Expert: Bobbert - 5/9/2009

Question
I'm planning to buy a new computer which would last me around 5 years in the future.

What i mean by lasting 5 years is CPU's, VGA's, Motherboards are getting smaller and faster and more powerful, so i don't want my computer case to be limited, i want a computer case that can meet the standards of future components.

Now i know when i buy my computer case others would make a case better and my case would be old.

Also i want my case to be reliable, have enough space, very good cooling system, easy access to computer parts, etc...

At the moment i'm leaning towards the Thermaltake Xaser VI LCS because the quality is good along with good cooling system and easy removable motherboard tray, good cable management, but the price in Australia is $439

I have these choices:

1. Cooler Master Stacker 832 SE
2. Cooler Master Storm Sniper
3. Thermaltake Xaser VI LCS
4. Thermaltake Soprano FX
5. Cooler Master HAF RC-932

Answer
Generally there is no worry about physical compatability, as all motherboards have been (for the better part of two decades) and will continue to be (For the forseeable future) ATX standard, nothing is truly getting "smaller" in the personal computer market. Graphics cards, if anything, have gotten considerably larger over time (due to more complex processors requiring ever more-exotic cooling and power solutions), and CPUs remain generally unchanged (although their compatability is entirely determined by motherboard selection).

Regarding "reliability", I'm unsure what you're attemping to say, the case is a non-powered, generally non-mechanical component, for lack of a better expression, it "just sits there looking smug". If cooling fan longetivity is your goal, generally a few years is a fair run from a cooling fan in a normal environment, and replacement costs are low (a few dollars per fan).

Regarding cable management, this is more on you, the system builder, to implement, and not the case's design, granted, a small, cramped case will hamper this ability, but very few enclosures include a true "cable management" system (and generally these "advances" are about a pound of cheap plastic which falls apart within a year or two).

It has been my experience that Lian-Li and Silverstone produce some of the better crafted cases of our day, all of the removable parts are precision cut (for example removable mainboard trays), and generally the "fit" is excellent. Thermaltake is generally a hit or miss, some of their products have excellent "fit" and quality, while others are plastic clad and not very impressive. You may also look at Hiper and Zalman, although I have little experience with either as a case manufacturer (I still wouldn't have a problem suggesting them, based on their general product quality and the impressive offerings they've made thus far in the casing market).

-bob