be quiet! Pure Base 501 Airflow 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 | BG074
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AI Verdict
This is a compact ATX case with two 140mm PWM fans and USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C, designed for users prioritizing airflow and quiet operation.
This case is a situational fit because its two preinstalled 140mm PWM fans and optimized airflow design cater well to quiet air-cooled builds. However, the reported difficulties with cable management for multiple storage drives and the need for an optional riser cable for vertical GPU mounting mean it's not a universal solution.
If you need easier cable management for many storage drives, look for cases with more dedicated drive bays and larger routing channels behind the motherboard tray.
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Pros
- Comes with two preinstalled Pure Wings 3 140mm PWM fans, optimized for high air pressure and reduced noise.
- Supports up to a 360mm radiator in the front and a 240mm radiator in the top for liquid cooling.
- Features rotatable PCIe slots for optional vertical GPU mounting, preventing sag for wide graphics cards.
- Front I/O includes one USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C and two Type A ports for fast connectivity.
- Designed with smart cable routing options for easier management.
Cons
- Cable management becomes difficult when installing multiple 2.5-inch SSDs and 3.5-inch HDDs, according to one user.
- Requires an optional riser cable for vertical GPU installation, which is not included.
- Top radiator support is limited to 240mm, which might not be enough for some high-end liquid cooling setups.
Dimension Scores
The case supports up to a 360mm front radiator and includes two 140mm PWM fans with airflow-optimized blades, indicating strong cooling potential.
The Pure Wings 3 140mm PWM fans are designed with 7 airflow-optimized blades to reduce noise-generating turbulences, contributing to quiet operation.
Constructed from alloy steel, the case is described as having a classic appearance and being 'reduced to the max' for core functions, suggesting a focus on functional construction.
While it features 'smart cable routing design', a user reported significant difficulty managing cables with multiple 2.5-inch SSDs and 3.5-inch HDDs.
Best For
- PC builders aiming for a quiet system with effective air cooling.
- Users needing a compact ATX case that can still accommodate large GPUs.
- Setups requiring front panel USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C connectivity.
Not Recommended For
- Builders who plan to install numerous 2.5-inch SSDs and 3.5-inch HDDs.
- Enthusiasts requiring top-mounted 360mm liquid cooling radiators.
Watch Out For
- Cable management can be challenging, particularly when integrating multiple 2.5-inch SSDs and 3.5-inch HDDs, making SATA and power cable routing difficult.
- Vertical GPU mounting requires a separately purchased riser cable, adding to the total cost.
Full Specifications
| RAM | 1 GB |
| ASIN | B0DGXR6TTD |
| Brand | be quiet! |
| Color | Airflow Black |
| Series | Pure Base 501 |
| Voltage | 220 Volts |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Batteries | 1 AAAA batteries required. |
| Case Type | Mid Tower |
| Model Name | Pure Base 501 |
| Item Weight | 14.96 pounds |
| Manufacturer | be quiet! |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Operating System | Windows |
| Item model number | BG074 |
| Product Dimensions | 20.47 x 20.08 x 11.42 inches |
| Computer Memory Type | DIMM |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 20.47 x 20.08 x 11.42 inches |
| Number of USB 3.0 Ports | 3 |
| Motherboard Compatability | ATX |
| Power Supply Mounting Type | Bottom Mount |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Business, Gaming |
What Buyers Say
One user found the case to be challenging for cable management, especially when dealing with multiple 2.5-inch SSDs and 3.5-inch HDDs, calling it 'the most difficult case I've ever worked in' for that specific task. Despite this, the same reviewer still expressed affection for the case. The design prioritizes high airflow with minimal fan noise, which is a recurring theme in its marketing. It's seen as a compact option that still fits large components, like high-end graphics cards.
“Man, this case looks clean and the fans are so quiet, but trying to route all my SATA power and data for my SSDs and hard drives was a nightmare, almost threw it out the window, but it looks so good now!”
Common Praise
- The two preinstalled 140mm Pure Wings 3 PWM fans move a lot of air quietly.
- Accommodates large graphics cards and CPU coolers despite its compact footprint.
- The front panel USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C port is convenient for modern peripherals.
- The option for vertical GPU mounting is a valued feature for showcasing hardware.
Common Complaints
- Cable management can be a struggle, particularly when installing several 2.5-inch SSDs and 3.5-inch HDDs.
- The vertical GPU mounting requires a separate riser cable, which isn't included.
- Top radiator support maxes out at 240mm, limiting some liquid cooling options.
Ownership Tips
- The included fans are genuinely quiet even under load, making a noticeable difference in system acoustics.
- The compact size means you need to plan your build carefully, especially with larger components and cable routing.
- The front I/O Type C port is a lifesaver for quickly connecting newer devices.
- The lack of a pre-included vertical GPU riser cable means an extra purchase if you want that aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this case come with a tempered glass side panel?
The product title 'be quiet! Pure Base 501 Airflow Black ATX Case' does not specify a tempered glass side panel. Some variants, like the 'Airflow Window Black', do include one, but this specific model's product data does not list it.
How many fans are included with the case?
The case includes two preinstalled Pure Wings 3 140mm PWM fans.
Can I vertically mount my graphics card?
Yes, the PCIe slots can rotate 90° to allow for vertical GPU mounting, but you will need to purchase an optional riser cable separately.
What is the maximum radiator size supported?
You can install up to a 360mm radiator in the front and up to a 240mm radiator in the top.
What type of USB ports are on the front panel?
The front I/O panel features one USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C port and two USB Type A ports.
Buying Guide
When picking a PC case, you're essentially choosing the home for all your computer parts. You need to think about how much space you have for components like your graphics card and CPU cooler, how much airflow it provides to keep things cool, and how easy it will be to build in. Don't forget about front panel connectivity for your everyday devices.
cooling_method: Air
fan_size: 140mm
USB 3.2 Gen. 2 Type C
Alternatives
If this case doesn't fit, look for cases with more dedicated 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch drive bays for easier storage installation, or models with 360mm top radiator support for more extensive liquid cooling.
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