be quiet! Light Base 500 LX White PC case, Fully windowed Front and Side Panel, Show case, Dual Chamber Design, ARGB Fan hub, 4 Light Wings LX PWM Fans, Backside Connector Design
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AI Verdict
This is a dual-chamber ATX case with full backside connector motherboard support, 4 pre-installed 120mm ARGB fans, and space for 400mm GPUs.
This case is a strong fit for users building with the new generation of backside connector motherboards, offering dedicated support and a dual-chamber design for a clean interior. The inclusion of four pre-installed ARGB fans and a hub also provides a ready-to-go aesthetic and cooling solution.
If you need more than one 3.5-inch drive bay or anticipate frequent fan maintenance, look for cases with more accessible storage solutions or easier-to-remove fan mounts.
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Pros
- Motherboard tray fully supports backside connector designs like Asus BTF, MSI Project Zero, and Gigabyte Project Stealth, enabling a cable-free view of components.
- Includes four pre-installed Light Wings LX 120mm PWM fans (three reversed, one standard) and a 6-way ARGB and PWM hub, with 4 free connectors for additional devices.
- Accommodates graphics cards up to 400mm in length and CPU coolers up to 185mm tall, fitting most high-end components.
- Dedicated cable management channels behind the motherboard tray and a dual-chamber layout contribute to a clean build.
- Thermal performance is consistent, with side intake fans directing air towards the GPU, maintaining CPU temperatures at 55°C over ambient and GPU at 49°C under sustained load with default configuration.
- Features dust filters on the side and bottom, with the bottom filter easily accessible from the front for cleaning.
Cons
- Installing storage drives can be 'fiddly', and the drive bracket with the ARGB controller only supports one 3.5-inch HDD and two 2.5-inch SSDs.
- The side fan mounting plate is 'tight and awkward' to remove and install, requiring significant force.
- The front tempered glass panel is a structural element; removing it can make the top front corner noticeably flimsy.
- While quiet, if 'peak cooling' is a high priority, users may need to add more fans beyond the four supplied ARGB ones.
- Only officially supports 120mm, 240mm, and 360mm liquid cooling radiators at the top, with 280mm radiator support not guaranteed.
Dimension Scores
The angled side fan frame directs air towards the GPU, and the four pre-installed PWM fans contribute to consistent thermal performance, with CPU temps at 55°C and GPU at 49°C over ambient under load.
The case delivers low noise levels, and the pre-installed Light Wings LX fans are noted for being quiet even at full speed.
Constructed from 1mm powder-coated SECC steel and 4mm tempered glass, with reviewers noting 'excellent' and 'quality construction'.
Features dedicated cable management channels, plenty of space behind the motherboard tray, and full support for backside connector motherboards for a truly cable-free view.
Best For
- PC builders utilizing backside connector motherboards (Asus BTF, MSI Project Zero, Gigabyte Project Stealth) for a clean aesthetic.
- Users prioritizing a visually clear interior with tempered glass front and side panels, showcasing ARGB components.
- Systems with high-end GPUs up to 400mm that benefit from directed airflow from side intake fans.
Not Recommended For
- Builders who frequently swap or install multiple 3.5-inch hard drives, due to the limited and 'fiddly' drive bay configuration.
- Enthusiasts requiring maximum cooling performance with a full complement of fans beyond the four pre-installed units, as additional fans might be needed.
Watch Out For
- The drive bracket, which also houses the ARGB controller, only allows for one 3.5-inch HDD and two 2.5-inch SSDs, which is less than the product specs' claim of 2 HDDs and 2 SSDs.
- Removing the side fan mounting plate is a 'tight and awkward' process, requiring a lot of force, which can be frustrating during installation or cleaning.
- The front tempered glass panel is structural; removing it can cause the top front corner to become 'noticeably flimsy' and prone to bending.
- The case supports standard ATX PSUs up to 200mm long; longer PSUs are not compatible.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0FV37Z3FH |
| Brand | be quiet! |
| Color | White |
| Series | BGW86 |
| Material | Aluminum, Plastic, Tempered Glass |
| Case Type | Tower |
| Model Name | BGW86 |
| Item Weight | 23.8 pounds |
| Manufacturer | be quiet! |
| Cooling Method | Air, Water |
| Item model number | BGW86 |
| Product Dimensions | 17 x 12 x 17 inches |
| Number of USB 3 Ports | 2 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 17 x 12 x 17 inches |
| Number of USB 3.0 Ports | 2 |
| Motherboard Compatability | ATX |
| Power Supply Mounting Type | Bottom Mount |
What Buyers Say
The most surprising aspect is how well this compact dual-chamber case integrates support for backside connector motherboards, a feature usually found in larger or more specialized chassis. Users consistently point out the effectiveness of the angled side fans in cooling the GPU and the overall quiet operation, even with four pre-installed ARGB fans. However, some builders found the storage drive installation 'fiddly' and the side fan mount 'tight' to remove. The front glass panel being structural is also a point to be aware of during handling.
“Dude, this case is actually sick for my BTF board, no cables showing anywhere! Only thing is getting those side fans out was a fight, but totally worth it for the clean look.”
Common Praise
- Motherboard tray fully supports backside connector designs, making for a very clean build.
- The four pre-installed Light Wings LX 120mm PWM fans provide effective cooling and subtle ARGB illumination.
- Angled side fans effectively direct airflow towards the GPU, contributing to good thermal performance.
- Low noise levels, even at full fan speed, living up to the 'be quiet!' brand.
- Excellent build quality with 1mm steel and 4mm tempered glass panels.
Common Complaints
- Storage drive installation is 'fiddly', especially with the integrated ARGB controller limiting 3.5-inch bays to one.
- The side fan mounting plate is 'tight and awkward' to remove and re-install.
- The front tempered glass panel is structural, and its removal can make the corner flimsy.
- Peak cooling performance might require adding more fans beyond the four included ones.
- Limited official support for 280mm radiators at the top.
Ownership Tips
- The ARGB controller button on the I/O panel is super handy for changing lighting effects without needing software.
- The dust filters, especially the bottom one, are surprisingly easy to access and clean, which is a huge plus for maintenance.
- Even with the dual-chamber design, it feels more compact than expected, which is great for desk space.
- The reversed fan blades on the side really do make the 'pretty side' of the ARGB visible, which is a small but appreciated detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this case support ATX motherboards?
Yes, the be quiet! Light Base 500 LX White is compatible with ATX, M-ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards.
How many fans come pre-installed?
It comes with four pre-installed Light Wings LX 120mm PWM fans: three reversed blades on the side for intake and one standard blade at the rear for exhaust.
Can I install a 360mm radiator?
Yes, the case has enough space for a 360mm radiator, specifically at the top.
Is there support for backside connector motherboards?
Absolutely, the motherboard tray fully supports backside connector designs from brands like Asus BTF, MSI Project Zero, and Gigabyte Project Stealth.
What is the maximum GPU length this case can accommodate?
You can fit graphics cards up to 400mm in length inside this case.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at a PC case like this, you're not just buying a box for your parts; you're choosing the foundation for your build's aesthetics, cooling, and ease of assembly. A dual-chamber design separates components, often improving airflow and cable management. Pay close attention to fan and radiator support, especially if you plan on liquid cooling, and always check component clearances for your specific CPU cooler and GPU.
Dual Chamber Design
Think of it like having two rooms in a house: one for living, one for storage. This case separates the main components (motherboard, GPU) from the power supply and drives, which can lead to better airflow for your hot components and makes cable management much tidier, hiding all the messy wires.
Backside Connector Design Support
This is a newer feature where motherboard power and data connectors are on the back of the board, not the front. If you're using one of these special motherboards (like Asus BTF), this case is designed to work perfectly with it, making your build look incredibly clean with no cables visible from the front.
Pre-installed Light Wings LX PWM Fans
PWM fans can adjust their speed based on temperature, giving you a balance of cooling and quiet operation. 'Light Wings LX' means they have ARGB lighting, so you get both performance and customizable aesthetics right out of the box without needing to buy extra fans.
Alternatives
If this case doesn't fit your needs, look for cases with more 3.5-inch drive bays if you have a lot of HDDs, or cases with easier tool-less access for all fan mounts if you frequently modify your cooling setup.
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