Raidmax Alpha RGB (White) Mid-Tower PC Case Review @ ModSynergy.com
By: Michael Phrakaysone
In my recent review of the XCELLON KU-MB100B wired backlit keyboard, which targets budget-conscious gamers, I presented an affordable option for those seeking a stylish backlit keyboard priced under $29.95 USD.
Today, I continue to cater to gamers on a tight budget who desire an upgrade or are in the process of building a new PC system. This review focuses on the ever-expanding RGB lighting market, which has made its way into the PC industry.
Over the past year, products featuring RGB lighting have often come with an inflated price tag. Recognizing this trend, Raidmax has introduced the Alpha RGB mid-tower PC case. This case combines modern design with RGB lighting, offering a remote control to navigate through various lighting modes, all while aiming to provide an affordable solution for budget-conscious consumers. With a price point of $74.99 USD, Raidmax has potentially carved out a niche in the market. In this review, we will examine the white exterior version of the Raidmax Alpha RGB to determine if it justifies its cost and if it serves as a suitable platform for your valuable investment.
About Raidmax
Raidmax was founded in 1988 with the mission of providing the best solutions: specifically, meeting your requirements for innovative designs, excellent performance and quality products.
In early 2003, Raidmax was the first to debut the design "Scorpio": an alien eye shape on its general front panel. At the time, it was the best ever hit in the gaming case business and almost every factory had owned at least one similar design back in China. Two years later, Raidmax released another cutting-edge design, Samurai, and people who had seen the case itself instantly fell in love.
After numerous global feedback, Raidmax is known all over the world. It is said our company is not only a case designer but also the perfect budget keeper. You can simply spend a little but you receive higher quality than you expect.
It has been more than 10 years since Raidmax began its work on its unique product lines and market position. The name of Raidmax is synonymous to gaming design and budget cases. In the United States, Raidmax is considered to be a major brand in this regard; in Asia, it is said that only Raidmax can offer the budget cases with great designs; in Europe, with almost no brand management, Raidmax' followers are still showing their loyal support in many ways.
Raidmax Alpha RGB Product Features
Raidmax Alpha RGB Specifications
First Impressions
The packaging of the Raidmax Alpha RGB PC case is noteworthy for its beautifully designed colored corrugated box. This comes as a pleasant surprise, given the case's lower price point, which typically would be associated with a plain brown box. Raidmax has made an effort to create an eye-catching box design that showcases both the white and black versions of the Alpha RGB case, highlighting its main features and specifications. However, one aspect that seems puzzling is the absence of handles on the rather large box, which would have facilitated easier transport.
Visual Overview – Exterior
The aesthetic appeal of the Raidmax Alpha RGB case is subjective, and personally, I find its modern and sleek design quite appealing. Once the case is laid out on a table, its beauty becomes evident. The front grille immediately catches the eye, resembling a 3D hologram. Depending on the angle from which it is viewed, the front grille appears to have a dynamic depth, creating a visually striking effect as if it is leaping out towards the viewer. It is worth noting that the front grille section is designed to showcase the RGB lighting, which illuminates when the computer is turned on, further enhancing its captivating visual impact.
The RGB LED lighting system integrated within the Raidmax Alpha RGB offers a wide range of options to enhance the visual experience. It supports 22 dynamic lighting modes, allowing for dynamic and eye-catching effects. Additionally, there are 20 static colors to choose from, enabling users to customize the lighting to their preference. The lighting effects are designed to be smooth and seamless, ensuring a visually appealing display.
To conveniently control the lighting system, the case comes with an RF wireless remote control. This remote enables users to adjust the speed of the lighting effects dynamically, modify the static color, cycle through 7 direct color selections, adjust the brightness of the LED lights, switch between different lighting effect modes, and even put the lighting system into standby mode.
In terms of measurements, the Raidmax Alpha RGB has dimensions of 450mm (L) x 211mm (W) x 465mm (H) or approximately 17.7 inches (L) x 8.3 inches (W) x 18.3 inches (H). As for its weight, the case weighs around 13 lbs, providing a sturdy and substantial build.
The Raidmax Alpha RGB offers several notable features that contribute to its functionality and convenience. Here are some key features:
1. Magnetic Dust Filter: The case is equipped with a magnetic dust filter on the top, which can be easily removed and washed if needed. This helps to keep dust out of the system and maintain optimal airflow.
2. Front Panel RGB Lighting: The front of the case houses an impressive RGB lighting system that adds visual flair. It comes with an RF wireless remote control, allowing users to customize and control the lighting effects conveniently.
3. Compatibility for Components: The Alpha RGB can accommodate graphics cards with a maximum length of 390mm (15.35") and CPU coolers with a maximum height of 175mm (6.88"). This ensures compatibility with a wide range of high-performance components.
4. Full-Length Power Supply Shroud: The case features a unique full-length power supply shroud, which not only contributes to a cleaner and more organized appearance but also simplifies cable management.
5. Cable Passageway: Internally, the case includes a side cable passageway that facilitates cable management, enabling users to keep their cables tidy and organized.
6. Liquid Cooling Support: The Alpha RGB provides support for 360mm liquid cooling systems at the front, allowing users to take advantage of efficient cooling for their high-performance systems.
7. Fan Support: The case supports multiple case fans, including up to three 120mm or two 140mm fans in the front, up to three 120mm or two 140mm fans on the top, and one 120mm or 140mm fan at the rear. A single 120mm rear exhaust fan comes pre-installed.
These features collectively enhance the functionality, cooling capabilities, and aesthetic appeal of the Raidmax Alpha RGB case.
The Raidmax Alpha RGB distinguishes itself with a large side panel that deviates from the common clear panels found in many cases on the market. Instead, it features a smoky tinted side panel, which imparts a subdued effect on the LED lights inside the PC case. This unique design choice adds a touch of sophistication and creates a more refined and subtle lighting ambiance. The smoky tinted panel strikes a balance between showcasing the internal components and providing a more elegant, less overtly illuminated appearance.
On one end of the side panel, you will find the power button, reset button, and two LED indicators, providing easy access for powering on and controlling the system. On the other end, there are two USB 3.0 ports and two HD audio ports, allowing convenient connectivity for peripherals such as USB devices and headphones with microphone support. It is worth mentioning that having four USB 3.0 ports would have been desirable given the current standards.
To ensure proper ventilation, the case features side ventilation ports, although they are relatively small. Additionally, air can flow through an open port located at the bottom of the front panel, contributing to overall airflow within the case. However, it is important to note that the front airflow may be somewhat restricted due to the presence of the 3D hologram-like front panel insert, which partially blocks the front grille.
To maintain clean internals and efficient cooling, the Raidmax Alpha RGB incorporates a removable and washable magnetic dust filter on the top, allowing easy maintenance to prevent dust buildup. Furthermore, there is an additional smaller dust filter located at the bottom of the case, specifically designed to facilitate airflow through the power supply area and keep it free from dust accumulation.
Visual Overview – Interior
For users who still prefer to have an internal optical drive, such as a Blu-Ray drive, the Raidmax Alpha RGB provides support for a single 5.25" drive expansion bay. This bay features a tool-less design, making it convenient to install and remove optical drives as needed.
The specific Raidmax Alpha RGB case being reviewed in this instance comes in a sleek white exterior color. The paint quality is exceptional, exhibiting no visible defects. The paint has a smooth finish that suggests it is applied using a liquid-based method rather than a powder-coated one. It has a slight hint of semi-gloss, and the paint thickness feels substantial, adding to the overall durability and aesthetic appeal. The metal side panels have a solid weight to them, ensuring they are not flimsy and contribute to the sturdiness of the case.
The interior layout of the case features a contrasting black paint, creating an attractive visual contrast with the white exterior. The interior is meticulously powder-coated, providing a high-quality texture and finish. The motherboard tray comes with pre-installed standoffs, simplifying the installation process by allowing users to directly mount the motherboard without the need for additional adjustments. The interior layout is well-organized, offering ample space within the motherboard tray. Notably, there is a generously sized CPU heatsink motherboard cutout, enabling easy CPU cooler changes in the future without the need to remove the entire motherboard from the case.
Moving to the rear of the case, you will find the dual SSD compartment caddy positioned on the left side, the HDD caddy located at the bottom left, and the power supply compartment situated at the bottom right. This layout ensures efficient storage options for SSDs and HDDs, as well as a dedicated space for the power supply unit, contributing to a tidy and organized interior design.
The Raidmax Alpha RGB offers the convenience of placing a single SSD on top of the metal power supply shroud. This can be achieved by utilizing one of the two SSD caddies located at the rear of the case. However, it is worth noting that it would have been advantageous if Raidmax had initially included three SSD caddies, as this would have provided users with additional storage flexibility and options.
Speaking of the power supply compartment, I found that the Raidmax Alpha RGB supports standard ATX-sized power supplies up to 150mm in length. However, it was disappointing to see that there was no information provided on the box or website regarding the maximum power supply size.
In my case, I decided to use a Rosewill SilentNight-500W fan-less power supply, which measures 170 x 150 x 86 mm. It was a tight fit, and the modular cables ended up hitting and getting stuck against the HDD caddy cage. Removing the power supply became quite a hassle. Upon reflection, I believe Raidmax should have made the necessary adjustments by moving the HDD cage towards the front. This would have created more room for larger power supplies, and it seems like a simple modification that wouldn't have compromised the structural integrity of the case.
When I took off the front panel, I was able to see the RGB lighting system in action. It consists of a single strip of 18 SMD LEDs, which beautifully illuminate the 3D hologram-like insert located behind the front grille.
I have included a photo of the wireless RF remote control that comes with the case. It's a convenient accessory that allows you to control every aspect of the RGB lighting system. I particularly like the magnet on the back of the remote control, as it allows me to easily mount it anywhere on the case according to my preference.
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System Build Example & Build Thoughts
Building inside the Raidmax Alpha RGB was a breeze thanks to its spacious interior and thoughtful design. The case offers ample room for installing components, allowing for easy access and maneuverability during the building process. The inclusion of multiple cable routing holes helps in organizing the cables and keeping them out of sight, although the absence of rubber grommets means extra care is needed to ensure a tidy cable management.
One notable feature that greatly aids in creating a clean and visually appealing build is the full-length power supply shroud. This shroud effectively hides the power supply and associated cables, creating a neat and streamlined appearance. With the excess cables tucked away behind the shroud, the focus remains on the components and the stunning RGB lighting effects. Speaking of RGB lighting, the Raidmax Alpha RGB truly shines in this department. The case boasts a vibrant and customizable lighting system, with 22 dynamic modes and 20 static colors to choose from. The included RF wireless remote control provides convenient access to adjust the lighting effects, change colors, and control brightness. The remote control's magnetic feature allows for easy placement anywhere on the case, ensuring quick and effortless control over the RGB lighting.
From a technical standpoint, the Raidmax Alpha RGB supports standard ATX motherboards and can accommodate graphics cards with a maximum length of 390mm (15.35") and CPU coolers with a maximum height of 175mm (6.88"). It also offers support for liquid cooling solutions, with compatibility for up to a 360mm radiator at the front. The case provides multiple fan mounting options, including support for 120mm x 3 or 140mm x 2 fans in the front, 120mm x 3 or 140mm x 2 fans on top, and a pre-installed 120mm rear exhaust fan.
Overall, building inside the Raidmax Alpha RGB not only delivers a clean and organized system but also showcases the mesmerizing RGB lighting effects. With its spacious interior, thoughtful cable management features, and customizable lighting options, the case offers both functionality and visual appeal for PC enthusiasts.
RGB Lighting Demo Videos
Where Can I Buy One? And For How Much?
The Raidmax Alpha RGB PC case can be purchased on Amazon USA for $74.99 USD.
Why do I like Amazon? They are fast, honest, reliable, and their return policy is great. I actually got money refunded back to my account after Amazon overcharged me on duty costs, talk about being an honest company, most others would keep the money and not say anything!
If you're thinking of purchasing the Raidmax Alpha RGB, or anything else for that matter, please use our Amazon links above, it'll help us out greatly, and go towards supporting this website and any future contests we hold through Facebook.
Some Amazon Deals That May Interest You!
Conclusion
The Raidmax Alpha RGB proves to be a highly commendable platform for building a PC system. Its affordability and inclusion of a controllable RGB lighting system make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious gamers. Throughout the building process, I encountered very few issues and was generally pleased with the case's performance.
One minor drawback is the placement of the HDD cage. Positioning it towards the front of the case would have allowed for better accommodation of larger power supplies, preventing potential clearance issues. However, this obstacle can be overcome with some careful planning and cable management.
Another aspect to consider is the limited number of included case fans. The Alpha RGB only comes with a single rear case fan, which may not be sufficient for effectively cooling modern gaming systems. It would have been ideal to include at least two fans to ensure adequate airflow and temperature regulation. However, this can be mitigated by adding additional fans in the available mounting locations, such as the top of the case, which supports three 120mm fans or two 140mm fans.
One design choice that slightly hampers front case cooling is the 3D hologram paper insert behind the front grille. While it adds to the visual appeal and RGB light show, it restricts significant airflow through the front grille. However, this limitation can be addressed by utilizing the top fan mounts to direct cool air downward into the case, compensating for the reduced front airflow.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Raidmax Alpha RGB excels in many areas and presents a clean and visually appealing solution for PC builders. Its spacious interior, effective cable management options, and customizable RGB lighting system contribute to an overall positive building experience. Raidmax has done an impressive job with the Alpha RGB, and I have no reservations in recommending it as a solid mid-tower PC case option.
Well done, Raidmax!
