Best case for <$200?

[Ph?bus]

So the time has come, and I am thinking of selling my computer again to build a better (Sandy Bridge based) one. So I've all the components picked out, but I have no idea what I want for the case. So, I am asking for your guys' and gals' opinions.

A few things to note:

• I dislike flashy LEDs, and windows aren't huge with me, either
• I looooove aluminum. <3
• Silence is always welcome, but if the cost is low enough, I can just buy some really quiet fans.
• I am lazy, so please supply a link.

All suggestions are welcome, as long as they aren't violating the list.

 

[FreakingHell]

Silverstone FT02 or FT03?

 

[Ph?bus]

Updated the list.
Whoa. I've never seen a case like that. It's vertically mounted, right?

 

[bigredking]

Good recommendation on the Silverstone. Also consider the NZXT Phantom (No windows, I use it and love it), or the Cooler Master Sniper whatever. My favorite aluminum case is the Antec P180 (used it in a previous build, best case of all time). Unfortunately, the P180 has been discontinued, I have no experience with the follow up.

 

[FreakingHell]

Yeah, basically what is normally on the back is now up top (the theory is that heat rises, so in-taking at the bottom and exhausting at the top will be more efficient. Good theory but it proves to not make a huge difference. Still awesome cases though.

I've never made a build with the FT03 but I have with the FT02 and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Apparently the FT03 is a mATX case. I never knew that. Hmm.

 

[Ph?bus]

Good recommendation on the Silverstone. Also consider the NZXT Phantom (No windows, I use it and love it), or the Cooler Master Sniper whatever. My favorite aluminum case is the Antec P180 (used it in a previous build, best case of all time). Unfortunately, the P180 has been discontinued, I have no experience with the follow up.

NZXT Phantom is a little plain to me.
I've looked into the P180 before, any they've updated the case. They're on P183 V3 now. I'll check it out right now. lol

 

[FreakingHell]

I also second the Antec. I loved the P182.

 

[Ph?bus]

Yeah, basically what is normally on the back is now up top (the theory is that heat rises, so in-taking at the bottom and exhausting at the top will be more efficient. Good theory but it proves to not make a huge difference. Still awesome cases though.

I've never made a build with the FT03 but I have with the FT02 and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Apparently the FT03 is a mATX case. I never knew that. Hmm.

Seems like a neat idea. But the mATX-only is kind of a killer, lol. I want to do a build with it, though. Seems very innovative. Gotta ask my rich friends if they want a new computer.

The FT02 is like $250 + shipping. :/

Also, after looking at the P183, it looks kind of cramped, and that airflow would be an issue.

 

[CrossCheck]

right at your budget limit...if it was my choice this would be the on i would get. but i am kinda biased towards cooler master

COOLER MASTER ATCS 840

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119187

or the silverstone RV-02 because of its innovative design but is over your sub-$200 range

 

[Mr.Game]

Have you seen the Antec Lanboy Air?

I've seen good reviews for it, the only downside is if you live in a dusty area...


Quick question, does a removable motherboard tray make a difference?

 

[FreakingHell]

I've wanted to try that ATCS 840 out for a while now. Looks really good.

 

[Ph?bus]

Have you seen the Antec Lanboy Air?

I've seen good reviews for it, the only downside is if you live in a dusty area...


Quick question, does a removable motherboard tray make a difference?

I don't care for that case, too flashy. lol.

Not too much. I can live without one.

 

[Mr.Game]

Zalman GS1000

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iF3QncmBQt8"]Video Review of Zalman GS1000[/ame]

It's a very thought out case, all that's missing is the removable motherboard tray and front fans.



EDIT: I'm heading off, but I'll link you more choices once I get back online tomorrow if need be.

 

[reflex99]

Ft-02

 

[anomaly]

I have a Fractal Define XL. Can't hear anything inside it I can only hear my 140mm side fan that i mounted for more influx of air (had to remove a sound isolation brick, that's why :thumbup1. It's a great chassi imo, just a lil bit heavy.

Link: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...5&cm_re=fractal_design-_-11-352-005-_-Product

Removable Mobo tray, 7 fan places, removable HDD cage, quiet and just awesome

 

[Sn1PeR]

I was just about to suggest Fractal cases. Looks like a lot of bang for your buck.

http://www.fractal-design.com/?view=product&category=2&prod=55

 

[mad pistol]

I'll vote again for the Fractal Design Define XL. The only issue with it is that it's steel and not aluminum. If you want a high strength aluminum case, Lian-Li is the best manufacturer for that.

 

[Ph?bus]

I have a Fractal Define XL. Can't hear anything inside it I can only hear my 140mm side fan that i mounted for more influx of air (had to remove a sound isolation brick, that's why :thumbup1. It's a great chassi imo, just a lil bit heavy.

Link: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...5&cm_re=fractal_design-_-11-352-005-_-Product

Removable Mobo tray, 7 fan places, removable HDD cage, quiet and just awesome

I'd probably get the R3 just because I don't need a full sized tower.
How is the airflow without the side fan?

 

[anomaly]

The airflow was decent before I installed the side fan. Install another fan in the front and you likely won't have any problems with cooling.

XL is great, but if you don't need a full-size that weighs at 30-35kg when all the components are installed go for the R3

 

[Mr.Game]

This is honestly the first time I've heard of Fractal Design.

If anyone has a background for them, I'd be more than happy to hear.
Their website has no information that I could find.
(PM me please, I'm a nut for information like this)


I love the look of their cases, reminds me of the P180 from the design, so basic.