Closed or Open Cases

[Mind_001]

I have been looking at this for awhile, and I want to get nitty and gritty here. This is more a discussion than a support question. Mods, move as you see fit.

 

What are the difference between closed cases and open cases (like testing benches or just cases with no strings attached)

 

I am sure dust can be a big thing. But other than that, is there a great difference?

 

I mean an open air case can cool your entire board. Just be sure to air/water cool your CPU/GPU.

 

Thoughts?

[Dissitesuxba11s]

Dust and physical protection mainly. Watercooling wise, test benches do not have the best options for radiator mounting, often leaving you the option of just having it lay there.

[FuzzyLogic]

Open air test benches make it easier to cool everything and swap out hardware, but can be louder and dust can settle easily. Regular cases are warmer, more cramped, quieter, and don't have as much dust as long as you use fan filters.

[Mind_001]

I have a lot of Fractal Design Define NanoS/R5/R6 cases. And I love them, just was wondering what a open frame would do to me vs closed.