Quick start guide to selecting a Gaming Computer Tower

The term gaming computer tower is used in the PC world to indicate the case size. Gaming PC cases usually come in full size, mid-size, and mini- case sizes. However, it’s important to note that case sizes aren’t standardized among manufacturers. They are usually linked to the size of the motherboard.

Buying the right PC case is an intricate process that involves selecting the right size. However, the best cases offer much more than size. Low noise, low temperatures, glass panels, and RGB fans are some of the features that make an exceptional gaming experience. Here are crucial considerations when choosing a computer.

Size: Full, mid, or mini-sized?

As mentioned above, you can get a full, mid, or mini. Full and mid-size cases have enough room for standard ATX motherboards, making them the most common sizes. They can also work perfectly with smaller micro-ATX motherboards.

The exact size of full, mid, and mini-towers varies from one manufacturer to another. However, most mid-sized cases measure approximately 18 by 8 inches in height and width, respectively. They are arguably the most common sizes with enough room to accommodate fit coolers (closed-loop CPU cooler), multiple graphics cards, and lots of storage.

Full-size are the largest, measuring 20+ inches in height. They have far much length and depth than mid-size cases, making them great choices for gamers using massive extended ATX motherboards. Large cases also work well with persons planning to load up their rigs with custom or extensive water-cooling, ample storage, and 3 to 4-way graphics card setups. A large computer can support multiple fans as well as 5.25-inch bays, and some offer enough room when building.

Mini PCs are the exact opposite. They are built for small motherboards. Some are so small they’ll fit almost anywhere. However, the small size comes with compatibility issues. Some hardware, such as liquid cooling, is out of the question with mini-towers. Most mini cases won’t support typical graphics cards. They also have ,limited space eliminating the need for basic system configurations. Some mini-cases may come with slots that accommodate larger motherboards. However, such cases are rare. Ideally, you should select a small size case when space is of ultimate concern.

Modularity

The extent to which gaming PC components can be separated/recombined (or modularity) offers benefits like flexibility and variety. Before you choose a specific gaming PC, think of your ability to add and/or remove parts like covers, mounts, trays, etc.

Most cases come with basic onboard ports and controls. However, additional ports and convenient options like fan controls, clocks, lighting controls, volume controls, and heat-monitoring LCD panels showing the temperature of different components, go a long way.

A soundproof case is also a great idea if you would like a high-end setup with multiple fans running simultaneously. Ideally, you should be guided by your needs and preferences before considering modularity.

PC aesthetics

Size and modularity aside, the computer you select should look good. Since most gamers spend years with their personal computers, it’s important to consider design appeal. Online retailers showcase their PCs from multiple angles making it easy to make a decision.

PC towers come in many designs, materials, and colors. A computer featuring a side window is stylish and functional. Besides giving you access to interior lighting, you’ll have an easier time cleaning the interior.

What’s more- PC building is partly an aesthetic affair, so design is critical. To get the best aesthetics, consider cases with glass on one or more sides. Glass is a favorite choice because it works perfectly with RGB lighting. Some people prefer a matte black exterior while others go for the aggressive angular designs. Regardless of popular opinion, you should be guided by personal preferences.

Quality and Pricing

Build quality and pricing are critical factors when choosing a gaming PC tower. The case may be something some people will want to save money on if they are having a hard time getting the best components for their money.

Some performance gamers may not care much about aesthetics. However, such gamers may not want their components to be piled up in a cheap plastic casing. A high-quality casing is non-negotiable if you want great airflow, among other convenient extras like easy cable management.

Luckily, there are many decent affordable PC towers. If you want great aesthetics coupled with high-quality casing material, better airflow, and other added extras, you’ll need to spend more. There’s no need of having a great-looking computer that has poor airflow. Since most gamers push their systems to the limit generating a lot of heat in the process, cooling is of utmost concern.

Your case should look great, be functional and still have enough space for additional components. It should also be strong to protect your pricey components. If you research extensively, you can get a bit of everything – great aesthetics, strong casing material, ample space, good cooling, and a great price.

There are other considerations when choosing a PC tower. For instance, it’s advisable to have front-panel connectivity i.e., USB ports, Audio ports, and other important ports on the front. An adjustable RGB fan coupled with mystic light sync will also come in handy.

If you invest in a gaming PC with RGB lighting, controlling lighting effects is important. Having controls for this is a cool feature. Mystic light sync allows you to control your lighting using an app to change effects, brightness, and color easily without prior setup or installation.

A tool-less design can also come in handy. A few decades back, you needed a screwdriver to open computer casings and add/remove components. While there’s nothing wrong with screwdrivers, a tool-less design will save you time and effort. The best gaming PC towers have tool-less designs with thumb screws allowing internal fastening, Snap-On, twist-on, and other tool-free mechanisms inside drive bays.