bought for all sorts of events, and they are called stand ones. Maybe someday in the future we’ll talk about them in detail.

Let's take stock

What we found out: the first thing is that you can assemble a good, productive computer in a vertical Midi Tower case, with an ATX form factor. It will be characterized by large dimensions and high performance, and the design of the housing will promote good ventilation.

In addition, the computer can be upgraded up to a certain point. And secondly, if you need a computer for office work, etc. – your choice should be a system unit in a vertical case (Mini Tower) and a simpler motherboard (micro/mini ATX, or mini ITX).

The computer will have sufficient performance for office work and Internet use, and will be small in size, but it will be a breeding ground for dust and you will have to clean it often.

That's all for today, subscribe to my blog updates.

There are a lot of interesting things ahead ;-).

The case is not only the appearance of the PC, but also its protection, addition, and integral part. The system case is the main element computer system, on which all his devices are mounted. Therefore, a computer case must be selected with knowledge of their types and functionality. So what is the difference between the “external shells” of a PC and what tips can you give for choosing a computer case?

Housings can have different shapes - vertical and horizontal.

Vertical– tower ( tower) is usually located next to the monitor or placed under the table down. Vertical towers are divided into the following formats: mini-tower, midi-tower, big-tower.

Mini-tower - the body is quite low in height. At first, during the era of the dominance of Baby AT format motherboards, it was the most widespread, but today it is much less common, because problems may arise with placing full-size ATX motherboards in it; only small-sized boards in micro-ATX and flex-ATX formats remain. Such cases are most often used in computers of the simplest configurations and are used as office machines or network terminals.

Midi-tower – the most common case format today is midi (middle)-tower ATX. It provides the use large number drives and almost all types of motherboards with acceptable overall dimensions. This type The case is suitable for almost all home and office machines and is used everywhere.

Big-tower – are the largest enclosures and provide the placement of system boards of any size and most large quantity 5.25" format devices are most often 4 - 6. In addition, they are most often equipped with high-power power supplies. The main areas of application for such cases are workstations, small servers and computers for advanced users.

Horizontal the form is called “desktop” ( desktop). Usually located under the monitor. This design looks very elegant. However, assembling and repairing a desktop-based computer is difficult and inconvenient. In addition, the volume horizontal housing significantly smaller, and the power supplies are low power.

Speaking about the internal structure of the case, it should be said that cases are divided into form factors: ATX and BTX and their subtypes.

Form factor ATX

ATX (from English Advanced Technology Extended) is the form factor of the vast majority of modern (2005-2008) personal desktop computers.

ATX is the most modern case and most current motherboards are designed specifically for it. ATX is characterized by easier access to the internal devices of the computer (even without using a screwdriver). It also has improved ventilation inside the case, and it is possible to install more full-size expansion cards and expanded capabilities on energy management.

ATX was created by Intel in 1995 and replaced the AT form factor that had been used for a long time (the real displacement of the previous standard occurred in late 1999 - early 2001). Other modern standards (microATX, flexATX, mini-ITX) usually retain the main features of ATX, changing only the size of the board and the number of expansion slots.

ATX defines the following characteristics:

geometric dimensions of motherboards
general requirements for the position of connectors and holes on the housing
position of the power supply in the case
geometric dimensions of the power supply
electrical characteristics of the power supply
the shape and position of a number of connectors (mainly power)

Dimensions of ATX form factor boards - 3 0.5x24.4 cm.

Dimensions of reduced versions of ATX motherboards:

Mini-ATX - 28.4x20.8 cm
Micro-ATX - 24.4x24.4 cm
Flex-ATX - 22.9x20.3 cm

Basic differences from the AT form factor

The processor power is controlled by the motherboard to ensure the operation of the control unit and some peripheral devices Even in the off state, a voltage of 5 volts is supplied to the board. (To provide electrical isolation, many ATX power supplies have a disconnect switch on the case.)

The power connector has changed: the previous standard (AT) used two similar friends to another power connector, which could have been mistakenly mixed up (although there is a rule - the four black wires (common) should be located next to each other), in the ATX standard the connector has an unambiguous connection.

The rear panel has changed; in the AT standard, on the rear panel there was only a keyboard connector and holes for expansion slots (or “plugs” with connectors connected to the motherboard via flexible cables); In the ATX standard, there is a fixed-sized rectangular hole on the rear panel.

Inside this hole, the motherboard manufacturer can arrange the connectors in any order, complete with motherboard there is a “stub” (IO plate) with slots for the connectors of a specific motherboard (this allows you to use the same case for motherboards with completely different sets of connectors).

The connection of the keyboard and mouse was standardized; the AT standard used a very large 5-pin DIN connector for the keyboard; there was no standard connector for the mouse; The ATX standard uses two PS/2 connectors.

MicroATX form factor (µATX, mATX, uATX)

MicroATX (µATX, mATX, uATX) - motherboard form factor 9.6x9.6" ( 24.4x24.4 cm), developed by Intel in 1997. Used only for x86 architecture processors.

The form factor was designed to be fully electrically and backwards mechanically compatible with the ATX form factor. µATX motherboards can be used in ATX cases (but not vice versa). When motherboards are released, motherboards in both ATX and µATX formats are often released on the same chipset, with the difference usually being in the number of PCI slots and integrated peripherals. Quite often the following difference is made: µATX boards are produced with a built-in video card, ATX - without (µATX is intended for office work and is not designed for gaming applications that require powerful video cards).

Mini-ITX form factor (µITX, mITX)

Mini-ITX is a form factor for motherboards developed by VIA Technologies. While maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility with the ATX form factor, mini-ITX motherboards are significantly smaller in size ( 17 by 17 cm).

In 2001, the ITX form factor (21.5 x 19.1 cm) was created to promote the C3 processor (bought by Cyrix). In practice, it was not used; instead, a “reduced” form factor began to be actively used - mini-ITX .

One of the features of mini-ITX motherboards is the presence of a soldered processor, which reduces the overall cost of the computer. Due to the relatively low heat dissipation, many mini-ITX motherboards use a passive cooling system. In combination with SSD drives this allows the creation of silent computers that contain no moving mechanical parts.

Due to their size, mini-ITX motherboards are used in embedded computers, thin clients, and undemanding home computers.

In 2005, VIA introduced a smaller version of mini-ITX called nano-ITX (12 x 12 cm).

Currently, most motherboard manufacturers have announced their mini-ITX form factor solutions, and computer developers can choose solutions on various architectural platforms: VIA, AMD, Intel. Such a wide choice makes it possible to build small-sized, cost-effective systems to perform a wide variety of tasks, from embedded control systems, payment terminals, and multimedia centers. The relatively low performance of Mini-ITX platforms, associated with their reduced heat dissipation, makes these solutions ideal for use in network drives NAS, SAN, and also in home mini-servers.

Form factor BTX

BTX (Balanced Technology Extended) - form factor proposed by Intel in 2005. It was assumed that BTX would replace the ATX form factor.

The format was proposed at the end of 2004 - beginning of 2005 by Intel (the author of the ATX standard), but it turned out to be not very popular, so at the beginning of 2006, most desktop computers (according to froogle) were sold with the ATX or microATX form factor. The first BTX form factor computer was sold by Gateway Inc. Dell also produced computers in this form factor.

However, the ever-increasing heat generation Pentium processors 4, which was main reason creation of BTX, forced Intel to move to other ways to increase power, and the generation Intel Core was already much more energy efficient and “cooler”. Thus, the main advantage of BTX became insignificant, and doubts arose about the advisability of its further support.

In September 2006, Intel abandoned support for the BTX standard.

Main advantages:

Reducing the height of the motherboard with a processor cooler installed, reducing the height of the IO Plate.
ensuring cooling of all computer components (taking into account not only the heating from the processor, but very hot video cards, hard disks) due to the creation of direct air currents inside the housing. To do this, the motherboard is installed vertically on the left wall of the case (in ATX - on the right), due to which the peripheral cards are positioned upward with the radiators. This arrangement promotes air exchange.
reduction of noise level.

Form factor eATX (EATX)

Form factor eATX (EATX) - (English Extended ATX) differs from ATX mainly in size. This standard allows the installation of motherboards up to 30.48x33.02 cm in size. Most EATX cases can also install ATX motherboards.

Instead of a preface

Assembling a gaming PC is a very non-linear task: if previously it was enough to go to the store and briefly ask the consultant: “So that Crysis runs at maximum”, get a ready-made configuration, paying n-th savings for it without any hesitation. Often, unscrupulous sellers screwed up buyers who were far from the world of hardware, and it was a stretch to call the computer a gaming computer. But it’s 2019 – and buying ready-made kits “off the shelf” is outdated as a method. Amazon will send any part of the configuration even to the most remote corner of the earth where there is a post office, therefore, the user is limited only in financial capabilities and his own imagination. But the entrance threshold remains in place - it will be difficult for an untrained user to understand the components.

The theater begins with a hanger, and the gaming configuration begins with a capacious building that will accommodate all the necessary elements and will not burn out from the load in the summer, like a holidaymaker on the first day of vacation. How not to make a mistake in choosing, we’ll look into it below.

Characteristics of the gaming PC case: type, size, cooling system, customization options, standard contents

Case type and size

Size really does matter, especially when it comes to a gaming PC case. Too large a size is fraught with unnecessary costs, and too small - banal lack space and incompatibility with the selected hardware.

Although there are hundreds of models on the modern market, there are specific system dimensional standards, embedded in form factors. Total exists 5 main standards:

Mini-ITX
Micro-ITX
XL-ATX

We can talk about them for a long time and incomprehensibly, so remember the main ones parameters influenced by form factor:

Motherboard size.
Power supply dimensions.
Location of fasteners in the power supply.

Form factor	Board size, mm

The dominant standard is ATX, and its derivatives differ only in the size of the motherboard and the number of expansion slots on board.

What you need to know about the form factor:

Forget about Mini ATX when building a gaming setup for years to come- this board size will not provide enough space to increase power.
Micro-ATX will often have an integrated power supply. But you shouldn’t be particularly tempted - there’s still the same “low ceiling” for good gaming hardware.
ATX is a universal solution in most cases, this size will accommodate fairly productive pieces of hardware.
EATX\XL-ATX will come in handy if you decide to create a real gaming or server monster. It can easily take on board several video cards and the same number of hard drives, while managing not to melt the floor a couple of floors down.

But the size of cases is not measured by the form factor alone. Another classification - tower. It is the prefix “tower” that you will see in the first place in most descriptions. Well, in order not to completely get confused in this system of measures, it is enough to simply compare the existing standards. And at the same time, we’ll see for what purposes each of the boxes is suitable.

"Tower" classification
Mini Tower		Miniaturization is gaining new momentum every year - it has not spared the body. And if previously the Mini Tower was only suitable for an office, now such models can accommodate a mid-level configuration. But for a full-fledged gaming machine, it is still better to choose something larger and more spacious, at least because the large size will provide freedom of upgrade in the future.
Middle Tower		Standard dimensions for any PC: both home and gaming. But too much iron simply won’t fit here. The same applies to the sophisticated cooling system for it. Therefore, if you want to assemble a car that will be relevant in 3 years, you are one point lower.
Big Tower (full)		Everything and even more will fit - with such a case you don’t have to worry about it becoming outdated, the large space inside will allow you to modify the configuration inside for many years to come. The main thing is to take care of high-quality construction materials and the possibility of universal fastening of components inside.

The best gaming cases to fit your form factor

The modern system unit is designed for assembling a computer for powerful games and has several viewing windows. The side panels have technological projections designed to improve convection. You can install seven fans with adjustable rotation speed, and there are dust filters. When installing the hardware, no screws are needed; the devices can be secured using rubber inserts. The case contains a panel, USB connectors, audio outputs for headphones and a microphone. The rear panel contains special slots for PCI-E redundancy.

Spacious gaming case NZXT H700i

The H700i has modern computers, with a simplified water cooling installation. This function provided with brackets, tank connections. Four fans operate for maximum airflow. The air intakes have special filters that protect the system from contamination. There is a clear cable routing device and an easily removable panel. The noise reduction function works, thanks to it, comfort is ensured during the game. The model has an original glass panel and power supply frame, which provides a stylish look.

Frame

Form factor

Price

Zalman Z11 plus

NZXT H700i

EATX

More details about specific models in each of the categories we say in the reviews:

Fit it all: the best Mini Tower cases

A few words about the cooling system

A powerful gaming PC is not complete without a good set of coolers inside. Timely cooling of the case guarantees the longevity of the components, so don’t even try to save money on an additional fan. Remember the basics case cooling rules:

Too many coolers is not always good.
The air flow inside the housing should be unidirectional and should not be “broken” by other flows.
Large blades will always give out better performance with lower energy consumption.

Well, if you don’t want to chase dust around the room, you can choose a case with the ability to install liquid cooling system. Such a decision will cost a pretty penny.

Design and flexibility of case customization

A bright and catchy look is an integral feature of many gaming cases. But the “wrapper” does not always justify the “filling”. Very often, the too sophisticated appearance of the case complicates access to internal components and to get there you have to unscrew 1000 and 1 screw. Therefore, when choosing a case, keep the following factors in mind:

The fewer screws the better. This applies to both the internals and external panels. The ideal option is screwless and skid mountings.
The thickness of the case should be from 0.5 to 1 mm. If it’s less, the rattling of the case on the second day will drive even the Dalai Lama crazy.
Cable management inside the case is really important. Sometimes a wire that comes loose from the mount can negatively affect the cooling system, blocking air flow. And, in the end, it will simply be a pity to attach expensive hardware “anyhow.”
A built-in power supply is not the most suitable option for a gaming PC. Top models are sold without it, because... The user chooses the power according to his needs, but crafts from Uncle Liao often have a built-in power supply on board. I advise you to carefully avoid such products and not skimp on the “heart” of your car.

Standard “filling” of the case

When buying a modern case, especially from a well-known manufacturer, you are not getting an empty box. All standard connectors and a basic cooling system are present on board.

Let's look at the standard content using the Middle Tower as an example

Case dimensions (width height depth)
External 5.25" bays, pcs.
Internal 3.5" compartments, pcs.
Internal 2.5" compartments, pcs.
Expansion slots, pcs.
External ports	USB 3.0 - 2 pcs. USB 2.0 - 2 pcs.
Compatible Boards
Standard cooling system	Front cooler: 1x200 mm (750 rpm) Rear cooler: 1x120mm (1100 rpm)
Max. video card length
Max. CPU cooler height

Here is a typical representative of the Mid-category, which can easily install the necessary gaming hardware. What opportunities are inherent in such models?

1. For 5.25-inch devices, the case has a basket with a screwless fastening - as many as three pieces can fit, which is quite enough.

2. There are no problems with drives - a two-piece transverse cage can accommodate three 3.5" and four 2.5" hard drives. They are secured using retractable slides, sliding until they click, thereby securely fastening inside. A great example of how easy assembly can be.

3. There are quite enough external ports, so that after connecting a gaming keyboard (3.0 connection is increasingly becoming preferred) and a mouse, there will still be 2 free connectors left.

4. Motherboard of the specified form factors takes its place on the pallet, securely fastened with hex screws. When installing it in any case, it is very important to ensure that the mount is as rigid and stable as possible.

5. Well, the most interesting thing in the above model is the cooling system. In such models there are many possibilities for modernization. 2 coolers are installed as standard. Instead of 200 mm, you can install a 180 mm fan or the preferred 2 fans of 140 or 120 mm. Two more 140 or 120 mm on the top panel. The left side panel will accommodate one 200/180 mm cooler or two 120 mm versions. Well, for those who are not constrained by funds, there is the possibility of installing a two-section liquid cooling system.

As you can see, there are a lot of options, so if you are planning to build your own Frankenstein, check in advance the flexibility of customization inside the case.

6. The possible length of the video card is 423mm, an option with what is called a long-range sight. So if in the coming years after the purchase a video card with non-standard dimensions (within reason) comes out, this length will be enough for it. For comparison: the 310 mm ATI HD 5970 in 2010 was considered the longest in existence.

7. 171 millimeters in height for a cooler is enough space. A large tower fan will fit in without any problems.

The considered option, as already mentioned, is quite standard; the only “whistles” here are the backlight of the coolers. In more refined models, the interior space can be very different. Therefore, the most reliable way to “look under the hood” will be specifications, with the help of which you can check the compatibility of the case with the selected hardware with millimeter accuracy.

Afterword

So we have looked at the main aspects when choosing a case for a gaming PC, I think you will use the acquired knowledge to your advantage and benefit when choosing. Well, if you still have doubts about the required dimensions, take a look at the relevant guides:

Fit it all: the best Mini-Tower cases
Heavyweight League: choosing Full and Ultra-Tower cases

Good luck with your choice!

Popular cases for the system unit. How to choose a computer case - the main nuances