Testing
The following system was used to test the case:
– Processor: Intel i5 4690K @ 4.5 GHz
– Motherboard: MSI Z97 Gaming 9 ACK
– Memory: Corsair DDR3 16GB
– GPU: ASUS GeForce GTX 780 Ti Direct CU II
– SSD: Crucial MX 500GB
– Mass Storage: WD 1 TB Blue
– PSU: Seasonic Connect 750W
– CPU Cooler: Intel Stock
– OS: Windows 10 64-Bit (After April Update)
The interior of the CK500 has plenty of space available for either a small motherboard or an E-ATX motherboard. The wire management holes are covered by rubber grommets to add more depth to the look of the system housed by the case.
The motherboard standoffs are preinstalled and the I/O cables are pre-routed towards the lower part of the case & motherboard.
CPU Temperature
GPU Temperature
Case sound
Final thoughts
The DeepCool CK500 Is a good-looking mid-tower case that offers plenty of great features. The build quality is good, starting with the quality of the metal and the fit and finish of both side panels.
The design of this case is simple with no RGB and no plastic components attached to the case. In addition, the front panel is made from metal and is removable.
In terms of dust filtration, the CK500 has plenty to offer, with large dust filters at the top and front of the case. The power supply dust filter is smaller and harder to reach, however, it is solid and easy to clean and reinstall.
For storage, this case offers a total of four 2.5” bays if the two 3.5” bays are not used. However, one disadvantage with the CK500 is the mounting system used for the SSD slots, while good, if the mounting pins are lost then both SSD mounting points are not usable.
The performance of the CK500 is good, especially for a case with only two 140mm fans preinstalled. However, the front panel will restrict the airflow available for the fans and increase the overall temperature of the system.
The front panel is the biggest drawback of the CK500 as it restricts the airflow and is one step added to access the front dust filter of the case.
In conclusion, the DeepCool CK500 is a good mid-range case that will handle even an E-ATX motherboard. There is no RGB present with this case, and the same can be said for the included 140mm fans. The design of the CK500 is minimalist, with no graphics or unusual shapes.
The cooling performance is good for a case of this size and for a case that only uses two 140mm fans. This case has only two drawbacks, first, the front panel will restrict the airflow of the system and increase the temperatures. The second drawback is the SSD mounting system which while good, relies heavily on pins that if lost, will render both SSD mounting points unusable.
Great REVIEW. Thorough and concise.
Would be nice to know what’s recommended in terms of adding 2 more front fans to offset the disadvantage of the restricted flow through the front panel.
Appreciate the tip Do Not Lose the SSD mounting pins!!!!! Easy workaround there. Put ’em in a small baggie and tape it down carefully inside the lower section.