Description
The Cooler Master NCORE 100 AIR redefines the Small Form Factor (SFF) landscape by offering a vertical, high-performance chassis with a footprint smaller than a standard sheet of paper. Constructed with premium aluminum side panels, this case utilizes a unique expandable frame that allows users to toggle between a 155mm and 172mm width. This adjustment increases the internal volume from 15.7L to 17.2L, providing the necessary clearance for massive triple-slot graphics cards like the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090. Its chimney-effect thermal design ensures that heat is efficiently exhausted through the top and rear, maintaining stable temperatures for high-end components.
This product is for:
- SFF Enthusiasts: Those seeking a minimal desk footprint without sacrificing the ability to house flagship hardware.
- High-End Gamers: Users requiring compatibility for 3-slot GPUs up to 357mm in length for 4K gaming performance.
- Minimalist Professionals: Creators who appreciate the sleek, industrial aesthetic of anodized aluminum in a workspace.
- First-Time ITX Builders: Individuals looking for an accessible entry into small builds via a tool-free, open-frame structure.
- Tech-Focused Content Creators: Users who need high-speed connectivity, including USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C, for fast data transfers.
Detailed specifications:
- Chassis Volume: 15.7L (Normal Mode) / 17.2L (Expanded Mode)
- Dimensions: 155 x 212 x 449mm (Normal) / 172 x 212 x 449mm (Expanded)
- GPU Compatibility: Maximum length 337mm-357mm; Maximum height 180mm; Triple-slot support
- Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
- Included Riser Cable: 240mm PCIe 4.0 x16
- Pre-installed Cooling: 1x 120mm PWM Fan (Top), 1x 120mm PWM Fan (Rear)
- Front I/O: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x 3.5mm Audio Combo Jack
- Power Supply Support: SFX (up to 100mm)
Building in the NCORE 100 AIR is streamlined by its open-frame architecture. Unlike traditional sandwich-style ITX cases that require complex cable routing, the NCORE 100 AIR provides 11mm of dedicated space behind the motherboard tray for cable management. The tool-free panels snap off easily, granting 360-degree access to the interior. During operation, the vertical orientation promotes natural convection, while the pre-installed 120mm PWM fans (rated up to 1200 RPM) actively pull cool air through the perforated aluminum sides and exhaust it out the top, preventing thermal throttling during intensive workloads.
When compared to traditional ITX cases like the Cooler Master NR200P, the NCORE 100 AIR offers a significantly smaller desk footprint by utilizing vertical height. While the NR200P is more versatile for custom water cooling, the NCORE 100 AIR is specifically engineered for air-cooled efficiency and massive GPU compatibility. Its expandable width feature is a distinct advantage over fixed-volume cases like the SSUPD Meshlicious, allowing users to upgrade their GPU in the future without needing to replace the entire chassis. The inclusion of a PCIe 4.0 riser and ATX 3.0 ready power cables ensures it is ready for the latest generation of hardware out of the box.
Q&A:
- Can the NCORE 100 AIR fit an NVIDIA RTX 4090? Yes, when set to the expanded mode, the case supports GPUs up to 357mm in length and 3-slot thickness.
- What type of power supply does this case require? It is designed for SFX power supplies with a maximum length of 100mm.
- Is a PCIe riser cable included in the box? Yes, the case comes pre-installed with a high-quality 240mm PCIe 4.0 x16 riser cable.
- What is the maximum CPU cooler height supported? The case supports CPU air coolers with a height between 50mm and 70mm, depending on the GPU configuration.
- Does the case support liquid cooling? The NCORE 100 AIR is optimized for air cooling; however, it can accommodate specific 120mm AIO configurations depending on component clearance.
