Phanteks EX case isolates GPU and redirects airflow for better cooling

A recent UK heatwave has put PC cooling back in the spotlight, and Phanteks' new EX series of modular cases offers a different approach. A deep-dive by hardware creator Der8auer highlights how the lineup abandons the common 'fish tank' look in favour of a compartmentalised layout that places the GPU in its own chamber.

The range begins with the EX5 at $110, which requires builders to supply their own cooler, while other models include a side-mounted cooling system. That side-mounted AIO directs fresh, non-recirculated air straight at hot components such as the GPU, improving thermal efficiency and reducing the need for extra fans.

The top-tier EX6 Max costs $330 and replaces tempered glass with opaque aluminium, adds a rubber gasket to seal the GPU chamber, and ships with high-performance X30 fans, a dedicated AIO, and a 10-inch LCD. Midrange options bridge the gap: the EX5 Plus ($160) includes a custom cooler and tubing management, and the EX5 Max ($230) adds a 6-inch LCD.

United Kingdom

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