Corsair 6500 Series Case, Worth to Buy?
Corsair offers a sleek design, extensive fan and radiator support, and unique customization options, though its premium pricing raises considerations for potential buyers.
Corsair, a name synonymous with cutting-edge PC components, has unleashed its latest offerings in the form of the highly anticipated 6500 series cases. Announced earlier this year at CES, these cases are a testament to Corsair's commitment to constant innovation and product evolution. The company has been on a revamping spree, introducing the new IQ link system, Hydrox features, and now, the spotlight is on the 6500 series – comprising the 6500d airflow, 6500 X glass version, and the 6500 X glass with RGB.
In this exploration, our focal point is the 6500 X, a case that stands out for its tempered glass option, promising not just a housing for your components but an aesthetic centerpiece for your build. The numerical naming system, a Corsair trademark, continues with the 6500 series, ensuring that users can easily locate and identify these cases online. Today, we delve into the details of the 6500 X, examining its features, design, and whether it stands up to the expectations set by its predecessors.
External Features and Aesthetic Appeal
The 6500 X, priced at $199, enters the arena without any included fans, a notable departure from the norm. However, Corsair aims to justify the cost with unique features and a design that caters to a diverse range of user preferences. The external features showcase Corsair's attention to detail, with four USB 3.2 Type-A ports, one USB 3.2 Type-C port, and an audio port – all elegantly accented in Corsair's signature yellow color.
Aesthetic considerations extend to the tempered glass on the left side, secured by discreet machine screws. While the hinge style might not be as seamless as some previous models, the overall look remains sleek and premium. The back panel follows suit with easily accessible thumb screws, a nod to user-friendly design that Corsair consistently prioritizes.
Internal Layout and Customization Potential
Moving into the internal domain, the 6500 X offers a canvas for customization, supporting up to EATX-sized motherboards. This inclusivity ensures compatibility with various configurations, catering to the diverse needs of PC builders. While lacking some of the cable management features seen in other Corsair cases, the 6500 X provides practical solutions, including cable grommets and strategic cutouts.
The case's dimensions, measuring 481x328x496 mm, reveal a dual-chamber design that strikes a balance between accommodating larger radiators and fans and maintaining a reasonable footprint on a desk. Despite its slightly wider width in comparison to some competitors, the additional space proves to be an asset for cooling solutions, setting the stage for potential high-performance builds.
Emphasis on Fan and Radiator Support
Corsair places a strong emphasis on fan and radiator support, a standout feature of the 6500 series. The 6500d airflow version, in particular, steals the spotlight by supporting up to 13 fans, thanks to an additional front bracket. The top bracket can house up to a 360 mm radiator, and the side bracket accommodates a 140 mm fan or radiator. Corsair's approach allows users to tailor the case's configuration based on their specific cooling requirements.
An intriguing aspect is the introduction of Elite panels, available in various colors such as black, silver, bamboo, walnut, and teak. These panels, priced at $99 for aluminum and $75 for wood, offer users the ability to customize their case's exterior, injecting a personal touch into their builds.
Additional Features and Pricing Considerations
While Corsair introduces extra options like the Elite panels and retrofit kits for cable management, it's essential to clarify that these are add-ons and not mandatory for using the case. The case's pricing might raise eyebrows for some, but the additional features and customization options make the 6500 X a compelling choice for those looking to build a unique and powerful PC.
Corsair's 6500 series cases, with the 6500 X at the forefront, underscore the company's dedication to innovation and user-friendly design. Despite the price tag, the abundance of features, including fan and radiator support, Elite panels, and various customization options, positions these cases as an enticing option for PC builders seeking a harmonious blend of aesthetics and performance. While there's room for improvement, the overall package presents a solid choice for those willing to invest in a premium PC case, ushering in a new era of possibilities in the world of PC builds.