CM 690 - still decent case?

[zxnet2k]

Hi guys,

I've been looking around at cases for my new build and came across the CM - 690 - review can be found here -

// hexus.net/content/item.php?item=10255

Looking at a few reviews it seems pretty good, plenty of space, simple tool free fittings and good airflow. However I noticed that the price of this case is pretty much the same as back in 2007 when it came out and from when most of the reviews are posted.

Is this still a decent case to buy for the money, or have there been any newer versions or alternatives for the same money which can outperform it?

[TheChamp1000]

Hi guys,

I've been looking around at cases for my new build and came across the CM - 690 - review can be found here -

// hexus.net/content/item.php?item=10255

Looking at a few reviews it seems pretty good, plenty of space, simple tool free fittings and good airflow. However I noticed that the price of this case is pretty much the same as back in 2007 when it came out and from when most of the reviews are posted.

Is this still a decent case to buy for the money, or have there been any newer versions or alternatives for the same money which can outperform it?

I have just ordered this for my build just now.
They have just released the coolermaster scout which is around £80 that looks not too bad and is reviewing pretty well.

I was going for the hiper osiris or the coolermaster 690, the osiris is about 25-30 more expensive though and if I was considering that at about £90 I am sure I would have to look at the whole range of cases at £90. At £60 pounds I think it is still good. Also bear in mind the poor pound is keeping a lot of components at the same prices as last year. The q6600 processor is about £150-160 at the moment!!

[zxnet2k]

Yeah I've started to notice a lot of components seem to have kept their pricing consistent over the past year, and looking at this case - it seems to have a lot going for it, especially for the price.

The only thing that concerned me was the PSU that was located at the base of the case rather than the top - could this cause any potential heat or noise problems?

[drisie]

The 690 is very good case for the price

[handscombmp]

I've got it and i'm very happy with it.
My only small quibbles with it, is because the PSU is at the bottom you need alot of cable on the 12v connector to hide it under the back of the mobo tray. Mine just fits but it involved really streching it out.
Also the fan on the left can make a really horid sound as it seems to resonate with the side panel. I've just turned the speed down in the mobo but i may by some rubber padding.

Also if you do buy it just beware you'll need some 90 angle sata connectors for the HDD.

[zxnet2k]

Have you ever had any airflow or heating problems from having the PSU at the bottom?

[rkingb]

I've had a 590 for three months or so with no problems. Very similar case to the 690 and about £10 cheaper.