Gone are the days when computer cases were just a place to store hardware components. With custom lighting and other components, users can turn their cases into real works of art. Case modding is the name of the game. Modifying the hardware not only improves the look, but also the performance. Here we show you just how much you can customise your computer.
What is case modding?
The term “case modding” is a combination of “case”, referring to the computer case, and “modding”, short for “modifying”. Case modding is mainly about upgrading the appearance of a computer case. This is usually done by adding powerful hardware and flashy lighting. The goal of a modder is to make the computer shine in an individual style. However, the performance of the system should not be neglected.
Component selection
If you want the perfect light performance for your computer, you need the right selection of components. Define the desired performance requirements before you buy. All necessary components you can find in this article.
Mainboard and CPU
Because the processor is an internal, invisible component, your choice should be based primarily on performance. The motherboard is a different matter: In a case with a glass side panel, it is the most visible part of the case and should therefore meet both functional and aesthetic criteria. Many manufacturers use black mainboards, even for entry-level models.The MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus (AM4) motherboard from AMD allows you to customise your system lighting with the Mystic Light feature, which can be easily controlled via software.
Working memory (RAM)
The RAM is plugged directly onto the mainboard and is therefore clearly visible from the outside. For some time now, RAM from various manufacturers, such as Thermaltake’s TOUGHRAM Z-ONE RGB, have been offering not only maximum performance, but also LEDs that can be controlled directly via software, giving you even more scope for customisation.
Water cooling
When it comes to case modding, water cooling can be by far the most complex and spectacular component in the entire system. The so-called custom water cooling (from English: “custom” = tailor-made) are particularly popular with modders, because with it special and unique effects can be achieved. Circulating cooling fluids, which are provided with color pigments, make the heart of every case modder beat faster. With their water cooling kits, manufacturers like Thermaltake offer you the opportunity to create and assemble a water cooling system yourself that is customized specifically for your system. We explain how to integrate this water cooling set into your PC in this video.The cheaper alternative to a custom water cooling system is the AIO (All-in-One) water cooling system. Thanks to easy installation, this solution is perfect for modding beginners. The Silent Loop 2 from be quiet!offers extremely high cooling performance at very low noise levels. In addition, the pump has RGB lighting that can be customized as needed.
Fan
The airflow is the be-all and end-all of a well put together system. Several fans inside the case are necessary for this. Here, too, there are numerous models that bring both high cooling performance and unique lighting. Fan systems like the be quiet! Light Wings meet all the requirements a modder can have for their fan with sleek RGB lighting and good cooling performance at an extremely low noise level. Just make sure you buy the right size (120mm/140mm) of the cooler so you can build it into your case.
Graphics card
A powerful graphics card is a must for any gaming setup. Modern graphics cards now have an integrated cooling system. The size and appearance of the cooler can vary from model to model. You can also replace the graphics card’s cooler with a custom water cooler and integrate it into the CPU’s cooling circuit. However, if you want to protect yourself in the event of a warranty claim and avoid having your warranty voided by a subsequent modification, you should avoid working on your graphics card. Instead, you can choose from a wide range when you buy and stock up to suit your tastes.Enclosures such as the Silent Base 802 Window from be quiet! allow you to mount your graphics card vertically. For this, you need an additional riser cable to connect the PCI connector to the mainboard.
Case selection
The choice of enclosure should be made depending on the components inside. When planning, make sure that your chosen case supports all the required form factors. We’ve explained what else you should look for when choosing the right PC case in this how-to. It’s important to mention that at least one side panel of the case should be made of glass windows, otherwise the lighting and modding inside will be obscured.For power users who want to do overclocking (OC), the airflow is an important selection criterion in addition to the appearance. For this reason, many modders prefer so-called mesh cases. Here, the air is drawn in directly from the front, which results in optimal air circulation.
As already mentioned is the Silent Base 802 Window a Jack of all trades and combines all the aspects mentioned above, such as glass windows, optics, airflow and acoustics. The special feature of this enclosure is its modularity: with simple handles, for example, the mesh front can be exchanged for acoustic insulation. So you can decide for yourself between good acoustic insulation and good airflow.
LCD inside the case
You can create particularly spectacular and distinctive effects with a self-installed display such as the DEBO LCD 7 HDMI, which you install directly in the case. The display can show animated images or be used as an info panel, depending on your wishes.Some tinkering is required for mounting, since most cases do not have room for a display. Therefore, you have to choose between additional display and rear fans. With a powerful ventilation system, front fans are absolutely sufficient. When it comes to mounting, you can either rely on a double-sided adhesive tape or a proper screw connection. However, you might have to drill holes on your case for a proper screwing. The display also needs to be supplied with power and an HDMI signal. For this, one USB and one HDMI cable each must be connected from the display to the corresponding ports on the outside.
You can set up the display as a second monitor in your Windows settings. If you want to use animated images as your desktop background, we recommend the paid software Wallpaper Engine from Steam. The software library is regularly updated by the community with free wallpapers.
If you prefer to see system information such as CPU usage or GPU temperature instead of wallpapers, you can also use AIDA64.
Again, there is a large community behind the software that provides free templates that you can customise within the software.
If you want even more individuality, you can use a 3D printer to print and install a case for the “naked” display panel, for example.
Conclusion
Case modding requires a lot of work and precise planning. However, if you enjoy tinkering and place a lot of value on aesthetics and individuality at your work or gaming place, you will have a blast, where creativity knows no bounds. You can find a variety of options to customize your PC in the reichelt online store.
