HTPC case choices - Silverstone / At-Tech etc...

Borris · 2 Apr 2006 at 18:24

I'm about to start building a new HTPC, and, as usual, it's all about what it looks like.

The Silverstone LC18 and LC20M look good, but I'm concerned that the case itself is just bog standard folded aluminium, and might look a bit cheap when it's put next to my other HT kit. How do they match up in terms of quality?

I've also looked at the A-Tech 3000 and 4000 heatsink cases. They both look the absolute mutts nuts, but they only appear to be available in the US, and the price is steep for a case on its own ($800 for the spec I would like, plus $100+ for shipping. And an extra 17.5%+ for import & VAT).

All of the images for the coolermaster and thermaltake boxes make them look a bit tinny too - Again, what are people's thoughts on this?

Noni · 2 Apr 2006 at 18:29

What about that Zalman one?

Yewen · 2 Apr 2006 at 18:42

You have just about said it all already, but the Silverstone cases are not bad at all really, look much nicer in the flesh. And for the money comparatively at least they are about as good as they come.

I am looking at getting either a LC12 or a LC09 for a silent download build, but I can never seem to find them in stock in a shop to take a look, with the more popular versions you may be able to get some hands on with them, and it is always worth doing when trying a case.

james.miller · 3 Apr 2006 at 09:09

wel they shouldn't be. My lc03 has an aluminium front and a steel case. Makes for a much sturdier case anyhow. The steel top and sides feels far weightier that any alu. panels. I cant imagine the 18 or the 20 are any different looking at the photos.

Dont like the look of those atechs either.

edit: my mistake, the panels are 1mm alu. my lc03 uses 1mm secc steel. whatever cases you get though, they do look very good.