The HARD MODE of PC building - Cooler Master QUBE 500
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Promos
Play Enlisted for FREE on PC, Xbox Series X|S and PS5: enplay.link Follow the link to download the game and get your exclusive bonus now. See you in battle! PC building can be challenging, but Cooler Master wants to give you the chance to prove your grit with their new QUBE 500 flatpack case that makes you build the case while building your PC. Will Adam have the skills and assemble everything correctly the first time? Find out on today's episode of ShortCircuit! Want us to unbox something? Make a suggestion at lmg.gg ► GET MERCH: lttstore.com ► GET EXCLUSIVE CONTENT ON FLOATPLANE: lmg.gg ► SPONSORS, AFFILIATES, AND PARTNERS: lmg.gg ► PRODUCTS WE USE ON THE SHORTCIRCUIT SET: lmg.gg FOLLOW US ELSEWHERE --------------------------------------------------- Twitter: twitter.com Instagram: @shortcircuityt TikTok: @linustech Facebook: @ShortCircuitYT CHAPTERS --------------------------------------------------- 0:00 Is your life TOO EASY? 0:42 Different build options and the confusing instruction booklet 1:50 Mounting the motherboard and PSU 4:36 Does this save shipping costs? 5:14 Front panel and concerning mesh filter 7:03 Sponsor - Enlisted 7:26 Bottom and top panels 9:11 Feet and harddrive mounting 9:35 Integrated handle and cable management space 10:33 Side panels and additional radiator mounting 11:48 Additional Maracon edition colours and accessories 12:24 Thoughts on the building experience, thermal potential, and sustainability 14:08 Pricing and final thoughts 15:24 Outro
The video showcases the Cooler Master QUBE 500, a flatpack PC case designed to challenge the builder by combining the assembly process with the case itself. The host emphasizes the unconventional packaging and step-by-step build experience, including the surprisingly LEGO-like approach with QR codes linking to a video manual for each construction step. Early on, the constraints of mounting a motherboard and PSU on a prebuilt tray become apparent, with the host noting the included standoffs and the need to reposition for a micro ATX board. The front panel, core aesthetics, and the distinctive Macaron Edition colors are introduced, along with the USB-C and USB-A port configuration and the magnetic dust filter on the front panel. As the build progresses, the host evaluates the modularity of the design, the three mounting options for the PSU, and how the top and bottom panels interact with radiators, GPUs, and cable routing, all while weighing practical considerations such as shipping weight, panel density, and noise implications. The build journey then transitions to the top and bottom panels, radiator mounting potential, and the option to switch between mesh and tempered glass panels, which significantly impacts airflow and temperatures. Finally, the video closes with pricing insights, a candid assessment of the overall experience, and reflections on whether the unit represents good value at around 90 to 100 dollars, balancing the novelty and DIY appeal against thermals and daily usability for enthusiasts.
Topics · science & technology · hardware · pc building · product design
Questions answered
- What is the Cooler Master QUBE 500 and what makes it unique?
- The Cooler Master QUBE 500 is a flatpack PC case designed to be built during the PC assembly process. It emphasizes modularity, a LEGO-like build experience, and QR-coded, step-by-step instructions that guide you through mounting components while the case itself is assembled.
- What are the main build challenges highlighted in the video?
- The host notes confusing instruction labeling, the need to reposition standoffs for micro ATX, and the complexity of fitting a power supply with a modular bracket. There are concerns about cable routing, limited space for certain GPUs, and the impact of dense front and top panels on airflow and noise.
- What is the Macaron Edition and what options does the case offer?
- The Macaron Edition refers to the color theme of the front panel, with mint green being one example. The case includes interchangeable front panels (mesh or glass) and offers flexible radiator and fan mounting options, along with modular accessories and 3D printable add-ons.