How to Choose a Form Factor for a New Computer

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Introduction/Summary

Instructions

1.  Decide where you will put the computer chassis and monitor, and what size monitor you will use. 

2.  Look for at least 1 open drive bay and 4 open expansion slots. Make sure manufacturers' specifications of bays and slots do not include those already in use or internal bays with no front access.

3.  Buy a mini-tower (also called "mid-tower") for versatility, flexibility, and upgradability.

4.  Buy a tower if you plan to install many drives and cards and need a more industrial product.

5.  Buy a stub chassis if price is more important than upgradability or reliability.

6.  Buy a desktop chassis if price is more important than upgradability or reliability, and you wish to put a small (14" or 15") monitor on top of it.

7.  Buy a slimline desktop chassis if space is more important than any other consideration, such as for use in an RV.

8.  Understand that stub chassis, often called "micro-towers," and desktop chassis lack sufficient internal space to prevent components from overheating.

9.  Expect a consumer-model "designer" case to contain proprietary floppy drives and other proprietary parts, often including a CD or DVD drive built into the case.

10. Buy a computer with an integrated monitor for special space and transportation needs, such as a college student frequently moving from one small room to another.

11. Make sure a computer with an integrated monitor has swivel and monitor height adjustments.

12. Expect a mini-tower to retain functionality for 4-6 years; expect smaller and integrated chassis to retain functionality for up to 3 years. 

Tips

1.  A mini-tower can be placed on a desk, in a desk cutout area, or on the floor. 

2.  Slimline-chassis models are halfway between a desktop and a laptop computer. 

3.  People who never expect to upgrade their computers often discover that they would like to add new technology without having to buy a new machine. 

Warnings

1.  Computers with built-in monitors have more heat-caused hardware problems than any other design, and are the most difficult to transport to a service center. 

2.  If you have a computer with a built-in monitor, you cannot upgrade each piece separately. When either piece needs a repair that isn't cost-effective, you will need to buy a new computer and monitor. 

3.  Small, cramped computers may have drives mounted on their sides, which hampers usability and reliability. 

4.  Smaller and more proprietary designs have much higher parts and labor costs than average. This is especially true of Macintosh computers.