Need some case advice

[razaice]

The case I'm currently using is an ultra x-blaster. My problem is that my overclocked cpu is getting pretty close to it's temp limit, and it's not even summer yet. I already have an aftermarket cpu cooler, so I was thinking my only option is to use some kind of liquid cooler or get a case with much better air flow. I have no idea which cases are good though. I have about $100 to spend on a good case. Any suggestions?

 

[dawp]

How many fans do you have installed? looking at reviews of that case says it only comes with one in front. if that is the only one you have, install one below the power supply will greatly reduce your temps. and maybe replacing both with higher speed fans will help too.

 

[dpodblood]

First install some decent fans, and clean out the dust if you have not already done so. Also clean the CPU cooler, and maybe re-apply the thermal grease. If after all this you still aren't satisfied you could try a cooler like the Corsair H70, but that shouldn't be necessary IMO. If you really want a new case though I would recommend the Coolermaster HAF-912, or the CM690 II. Both excellent budget cases with amazing cable management potential.

 

[razaice]

Thanks for some answers guys. I already had the 2 120 mm fans installed in my case. My case doesn't really allow for any kind of cable management though, so my wires are all crazy. There's really no dust to clean inside my computer since it's pretty new. I've considered getting an h50, but I was thinking a nice case might help me out more since I have 2 gtx 460s that would benefit from the air flow. Would a haf-912 with nice cable management and all the fan slots used show me some significant temp differences compared to my current setup?

 

[dpodblood]

The Coolermaster cases will help majorly in terms of wire management since all the cables can be routed behind the motherboard tray. In theory that should improve your airflow as well.

 

[dawp]

If you do replace your case, are you going to go with a mid tower or a full tower?

Also what is the temps in you room like? if your room is warm, your computer will be warm too. And what cooler are you using?

If you do go water cooling later, a full tower will make that much easier. Especially if you want to keep it all internal.

 

[dpodblood]

Given his budget of $100 I'd say a full tower, and water cooling are out of the question.

 

[BoomerD]

We really need more information...

I already have an aftermarket cpu cooler

Which one do you have?

It looks like your case is built to accept 2-120mm fans (1 included) and one 80mm fan in the side panel. Since you already have the 2 120's installed, what about the 80mm fan? I'd set it up to blow INTO the case, which, since it would blow onto the video card/CPU area, might help quite a bit.

Odds are, with the excellent air flow characteristics and cable management of the HAF 912, you'd see a good reduction in case temps...which SHOULD lead to a reduction in CPU temps as well.

 

[razaice]

Hey guys sorry for the late response. I ended up getting an haf 922 and a corsair h50 cooler from craigslist for 90 bucks. My temps are now ridiculously low. Lets all hope my components don't take a bath now.

 

[dawp]

That's a good deal for both as long as both are in good shape, :thumbsup:, glad your temps improved. And you could have ask about the fans here instead of starting a new thread.

 

[BTRY B 529th FA BN]

Hey guys sorry for the late response. I ended up getting an haf 922 and a corsair h50 cooler from craigslist for 90 bucks. My temps are now ridiculously low. Lets all hope my components don't take a bath now.

Congrats

 

[Dark Shroud]

Seriously good deal. I really enjoy my HAF 932, some day I'll get around to getting the inside painted black.