I haven't built my own computer in years and I reckon the next time I get a rig, it might be an Alienware or MSI one. It might cost a few hundred dollars extra to get one of those rigs that's ready to go, but it'll last a good 5 years and will save me a lot of hassle.
Alienware is just overpriced Dell stuff with a "gaming flavour". MSI stuff isn't too bad.
Happy to take any tips you can give Mr I.
You're taking advice from someone that owns a depinning tool (which enables customised heat shrinking / webbing of cables)
Quality parts make a quality machine. Modular power supplies help reduce cable bulk, whilst quality fans move airflow though the case quietly. It all starts with a decent case that leads itself to decent airflow as well as cabling. Airflow is crucial for keeping components cool (hence increasing longevity and reliability). Decent cabling kept out of airflow, means better airflow as well.
Coolermasters Mastercase 5 (or Corsair Obsidian xxxD) cases are a good place to start (depending if you do or don't need optical drives - as Mastercase you need an optional part to fit 5 1/4 drives into them).
Intels Thermal Chassis dynamics (albeit slightly outdated these days), use the principle of air in at the front (and side if possible), and vented both out the rear and top as exhaust. Balance that with decent fans, and if you create the right air pressure in the case, dust will be minimal too.
From there it's just building smart, keeping things as clean and tidy as possible, using the right screws (I've seen this done wrong so many times), and ensuring that the crews ground the motherboard to the chassis/case.
Most of all ensure things are accessible if you ever need to change them/replace them.
I've seen boxes slapped together poorly with cheap parts, or even shit like twisty ties/rubber bands left inside them to try and tidy cables. Those are the worst.
