Mid-tower PCs definition
Mid-tower PCs, also known as mid-tower cases, are a type of computer case that is commonly used for desktop personal computers. They are called mid-tower cases because they are larger than mini-tower cases but smaller than full-tower cases. Mid-tower cases offer a good balance between size, expandability, and affordability, making them a popular choice for both personal and business use.
Here are some of the key features and specifications of mid-tower PCs:
Size: Mid-tower cases typically measure around 18-24 inches in height, 8-9 inches in width, and 16-20 inches in depth. This size makes them easier to transport and handle compared to full-tower cases while still offering enough space to accommodate multiple drives and expansion cards.
Expansion Slots: Mid-tower cases usually come with 4-7 expansion slots that allow you to add additional components such as graphics cards, sound cards, and other peripherals.
Drive Bays: Mid-tower cases have space for multiple hard drives and solid-state drives. They typically have 3-4 drive bays for 3.5-inch hard drives and 2-3 drive bays for 2.5-inch solid-state drives.
Cooling: Mid-tower cases come with multiple fan mounting options to help keep your components cool. Some mid-tower cases come with pre-installed fans, while others have provisions for additional fans to be added.
Front I/O Ports: Mid-tower cases typically have front-mounted I/O ports for easy access to USB, audio, and other common inputs.
Power Supply: Mid-tower cases usually come with a standard ATX power supply, although some high-end models may include an SFX or proprietary power supply.
Cable Management: Mid-tower cases often have cable management options, such as cable tie-downs or cable routing channels, to help keep your build neat and organized.
Material and Build Quality: Mid-tower cases can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and plastic. High-end models often feature a more solid construction with better materials, while budget models may have more plastic components.
Examples of popular mid-tower computer cases
They include the following:
1. Corsair Obsidian Series 500D RGB SE:
This case features a brushed aluminum exterior, tempered glass panels, and customizable RGB lighting. It supports ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards and provides ample space for components and cable management.
The Corsair Obsidian Series 500D RGB SE is a premium PC case designed for advanced users who are looking for a case that not only looks good but also provides ample room for custom components, cooling, and storage. Here are the specifications and features of the Corsair Obsidian Series 500D RGB SE:
Case Type: Mid-Tower
Dimensions: (L x W x H) 544mm x 240mm x 554mm
Weight: 12.15 kg
Material: Brushed Aluminum and Tempered Glass
Motherboard Compatibility:
ATX
Micro-ATX
Mini-ITX
Storage:
2 x 3.5” Drive Bays
2 x 2.5” Drive Bays
1 x 3.5”/2.5” Drive Bay Combo
Expansion Slots: 7
I/O Panel:
1 x USB 3.1 Type-C Port
2 x USB 3.0 Ports
1 x Headphone and Microphone Jack
1 x Power Button
1 x Reset Button
1 x RGB LED Button
Cooling System:
Front: 3 x 120mm or 2 x 140mm Fans (included 2 x LL120 RGB Fans)
Top:
2 x 120mm or 2 x 140mm Fans
Rear: 1 x 120mm Fan (included 1 x LL120 RGB Fan)
Bottom: 1 x 120mm Fan
Radiator Compatibility:
Front: Up to 360mm
Top: Up to 280mm
Rear: 120mm
Bottom: Up to 240mm
Clearance
Graphics Card: Up to 480mm
CPU Cooler: Up to 170mm
Power Supply: Up to 225mm
Additional Features:
- Cable Management System
- Tempered Glass Side Panel
- RGB LED lighting with iCUE software control
In conclusion, the Corsair Obsidian Series 500D RGB SE is a well-designed, premium case that provides ample room for components, cooling, and storage, along with its sleek design, tempered glass, and RGB LED lighting. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality case for their PC build.
2. Phanteks Enthoo Pro M:
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro M is a mid-tower ATX case designed for PC enthusiasts and gamers. It has a steel frame and a tempered glass side panel, along with a cable management system to keep cables organized. The case is compatible with ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards and has space for multiple storage drives and graphics cards.
Dimensions: The Phanteks Enthoo Pro M measures 230mm x 494mm x 535mm, making it compact enough to fit in most setups while still providing enough room for hardware and cooling components.
Material: The case is made of steel and plastic, providing durability.
Drive Bays: The case can hold up to four 3.5" hard drives and two 2.5" SSDs and the drive bays are easily accessible in the main compartment.
Cooling: The case can support up to seven 120mm or 140mm fans and radiators up to 360mm in size, making it a good choice for custom water-cooling builds.
I/O Panel: The front I/O panel on top of the case has two USB 3.0 ports, audio jacks, power and reset buttons.
Cable Management: The case has a spacious interior with room for cable management to keep the inside organized.
Dust Filters: The case includes dust filters on the front, top, and bottom to prevent dust buildup and keep the system running smoothly.
Clearance: The case provides enough clearance for graphics cards up to 420mm in length and tall CPU coolers up to 200mm in height.
In conclusion, the Phanteks Enthoo Pro M is an affordably-priced, well-designed mid-tower case with a good balance of functionality and aesthetics. Whether you're building a gaming system or a workstation, it offers the features and flexibility you need.
3. NZXT H510 Elite:
The NZXT H510 Elite is a premium compact ATX mid-tower case that offers a sleek design and a variety of advanced features for a high-performance PC build. Here are the detailed specifications:
Dimensions: 210mm x 460mm x 428mm (H x W x D)
8.3in x 18.1in x 16.9in (H x W x D)
Weight: 6.6 kg / 14.5 lbs
Materials: Steel and Tempered Glass construction
NZXT H510 Elite Motherboard Compatibility:
Mini-ITX, Micro-ATX, and ATX
Expansion Slots: 7
Drive Bays:
2x 2.5-inch SSD bays
2x 3.5-inch HDD bays (combo cage)
Front I/O Panel:
1x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C
1x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A
1x Headphone and Microphone jack
Power button
Reset button
RGB control button
Cooling System:
Front: 2x 140mm or 2x 120mm fans (included)
Top: 2x 140mm or 2x 120mm fans (optional)
Rear: 1x 120mm fan (included)
Clearance:
CPU Cooler: 165mm
Graphics Card: 381mm
Cable Management: 19-23mm
Radiator Compatibility:
Front: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm
Top: 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm
Dust Filters:
Front (Included)
Top (Included)
Bottom (Included)
Power Supply: Standard ATX PS2
Warranty: 2 Years
The NZXT H510 Elite has a tempered glass side panel that showcases your build, and its steel construction and cable management options keep things neat and organized. The built-in RGB lighting control and front I/O panel offer easy access to your system's ports and lighting customization. With plenty of room for cooling, storage, and components, the H510 Elite is a good pick for those seeking a stylish and efficient PC case.
In summary, mid-tower PCs provide a reasonable balance of size, upgrade options, and cost-effectiveness, making them a suitable choice for those who want a desktop computer that can handle different jobs and be updated in the future.