I know this topic has come up plenty before but I'd love to hear some more opinions before I make my mind up.
I'm planning on transplanting this system into a new case:
Core i5-2500K
CM Hyper 212+
1 x 2.5" SSD
3 x 3.5" HDDs
1 x 5.25" ODD
SeaSonic SS-660XP2
I need a new motherboard but I've decided to stay with ATX board rather than downsize, given the following rough requirements:
- Space for at least 3 x 2.5" and 3 x 3.5" drives
- 1+ 5.25" bay
- Space for a fairly tall tower CPU cooler
- Space for a large graphics card
- Good acoustic performance
- Cooling performance that isn't absolutely awful (not a priority)
After doing a fair amount of research, the Fractal Design Define R4 and Corsair Obsidian 550D both look pretty suitable, though the 550D is more expensive (here in the UK, it's about £100 vs the R4's £70).
I like the exterior design of both cases but the 550D seems like it may be better built (aluminium front panel, push-release side panels, and Corsair are well known for making cases that are easy to build in). At the same time, I've read reports that it's not actually well built (such as the AnandTech review). I also saw that the R4's drive cage works well for suspending drives using elastic cord, which I would definitely try if I found the drives to be loud when mounted normally. Can this be done in the 550D?
Not too bothered about the included fans - I'm happy to build the system and see how they sound, and then decide if I want to replace them.
I'd also love to hear of any other case suggestions that people have.
Apologies for the long post, but I want to avoid the hassle of buying a case that I turn out not to like
Cheers