(12) To RGB or not to RGB?
RGB lighting is a topic of much debate both at the TechLife office and on every single computer hardware forum in existence. There’s no denying that filling your build to the brim with LEDs can result in a computer that looks like a cross between a sports car and the most expensive Star Trek prop ever, but “expensive” is often the operative word there. It’s tempting, too. RGB coolers and fans are becoming more prevalent, so it’s easy to be drawn in. Those little additions often add up, though.
A pair of premium maglev case fans from Corsair will run to around 60 dollars, while their RGB counterparts cost easily that much for a single fan. Stick-on LED strips aren’t too expensive, but can require expansion kits and RGB controllers that drive up the price. And, of course, you need a case that shows off your multicolored lights – that means tempered glass or even RGB-focused cases, which could result in a less than sensible total cost. At the very least, control software for most branded RGB gear is free to download.
A good rule of thumb when it comes to RGB is to simply ask if you could get the same performance for a cheaper price without the lighting. If you’re going to spend an extra 100 dollars on a case just because of its glass front, consider how much time you’re going to spend looking at your PC against how much time you’re going to spend looking at the screen. Putting that money toward a superior monitor is always going to serve you better, especially if you’re operating on a budget. But if you’ve got the money to burn, or you come across an RGB piece that outperforms one without, go right ahead and turn on the rainbow.