Running a PC without case panels on

[CPUzX]

Does a closed case improve & assist airflow to all of the individual components, as opposed to running a PC with its side panels off?

With the side panels off, could this improve the airflow to the system, or decrease fan performance? Thanks!

 

[Math Geek]

a closed system will allow the fans to create the airflow pattern it was designed to provide. it may or may not be good enough depending on what is installed.

opening the case will keep this flow from happening. it might make it better but may make it worse depending on the air it is getting from the room. it would probably help in a bad airflow situation but will probably hurt if your case is doing it's job and moving air correctly already.

i have seen many people in the past open a case and point a fan at it in the summer when temps were hard to control. this of course helps a lot since it introduces a much bigger fan to the picture.

 

[inerax]

Does a closed case improve & assist airflow to all of the individual components, as opposed to running a PC with its side panels off?

With the side panels off, could this improve the airflow to the system, or decrease fan performance? Thanks!

They make open air cases. I ran an antec 800 case with no side panel for months with no problems.

I do prefer the panel on because it does direct the air better. Mine flows from front to back. But in the end, as long as stuff stays cool you will be ok.

Why do you ask?