Need Case. Not big, quiet and easy open.

[krackato]

I'm building a new rig and I need a case recommendation. Previously I had a Full Tower that was way to loud, way to big and you had to unscrew six screws and lift off the cover just to work on it. Not making the same mistake this time. I need a mid-tower case that's easy to open and work around in and doesn't keep me awake at night. Also, I go to lan party's so having an easily moveable case that isn't that big is a good thing. Any suggestions?

I was thinking of going with the Enlight 7237, but I saw a review at ArsTechnica saying it's loud and not that easy to get into. Evidently you have to take off the front which everyone says is only a 'minor' annoyance. I'd just as soon pay a little more and avoid that minor annoyance since I end up working in my case 2 or 3 times a month.

 

[Beau]

Take a look at the Antec Performance Series, specifically the SX830 or SX840. Not much larger than the Enlight case you specified, better air flow, good construction too.

 

[ed21x]

these guys have always been on the pricey side, but got a huge selection
www.colorcases.com

 

[krackato]

Is the SX830 compatible with the AthlonXP line of processors? Looks like a good case at a good price, but I was really looking for a mid-tower and the 830 is a full tower. I might breakdown and just go with the SX830 since you can evidently upgrade the PSU with a quiet fan.

 

[Beau]

I don't see why it wouldn't work with an athlon xp. You may want to get a large PSU though. Nice cases.

 

[junthin]

I would have to second the Antec 8XX series cases. Also, you might want to look into the evercase screwless case that was talked about in the Hot Deal section (from Newegg). It's a midtower, and easy to get into (screwless ). Enjoy!

 

[DigitalLove]

Hi krackato,

If the SX830 is too big for you, try the SX630 - SX635 mini-tower series. I have the SX635 case, and this is the one I bring to LAN parties. It's a great case. The SX630 has 300watt ps, while the SX635 has 350watt ps. My next case will be this one (CHIEFTECH Server Chasis (Mini Tower) Model DH-01W-350W; AMD Approved Power Supply).

IMO, the Chieftech case is better because it has an identical chassis, a better powersupply, and it's cheaper:

Antec SX635 (w/ 350w ps) - $79.00 @ +3.3V & +5V COMBINED LOAD 180W @ EMS computing
Chieftech DH-01W (w/ 350w ps) - $69 @ +3.3V & +5V COMBINED LOAD 220W @ Newegg

Both of these mini-towers look cool and are perfect for LAN parties. Both have decent powersupply, although the Chieftech is better suited for a high level gaming rig. Both come with removable side panel, drive bays, etc. And both chassis designs have front grille, providing decent air flow.

You might also want to check out this (Fong Kai FK-621L mini-tower.) It's looks pretty sweet too.

Good Luck.