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A German computer hardware company be quiet! is making waves with the release of its Light Base 600 PC case. This new addition to their line-up comes in two versions (LX and DX) available in either black or white. The LX variant includes pre-installed fans, while the DX is fanless, allowing users to fully customize their airflow solutions. If you're looking for something even more expansive, there's the larger Light Base 900, also available in the same configurations.
A Case with Unmatched Flexibility
The Light Base 600 is more than just a typical glass-panelled PC case; it offers exceptional versatility with its dual-compartment design. The main chamber houses your primary components, while the rear compartment keeps the power supply and cables neatly hidden. But what really sets this case apart is its adaptability.
You can configure it vertically or horizontally, flip it upside down, or even invert the motherboard orientation. Whether your PC lives on the left or right side of your desk, the Light Base 600 fits seamlessly into your setup. Do note, though, that flipping the case upside down will invert the orientation of your graphics card.
A Premium Build with Enhanced Features
This isn’t a budget case and therefore you’re getting features designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind.
The side panels are constructed with full-sized mesh for optimal airflow, complemented by a sleek mechanical latch system for easy removal and cleaning. The front panel, made of tempered glass, is similarly removable via just two screws, giving quick access to the interior without compromising sturdiness.
The case supports a variety of cooling options, including up to 10 fans and dual 360mm radiators—ideal for water-cooling enthusiasts. A built-in ARGB controller with six ports allows for seamless lighting customisation, and all included cables are colour-matched for a clean, cohesive look.
Built for High-Performance Builds
With room for a 170mm CPU air cooler, a 400mm GPU, and a 180mm power supply, the Light Base 600 is designed to accommodate high-performance builds without feeling cramped. Additionally, the case includes support for multiple SSDs and a 3.5-inch HDD bay, providing ample storage options for any setup.
Pre-installed Light Wings LX fans (ARGB-enabled) ensure efficient airflow right out of the box, and filters on the base and other key areas keep dust at bay. The modular feet offer stability while elevating the case to enhance airflow for bottom-mounted fans.
User-Friendly Design
be quiet! has prioritised user convenience with thoughtful design touches. For example:
The I/O panel features a USB Type-C port, two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, and dedicated power, reset, and ARGB control buttons.
The ARGB system can sync directly with your motherboard or operate independently.
Cable management is simplified with ample space and clever routing options in the rear chamber.
Next Steps
We’re setting up the Light Base 600 with our standard test bench to evaluate its cooling performance, noise levels, and overall build experience. Will its horizontal configuration impact airflow? How does it handle high-performance components under stress? Stay tuned for detailed results in our full build review!
This case promises to be a game-changer for builders looking for flexibility and premium features in a mid-sized form factor. If you’ve got your eye on a sleek and functional setup, the Light Base 600 might just be the perfect fit.
Building in the be quiet! Light Base 600
Building in the be quiet! Lightbase 600 was a pretty smooth experience overall. Once you remove all the covers, you’re greeted with plenty of open space to work in, making the whole process feel less cramped compared to many other cases.
Thoughtful Design and Features
There’s ample space above the motherboard for routing cables, along with enough room to install a radiator and fans without running into clearance issues. Also the included signs for motherboard sizes and the middle standoff that holds the motherboard in place were thoughtful touches that made assembly easier.
One standout feature is the front header connector—a single, unified header that replaces the need for separate individual cables. This design significantly speeds up installation while maintaining a clean and organized look. Additionally, the generous space at the bottom of the case ensures hassle-free cable management, making it easy to connect even the most cumbersome components.
The white cables that I mentioned it the unboxing – they are definitely a nice touch, especially for anyone building an all-white aesthetic. They make the build look clean and give it that polished, cohesive feel. Even with a large air cooler installed, there is still plenty of space to work with, which speaks to the case’s thoughtful design.
Cable Management and RGB Lighting
During the build the back cover was a lifesaver for cable management. Even if you’re not the most organized builder, it hides everything nicely. And let’s not forget the RGB lighting—the fans, side lighting, and the under glow are all bright, vivid, and really make the case pop.
Horizontal Build Mode
Switching to a horizontal build was another highlight. It’s ridiculously simple—just undo the feet, remove the end caps, and reposition everything. The whole process takes about a minute. In horizontal mode, the RGB lighting looks fantastic with the case’s lines, though I do wish the top had a glass panel option for an even better look.
This case also seems like it would be ideal for a custom water-cooling build, given all the flexibility and space it offers.
Drawbacks and Considerations
That said, there were a few drawbacks. The back frame felt a little flimsy, especially when installing the I/O plate. For cable management, while there are tie-down points and twist ties included, I would’ve preferred Velcro straps for easier re-routing.
The stock cable routing assumes fan and ARGB headers are located at the top of your motherboard. If they aren’t, you’ll need to undo a few ties and re-route, which can get messy. It’s not a dealbreaker, but definitely something to keep in mind.
In horizontal mode, the PSU cables for the GPU and motherboard are very visible, which breaks the otherwise clean look. A motherboard with rear connectors would help solve this issue, luckily this case supports that. Additionally, the case takes up significantly more desk or floor space in horizontal orientation, although it’s low enough to fit on a shelf.
Depending on which side you place the case will actually affect acoustics. If you have the case away from you, and sit towards the side – it is actually about 5 dBA louder than if you flip it around – while it is pretty quiet, it does make a difference.
Lastly the feet – while these are easy to install and remove, they are not really fixed in place as such – if you move the case around or slide it after setting it up, they can get un-twisted and move and there is a chance they just fall off – so be careful there.
Thermal and Acoustic Performance
I think it’s time for some benchmarking results, starting with noise normalised test. Here we found that this case in its default configuration is actually kind of warm. In fact, in our tests, it is slightly hotter than King 95 from Montech which is a cheaper case.
When we turn up the fans to 100% the story does not really change, its mostly the same. We are lagging behind other set-ups and I believe it is because the case fans here are actually pretty quiet. Even at full speed they are only hitting 45 dBa which is one of the quietest in our line up and that is with microphone pointing directly at the fans. If we flip the case the other way around or in its horizontal position, then even at 100% speed the noise levels are around 40 dBa.
Final Thoughts
I have rather mixed opinion on this case. I really appreciate the ease of installation and the stylish design, particularly in the horizontal setup. On the flip side it’s a pricey option that doesn’t necessarily deliver the best performance with the included fans. If you’re drawn to this case, then I would probably recommend going for the fanless version and invest in high-end fans to ensure optimal airflow – this way you’ll get the best of both worlds.
What are your thoughts? Is this a solid take on the "fishtank-style" case, or would you stick with something more conventional? Let me know in the comments!
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