Introduction
Cooler Master has been a mainstay in the PC hardware space for as long as we can remember. Cooler Master have a wide repertoire of products from cases, to coolers, power supplies, peripherals, and more recently monitors and gaming chairs. Their 30 years of experience in this space has allowed them to garner a reputation that guarantees quality above all else.
One of Cooler Masters more notable range of products are their cases. This manufacturer has been a huge supplier to the case market for a significant amount of time, constantly bringing new products to the scene with each new innovation providing something new or exciting that really provides some variety to the otherwise relatively boring case market.
To commemorate Cooler Master’s time and input in the case market, we figured the best way to do this, is with a buyers guide roundup of their best cases. We’ve picked out a range of options from budget designs, all the way up to more complicated and expensive options that really pushes out the boat when it comes to technological innovation.
Suggested Article: Best Corsair Cases to Buy in 2023
Our Recommendations
1. Cooler Master CMP520
👑 The best budget Cooler Master case.
Introduction
First up in this roundup is Cooler Master’s CMP520. This is a case we’ve reviewed in full for the launch, and overall we were pretty happy. The best summary I can provide, is what this case lacks in features, it provides with an overall lower price tag. This particular chassis is more of a budget design, as there is a generally cheaper feel to the machining of the case. But it is still robust enough that a small drop won’t destroy the entire case.
Features wise, you’ve got access to three pre-installed ARGB fans at the front, we’d have liked to see a fourth in the rear, but you can pick one of these up for relatively cheap. There’s a fair amount of support for radiators, up to 280mm at the maximum, which I’d say is the most the majority of consumers on a budget will even reach. Cooler Master have opted to create a breathable PSU shroud, providing room for multiple orientations, and ensuring your PSU doesn’t suffocate under loads. You can also choose between a glass or mesh front panel, providing more airflow, or flair dependent on your preferences.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Cooler Master CMP520 |
|---|---|
| Form Factor | Mid-Tower |
| Colours | Black, White |
| Front Panel | 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB 2.0, 1x 3.5mm Headset Jack |
| Fan Support | Top: 2x 120m, 2x 140mm Front: 3x 120mm, 2x 140mm Rear: 1x 120mm |
| Radiator Support | Top: Up to 240mm (RAM height below 35mm) Front: Up to 280mm Rear: Up to 120mm |
| Included Fans | 3x 120mm |
| Drive Bays | 2x 2.5″, 2x 3.5″ |
Things We Like
Cheap price point: Cooler Master’s CMP520 is a very cheap case, coming in well below the $100 mark. This is definitely a budget case, and I feel the vast majority of consumers will be happy with the price tag.
The PSU shroud is great: Providing a breathable PSU shroud allows consumers to orient their PSU in a number of ways, and it also opens up options in terms of PSU designs. You won’t have to worry about PSU thermals when it comes to this case.
Things We Don’t Like
Doesn’t support large GPUs: Unfortunately the CMP520 is on the smaller side when it comes to internal space. If you plan on picking up a large AMD or NVIDIA GPU, you may want to rethink your case choice.
Could do with one more fan: 120mm fans are so incredibly cheap that it feels almost cruel for Cooler Master not to have included an extra one for the rear of the case. This would ensure consumers can save money on fans as you likely wouldn’t need to buy any extra ones.
Summary
The CMP520 is a well-rounded budget case from Cooler Master, offering a reasonable amount of features, whilst not compromising to much on design. This case is cheap, this has to be said, but if you’re looking to save money on your case, we’d definitely recommend this option.
Features: 3.9/5
Design: 4/5
Versatility: 4/5
Value for Money: 4.2/5
Pros
- Low price point.
- PSU shroud is a great addition.
- Ideal for budget systems.
Cons
- Overall design is very cheap.
- Doesn’t support large GPUs.
Where to Buy
Buy the Cooler Master CMP520 on:
2. Cooler Master MasterBox 520
👑 The best mid-range Cooler Master case.
Introduction
Next up is the MasterBox 520, more of a mid-range design from Cooler Master. This case is one of Cooler Master’s most popular options on the market, so much so, that CM have reproduced this case a number of different times, with this particular model being their most recent revision, and in my opinion, the best version. This MasterBox 520 offers a more modern style chassis, capitalising on the tempered glass that we’ve seen on pretty much every case that has come out in the past few years. It must be noted however, there is a mesh version of this case that comes in slightly cheaper than the tempered glass version, which we’re big fans of.
We’d recommend checking out our full review of this case for more of a detailed breakdown, but in summary, the MasterBox 520 has a decent set of features. It comes with four pre-installed fans, the entire top panel is removable, allowing you to easily access the innards of your builds without having to disassemble the whole thing. You’ve also got access to support for 360mm radiators, and a reasonable amount of internal space for large components, including E-ATX motherboards, and big GPUs. This case is pricier than the CMP520, but for the range of features you get access to, well worth it.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Cooler Master CMP520 |
|---|---|
| Form Factor | Mid-Tower |
| Colours | Black, White |
| Front Panel | 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1x 3.5mm Headset Jack |
| Fan Support | Top: 3x 120m, 2x 140mm Front: 3x 120mm, 2x 140mm Rear: 1x 120mm |
| Radiator Support | Top: Up to 360mm Front: Up to 360mm Rear: Up to 120mm |
| Included Fans | 4x 120mm |
| Drive Bays | 3x 2.5″, 2x 3.5″ |
Things We Like
Removable top panel is useful: Having a removable top panel, although simple, is genius. This allows consumers to simply access any components without having to take out the entire build if you’re troubleshooting.
Fairly priced: This case is more expensive than the aforementioned CMP520, but not by too much. The MasterBox 520 sits just above the $100 mark at various retailers, and I’d argue this is a solid price point for a mid-range case.
Things We Don’t Like
IO selection is poor: The biggest weakness of this case is the IO selection. If you have a decent motherboard you’ll probably be OK, but if you don’t, this case only has two USB ports, which I’d say is pretty weak for a modern chassis.
Tempered glass design feels pointless: Tempered glass at this point feels more like a hindrance than a benefit. Yes the case looks somewhat nicer, but you’re just hurting thermals, and because the MasterBox 520 has a mesh option instead, most consumers will probably pick this alternative instead of the glass variant.
Summary
Cooler Master’s MasterBox 520 is a versatile and strong chassis sitting at a reasonable price for a mid-range case. This design allows you to easily get your PC build up and running, and is able to house larger builds with plenty of clearance for coolers and graphics cards. Definitely a winner if you’re looking to build more of a mid-range PC.
Features: 4.5/5
Design: 4.2/5
Versatility: 4.4/5
Value for Money: 3.8/5
Pros
- Removable top panel is extremely versatile.
- Reasonably priced.
- Mass support for large components.
Cons
- Tempered glass design is pointless.
- Weak selection of IO.
Where to Buy
Buy the Cooler Master MasterBox 520 on:
3. Cooler Master TD500 Mesh V2
👑 The best revitalised Cooler Master case.
Introduction
We seem to be getting a lot of remakes, refreshes, and revitalised things in the past year, and Cooler Master have jumped on board this train, by refreshing their TD500 Mesh case. The original TD500 Mesh was a favourite of ours at GeekaWhat. Sitting at the mid-range side of the market, this mid-tower case offered ample space, a wide range of features, and a well-rounded design that looked modern, and complimented the thermals of the system with a mesh front panel. Needless to say, you weren’t going to be roasting any components with this chassis.
The V2 version takes all of the good things about the original TD500 Mesh, and uplifts them with some quality of life improvements, alongside providing a slightly more versatile and robust case. This is another chassis that we’ve reviewed in full, and there’s nothing bad to say about this case. The top panel is removable, you’ve got space for big components, and the PSU cover is removable, which allows you to show off any fancy LCDs or magnetic strips on your PSU. Whilst the features of this case aren’t anything particularly special, Cooler Master have kept in line with the original design which we loved, and kept the price pretty reasonable across the board.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Cooler Master CMP520 |
|---|---|
| Form Factor | Mid-Tower |
| Colours | Black, White |
| Front Panel | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C, 1x 3.5mm Headset Jack |
| Fan Support | Top: 3x 120m, 2x 140mm Front: 3x 120mm, 2x 140mm Rear: 1x 120mm |
| Radiator Support | Top: Up to 360mm Front: Up to 360mm Rear: Up to 120mm |
| Included Fans | 3x 120mm |
| Drive Bays | 3x 2.5″, 2x 3.5″ |
Things We Like
Solid design: As I’ve said, the TD500 Mesh V2 doesn’t deviate from the original design too much, which is something we loved. You still get access to all of the awesome features of the TD500 Mesh with a few extras here and there.
Great price point: The TD500 Mesh V2 is one of Cooler Master‘s cheapest cases sitting around $80. This makes it perfect for those consumers being a bit more price conscious when it comes to case choices.
Things We Don’t Like
Nothing special: Although I like the TD500 Mesh V2, this case isn’t anything special. Whilst it is cheaper than the MasterBox 520 and offers similar features, this case does not by any means, push out the boat when it comes to innovation.
Doesn’t offer any new colours: I’m quite bored of the black and white cases that we see nowadays. Someone needs to spice up the case market, and unfortunately Cooler Master won’t be that manufacturer, as this chassis only comes in black or white.
Summary
Cooler Master’s TD500 Mesh V2 is nothing special, but what it lacks in features, it makes up for with the exceptional price point. This chassis stays in line with the original design which is a case that we loved, and provides a versatile experience for those building a budget or mid-range PC.
Features: 4.1/5
Design: 4.3/5
Versatility: 4.3/5
Value for Money: 4.6/5
Pros
- Great price point.
- Similar to the original design.
- Perfect for a mid-range build.
Cons
- Somewhat lacking on features.
- No colourway options.
Where to Buy
Buy the Cooler Master TD500 Mesh V2 on:
4. Cooler Master HAF700 EVO
👑 The best enthusiast Cooler Master case.
Introduction
Finishing up our roundup is the renowned, and a well known case in the GeekaWhat office, the HAF 700 EVO. I remember my first time seeing this case, thinking ‘wow this chassis is going to be a hassle’, but it has since found a place in my heart. The HAF 700 EVO is not a case for the faint hearted, and nor is it a chassis geared towards those with little money. This full-tower design is equipped with some of the most ridiculous features you’ve ever seen, which is why it comes with such an insane price tag. However, if you’re willing to swallow this, you definitely get what you pay for with this case.
Breaking down the features, the front of the HAF 700 EVO features an LCD display, alongside tempered glass sheets, aligned vertically at the front, which shows off any RGB you have. The display can also be fully customised to show whatever you want. Internals, wise, there is enough space for two PCs in here. You could double up with an E-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboard and still have room. There’s cooling support at the front, side, top, back, and bottom, and it also comes with a number of tool-less installation methods, making things easier. This case is a huge spectacle, that’s for certain.
Key Specs
| Key Specs | Cooler Master CMP520 |
|---|---|
| Form Factor | Full Tower |
| Colours | Black |
| Front Panel | 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C, 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1x 3.5mm 4 Poles Audio Jack, 1x 3.5mm Mic Jack |
| Fan Support | Top: 2x 200mm, 3x 140mm, 6x 120mm Front: 2x 200mm, 3x 120/140mm Rear: 2x 120mm Bottom: 3x 120/140mm Side: 4x 120mm / 3x 140mm |
| Radiator Support | Top: Up to 2x 360mm/ 1x 420mm Front: Up to 420mm Rear: Up to 240mm Bottom: Up to 420mm Side; Up to 480mm |
| Included Fans | 5x 120mm |
| Drive Bays | 12x 2.5″, 12x 3.5″ |
Things We Like
Insane set of features: The HAF 700 EVO is one of the most equipped cases that you can pick up right now. Needless to say, if you’re building a massive PC with custom loops and loads of components, this is the case to do it in.
LCD display is great: The included LCD display on the front of the case looks awesome. Consumers can fully customise what’s in the display, allowing you to view system stats, temperatures, or a funny GIF.
Things We Don’t Like
Insanely expensive: This case it not cheap, at all. Consumers can expect to spend over $400 just for the case alone, which makes it one of the most expensive consumer-focused chassis’ on the market right now.
A hassle to build in: Although Cooler Master do make building in this case much easier, it is still somewhat nightmarish if you’re building a big PC. Cables can become hellish to manage in this case, so I’d recommend consumers with experience pick up this chassis.
Summary
Cooler Master’s HAF 700 EVO is one of the most insane cases that we’ve ever had in the office. This chassis is extremely well equipped, has an awesome design, and can house a huge mass of large components without any problems. The only major caveats to this case, are the size, and the price. But if you’re willing to swallow these, this is a great case.
Features: 5/5
Design: 4.7/5
Versatility: 4.2/5
Value for Money: 4.2/5
Pros
- Can house a huge number of components.
- LCD display looks great.
- Perfect for enthusiasts.
Cons
- Difficult to build in.
- Very very expensive.
Where to Buy
Buy the Cooler Master HAF 700 EVO on:
What Are the Differences Between Case Sizes?
As a general rule of thumb, there are three main case sizes. These are: Mini-Towers, Mid-Towers, and Full-Towers. Although there are probably a few Mid-Tower designs that should be classed as Full-Towers and vice versa with the smaller sizes as well, these are the main categories that you’ll see on the market. But a question still stands, what are the differences between them?
Starting off with Mini-Towers, these cases are the smallest available size on the market. Manufacturers have to maximise space within the chassis in order to ensure you can install components without any issues, all while keeping the footprint small too. This does mean you might lose out on certain features, and you’re also forced into using a Mini-ITX motherboard too. Mid-Towers are the more well-rounded options on the market. These cases tend to offer a good set of features, can have more versatile design options, and generally are more affordable.
Mid-Tower cases are the most common designs, and are widely available from all PC hardware retailers. Full Towers are the extreme version of Mid-Towers, with the features dialled up to 11. These cases are much more expensive, but for that reason you get a vast set of features, like we’ve seen from cases like the HAF 700 EVO. Full Tower cases are also massive too, and will definitely cause some problems if you prefer a more portable setup.
Component Clearance – How Important Is It?
Clearance between your components has started to become more of an issue in the past few years, due to the rising size of PC parts. I’ve seen a number cases release that are a little bit too small, and there’s also the obvious problem of graphics cards becoming too big. So is clearance important, and why is it important? In short, having enough clearance in your PC build is absolutely vital. There are two main reasons that I’d like to delve into, that we recommend you consider before putting your PC together.
Firstly is installation problems. The biggest issue that you’ll face with poor problems is not being able to assemble your PC. Poor clearance will result in components not fitting at all, which means you’ll need to go back to the drawing board. A great example of this happening is with the Corsair 4000D. One of Corsair’s most popular cases, but not great for graphics card clearance. If you’ve picked up this case, a large graphics card, like the 4070 and up, and a 360mm radiator, your parts won’t fit together. You simply won’t have enough clearance at the front of the case to install both a radiator, and a large graphics card.
The second major issue, is thermals. You’ve probably seen me preach about this a lot in other articles, but that’s because its important. If you pick out a case that has little space for air to flow around, you’re going to turn your PC on, and see your thermals absolutely skyrocket, which will result in throttling, and in the worst case, component death. Clearance is vital when it comes to airflow and thermals, so you need to make sure your components aren’t crammed together, and can get appropriate airflow to each individual part.
Why You Can Trust Us
Our editorial team of hardware enthusiasts work hard to ensure that all of the products we get in our offices are thoroughly tested. For those interested in learning more about our team, head over to the About Us section, where you’ll also find more detail about our editorial promise.
How We Tested the Best Cooler Master Cases
In order to test and evaluate the best Cooler Master cases there are a number of factors that we take into account, these are:
- Size
- Versatility
- Design
- Robustness
- Value for Money
Conclusion
Best Cooler Master Case: TD500 Mesh V2
Concluding this roundup, we’ve picked out the TD500 Mesh V2 as the best Cooler Master case. Whilst this chassis isn’t a spectacle like some of the other options we’ve looked at, it is still a solid mid-range option that comes in at a very reasonable price point. The Mesh design will help with thermals, and some of the versatility options will make building in this case, a pleasant experience.
Read our full TD500 Mesh V2 review, or Buy the TD500 Mesh V2 on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cooler Master Manufacture Any Other Components?
Yes, Cooler Master have a wide repertoire of components on the market, including power supplies, coolers, and peripherals.
Do Cooler Master Make GPUs?
They don’t unfortunately, but there is a possibility in the future!
Do All Cases Support E-ATX Motherboards?
No they don’t. Due to the size of E-ATX boards, not all case manufacturers will support them. We recommend checking out your case manufacturers website to see if your board is supported.
Should I Worry About CPU Height Clearance?
As we’ve alluded to above, clearance is important regardless of the component. However, CPU height tends to be less of an issue when installing your PC parts.
