The Corsair Carbide Series 500R is an upgraded version of the 400R. For between USD 30 and USD 40 more, you get a 200 mm side fan, a three-step fan speed controller, support for a 240 mm radiator, air filter on the top panel, hard drive bays in a two-cage configuration, and support for longer video cards if the hard drive cage is removed. In summary, a very good option if you want these extra features. Otherwise, the 400R remains as a terrific option on the USD 100-110 price range.

Strong Points

• Meshed bay covers with air filters
• Vented slot covers
• Air filter for the power supply fan
• Air filter for the optional bottom fan
• Air filter for the optional top fans
• Three-step fan speed controller
• Eight expansion slots
• A huge hole in the motherboard tray for accessing the backplate of the CPU cooler
• Holes for routing cables behind the motherboard tray
• Support for six 3.5” or 2.5” internal devices

Weak Points

No air filter for the left-panel fan