What makes a good PC case?

[Greasy Pommel]

I'm interested in hearing some of your opinions on what makes a good PC case. What's most important to you? Also, how often and why do you "upgrade" your PC case?

I'll share my personal preferences in the comment section.

 

[smorizio]

the best cases are mid and large format for ease of build and room. the newer cases with ssd/hard drive bays that face you and not the rear of the case that takes up video card lenth room. i like newer casesd with glass doors. they let you add led light strip so you dont over do the case with led lighting.i like plastic case if the pc never going to be used for lan or moved. also want cases now with filters for the power supply.

 

[Phillip Corcoran]

Plenty of space for air-flow.
Easily removable side-panels.
Tool-free drive installation.
Avoid "piano black" finish.

Couldn't care less about RGB lighting or any other eye-candy that does zilch for performance.

 

[TrAAst]

Performance, quality and # of included fans.
Cable management.
Tool free.
Radiator support.
Build quality.
Acoustics.
Looks.