How to Buy a New Case for Your Computer

A computer case protects the internal components of your maching from damage. It provides space for bays, power supply points and ports. You need to buy a case if you feel that the older one is worn out. Computer cases come in various shapes and designs. Replacing your computer case is often called Case Modding (modification). Here's how to buy a new case.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Selecting a New Case

1. Check the size and configuration of your computer. Select a computer case that exactly fits your motherboard and all other parts.

2. Ensure that the case has a sufficient number of drive bays and expansion slots to meet your current and future needs. Remember there are usually four 5.25 inch and three 3.5 inch expansion bays in common computer cases.

3. Decide on the material of the case. Computer cases are mostly made of steel or aluminum and some consist of acrylic glass. Select a durbale material that will not interfere with your computer's efficiency.

4. Select the type of case you need. There are three main types: mini tower, mid-size tower and the full-sized tower. There are also horizontal desktop and slimline desktop varieties.

5. Choose from the wide range of colors available in the market. Most common colors are white and black. Note that the price increases if you choose an unusual or darker color.

6. Before purchasing, decide the amount you can allocate for a new computer case.

7. Learn more about prices and features of various computer cases by referring to online buyers’ guides. Browse through reviews and compare pricing. Some popular buyers’ guides include NexTag, Windows Marketplace, MySimon and Epinions (see Resoures below).

8. Browse through blogs and tech discussion forums. These are good avenues for gathering more information on features and trends in computer cases.

9. Buy a case after comparing prices in different online and offline stores. Search for online vendors using search engines like Google or Yahoo!. Amtrade, FIC, Foxconn, Soyo, Sunus and Suntek are some of the companies that offer cases for computers. Also try eBay and Amazon. Browse through popular online stores such as CompUSA, Best Buy and Circuit City (see Resources below).

10. Decide on your payment options which include credit card and PayPal. Confirm your choice with the vendor before purchase.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that buying fancy or theme-based cases can be expensive.
• For a Mac, buy a case from the Apple Web site.
• Check the warranty and building materials before buying.