BeQuiet! Pure Base 501 DX: A mainstream case with ARGB

A relatively small PC case with the potential to attract the masses. That is, if you care at least a little about colorful lighting. Otherwise, we’re still in the “midi-tower” class, where price accessibility also plays a role. Within BeQuiet!’s product lines, this case still belongs to the lowest (Pure Base), although it keeps a “higher” standard throughout. There’s nothing that would suggest excessive cuts or visible flaws.

Conclusion

A combination of high cooling performance and an appealing design defined in part by stylish lighting. The Pure Base 501 DX also features dimensions consistent with the midi-tower class. In other words, it’s not an especially large chassis that would require a special spot just to make it fit.

The price could be considered average. Even though it exceeds one hundred euros, it’s important to consider that the case comes bundled with three Pure Wings 3 fans, and also includes ARGB LED lighting. This added value elevates the price above the level of basic Airflow models such as the Pure Base 501 Airflow. We’ll be reviewing one of those soon, but for now, back to the Pure Base 501 DX. Cooling is efficient, even for ensuring optimal performance with high-end components.

At very low noise levels (achievable by adjusting the fans to the lower end of their speed range), and even at maximum speed, noise remains relatively low. With only “medium” fan speeds, the Pure Base 501 DX is never outright loud – not even without optimized fan control (at 100% PWM). Naturally, it’s best to fine-tune these settings, as the difference in cooling between high and low fan speeds tends to be minimal. This holds true even for systems built with power-hungry components that generate more heat.

Inside the Pure Base 501 DX, you can install even the largest graphics cards or the tallest tower coolers. It also supports liquid cooling radiators – up to 360 mm. Though limited to front mounting, with the top restricted to 240 mm models, that’s a necessary trade-off for the case’s “average” dimensions mentioned earlier.

Noteworthy is the use of sound-dampening material in the steel side panel – something not often found, especially in lower price ranges like that of the BeQuiet! Pure Base 501 DX. What’s missing (and would have been welcome) is a fan hub. The case doesn’t include one, instead relying on an adapter to connect multiple fans to a single header.

With the three fans included, this setup is manageable, but with more fans, it becomes less elegant. Even when all five 140 mm fan slots are used (assuming you add two more), you won’t exceed the typical 1 A current limit of a 4-pin motherboard header. Even during peak speeds, this remains the case. The motor output of the included fans is rather low – which, in this case, is a good thing (low-RPM system fans are sufficient). That said, connecting more than three fans to the motherboard can get somewhat… inconvenient.

Still, the absence of a fan hub is not a major fault considering the case’s low price bracket – especially in light of everything it offers. In addition to the three built-in fans and ARGB LED lighting, it also features a robust structure and an overall modern layout. One that meets the expectations of users looking for a visually appealing mid-range build. With this in mind, the Pure Base 501 DX provides all the necessary internal space – including some leeway for installing large coolers and graphics cards. The building experience is smooth. It’s just a shame that the cable cutouts don’t feature rubber grommets. Then again, the previous model (Pure Base 500 DX) didn’t have them either. That doesn’t excuse it, but it’s likely a necessary trade-off to keep the price low.

All things considered, we have no serious criticisms of the BeQuiet! Pure Base 501 DX that would deter its target users from purchasing it. In terms of features, the front panel includes a USB-C port for connecting modern devices, including smartphones. As a case for everyday PC builds that aim to be both functional and visually pleasing, the Pure Base 501 DX is a solid choice.

English translation and edit by Jozef Dudáš

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