Cooler Master Qube 340 Review: Portable Mini ITX Case Worth $55
The Cooler Master Qube 340 is a highly portable and affordable mini ITX case that offers excellent airflow and value, making it ideal for users looking to build a compact gaming rig they can easily transport. While its internal construction has some flex, the exterior build quality and thoughtful design features, like removable handles and a movable front I/O panel, make it a compelling option for builders prioritizing space-saving and portability.
Key Facts:
- Price: Approximately $55
- Form Factor: Mini ITX
- Dimensions: 386.1 x 230 x 429.4 mm (including handles, feet)
- Max GPU Length: 365 mm (without front fan)
- Max CPU Cooler Height: 178 mm
- Pre-installed Fan: 1x 140mm rear fan
- Front I/O: 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen1, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen2x2, 1x 3.5mm combo audio
- Handles: Removable
Table of Contents
Cooler Master Qube 340 First Impressions
My initial impressions of the Cooler Master Qube 340 are overwhelmingly positive. When this case first appeared at Computex this year, it immediately caught my eye.
Although I do not yet have all the niche components required for a full build, Cooler Master has impressed me right out of the box. The portability and thoughtful design suggest it is a strong contender for those wanting to build a compact gaming PC.
The Qube 340 case arrives with removable handles, which are a key feature for its intended purpose. This design choice supports my plan to create a desktop that can be set up and moved easily.
It avoids the need for a permanent fixture under a television, offering flexibility in placement and transport. This emphasis on portability is a significant draw.
I’ve been building custom PCs for years, and while the current market presents challenges, I am determined to complete a compact rig. The Qube 340 appears to be the perfect solution on paper for this endeavor. Its design and features suggest it will make the build process manageable, even for more complex mini ITX configurations.
For those who want to build a portable mini ITX gaming PC and prioritize airflow with dust protection, the Qube 340 is an excellent choice. However, if this is your first-ever rig, be aware that compact builds can be tricky and may require more planning than a standard ATX setup.
Portability and Design
Desktop gaming PCs are often large, and this reputation holds true for many systems. The Cooler Master Qube 340 challenges this perception with its compact design and focus on portability.
The removable handles are a standout feature, perfect for users like me who plan to set up and take down their gaming desktop at a moment’s notice.
These removable handles are not just a gimmick; they serve a practical purpose for those who need to transport their PC. Whether moving it between rooms or taking it to a friend’s house, the handles facilitate easy carrying. This aspect makes the Qube 340 a versatile choice for a mobile gaming setup.
The design of the Qube 340 prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality. Its compact form factor doesn’t compromise on the ability to house powerful components. The overall design is sleek and modern, making it an attractive addition to any desk setup, even before considering its portability features.
The inclusion of spare dust shields allows for a handle-free configuration, offering users the flexibility to customize the case’s appearance. This attention to detail in the design adds to the overall appeal of the Qube 340 as a user-friendly and adaptable PC case.
Internal Build Considerations
A critical consideration for any build is component compatibility, and my ASRock Challenger Radeon RX 9070 XT graphics card was a key factor.
I needed to ensure it would fit, especially depending on my choice of front-fan configuration. The Qube 340 supports GPU lengths up to 365mm without a front fan, providing ample space for many high-end cards.
While an AIO radiator could be installed, the Qube 340’s design, which features a mesh-like front panel, feels more aesthetically suited to traditional air cooling.
The case comes with a 140mm ‘DF1402512RFLN’ fan pre-installed at the rear, which aids in immediate airflow. The dimensions confirm that a 290mm GPU fits with approximately 78mm of clearance, leaving plenty of room.
Cable management is a significant aspect of any compact build. While the Qube 340 doesn’t feature dedicated channels, it provides several mounting points for zip ties, allowing for careful planning and execution of a clean build.
The front-mounted I/O plate is removable and can be relocated to the top of the case for easier access and cable routing.
The internal metal, particularly the motherboard tray and SSD mount, exhibits some flex. However, this is a common characteristic of cases at this price point and is unlikely to cause issues during normal use. The removable 2.5/3.5-inch drive tray is also somewhat flexible but easily secured with a single thumbscrew.
Value and Purchasing Options
For its approximate $55 asking price, the Cooler Master Qube 340 offers fantastic value. I am eager to acquire the remaining parts to complete a new build within this case. The case is currently best purchased from Newegg for $54.99, listed directly by the retailer and in stock at the time of writing.
A listing for the black variant of the Qube 340 on Amazon US mentions “Newegg Business” as a reseller at $59.49. This higher price point is not considered worthwhile for the minor increase. The white variant of the case is currently unavailable on Amazon and is missing from Newegg’s listings.
The build quality on the exterior is generally robust, with sturdy carry handles and rubberized feet providing stability. While the internal metal shows some flex, this is understandable given the case’s affordable price. The external shell remains solid, and it would likely take a significant impact to warp the case.
The case is primarily toolless, which simplifies assembly. However, the glass side panel is secured by only a single protruding tab, which warrants careful handling. Concerns about missing rubber grommets are somewhat tempered by the case’s $55 price point, making it a strong budget option.
Closing Thoughts
The Cooler Master Qube 340 is worth it if you are planning to build a portable mini ITX gaming PC and prioritize excellent airflow and dust protection. Its compact nature and removable handles make it easy to move, and the $55 price tag offers exceptional value for the features provided.
Skip the Cooler Master Qube 340 if this is your very first PC build. While it is an excellent case for experienced builders or those embarking on their second or third custom rig, the intricacies of mini ITX builds and cable management can be challenging for complete beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dimensions of the Cooler Master Qube 340?
The Cooler Master Qube 340 measures 386.1 x 230 x 429.4 mm, including the handles and feet. This compact size makes it suitable for portable gaming setups.
What is the maximum GPU length supported by the Qube 340?
The Qube 340 supports graphics cards up to 365 mm in length when no front fan is installed. This allows for the installation of many large, high-end GPUs.
Does the Cooler Master Qube 340 come with any pre-installed fans?
Yes, the Qube 340 includes one 140mm fan pre-installed at the rear of the case. This contributes to the immediate airflow within the system.
Can the front I/O panel be moved on the Qube 340?
Yes, the front-mounted I/O plate on the Qube 340 is removable. It can be relocated to the top of the case, offering more convenient access and flexible cable routing options.
