be quiet! Pure Base 501 Black ATX Case | 2 Preinstalled Pure Wings 3 140mm PWM Fans | Optimized Air Pressure | Compact PC Case | Vertical GPU Installation | USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C | BG073
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AI Verdict
This is an ATX case with two 140mm Pure Wings 3 PWM fans, USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C, and vertical GPU support, built for quiet, air-cooled systems.
This case is a strong fit for builders prioritizing quiet operation and a clean aesthetic, offering ample space for large air coolers (up to 178mm) and long GPUs (up to 368mm). The two 140mm Pure Wings 3 PWM fans contribute to its quiet profile and air pressure optimization.
If you need more aggressive cooling performance, look for cases that include higher RPM fans or support more fan mounts out of the box.
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Pros
- Includes two 140mm Pure Wings 3 PWM fans, optimized for air pressure and reduced noise-generating turbulences.
- Supports radiators up to 360mm in the front and 240mm at the top, accommodating liquid cooling setups.
- Features rotatable PCIe slots for optional vertical GPU installation, with included bracketry.
- Front I/O includes a USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C port and two USB 3.2 Type A ports for modern connectivity.
- Offers space for high-end graphics cards up to 368mm and CPU coolers up to 178mm, despite its compact footprint.
- Integrated cable routing options provide about an inch of space behind the motherboard tray for management.
Cons
- The two pre-installed Pure Wings 3 fans are 1200 RPM versions, not the higher 1800 RPM variants, which might limit maximum airflow.
- Vertical GPU mounting requires a separately purchased riser cable, as only the bracketry is included.
- Cable management can be challenging, particularly with thick custom water cooling radiators.
- The HDD cage might restrict airflow at the bottom if the front is fully populated with fans or a radiator.
Dimension Scores
The case supports up to a 360mm front radiator and 240mm top radiator, alongside two 140mm Pure Wings 3 PWM fans, providing good cooling potential for its compact size.
The included Pure Wings 3 140mm PWM fans are specifically designed to reduce noise-generating turbulences, and user feedback confirms quiet operation even under load.
Constructed from alloy steel, the case is described as 'very well built considering its price point' and features a sleek, unagitated design.
It offers 'cleverly integrated cable routing options' and about an inch of space behind the motherboard tray, though some users found it challenging with complex builds.
Best For
- Building a quiet, air-cooled ATX system with large CPU coolers.
- Users who want vertical GPU mounting without a tempered glass side panel.
- Systems requiring front-mounted 360mm radiators or top-mounted 240mm radiators.
- Builders prioritizing a clean aesthetic with a focus on core functionality.
Not Recommended For
- Enthusiasts needing maximum airflow from pre-installed fans.
- Builds requiring 5.25-inch drive bays.
- Users who want a simple, tool-less vertical GPU installation out of the box (riser cable not included).
Watch Out For
- The included Pure Wings 3 fans are the 1200 RPM variant, not the 1800 RPM high-speed version, which some users expected for optimal cooling.
- You'll need to buy a separate riser cable for vertical GPU mounting; only the bracket is provided.
- Cable management, while having dedicated routes, can be a tight squeeze if you're running a lot of components or thick radiators.
- The HDD cage, if installed, can potentially impede airflow from front intake fans or radiators.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0DGXQL5T9 |
| Brand | be quiet! |
| Color | Black |
| Series | Pure Base 501 |
| Fan Size | 140 Millimeters |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Case Type | Tower |
| Model Name | Pure Base 501 |
| Item Weight | 14.74 pounds |
| Manufacturer | be quiet! |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Item model number | BG073 |
| Product Dimensions | 20.47 x 20.47 x 11.42 inches |
| Computer Memory Type | DIMM |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 20.47 x 20.47 x 11.42 inches |
| Number of USB 3.0 Ports | 3 |
| Motherboard Compatability | ATX |
| Power Supply Mounting Type | Rear Mount |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming |
What Buyers Say
Many users are surprised by how quiet this case runs, even with demanding hardware, thanks to the included Pure Wings 3 fans. While the vertical GPU mounting is a cool feature, remember you'll need to buy the riser cable separately. Some builders noted that while cable management is present, it can get a bit tight if you're stuffing it with a lot of components or thick water cooling. The case's compact size doesn't stop it from fitting big GPUs and CPU coolers, which is a big plus for many.
“Dude, this case is actually super quiet, like, my old PC sounded like a jet engine and this thing just hums, but seriously, why no riser cable in the box for the vertical GPU? Come on!”
Common Praise
- The two 140mm Pure Wings 3 PWM fans keep things very quiet during normal use and stress testing.
- It fits large graphics cards up to 368mm and CPU coolers up to 178mm without issue.
- The front I/O with USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C is a welcome modern addition.
- The overall build feels sturdy and well-constructed for its price.
- Dust filters on the top, front, and under the PSU are effective and easy to access.
Common Complaints
- The pre-installed fans are the 1200 RPM version, not the higher performance 1800 RPM variant.
- You have to buy the vertical GPU riser cable separately, which isn't always clear.
- Cable management can be a bit of a puzzle, especially with thick radiators or many cables.
- The HDD cage might block some airflow if you're maxing out front fan/radiator configurations.
- No 5.25-inch drive bays, which is a minor inconvenience for some.
Ownership Tips
- The front panel and top cover are easily removable for cleaning the dust filters.
- The included fans, while not the highest RPM, move enough air to keep components cool without being loud.
- The vertical GPU mounting brackets are there, but finding the right riser cable can be an extra step.
- The space behind the motherboard tray is adequate for most cables, but planning is key for a tidy build.
- The case feels more premium than its price suggests, especially the steel construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this case come with a tempered glass side panel?
The 'Black ATX Case' model typically features a solid side panel. There are other variants, like the 'Airflow Window Black', that include a tempered glass side panel.
Are the pre-installed fans quiet?
Yes, the two 140mm Pure Wings 3 PWM fans are optimized to reduce noise-generating turbulences and users report the case staying very quiet during use.
Can I vertically mount my graphics card?
Yes, the PCIe slots rotate 90° for vertical GPU installation, and the necessary bracketry is included. However, you will need to purchase a separate riser cable.
What is the maximum radiator size I can install?
You can install a radiator up to 360mm in the front and up to 240mm in the top of the case.
How many USB ports are on the front panel?
The front I/O panel includes one USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C port and two USB 3.2 Type A ports.
Buying Guide
When picking a PC case, you're balancing airflow, noise, and how easy it is to build in. This case focuses on keeping things quiet and tidy. You need to think about your cooling setup – whether you're going with a big air cooler or a liquid cooler, and how many fans you want. Also, consider your graphics card size and if you want to show it off vertically.
cooling_method: Air
This tells you the primary way the case is designed to cool your components. 'Air' means it relies on fans to move air through the case, which is generally simpler and often quieter than liquid cooling, though this case also supports liquid cooling.
fan_size: 140mm
Larger fans, like 140mm, can move more air at lower RPMs compared to smaller 120mm fans, often resulting in less noise for the same amount of cooling. This case comes with two of them.
Vertical GPU Installation
This feature lets you mount your graphics card facing forward, showcasing its design through a side panel. It's purely aesthetic for most, but you'll need a special riser cable to make it work.
USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C
This is a modern, fast USB port on the front of the case. It's reversible, so you can plug in your devices without fumbling, and it offers quick data transfer speeds for external drives or other peripherals.
Alternatives
If this case doesn't fit, look for cases with more pre-installed fans for higher out-of-the-box airflow, or models that explicitly include a vertical GPU riser cable if that's a must-have feature for you.
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