Cases that are easy to convert from one motherboard form factor (ATX) to another (BTX) represent a novel concept. While the jury's still out on whether or not BTX will take hold in the PC sector or not, it is also true that case and motherboard makers are still holding back on wholesale adoption of BTX, and would still rather build ATX-compatible gear.

All the cases we tested made a good impression. Above all, they offered lots of room for drives and upgrades. Likewise, converting any of these cases to the new form factor is simple and straightforward. Though it's true that upgrading requires removing lots of screws, switching out rear case panels and components, and then replacing most of those selfsame screws to finish the process (though not always in the same holes), it may be time-consuming but it is otherwise not too onerous.

All the cases we tested were delivered to accommodate standard ATX form factors, though BTX upgrade kits are available as extra-cost add-ons. Prices for upgrade kits vary from $20 to $50 dollars or euros, depending on the vendors, location and their delivery options.

The Coolermaster CM Stacker STC-T01 came out the winner in our tests, and beat its competitors by a noticeable margin. But had the Tai Chi case not been so well stocked with sharp, scary edges, the Stacker would have surrendered first place to it instead.