Asus Prime AP201 MicroATX PC case, covering its price, features, build quality, performance, and whether it’s a top choice for budget-conscious PC builders.In the world of PC building, finding the elusive combination of cutting-edge features, exceptional build quality, and a budget-friendly price tag can often feel like an endless quest. Enter the Asus Prime AP201 MicroATX PC case, a true game-changer that promises to elevate your PC-building experience without breaking the bank. Priced at just $80 for the base black model with a mesh side panel (or $85 for the sleek white variant), this case boasts a captivating blend of innovation and affordability. Join us as we delve deep into its exceptional design, robust build quality, impressive performance, and explore whether it’s the ideal choice for your budget PC build aspiration
Price and Availability Asus Prime AP201 MicroATX :
- The Asus Prime AP201 comes in two attractive options: a sleek black model with a mesh side panel priced at $80 and a pristine white variant for just $5 more.
- You can upgrade to a tempered glass side panel for an extra $5.
- Find it easily on popular online retailers like Amazon and Newegg.
- Priced at $80, it’s one of the most cost-effective MicroATX cases on the market.
Design and Features:
- The Asus Prime AP201 boasts a minimalist design with all-around mesh panels, ensuring optimal airflow. It’s visually appealing with or without RGB lighting.
- It supports ATX power supplies up to 180mm long and graphics cards up to 338mm, with space for CPU coolers as tall as 170mm.
- Top panel compatibility with a 360mm radiator and comes with one 120mm rear exhaust fan.
- Front I/O includes USB Type-C and audio ports, along with dust filters for bottom intake.
Build Quality:
- The case’s steel construction exudes durability, while the tightly woven mesh panels facilitate excellent airflow.
- While cable management could be improved due to limited space behind the motherboard tray, the overall build quality is commendable.
- It accommodates most components comfortably, but larger graphics cards and radiators may require some finesse.
Performance:
- The mesh design contributes to exceptional airflow, effectively keeping components cool even under heavy workloads.
- During testing with a mid-range build, temperatures remained within acceptable ranges.
- Be prepared for slightly elevated noise levels due to the mesh panels and potential need for additional case fans.
Is it a good budget case?
- At $80, the Asus Prime AP201 delivers superb value and features for budget-conscious builders, offering ample space for components.
- Consider adding extra case fans for improved cooling and noise management in mid to high-end configurations.
- It may have limited drive bays and basic cable management, but it represents a solid and budget-friendly choice.
Additional Details:
Build Options:
- Supports mATX and mini-ITX motherboard formats.
- Accommodates 2x 2.5″ SSDs behind the motherboard tray and 2x 3.5″ HDDs in the PSU shroud area.
- Front I/O includes 2x USB 3.0 and 1x USB-C ports, ensuring excellent airflow throughout the case.
Cooling Support:
- Supports CPU coolers up to 170mm in height, such as the NH-D15.
- Radiator/AIO support includes 120/140mm on the rear and up to 360mm on the top.
- Front and rear can accommodate up to 3x 120mm fans each (2x pre-installed), while the top supports 2x 120mm fans.
Cable Management:
- Limited space behind the motherboard tray may pose some challenges for cable routing.
- Utilize provided Velcro straps and consider additional tie points for improved cable management.
- Slightly longer front I/O cables could make routing easier.
Build Quality Issues:
- Some minor quality issues include slightly loose front I/O panel connectors and somewhat flimsy top fan mounts.
- Note that there are no dust filters on the top and rear ventilation.
Alternatives to Consider:
- Cooler Master Q300L offers slightly more space and additional drive bays for $60.
- Phanteks Eclipse P300A, featuring a mesh front and 3 fans, comes in at $60-$70, depending on variants.
- Fractal Design Meshify C, known for excellent airflow and build quality, starts at $80.
In conclusion, despite some minor quality concerns, the Asus Prime AP201 offers outstanding value and features for budget builds. With careful planning and a few additional fans, it becomes an excellent choice for budget-conscious builders.
Additional Information:
Design:
- Dimensions: 395mm x 210mm x 395mm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 3.9kg (8.6lbs)
- Chassis material: 1.2mm thick SPCC steel
- Mesh panels crafted from tightly woven steel for enhanced durability
Hardware Compatibility:
- Supports motherboards up to Micro-ATX form factor
- Accommodates graphics cards up to 338mm in length
- Supports CPU coolers up to 170mm in height
- Accepts ATX power supplies up to 180mm in length
Cooling & Fan Support:
- Front & rear fan mounts accommodate 120mm or 140mm fans
- Top mount supports 240mm or 280mm radiators
- Rear mount supports 120mm fan or radiator
- Bottom mount is ready for 120mm intake fans
- Pre-installed 120mm exhaust fan at the rear
I/O Ports:
- Front: 2x USB 3.0, 1x USB-C, audio jacks
- Pre-installed I/O shield simplifies cable routing
- LED power/reset buttons with power LED indicator
Drive Bays:
- 2x 2.5″ SSD mounts behind the motherboard tray
- 2x 3.5″ HDD mounts behind the PSU shroud
- No 5.25″ external drive bays
Radiator Mounts:
- Top – Up to 360mm radiator or triple 120mm fans
- Rear – Up to 120mm radiator or fan
In shorts, the Asus Prime AP201 is an ideal choice for budget gaming and workstation builds, offering a compact form factor, versatile cooling options, and compatibility with mid-range components. If you encounter any potential issues, these troubleshooting tips will help you make the most of this budget-friendly case.