Searching for a unit featuring both high and low radiator support.
Searching for a unit featuring both high and low radiator support.
Hi everyone,
I've been getting a bit frustrated trying to find a case that fits all my requirements:
Top radiator support (minimum 240mm)
Bottom fan support (at least 2x120mm)
Windowed (TG preferred)
*Optional* I'd like it to be white, though not strictly necessary
I'm planning an mATX build, so clearance shouldn't be a major constraint since most ATX cases accommodate mATX systems.
I'll be using a watercooled setup with the res+pump combination in front of the case, leaving the top and bottom areas open for radiators.
My idea is that the lower fans will draw air into the case while the upper ones expel it.
Thanks for any advice or suggestions—especially if you think my cooling plan is totally unrealistic.
Cheers!
Your choices are greatly restricted when trying to find a TG side panel. There aren't any available. You might consider the Fractal Define S, R5, or the Phanteks Enthoo Primo, but none of them offer TG options. It could be worth exploring aftermarket modifications through modding.
I don't see a clear slam dunk for what you're describing, but there are some elements that get near the point:
■ Corsair Carbide Air 740 (excellent top and bottom air flow)
■ InWin 301 (particularly suitable for mATX even though it's an ATX case)
■ Thermaltake Core P5 (completely different)
Your choices are quite restricted when trying to find options with a TG side panel. In reality, there aren't any available. You might consider the Fractal Define S, R5, or the Phanteks Enthoo Primo, though none of them offer TG variants. It could be possible to create an aftermarket solution through modding.
You might want to review your system's full specifications and the cooling components you've chosen. Remember, optimal mounting points are external, not internal, which helps ensure the radiator gets the best airflow for cooler temperatures and improved heat management.
TG isn't essential for me. It would be a nice addition, at most. I suppose it's something I could consider if needed. Not something I can easily implement by replacing an acrylic panel with glass.
The Enthoo Primo seems suitable, but it would require a lot of work. Imagine swapping an mATX motherboard into it :lol.
The Define S is the best fit according to your suggestion, except for supporting only one fan at the bottom.
On the other hand, I reviewed the Define R5 based on your advice and it appears to be a strong option.
I did some research and examining these images suggests that removing the front drive cages would expose a bottom designed for two 120mm fans and a short power supply. What are your thoughts? I’d probably need to measure carefully before deciding, but it looks promising.
Regarding the external mounting of the radiators, I’m not sure what you mean. Would that mean the top radiator sits outside the case rather than inside? That would be feasible, though keeping dust out while fans run would be tricky. It’s something I’d want to explore further.
I don’t see a clear winner for what you’re talking about, though there are some elements that get close:
- Corsair Carbide Air 740 (great airflow on top and bottom)
- InWin 301 (works well even in ATX cases)
- Thermaltake Core P5 (completely different)
Beyond the look (which isn’t really my thing), the 740 is actually a solid choice. It offers plenty of space, good fan and heat dissipation support, and the side panel design can be useful (just a little tease).
I know you won’t get this information easily, so please accept my thanks for considering these alternatives. I have to admit, I don’t like InWin’s branding at all—especially their logo everywhere.
The P5 is another one I often think about. It has beautiful glass and a nice design, but the maintenance and dust issues are a big deal. I find it hard to handle that kind of upkeep.
Anyway, I’ll keep the 740 in mind and might look into some mod ideas for it.