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The Allied Gaming ARGB mATX Case with PSU: a review (2024)
Introduction
I recently picked up the Allied Gaming ARGB mATX Case with PSU for my latest PC build, focusing on something that offers both style and functionality without breaking the bank. I wanted a case that would not only house all my components securely but also leave a bit of room for upgrades down the line. The case’s sleek design with ARGB fans looks fantastic, and the sturdy build is quite a plus given its affordable price point.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Allied Gaming | Motherboard Compatability | Micro ATX |
| Case Type | Desktop | Color | Black |
| Material | Tempered Glass | Cooling Method | Air |
| Hard Disk Form Factor | 3.5 Inches |
Photos
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Prices
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Design and Build Quality Assessment
When assessing the design and build quality of the Allied Gaming ARGB mATX Case, my initial impressions veered towards its sturdy construction and appealing aesthetics. The case comes with a polished black finish and incorporates a tempered glass panel, giving it a touch of elegance which is not always expected at this price point. The allure of the fully meshed front panel is twofold - it promises ample airflow while showcasing the three ARGB fans that add a vibrant touch to the overall look.
Here’s a quick rundown of the features that stood out to me:
Fully Meshed Front Panel: Enhances airflow and visual appeal.
Tempered Glass Side Panel: Adds a premium feel.
Included 550 Watt Power Supply: Convenient for budget builds but of modest quality.
ARGB Fan Controller: Simple customization of lighting without additional software.
Solid Build Quality: Good rigidity and no sharp edges to contend with.
Packaging: Includes protective cloth cover and accessory box.
However, there are some trade-offs. The use of Molex connectors for the fans feels dated and restricts speed control, which might be a letdown for those looking to fine-tune their system’s acoustics. Additionally, I was somewhat disappointed to find that the thumb screws for the side panels are not captive, necessitating extra caution not to lose them during installation. The cable management space is also quite limited, and using the non-modular power supply cables provided can create a bit of a squeeze, which is less than ideal.
Despite these drawbacks, the case still manages to impress with its build quality. The included RGB fans might use older Molex connectors, but they add significant value to the package, eliminating the immediate need to purchase additional ones. The case’s layout, while compact, supports both mATX and Mini-ITX motherboards, catering to a range of builds.
The Allied Gaming ARGB mATX Case sits at a crossroads of cost and functionality. While the budget-conscious design elements are palpable—such as the plastic thumbscrews and basic power supply—the case doesn’t skimp on delivering a friendly build experience. The inclusions, like the 550-watt PSU and pre-installed fans, do trim down the initial investment and setup time for first-time builders or those working within a tight budget.
Overall, the case aligns well with the expectations set by its price tag. It blends a touch of premium with practicality and reminds me that, even at affordable price points, we can look forward to a build that doesn’t feel or look cheap.
Compatibility and Installation Challenges
When assessing the compatibility and installation challenges of the Allied Gaming ARGB mATX case with PSU, there are several points to consider:
GPU Compatibility: The case supports GPUs up to 200mm, which is relatively short. This means that you’re limited to single fan and certain double fan GPUs. Make sure to check your graphics card size beforehand to avoid any disappointment.
Motherboard Fit: While it supports Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX boards, space is tight. Even with a smaller-than-average Micro-ATX board, it was a snug fit, and wiring was tricky.
Cable Management: Here’s where things get dicey. The space at the back for cable routing is minimal, which not only makes for a tight squeeze but could raise concerns about airflow and possibly safety. It’s wise to double check you’re not straining any cables—that’s both for function and peace of mind.
Included Power Supply: The 550-Watt PSU is a bonus at this price point, but it’s not the best quality. It gets the job done for low-power builds, but if you’re planning something more robust, consider upgrading the PSU to avoid any potential hazards.
I found it particularly important to note that while the case comes with some cost savings, like not needing to buy extra fans thanks to the three included ARGB fans, there are trade-offs:
The fans use Molex connectors, resulting in fixed speeds and possibly louder operation.
The presence of a cheap PSU and other components like brittle SATA connectors can add to your hassle and might lead to extra costs in the long run if components need replacing.
Despite these setbacks, there are silver linings. The case does have an impressive build considering its price range. And if you’re attracted to the lights, the RGB lighting adds some flair to your build. The brand also seems receptive to customer service issues, which is a plus if you run into trouble.
However, keep in mind that this case might require additional purchases, such as a reliable WiFi adapter or potentially a Windows activation code, which could bump up the overall investment.
In summary, here’s a quick overview:
Pros:
Budget-friendly with included fans and PSU
Good build quality
Responsive customer service
Cons:
Challenging to fit and manage cables
Limited GPU and motherboard compatibility
Noisy fans fixed to one speed
Additional purchases may be required
Whether you’re building a starter PC for a child or a budget gaming rig for yourself, just be realistic about what this case offers. It can be a good buy, but understanding its limitations will go a long way in ensuring satisfaction with your final build.
Airflow and Cooling Performance Review
When it comes to airflow and cooling performance, the case’s design impacts its functionality. With the Allied Gaming ARGB mATX case, ventilation seems to be a priority, and my experience aligns with this focus. Let’s break down my observations:
Fully Meshed Front Panel - The mesh allows for better air intake, which is crucial for cooling.
3-Fan Support - The inclusion of three fans should theoretically provide ample airflow.
Cooling Method - Air cooling is the primary method with this case, which can be effective if done right.
Upon setting up, I noticed the exceptional airflow designed for unhindered performance, a vital feature for gaming rigs that run hot. The meshed panel does indeed facilitate decent air intake. The fans, although pre-installed, are at a fixed speed owing to their Molex connectors. While adjustable fan speeds would have been preferred for better control, the existing setup managed to keep temperatures in check.
The 3-Fan ARGB setup provides a visual treat and contributes to the cooling with one significant caveat - noise level. The small rear fan seems a bit loud, more than I’d like for a quiet gaming environment, but not a deal breaker.
A point worth noting is the 550 Watt power supply inclusion, which is good for low to mid-range builds. My build with an RTX 3050 ran without issues, but if you’re considering higher-end gear, you might want to weigh the pros of an included PSU against potential power limitations.
I did come across the need to confirm GPU compatibility - make sure your card is equal to or smaller than 200mm. This restriction underscores the importance of being super diligent about component sizes when working with compact cases.
The tempered glass material adds a premium look but consider it’s prone to scratches, hence handle with care. And while on the subject, be attentive to the possibility of tight cable management. It’s not a spacious case by any stretch, and you may find yourself wrestling with cables, which can potentially impact airflow negatively if not managed properly.
To summarize, the Allied Gaming ARGB mATX case delivers fairly well on cooling and airflow given its price point. It’s not without its drawbacks - noise from fans and restrictions on space that require careful planning. Yet, for the price, the case does a respectable job of keeping hardware cooled, especially for budget-conscious builds where every dollar towards performance counts.
Value Proposition and Overall Impressions
In my journey for a value-focused PC case, the Allied Gaming ARGB mATX case with included PSU initially caught my attention. Packing several features at a competitive price point, this case seems poised to be a favored choice among budget-conscious gamers and builders. Here’s a quick glance at the pros and cons:
Pros:
Comes with a 550W power supply, adding value for those on a budget.
The fully meshed front panel promises good airflow.
Supports both Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards.
Includes three ARGB fans, saving additional expenses on cooling.
Free Lifetime US Tech Support alongside a 2-year warranty for parts & labor.
Cons:
Limited GPU compatibility up to 200mm, which may restrict options for gamers looking to upgrade.
Potential issues with cable management due to limited space, possibly affecting overall build tidiness.
From the initial unboxing to the final screws being tightened, it’s clear the case has been designed with an emphasis on user-friendly features like the Tempered Glass panel for aesthetics and an Air cooling method that aligns with the current demands for efficient thermal management. The Black color scheme is versatile for different setups, and the inclusion of hard disk support for 3.5 Inches drives shows an understanding of legacy storage needs.
While the case’s construction isn’t the pinnacle of high-end materials, the tempered glass and overall sturdiness are appreciable for its price bracket. The fact that the case seems to nod to the iconic Federation aesthetic makes it even more appealing to fans of pop culture, myself included, which can surely influence some builds thematically.
However, it’s not all flash without pitfalls. There’s a note of caution when considering GPU size - ensure your chosen video card is within the specified 200mm to avoid compatibility hiccups. Also, while the power supply is a handy inclusion, its quality might not suit more power-hungry builds, so consider this if planning to use high-end components.
From a personal standpoint, the overall package is what I’d describe as a “smart start.” For someone assembling a new system or entering PC gaming without the desire to invest heavily, this case makes sense. It’s a practical base with bonus features like the included fans and PSU that cut down on initial costs, even if it means I might need to upgrade or replace parts of it down the line as my needs grow.
In conclusion, this case serves as an entry ticket to PC gaming builds, embodying a balance between cost and functionality. It’s imperative to understand the trade-offs at this price tag; you’re getting a robust start, but may encounter limitations with component compatibility and cable management. For a starter setup or a build on a stringent budget, I’d certainly consider it a worthwhile investment, acknowledging that future upgrades could be necessary as my gaming or professional demands evolve.