As a seasoned gamer and tech enthusiast with years of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that selecting the right case for your MSI Project Zero build is no small feat. It’s not just about having the correct holes for motherboard trays; it’s about finding the perfect balance between form factor, cooling and airflow, cable management, aesthetics, and, of course, a touch of personal flair.
Introducing a new PC component design can lead to additional modifications being needed in your system setup. In response to the trend for sleek gaming PCs, some manufacturers like Asus, Gigabyte, and MSI have introduced reverse-connect motherboards that help hide cable clutter. Enthusiasts might attempt to customize their current cases, but the ideal Project Zero PC cases emphasize efficient cable management.
For optimal cable management, it’s essential that cases provide enough room to conceal and organize wires as additional cables are routed behind the right panels. Additionally, when choosing a case, don’t overlook important factors like providing adequate ventilation for cooling components. Although the variety of back-connect cases is still modest, you can find different form factors that cater to larger or more compact setups.
Game Rant has hand-picked the top cases that can make messy cabling virtually disappear.
Game Rant’s Best Project Zero PC Cases
Owners of Project Zero motherboards aren’t bound exclusively to MSI cases; however, given its industry prominence, MSI crafted the entirety of the MAG Pano 100L PZ specifically for back-connect motherboards. The MAG Pano 100L PZ is a mid-tower ATX case with two chambers and a 270-degree panoramic view, thanks to tempered glass, making it an ideal choice for builders who wish to display their systems elegantly, without unsightly cables disrupting the aesthetic.
Absolutely, the MAG Pano 100L PZ boasts openings at the back of its motherboard tray to accommodate reverse-mount components effectively. Despite its broad design, it falls short in height for fully supporting E-ATX motherboards. However, it offers an abundance of grommet holes suitable for mini ITX, micro ATX, or standard ATX motherboards, old and new. Notably, MSI has thoughtfully consolidated most front panel connectors into a single cable for improved cable management.
1) The spacious back compartment of the MAG Pano 100L PZ offers a remarkable 90 mm depth. However, installing 3.5″ hard drives using the swinging door could require longer SATA and power cables. On the bright side, swapping out components like the GPU mount is straightforward, with options for both horizontal and vertical configurations. Unfortunately, MSI doesn’t provide a PCIe riser cable with this case, but they do include an optional bracket for accommodating larger, extended graphics cards.
The MAG Pano 100L PZ comes in both white and black options, and it’s a larger variant of the micro ATX Pano M100R PZ. Unlike its smaller counterpart, the 100L PZ does not include any pre-installed fans. However, when it comes to mid-tower cases from MSI, the Project Zero PC case stands out due to its stylish design, robust construction, and ability to accommodate future upgrades.
The Asus A21 offers the advantages of Project Zero motherboards without breaking the bank. Despite its petite size, this mid-tower micro ATX case focuses on organization with 33 mm of space behind the right side for neat cable management. While it doesn’t come with any fans preinstalled, its perforated front mesh panel makes creating an efficient cooling system effortless.
The design of the A21 isn’t overly daring, but it comes in either an all-black or all-white finish. A tempered glass panel graces the left side, but what truly sets it apart is its exceptional ventilation. The case features a fine mesh that covers the entire front panel and edges, while large vents on the back panel release warm air. For a micro ATX case, cooling options are plentiful; buyers can install up to seven 120 mm fans and a 360 mm AIO liquid cooling radiator on both the top and front surfaces.
Each manufacturer uses distinct terminology to denote back-connect motherboard compatibility, with Asus referring to it as BTF (similar to the movie “Back to the Future”). Notably, Asus offers reverse-connect gaming motherboards, and MSI Project Zero models are also suitable for use in the A21 case. Despite a slightly narrower back compartment compared to the MAG Pano 100L PZ, there are ample options available for cable management. Given the growing emphasis on aesthetics in cases, Asus has ensured that front-panel wires come in either black or white. Regrettably, the I/O panel does not incorporate a USB-C port, which may be disappointing considering the case’s modern design.
Another factor to consider with the Asus A21 is that it doesn’t have vertical GPU mounting options. Regardless, with slim choices among back-connect budget cases, the A21 more than satisfies buyers with effortless cable management and high airflow potential.
The Corsair 2500X is another micro ATX case, but unlike the Asus A21, it’s more about style than function. However, its aesthetic is highly customizable, making it suitable for a wide range of tastes. Buyers can swap out the front panel with various wood-toned and metallic options, and this customization extends to the top of the chassis as well. The Corsair 2500X is an attractive choice for those who want a unique case with multiple solutions for cable management.
The 2500X case stands out as being quite spacious, even compared to some mid-tower models. This extra room accommodates GPUs up to 425 mm in length, which is rather uncommon for this particular case size. Moreover, it boasts a generous number of cooling options, enabling users to position nine 120mm fans throughout the casing. In this particular model from the 2500 series, fans and radiators can’t be fitted behind the front panel; instead, they are placed to the right of the motherboard tray. Corsair offers two variations of this case: one emphasizing airflow with a mesh front panel, and another featuring ARGB fans already included.
Primarily, the 2500X model is a two-compartment case that offers complete compatibility for Project Zero and other motherboards designed for reverse connectivity. It accommodates both mini ITX and micro ATX formats, allowing for neat cable management at the rear of the case. Inside, builders will find ample space in the smaller compartment to work comfortably, with grommets and cable ties serving as helpful guides for organizing cables.
The Corsair 2500X comes at a relatively high price point, given that it doesn’t include fans or additional features such as a vertical GPU mounting bracket. However, it undeniably steals the spotlight on any gaming workspace. Furthermore, the modular design of the 2500X allows for customization as the appearance of your setup evolves over time.
In the fiercely competitive market for mid-sized computer cases, the Cooler Master MasterBox 600 aims to overcome the limitations of similar products. Compatible with Project Zero motherboards and offering a wide range of cooling options, this case is well-equipped to take on its competitors. Surprisingly spacious, it comes complete with three 140 mm ARGB fans hidden behind the front panel. Ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking to incorporate contemporary components into their system, the MasterBox 600 is a solid choice.
Despite its conventional design, the MasterBox 600 showcases a unique dual-toned front mesh panel that brings character to it. This fine mesh not only enhances its looks but also efficiently pulls in cool air thanks to potent 140 mm SickleFlow fans. Although swapping out these fans slightly decreases the case’s worth, users have the option to replace them with a liquid cooling radiator up to 420 mm in size. To sweeten the deal, an included ARGB and fan hub can link to other brightly lit fans, minimizing the need for multiple motherboard connectors.
Individuals sticking with SSDs over NVMe will appreciate the case’s ability to house up to six 2.5″ drives. The additional room inside also allows for the MasterBox 600 to accommodate even the longest graphics cards and tall CPU coolers. While full-sized back-connect E-ATX motherboards are not yet released, the case is compatible with many existing components.
Cooler Master thoughtfully consolidates many front I/O cables into a single one for better cable management. Yet, the MasterBox 600 has fewer openings and grommet holes than some users might anticipate, particularly around the power supply shroud area. Despite this, it effectively utilizes its roomy chassis to earn the title of the top mid-tower class case in the Project Zero series.
When not brimming with storage and cooling components, full-tower cases provide extra room to streamline tricky cable organization. The Asus ROG Hyperion GR701 BTF Edition takes the spotlight in any top-tier gaming setup. This case also accommodates backplate motherboards, while various aspects of its structure are designed to make system assembly less challenging.
Rather than adopting the widely preferred dual-chamber style, the Hyperion GR701 BTF Edition employs the conventional ATX tower layout, but on a grander scale. A substantial metal X is prominently featured on the case’s front, rising to serve as handles for the 46-pound enclosure. Tempered glass doors, which open via hinges positioned on either side of the case, allow for swift component swaps. The Hyperian GR701 justifies its high cost with exceptional build quality, primarily using steel and aluminum materials.
For individuals who have ample desk room, the Hyperion GR701 provides the possibility of installing up to ten 120 mm fans. This case comes prepacked with three large 140 mm fans at its front panel and another 140 mm exhaust fan at the back. Users can opt to keep a side panel lit between the motherboard tray and front panel or swap it out for three SSDs or a 360 mm radiator. In addition, this case features a distinctive rectangular component bearing ROG branding and some lighting on the front panel, but it is relatively bare in ARGB effects when compared to other models. The included fans are also relatively inexpensive considering the size of the investment made.
The Hyperion GR701’s right-side panel houses slots for Project Zero or BTF motherboards. Given that the case’s right side can be partially seen through tinted tempered glass, Asus provides many Velcro straps and a spacious cable management cover. On the opposite side, the case is compatible with BTF motherboards, allowing for efficient power supply to modern graphics cards with minimal cables. What’s more, inside the chassis, you’ll find a hidden compartment for storing small tools and screws.
As a gamer myself, I’ve found that the Asus full-tower case, the Hyperion GR701 BTF Edition, while impressive in many ways, could use a bit of tweaking when it comes to installing a Power Supply Unit (PSU). It seems like there might be fewer steps involved for an easier setup. However, despite some minor hiccups, this case truly shines for the most intricate, state-of-the-art PC builds in the Project Zero series.
In addition to white models, cases featuring wooden accents are growing in popularity as well. The Antec Flux adopts a rustic aesthetic by incorporating this natural material along its front panel, yet it remains contemporary. This case caters to builders who seek a clean appearance, offering slots for Project Zero motherboards and suggesting that additional cables be routed through the same channels.
The Antec Flux is available in white or black, with optional lighter birch or darker walnut wood finishes. It boasts exceptional ventilation, featuring a tempered glass panel as well as mesh material situated beneath the transparent window on the left side. It may not appeal to enthusiasts of RGB keyboards and mice, but this model comes equipped with five non-illuminated 120 mm fans, one of which is mounted at the bottom above the power supply unit. This design directs warm air from CPUs and GPUs upward towards a permeable top panel. The case includes a pre-installed ARGB/PWM hub for those who wish to incorporate ARGB components in their setup.
Instead of offering numerous storage drive installation points like the Cooler Master MasterBox 600 mid-tower, the Flux has limited spots. This spaciousness aids cable management since builders have various options when guiding cables to the case’s rear compartment. Moreover, its compatibility with E-ATX motherboards helps offset the loss of hard drive space.
The Flux case distinguishes itself admirably amidst a sea of mid-tower options, yet harmoniously blends with contemporary setups featuring expansive liquid cooling radiators and Project Zero motherboards.
Choosing the Correct Project Zero Case
For a top-notch MSI Project Zero setup, a case requires more than just strategically positioned openings behind motherboard trays. Whether customers prefer Gigabyte Stealth or Asus BTF parts, the essential features for an optimal reverse-flow case remain unchanged. Key factors to consider, particularly with newer enclosures and cases in general, include:
Form Factor
As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t truly savor the simplicity of a minimalist build without having enough desk space to accommodate it. When it comes to selecting the right case for my setup, I’ve found that options from Project Zero, like mid-tower, full-tower, and dual-chamber models, offer significantly different dimensions. On one hand, I could opt for the micro ATX Asus A21, which despite being compact, still allows for 360 mm radiators, all at a budget-friendly price. Conversely, for those who prefer more complex cooling configurations and extensive storage, there’s the full-tower ASUS ROG Hyperion GR701 BTF Edition.
Cooling and Airflow
As a tech enthusiast, I can’t stress enough the advantages of reconfiguring cables for unimpeded airflow in a setup where high-performance fans efficiently chill components without any hindrances. The Cooler Master MasterBox 600, a mid-tower with a budget-friendly price tag, is an excellent choice with four built-in fans, three of which are generously sized at 140 mm. This beauty boasts mesh wrapping its front panel and extends the mesh beneath the tempered glass left panel for optimal cooling. Cases like the MasterBox 600 also accommodate massive 420 mm radiators, ensuring the best performance from AIO liquid coolers.
Cable Management
Accommodating Project Zero motherboards significantly impacts cable management, but is not the only factor in achieving a clean build. Dual-chamber cases like the MSI MAG Pano 100L PZ devote a back chamber to concealing cables connected to reverse-connected motherboards. If buyers don’t have the space for a large mid-tower, the micro ATX Corsair 2500X utilizes the same fish tank design. Having plenty of cable covers, grommets, and Velcro ties can also organize the less visible parts of rigs.
Aesthetics
Clever cable management alone won’t make a plain build look spectacular. The MSI MAG Pano 100L PZ wraps tempered glass around its front and left sides to showcase the most modern graphics cards and liquid coolers. Other cases, like the ASUS ROG Hyperion GR701 BTF Edition, emphasize an ultra-modern metal exterior. Finally, the Antec Flux matches natural-themed gaming rooms with authentic wood trim.
As a gamer, I wholeheartedly agree with Game Rant’s opinion that the MSI MAG Pano 100L PZ embodies the finest aspects of Project Zero cases. The unique cable management options it offers make it a dream for anyone seeking an organized gaming setup, while its panoramic view ensures that my rig remains uncluttered and visually appealing.
FAQ
Q: Is cable management hard in a PC?
Building a PC isn’t hard per se, but it does call for some patience and strategic thinking when arranging cables. The aim is to guide as many wires along common routes and conceal them without obstructing airflow. Motherboards like Project Zero can ease the process by positioning more connectors in less conspicuous locations.
Q: Why don’t all cases support back-connect motherboards?
The majority of current case designs are made for motherboards where the connectors are located on the same side as the CPU and RAM slots. However, back-connect cases offer correctly aligned openings to support modern motherboards, while still being compatible with older variants of these components.
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2024-09-15 17:05