This build stands out with its black and white aesthetic and unique setup process, featuring a modular design that offers multiple layout options. Despite not being classified as a small case, it is relatively compact given the range of components it can accommodate.
Parts
CPU: Intel i5-13600K
For the CPU, the i5-13600K is being used. Despite being a previous generation chip, there hasn’t been a compelling reason to upgrade to a 14th generation version, as it offers nearly identical gaming performance for a lower cost.
For high-end builds, the 7800X3D is worth considering for its power efficiency and superior frame rates, while an i7 or i9 might be more suitable for productivity-focused tasks. However, the 13600 remains a highly sensible choice for gaming among Intel chips.
Motherboard: NZXT N7 Z790
As for the motherboard, the N7 Z790 from NZXT is being used. This board is noted for its clean aesthetic, featuring a matte black design with minimal branding and no loud colors. In terms of functionality, it offers ample IO, including numerous USB ports on the rear IO, a USB-C port, built-in WiFi 6E, and a clear CMOS button. The front side boasts six fan headers, which will be utilized in this build, along with several USB headers along the bottom, a USB-C header, and a 3.0 header next to some SATA ports.
SSD: 1TB 970 EVO
Under the magnetic covers, there is room for three M.2 slots. A single 1TB 970 EVO will be installed in the primary slot. This is a Gen 3 drive, which provides sufficient speed for most gaming needs. However, for those seeking faster read/write speeds, a Gen 4 drive would be a more suitable option.
RAM: Vengeance DDR5
The chosen CPU cooler overhangs the DIMM slots and provides 42mm of clearance. Therefore, a couple of low-profile Corsair RAM sticks will be used, each standing at 35mm in height, ensuring there are no issues when installing the cooler. With only two sticks and four available slots, the 2nd and 4th positions will be populated to enable dual-channel support.
Case: Qube 500
With the motherboard prepped, it’s time to start assembling the case, specifically the Cooler Master Qube 500. This case stands out due to its modular design, offering several different configurations. You can opt for the standard layout with the motherboard upright and the GPU at the bottom, a flipped configuration to prioritize GPU cooling, lay it on its side, or even strip off all panels to use it as a test bench.
Initially, it might be puzzling why anyone would want the extra work of building their case from the ground up. In the ITX space, the concept of a flat-packed PC case is familiar and beneficial due to the small size and ease of access for connections. However, in a larger case, this approach might seem unnecessary, especially when similar alternatives, like the Q500L, are available pre-assembled and ready to go.
Despite the initial skepticism, working with the Qube 500 for a week has shed new light on its design. The process of adding components as you build the case can simplify parts of the build. The key piece is the motherboard tray, which anchors all the other components together. Understanding this build process reveals the case’s practical advantages, changing initial perceptions and showcasing the benefits of this modular approach.
The screws provided are all the same size, which simplifies the assembly process significantly. This small detail eliminates the confusion and potential errors often associated with the varied sizes, types, and lengths of screws found in other flat-packed cases. The materials used are notably sturdy, with very thick steel that feels rigid and high quality. The white finish looks great, although the pastel-colored side panel options, while well-executed, might not suit everyone’s style. One option is to strip and repaint the panels, which can result in a unique, utilitarian look.
Power Supply: Cooler Master GX 850
The assembly process of the Cooler Master Qube 500 is impressively well thought out. Throughout the majority of the build, the main motherboard tray remains on the table, providing a stable base. The power supply unit hooks into the side and is easily secured; in this build, a Cooler Master GX 3 850 is used, covered with a black vinyl sticker to conceal the less attractive side facing outward.
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master MA824 Stealth
The CPU cooler used is the Cooler Master MA824 Stealth, a substantial cooler with a dual tower fin design and two fans (a 130mm fan in the middle and a 120mm fan on the side). This cooler, standing just over 165mm in height, fits comfortably in the case with 172mm of clearance. The setup process is less involved than most air coolers, as the screws on the very top of the cooler secure it without the need to remove the middle fan, simplifying installation.
The cooler efficiently handles the i5-13600K CPU, maintaining temperatures in the low 70s while playing Cyberpunk 2077 at ultra settings on an ultrawide 1440p resolution, pulling over 120 watts. Additional airflow is provided by two 140mm Noctua fans at the bottom and a 120mm fan at the front for intake, and a 120mm fan at the top and another at the rear for exhaust. The front and top positions can support 140mm fans, and the case includes side fan brackets for those who prefer a vented side panel over tempered glass for extra airflow.
One downside is that the case does not include two vented panels. If extra airflow is needed, the glass panel must be used on the back side, exposing the cable management area. Therefore, careful cable management is essential for a neat appearance.
GPU: Founder Edition 4080
For the GPU, the build features the Founders Edition 4080, a card that measures 310mm in length, fitting comfortably within the 360mm clearance of the case. The 4080 remains an impressive GPU, on par with the 7900 XTX in performance, trailing only the 4090. One significant advantage of the 4080 is the suite of Nvidia benefits, including DLSS and frame generation, which are valuable for many modern games. However, these features come at a higher cost, typically around $100 to $200 more than the 7900 XTX.
Performance-wise, the 4080 delivers 80-100 frames per second in games like Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora at ultra-wide 1440p resolution with high presets using DLSS. In Cyberpunk 2077, it achieves 70-90 frames per second at ultra settings without DLSS and frame generation, and over 130 frames per second with ray tracing ultra settings, DLSS, and frame generation enabled.
Thermal performance is also notable, with GPU temperatures remaining in the low 60s, thanks to the two 140mm fans at the bottom of the case providing ample fresh air. The 33L case size is comparable to many popular micro ATX cases, and despite its compactness, it accommodates an ATX board comfortably, with no compromises. Seeing it on a desk, it’s easy to forget the extensive capabilities housed within this relatively small form factor.
Overall, the case demonstrates Cooler Master’s successful execution of their design goals. The build process is meticulously planned, and the case itself is incredibly rigid and well-made. However, the overall aesthetic may not appeal to everyone.
One of the design elements that stands out is the inconsistency in design language. The circle cutouts for the pegboard front and top panels, combined with the sharp angles of the edges and other cutouts, create a somewhat inconsistent appearance.
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
- Lower the CPU into the socket, ensuring the arrow on the top right aligns with the socket arrow. Once it’s in place, lower the latch to secure it.
- Install the SSD and secure it by gently screwing it in.
- Align the pins on the RAM with that of the motherboard and press down until it clicks.
- For the QUBE500 case, the design of the case is conducive to building the case as the main components are added.
- To begin, place the motherboard on the base and secure it to the base plate.
- Secure the power supply unit to the appropriate bracket, and place it sideways onto the base plate.
- Plug in cables and attach the front and back panels by sliding them into place.
All the screws are the same size, streamlining and simplifying the build process.
- Install the LGA backplate and mounting brackets onto the motherboard.
- Lower the CPU cooler onto the CPU, securing it with the pre-applied thermal paste.
- Align the two screws with the mounting bracket. Secure the cooler by tightening the two screws located on the very top of the cooler.
- Install the cooling fans to assist with airflow. For this build, I installed 2 140mm Noctua fans at the bottom of the case and a 120 at the front as intake.
- A 120 was positioned at the top and another at the rear to exhaust the heat. The front and top positions could also support 140’s if available. Then the case includes side fan brackets for a tempered glass side panel option.
- Lower the GPU and secure to the case.
- Secure and manage cables.
That’s the build complete!