Options for Full ATX Cases?

pous

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Hi there, I've been recently looking into getting a full ATX case instead of the mid-size ones.

I really like the Thermaltake Armor found here: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811133154

But I think the two 'door' like things on the front are a bit queer. I suppose I could remove them, but I shouldn't have to...

What are some other good full-size cases in the $150 range (+ or - $15) that you think are equal in performance or better.

This Apevia case: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811144089 looks like it might be good, gets slightly lower reviews than the Armor, but has 5 total fans (even if 4 are 80's)

I guess I'm just confused, please advise :D
 

ausch30

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This http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119093 or this http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119039 both are nice cases that fit right in your price range the only thing I don't like is the 80mm top fan (should be 120mm) but I do like the fact that Cooler Master puts the USB connectors at the top/front where they are easy to get to. But if your looking for a little more flash then this http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811146029
is a popular choice. NZXT make fairly good quality cases but the only problem I see with this one is the placement of the front panel connectors (bottom/right hand side of the front bezel) and again a 80mm top fan.
 

dobby

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hmmm, it would help if you told us more about the PC/ or build, ie if you OC, coz if you dont you dont need all those fan they dont help and just add noise,
if you dont OC or OC limitedly cooler master meets the requirements with their wace master.

however if your for a monster PC the stacker is all way a port of call
 

pous

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Here's what I'm looking at putting into my pc:

2GB G.Skill DDR2 800 RAM
8800GTS 320
E4400 (oc'd I think, but not sure yet)
GA-P35 DS3R (So I can upgrade to Quad-core later)
Seagate Barracuda 320GB SATA Drive
 

ausch30

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I personally would go for the E4500 instead of the E4400, newer core + higher multiplier = better overclock. Do you plan on getting an aftermarket HSF and if so which one you choose will affect which case to buy. Most will fit in about any case but taller models like the Ultra 120 Extreme and the new IFX-14 require a lot of room. If you decide not to overclock you don't need nearly the cooling so look for a case with solid construction and the features you want.
 

skyguy

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Take a look at the Gigabyte 3D Aurora as well....spacious, will take tall heatsinks and even watercooling, dual rear enhaust fans, option for side window or side mesh, lots of drive bays, clean design, function front, not alot of bling or crazy style, but a good all-around case at a decent price. At least worth a look.

Hey AUsch!!! ;)
 

ausch30

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skyguy, how ya doin'

The 3D Aurora, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811233001, is a nice solid case with just a hint of bling. I prefer the more understated myself but it is very well built and a good size with good cooling. It also has holes for external watercooling if that's something you might be looking into in the future. And for $120 it's one of the better cases out there in that price range. The only thing I don't like though is the placement of the front panel.
 

skyguy

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They've got a new one being released for that.......but I gotta admit, a do-it-yourself kit is always better and cheaper than a pre-built one. Easier, no........but better performance, cheaper, and more satisfying that you did it with your own hands ;)

Ya, Ausch the 3D Aurora is gonna be for my new test rig, mostly cuz of the space, versatility, price, and airflow. But the Antec P180 is my daily weapon of choice.

Gonna drop in a PCP&C Silencer to power the 9800 GTX's in SLI I get to test drive before they're released to the public ;)