Help choosing pc case.

[xAshes]

The main things im looking for in a pc case are portability and cooling. After looking around a bit I thought I was fully decided on getting the HAF XM, however, I am having second thoughts as I am unsure as to how easy it will be to transport to and from university due to its size. Can anybody recommend an alternative case which provides similar cooling and features but is more portable.

Another option I saw was the fractal design arc midi r2, is this a good alternative case?

[DavidM]

What motherboard size are you thinking of? Mini, Micro or standard ATX?

[xAshes]

Standard ATX

[Octodog]

Edit: Man did I take ages to write not a lot.

In terms of portability, most mid-tower cases are going to be the same. Sure it's potentially a bit cumbersome when initially transporting, but once it's in, it's in.
The case is actually a lot easier to transport than the monitor and other peripherals..

[xAshes]

So do you think I should stop looking for a smaller case and just stick with the one I initially chose (HAF XM) as they would all pretty much be as annoying as each other to transport?

[Octodog]

I'd say don't worry about logistics, and get the case you'd be most happy with for your build, in terms of aesthetics and suitability.
I got a dog-ugly case before because it was cheap and small. Hated it since day 1 (it made me bleed).

Sorry that I haven't really helped you choose which case to get, but I think cases are a very subjective thing and to each their own.
Good luck choosing, and I hope you are happy with whatever you get!

[xAshes]

I think i'd be happiest with the HAF XM so I guess i'll just stick with that one, Thanks for your help

[Octodog]

You're welcome. I hope it works out well for you!
That all said and done, I'm aiming for my next build to be in one of these (or similar)!

[xAshes]

Wow thats a pretty small case. I saw the HAF XB which looks similar to that but personally I don't like the looks of it.

[ekamdeep]

get a corsair 600d

[th3_f15t]

I transport my PC about weekly, and I have a Cooler Master HAF 912 Plus. I'm switching to a Corsair 350D this week as it's slightly smaller and lighter, but has far better cooling (water cooling potential). Downside is it's mATX/Mini-ITX only but this suits myself fine.

[xAshes]

Ok, I never thought to measure my desk before planning for a case and have found that the XM is too big for my desk. Does anybody know if the fractal design arc midi R2 is a good case to go with?

[mikeo01]

Sorry can't provide many cases, bottom line is ATX motherboards cases comply to standards so they are all similar to transport. Those extra features such as being light or handles/wheels make life easier.

Here's a nice case however this is on a personal level http://www.bitfenix.com/global/en/pr...ssis/survivor/.

Some less known manufacturers can provide some great alternatives if you shop around, although you will want to check their features

[Pob255]

Well a lot will depend on what you actually want to put in it.

A full ATX case is going to limit you, an mATX or mini-itx would be better for a smaller case

For ATX I would suggest the HAF 912+ or storm enforcer (both use the same internal frame) great for air cooling in a relatively small size
the Arc midi r2 would also be a good choice
For a cheaper case the casecom CS14 is a good option http://www.ebuyer.com/390899-casecom-cs-14-case-cs-14

You can get smaller eg the xcase x2-mpc http://www.xcase.co.uk/X-Case-X2-MPC...-xc-xpc-br.htm althpough the cooling is not going to be as good.
But it really depends on what you plan to put in it.