most important thing about a case

[LORI]

I was having a discussion with a few friends about cases.
What's the most important thing you should look for when
you buy a case? I know power supply is important, but I also
think cooling is important also.

Thanks Lori

[andreadebiase]

If you really want to do a good job you should consider another few things to look at:
1) depending on the CPU (Athlon, Duron...etc.), you want to be sure that the case can accept cooling fans on the front and on the rear panels, in addition to the cpu fan and power supply fan. A good power supply has openings for cooling close to the CPU socket.
2) Power supply: if you go for 300W check that is a REAL 300W and is supplying, for each pin of the power cable, the amperes (A) the motherborad needs.
3) Size of the case: is important, not much for your space, but for the motherboard. I have a mid-tower and I can assure you that of the 3 (5.25) driver bays, I can use only 1 because if I slide another driver on any of the 2 remainig lower bays the back of the driver touches the edge of the motherboard and can`t go further in, basically I should install it "overhanging" the front of the pc. OK, i admit, my case sucks but is ok for me so far cuz i have 1 (5.25 driver). In a few words: if you plan to get a mid-tower be sure that all 5.25 bays CAN be used with a standard motherboard size (advice: if u plan to put many 5.25 drivers i would go with a tower considering the amount of heat produced).
4) Removable bays, no razor sharp corners and edges are all facilitating amenities but not indispensable.
5) ground yourself which ever kind of case you get.