Need suggestions for new case

[dpk33]

I have a Sandy Bridge rig on the way with an Asus P8Z68V-Pro mobo. I was using an Antec 900 for the old rig and I didn't like it very much. I was thinking a Thermaltake Chaser or NZXT Phantom or something of the like. I prefer mid towers as opposed to full towers but both work.

 

[lehtv]

Antec Eleven Hundred (super-mid tower)
Cooler master HAF 922, 690 II Advanced or Storm series case
Corsair 400R or 500R
Fractal Design Core 3000, Define R3 or Arc Midi
Lian Li PC-9F Aluminium
Silverstone Raven series case

 

[dpk33]

I was looking at the Corsair cases. Are there any noticeable differences between the 400r and the 500r? Is it worth the extra $40?

 

[lehtv]

The main differences are that 500R is available in white and comes with a 200mm side fan (400R can only mount smaller fans on the side). Even if you had two graphics cards, you'd be fine by adding a 140mm fan on the lower side slot of the 400R for $10. So I don't think it's worth the extra unless you just want a white case.

 

[BTRY B 529th FA BN]

A case can last you a couple of builds. Make sure it's the one you want.

 

[fastamdman]

It really depends on your budget. I bought the antec 300 illusion and I absolutely love it. Got it for like 50 bucks, I thought it was a great deal. Great air flow, I mean 2 intake fans, a top exhaust fan, a rear exhaust fan and a side intake fan, thats some good air

 

[dpk33]

I've narrowed it down to a 500r or a 400r, NZXT Phantom white or a Thermaltake Chaser. Does anyone have experience with these?

 

[lehtv]

The difference between 500R/400R is the side fan, and the Carbides are praised in reviews. All I know about NZXT Phantom is that it's made of plastic and costs more than 400R. Thermaltake Chaser I don't know about, as I have not heard anyone say anything about it on this board. I guess that says something.

+1 to 400R, it's only $90 AR atm.

 

[kbp]

I picked up the Corsair 500R about a month ago and could not be happier.
Very good design and build.

 

[timoseewho]

Another +1 for 400R here, picked it up a few months ago, love it.

 

[etrin]

same thing here looking for a case with cable management and room to get my big hands.
I spent 10 minutes yesterday trying to swap the position of 2 sata drives on my mb.
Cables everywhere in an original antec 900.

I need room but I have one question on fans in all these cases.

it looks like to me that all the new cases put a front fan or 2 then slap in some drive bays right in front of the fans and block off all the air flow.
Am I missing something?

ps the 500R also has removable drive bays where the 400 is made together and you get what you get.

>>> big question why do companies still put 3-5 5 1/4 external bays in their cases.
What do people put in them?
of all the people I know 2 have dvd and creative break out boxes, all the others have 1 dvd.
more wasted space.