SPCR

So I decided to ditch the Intel NUC for a desktop replacement and build my own. I don't know that I'll need it but I do like the idea of being able to upgrade

I pretty much decided on the parts, but could use som input regarding a case.

So far my short list is:
- Aerocool DS cube
- Bitfenix Phenom
- Coolermaster SIlencio 352

The Aerocool and Bitfenix are based on looks/design. I just think they look good.

The Coolermaster seems to be a good compromise between price and performance.

Does anyone have any experience with either of these, or have any other recommendations?

hi Boomerang Rapido,
I selected a bitfenix phenom case.

My reasons:
- case as small as possible
- needed microATX because there is no mini ITX motherboard with 4 memory slots
- i love clean front panel without bays (pfront panel and metal case can easily hold damping)
- rear panel can hold _14cm_ fan (I using 14cm AIO with 700rpm 14cm fan)
- top panel can hold 2x12cm (todo: 2x12cm AIO for graphic card)
- need only one SDD + HDD

Of course microATX case is bigger than mini ITX, is it owing by the big fat ATX PSU size definition. -.-

I'm leaning more and more towards the Phenom, mainly based on the looks and size.

The Aerocool seems like a relatively large case due to the layout.

The Phenom has the PSU mounted vertically. Is this a problem? I plan on using the Corsair RM (semi passive) series.

Important is the airflow. I use a Sea Sonic Platinum Series Fanless 460W (SS-460FL2) PSU.

I pasted up every hole and grid in the case, because I don't like computers as vacuum cleaner.
The bottom side of the case where the PSU is located has no dust filter, so I installed an own dust filter.

Now the air flows
from bottom side
through dust filter
through PSU
through case inside
through one and only 14cm FAN on AIO
through AIO cooler
to the outside at rear side.

There is no graphic card installed yet. I will cooling it with 2x12cm AIO at top side with Airflow from in to outside.
We will see how to deal with 230watt graphic card power.

user wrote:Of course microATX case is bigger than mini ITX, is it owing by the big fat ATX PSU size definition. -.-

A mATX motherboard / case does not require a ATX PSU. Besides, ATX PSUs aren't that big and most of the time don't dictate case sizes.