Rosewill Challenger U3 vs ZALMAN Z11 Plus HF1

[thedoormat]

I've been pretty set about the Rosewill Challenger U3 for a while now, and was about to purchase it right before Thanksgiving when it had dropped to $40 after MIR. However, I had a month long trip out of the country and would not have been able to do the MIR process in time, so I ended up holding off.

Since then, the U3 has gone up to $55 and the Zalman is now at $50 after MIR. I was wondering which case you would recommend, or should I just wait a little while for the U3 to drop back down (I think the U3 has topped out at $60 in the past). (All Newegg Prices)

Are there any cases in that price range I should also consider. The reason I like the U3 are that it comes with 3 fans (2 more optional), has USB3.0 front ports (buying either the ASRock Z77 Pro4 or Extreme4). I also prefer the understated look of the U3 and am not a huge fan of the Zalman Z11's look, but that is not a deal breaker.

Also, I'm not tied into Newegg. Any reliable retailer will do.

Any input will be highly appreciated.
Thank you
TheDoormat

 

[fralexandr]

you might want to look at the coolermaster 692 since it has a coupon + 15% promo code at the moment. Lots of people here seem to like the cm 690/692. (~$65 after MIR+coupon code) apparently there was a shellshocker deal for it a few days ago .
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811119259

if you don't mind a bit of red, the rosewill redbone looks pretty clean ($50) and rosewill's been making some nice cases.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811147160

 

[thedoormat]

I did look at one of the Rosewills that had the red bezel, perhaps it was this one. It seems almost identical to the Challenger as far as specs are concerned, other than a few minor differences. I liked the CM link you posted, but after shipping, it works out to about $66 and I wonder if it is worth spending an extra $15 on a case. Your thoughts?

 

[fralexandr]

If you're going to reuse your case for future builds, it's worth it. Cases can last through many builds, so choose one that you like.

the coolermaster is slightly bigger which probably makes it easier to build in.

the rosewill cases weigh about ~12lbs whereas the coolermaster weighs 21lbs.
if you plan on moving the computer, the rosewill is lighter. If you don't, the coolermaster has better build quality: more rigid/sturdy and probably uses less plasticky bits.

I would also suggest the antec 300 II or some fractal design or corsair (200R/300R) cases, but there aren't any deals on them at the moment .

if you have a frys or microcenter nearby, they usually have some cases on sale.