possible dumb question: what's up with expensive cases?

[Radboy]

aluminum cases (which are expensive) are popular with LAN-partiers, cuz they're lighter, and therefore easier to carry.

they're also easiest to mod (it's easier to cut aluminum than steel) .. but most importantly, they simply look cooler than boring beige cases.

 

[AMDPwred]

I got my AntecSX1030 because I like how big it is (room to work in), it cools very well, and it looks nice. The price wasn't bad either, about $99 when I got it.

 

[RC5Bri]

When I built my first computer, I went for the $40 case. Initially, it seemed like a decent case, but it had poor airflow, and was made cheaply. The backend of the case would vibrate, and make the most annoying buzzing sound. I tried making sure all the screws were tight, and they were. So I ended up placing "paper shims" between the backplate to stop it vibrating.

Then I got the Antec830, and was amazed at how sturdy it was. Plus, it can easily accomdate 4 fans. I learned the hard way, buy a cheap case, and then buy an expensive case. I will definitely use this case again, the next time I upgrade/rebuild my computer.

You get what you pay for.

 

[CraigRT]

I spent about $150 CAD on my SX1030B - why? because it has a kick ass power supply, kick ass build quality, kick ass functionality, kick ass looks. I love this case.

 

[Smbu]

<< When I built my first computer, I went for the $40 case. Initially, it seemed like a decent case, but it had poor airflow, and was made cheaply. The backend of the case would vibrate, and make the most annoying buzzing sound. I tried making sure all the screws were tight, and they were. So I ended up placing "paper shims" between the backplate to stop it vibrating.

Then I got the Antec830, and was amazed at how sturdy it was. Plus, it can easily accomdate 4 fans. I learned the hard way, buy a cheap case, and then buy an expensive case. I will definitely use this case again, the next time I upgrade/rebuild my computer.

You get what you pay for. >>



Exactly, my first case I bought myself was some cheapo $9.99(and a cheapo 250W bought for another $10) that put a few cuts into me. Then I moved to an Antec SX1030B which was a nice case. I've since moved on to my Al. Coolermaster ATC-210 (for just under $300:Q:Q:Q) and I much happier than I was with either of those other cases. It's much easier to work in and with than either of my other cases. I've since added in an Enermax EG651P-VE (550W) psu along with a window in the side panel and I think it looks awesome.
I'm not even sure if I would have been able to cut into that SX1030B with my little Dremel, but Aluminum is very easy to work with, modding wise.

 

[LoneWolf1]

<< That said, I know lots of people spend lots of money on good cases, so I want to know why? What am I missing out on? >>

The way I see it is, unlike the components in my rig that will get upgraded constantly, I plan on using the same case (Directron D30b) for a few years. I figure I might as well spend the money on a quality case right now so that's one less upgrade to be wanting in the near future.