Sub-$50 Case Conundrum

[zantaff]

I've been looking at cases, and I've found 4 sub-$50 cases I like.
One main feature that I'm looking for is the painted interior.
Side window would be a plus, but it's not necessary, since I can make one myself.

The challenge is now, which to pick?
Which do you think is the best, based on price & features?

Rosewill CHALLENGER ~ $49 on eBay

COOLER MASTER Elite 430 ~ $45 on Newegg

Xigmatek ASGARD II ~ $34 on eBay

XION XON-180 ~ $35 on Newegg ($25 with $10 mail in rebate)

Let the battle begin.

 

[claptonman]

The Rosewill. Look at the pics on the inside. There are holes where you can route your cables through and increase your airflow. Here's an example with that case:

The other cases do not provide that.

 

[zantaff]

The Rosewill. Look at the pics on the inside. There are holes where you can route your cables through and increase your airflow. Here's an example with that case:

The other cases do not provide that.

So, the cable management is very important :/

In that case, would the ZALMAN ZM-Z9 U3 be a good buy? It's only $48 after rebate on Newegg.

 

[zantaff]

Ok now it's defintally between these two cases:
Both have wire routing, 2 side panels, 3 Pre-installed fans.

ZALMAN ZM-Z9 U3 $48 (after rebate)
Pros:
Front pannel display
Side Window

Cons:
A bit more expensive
Mail in rebates are VERY sketchy.

Rosewill CHALLENGER-U3 $40
Pros:
Screw-less features
Less expensive

Cons:
No real cons, just a few less features than the Z9

 

[daisymtc]

ZALMAN Z5 is just $30 after rebate...

 

[zantaff]

ZALMAN Z5 is just $30 after rebate...

Not to be rude, but I think it looks kinda silly.

 

[Darren]

Rosewill Challenger is a great case for how cheap it is. +1 for it. I used to have one.

 

[NyxCharon]

I vote Zalman. I have the Z11(Yes I know that's not one of your choices) and I love it.

 

[SuperDuperMe]

I have Z11 Plus and it is fantastic Cannot recommend enough.

 

[kdfresh09]

+1 on the rosewill. i did a build with it 3 times, and cable management is good for the price, and is a solid case. :good:

 

[claptonman]

Pretty much, either case will do. Go with the one you think looks best.

 

[Darren]

If it makes any difference I just built a system in a Challenger today (my old case, friend bought it off me). Was pretty easy and worked great. Cable management was really good for how cheap the case was. Honestly don't know about the other case but the Challenger is a great solid case.

 

[Darren]

Picture of cable management with Challenger.

I honestly don't care which you get but just showing you what it's capable of. Personally I like the visual look of the Zalman better. Love myself some side windows.