Question Overwhelmed with case choices for new pc

[GregP74]

I've got another build coming up. I'll have an AMD 7800X3D cpu air cooled with either a Noctua D-15 or U-12a. I'll be using a full ATX (not EATX) motherboard, and a big 342mm (3 or 4 slot -- can't remember) sized GPU.

I'd like some recommendations for a high quality case. Not really worried about the cost as long as it's not outlandish. My last build used a Fractal North XL. It's nice but this new one is going to go on a desk rather than the floor and I think something a little shorter may be more appropriate.

I'm going to want something with good airflow. I know those cpus don't run too hot but I am kind of concerned about this 4000 series GPU. I'd kind of like something with bottom intakes so I could blow some air directly into it. I keep reading and watching these case reviews and they've got my head spinning. To be honest I'm probably over thinking things. The reviews are awful nit-picky and most of the negatives they talk about probably wouldn't affect me too much, but I don't want to make a bad decision.

 

[Lutfij]

Lian-Li;

O11 VISION - LIAN LI is a Leading Provider of PC Cases | Computer Cases

3 SIDES OF GLASS COLUMNLESS DESIGN ENHANCED MODULARITY 3 SPACES FOR RADIATORS 5 DRIVES CAPACITY CABLE MANAGEMENT FRIENDLY IN COLLABORATION WITH PCMR LIAN LI joins forces with PC Master Race (PCMR) to present the O11 Vision. By combining LIAN LI's expertise in crafting high-quality, feature-rich...

lian-li.com

LANCOOL 216 - LIAN LI is a Leading Provider of PC Cases | Computer Cases

LANCOOL 216 AIRFLOW FOCUS The LANCOOL 216 is a mainstream case that features all-around mesh panels for optimal airflow. Thanks to its modular rear panel, it can be optimized for air cooling or water cooling. It includes 2 x 160mm and 1 x 140mm pre-installed PWM fans and an innovative rear PCIe...

lian-li.com

O11D EVO RGB Automobili Lamborghini Edition - LIAN LI is a Leading Provider of PC Cases | Computer Cases

https://youtu.be/RyFA3okK2ow Driven by performance and innovation, Automobili Lamborghini and LIAN LI have joined forces to engineer a masterpiece that epitomizes the relentless pursuit of perfection. The fusion of performance and state-of-the-art technology is a testament to your impeccable...

lian-li.com

^
https://www.newegg.com/p/2AM-000Z-000D5
?

 

[GregP74]

Lian-Li;

O11 VISION - LIAN LI is a Leading Provider of PC Cases | Computer Cases

3 SIDES OF GLASS COLUMNLESS DESIGN ENHANCED MODULARITY 3 SPACES FOR RADIATORS 5 DRIVES CAPACITY CABLE MANAGEMENT FRIENDLY IN COLLABORATION WITH PCMR LIAN LI joins forces with PC Master Race (PCMR) to present the O11 Vision. By combining LIAN LI's expertise in crafting high-quality, feature-rich...

lian-li.com

LANCOOL 216 - LIAN LI is a Leading Provider of PC Cases | Computer Cases

LANCOOL 216 AIRFLOW FOCUS The LANCOOL 216 is a mainstream case that features all-around mesh panels for optimal airflow. Thanks to its modular rear panel, it can be optimized for air cooling or water cooling. It includes 2 x 160mm and 1 x 140mm pre-installed PWM fans and an innovative rear PCIe...

lian-li.com

O11D EVO RGB Automobili Lamborghini Edition - LIAN LI is a Leading Provider of PC Cases | Computer Cases

https://youtu.be/RyFA3okK2ow Driven by performance and innovation, Automobili Lamborghini and LIAN LI have joined forces to engineer a masterpiece that epitomizes the relentless pursuit of perfection. The fusion of performance and state-of-the-art technology is a testament to your impeccable...

lian-li.com

^
https://www.newegg.com/p/2AM-000Z-000D5
?

Thanks that Lancool 216 was one on my list to check out further. I'm kind of iffy on the O11 but it's nice looking too.

 

[JohnBonhamsGhost]

I'd like some recommendations for a high quality case

my go to cases for the last couple years have been the:
be quiet! Silent Base 802
and the Lian Li LanCool III

the be quiet! Shadow Base 800 is currently going for ~$80 on Amazon and is a very nice option at that price.

 

[GregP74]

my go to cases for the last couple years have been the:
be quiet! Silent Base 802
and the Lian Li LanCool III

the be quiet! Shadow Base 800 is currently going for ~$80 on Amazon and is a very nice option at that price.

Thanks will check those out as well.

 

[faalin]

Ive built 3 computers at work in the NZXT H5 flow case and was really impressed with it

Amazon

 

[GregP74]

Ive built 3 computers at work in the NZXT H5 flow case and was really impressed with it

Amazon

I haven't looked at that one yet, but the H6 Flow did catch my eye.

 

[Zerk2012]

Thanks that Lancool 216 was one on my list to check out further. I'm kind of iffy on the O11 but it's nice looking too.

I have the 216 great case. Buy the extra dust filter for the front.

FRONT DUST FILTER (LAN216-2) - LIAN LI is a Leading Provider of PC Cases | Computer Cases

LANCOOL 216 Dust Filter Kit LAN216-2X/2W High density magnetic filter for LANCOOL 216 front mesh panel, brings the dust filteration to the next level. AVAILABLE IN TWO COLORS Black BUY NOW White BUY NOW SIMPLE INSTALL AND REMOVE PROCESS The dust filter is easily to install and remove for...

lian-li.com

 

[GregP74]

I am kind of digging that Nzxt H6 Flow case. I'm not seeing much about air cooled builds in those. Have any of you guys done it?

 

[geofelt]

In the past, I had to find a case with a depth of 16" or less.
That is 406mm.
You will be hard pressed to find such a case today that will fit on your desk normally.
Probably the best one I can think of is the lian li air mini:
https://www.newegg.com/p/2AM-000Z-00080

It is 400mm deep.
The two front 140mm intakes should be able to supply sufficient airflow for the NH-D15 as well as a beefy graphics card.

What is the graphics card that you have in mind?

 

[GregP74]

In the past, I had to find a case with a depth of 16" or less.
That is 406mm.
You will be hard pressed to find such a case today that will fit on your desk normally.
Probably the best one I can think of is the lian li air mini:
https://www.newegg.com/p/2AM-000Z-00080

It is 400mm deep.
The two front 140mm intakes should be able to supply sufficient airflow for the NH-D15 as well as a beefy graphics card.

What is the graphics card that you have in mind?

The graphics card that'll be going in there is a Gigabyte Aorus 4070 Master (I think that's the name) that's 342mm long.

As far as the air cooler goes I'm debating between the NH-D15 and the U-12A. (I've got both sitting around. The 12 may be a little easier to cram in there.)

Funny you mention the Air Mini. I was just looking at those as well. My idea for that was 140mm intakes on the front as well as 2 on the bottom, with 1x120mm exhaust on the back. (Nothing on the side.)

 

[GregP74]

To be honest, I've been building PCs for 35 years and I kind of miss some of those simple old cases from the 80s and 90s.

I don't need all those RGB things and would be totally fine with something that just had mesh or solid sides and no windows. I know there are plenty of SFF ones but I'm not so sure about one that would fit the hardware I need to cram in there.

 

[geofelt]

I think I would just try the fans and arrangement that come with the case.
I have doubts that more fans on the bottom would help.
If after you build, you can always add them later.

If your ram has tall heat spreaders, the NH-U12a might be the better choice.

 

[JohnBonhamsGhost]

I don't need all those RGB things and would be totally fine with something that just had mesh or solid sides and no windows

the Phanteks Enthoo Pro II(Closed Panel) is a very nice option

I think something a little shorter may be more appropriate

i definitely wouldn't call it short though

 

[GregP74]

the Phanteks Enthoo Pro II(Closed Panel) is a very nice option


i definitely wouldn't call it short though

Wow! That's quite a case!

I swear I'm like a kid in a candy store looking at all of these and thinking "I like this one...wait no this one! This one!" while going in completely different directions.

 

[JohnBonhamsGhost]

if you may be looking for something a bit more retro,
i always liked this Cooler Master:
the CM 690 III.

it may be difficult to find these days though.
i built a friend a system in one of these ~6 years ago and have just kept the link thinking i may try with another build some day.

a big 342mm (3 or 4 slot -- can't remember) sized GPU

removing the drive cage(s) allowed a rather long, ~360mm if i remember correctly, GPU to be installed.

 

[TeamRed2024]

I've got another build coming up. I'll have an AMD 7800X3D cpu air cooled with either a Noctua D-15 or U-12a. I'll be using a full ATX (not EATX) motherboard, and a big 342mm (3 or 4 slot -- can't remember) sized GPU.

Montech King 95 Pro

Comes with 6 RGB fans and is big enough for that Noctua. The non-Pro version doesn't come with any and is the worse buy IMO.

Can't say I was ever a fan of fishtank cases... until now. This thing just rocks. Good airflow and aesthetics. I bought 3 extra fans and swapped the ones that came with the rad for all around RGB.