Antec has introduced two new mid-tower cases for enthusiasts: the AX1000 ARGB and the Flux Rear. Both promise a blend of high airflow and stunning aesthetics, but each comes with its own unique design philosophy.
First up is the Antec AX1000 ARGB, a case designed to showcase your system. With a geometric front panel and a full-view tempered glass side panel, this case is designed for those who want their rig to be the centrepiece of their setup. Antec has clearly prioritised both form and function, as the mesh front panel and bottom-up ventilation design are designed to maximise airflow. Cooling is a major focus for the AX1000 ARGB, which is equipped with four pre-installed 140 mm ARGB PWM fans and a built-in fan controller. However, you can accommodate up to nine fans if you so wish. For water-cooling, there's support for a 360mm radiator at both the front and top of the chassis.
Compatibility is also a strong point, as the case supports E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, and ITX motherboards, with a generous CPU cooler clearance of 185 mm and a massive 420 mm of space for your graphics card. The I/O is modern, too, featuring a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port alongside the usual USB-A and audio ports. Tool-free side panels are a nice touch, making for easy access when you're tinkering inside.
Next, we have the Antec Flux Rear, a case that takes a slightly different approach to cooling. With a multi-directional vent design that Antec calls the “F-Lux Platform”, this case's core design idea is to create a dedicated airflow channel for optimal cooling, especially for the GPU. The Flux Rear comes with five pre-installed PWM fans, including two 120 mm reverse fans on the PSU shroud and 3x 140 mm ARGB fans (two in the front and one at the rear). As for the PSU itself, it's mounted in the front of the case, a design choice that Antec says opens up space at the bottom for improved airflow and better heat dissipation around your graphics card.
The front panel is a combination of metal mesh and wood, giving the case a unique look. The Flux Rear also supports back-connect motherboards, which should make for a cleaner build with less cable clutter, and comes with a built-in GPU bracket. As for water cooling, you can fit a 360 mm radiator at the top. The I/O is similar to that of the AX1000 ARGB, featuring a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, as well as audio and USB-A connections.
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KitGuru says: Of the two new Antec cases mentioned above, which one do you prefer?