Choosing the right PC case is crucial for both aesthetics and performance. If you’re eyeing NZXT’s popular ‘i’ series, the decision between the H500i and the H700i can be a tough one. Both offer premium build quality and smart features, but they cater to slightly different needs.
The H500i is a compact mid-tower, perfect for builds where space is a consideration. It packs a punch with its integrated RGB lighting and fan control, all within a sleek, minimalist design. But does its smaller footprint mean compromising on cooling or expandability?
On the other hand, the H700i offers a larger canvas for your dream build. It provides more room for radiators, more storage options, and potentially better airflow out of the box. We’ll dive deep into the specifics of the nzxt h500i vs h700i to help you make the most informed choice for your next PC project.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | NZXT H500i | NZXT H700i |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 435mm x 230mm x 428mm | 516mm x 230mm x 516mm |
| Motherboard Support | Mini-ITX, Micro-ATX, ATX | Mini-ITX, Micro-ATX, ATX, E-ATX |
| Drive Bays | 2 x 3.5″ HDD, 3 x 2.5″ SSD | 5 x 3.5″ HDD, 10 x 2.5″ SSD |
| Max GPU Length | 381mm | 413mm |
| Max CPU Cooler Height | 165mm | 185mm |
| Included Fans | 2 x 120mm (front), 1 x 120mm (rear) | 3 x 120mm (front), 1 x 140mm (rear) |
| Radiator Support (Top) | 240mm | 280mm, 360mm |
| Radiator Support (Front) | 240mm, 280mm | 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm |
| Radiator Support (Rear) | 120mm | 120mm, 140mm |
| Front Panel I/O | 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 1, 2 x USB 2.0, Audio | 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 1, 2 x USB 2.0, Audio |
| RGB Lighting | Integrated Smart Device V2 with RGB strips | Integrated Smart Device V2 with RGB strips |
| Material | Steel, Tempered Glass | Steel, Tempered Glass |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Case Size & Form Factor
- Nzxt H500i: This is a mid-tower ATX case, offering a balance between interior space and a relatively compact footprint. Its smaller size makes it more suitable for desks with limited real estate but might present challenges for larger components or extensive custom loops.
- H700i: The H700i is also a mid-tower ATX case, but it’s noticeably larger than the H500i. This increased volume allows for more comfortable component installation, better airflow potential, and greater flexibility for radiator and fan configurations, especially for more ambitious builds.
- Winner: h700i
Cooling Support
- Nzxt H500i: It supports up to 2x 120mm or 2x 140mm fans in the front, 1x 120mm fan in the rear, and 2x 120mm or 2x 140mm fans in the top. Radiator support is decent for its size, with up to a 280mm in the front and a 120mm in the rear.
- H700i: This case boasts superior cooling options, accommodating up to 3x 120mm or 2x 140mm fans in the front, 1x 120mm fan in the rear, and 3x 120mm or 2x 140mm fans in the top. Radiator support is also more extensive, allowing for up to a 360mm in the front and top, and a 120mm in the rear.
- Winner: h700i
Internal Layout & Cable Management
- Nzxt H500i: Features a clean interior with a PSU shroud and integrated cable management system that includes Velcro straps. While good for its class, the tighter space can make routing thicker cables a bit more challenging.
- H700i: Offers a more spacious interior with an excellent cable management system, including multiple routing channels and generous space behind the motherboard tray. The larger volume significantly simplifies the process of routing and tidying up cables, even for complex builds.
- Winner: h700i
Included Fans & Smart Device
- Nzxt H500i: Comes with 2x Aer F120mm fans and the integrated Smart Device for fan and RGB control. The Smart Device provides basic control over connected fans and RGB strips, though its functionality is somewhat limited compared to more advanced controllers.
- H700i: Includes 4x Aer F120mm fans and the more advanced Smart Device V2. The Smart Device V2 offers enhanced control over fans and RGB lighting, with more channels and a smoother user interface through NZXT’s CAM software.
- Winner: h700i
RGB Lighting
- Nzxt H500i: Features built-in RGB lighting strips on the front panel. The lighting is controlled via the Smart Device and NZXT’s CAM software, offering a decent selection of effects and colors for subtle aesthetic customization.
- H700i: Boasts more extensive integrated RGB lighting, typically including strips on the front panel and potentially other areas. The Smart Device V2 provides greater control and more sophisticated lighting effects, allowing for more vibrant and dynamic illumination.
- Winner: h700i
Drive Bays
- Nzxt H500i: Offers 2x 2.5” SSD mounts and 2x 3.5” HDD mounts. This is generally sufficient for most users but might be limiting for those with extensive storage needs.
- H700i: Provides more generous storage options with 7x 2.5” SSD mounts and 3x 3.5” HDD mounts. This makes it a much better choice for users who require a significant amount of storage for games, media, or large project files.
- Winner: h700i
Build Quality & Materials
- Nzxt H500i: Constructed with a steel frame and tempered glass side panel, offering a premium feel and good durability. The build quality is solid and expected from NZXT, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic.
- H700i: Also features a robust steel frame and a full tempered glass side panel, maintaining NZXT’s reputation for excellent build quality. The larger chassis feels substantial and well-engineered, contributing to a premium user experience.
- Winner: Tie
Price Point
- Nzxt H500i: Generally positioned at a more affordable price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious builders or those who don’t need the extra features of the larger case. It offers good value for its feature set.
- H700i: Typically commands a higher price due to its larger size, increased fan count, more advanced Smart Device V2, and generally more extensive RGB lighting. The premium features come at a cost, making it a more significant investment.
- Winner: nzxt h500i
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Size & Space | H700i |
| Cooling Potential | H700i |
| Build Simplicity | H500i |
| Aesthetics (Subjective) | Tie (Both are very clean) |
| Value (for features) | H500i |
| Storage Options | H700i |
What They Have in Common
- Smart Device V2 Integration: Both cases feature NZXT’s Smart Device V2, which controls fan speeds and RGB lighting directly from their CAM software. This allows for easy customization and monitoring of your system’s cooling and aesthetics.
- Tempered Glass Side Panel: A signature feature of NZXT’s H-series, both the H500i and H700i sport a full tempered glass side panel. This showcases your build’s components and RGB lighting, offering a premium visual experience.
- Cable Management System: NZXT is known for its user-friendly cable management, and both these cases include ample space and routing channels behind the motherboard tray. This ensures a clean interior look and improved airflow.
- Vertical GPU Mount Support: Both cases offer the ability to mount your graphics card vertically, either through an optional bracket or by utilizing the provided expansion slots. This can be a great way to show off your GPU and avoid GPU sag.
- Sturdy Construction: Built with high-quality steel, both the H500i and H700i provide a robust and durable chassis for your components. They feel solid and well-made, contributing to a premium feel.
Nzxt H500I Vs H700I Buying Guide
Case Size and Airflow Considerations
The NZXT H500i and H700i cater to different build sizes. The H500i, being a mid-tower, is more compact and ideal for users who want a balanced build without excessive space. It offers good airflow for its size, but might be more restrictive for very high-end components that generate a lot of heat. The H700i, a larger full-tower, provides significantly more internal volume, allowing for better airflow and easier management of larger, hotter components. This makes it a better choice for enthusiasts pushing the limits of performance. (See Also: Nintendo Switch Vs Switch Lite )
Cooling Capabilities and Radiator Support
When it comes to cooling, the H700i generally has an edge due to its larger chassis. It can accommodate more and larger fans, as well as bigger radiator setups for custom liquid cooling or high-performance AIO coolers. This translates to superior thermal management for CPU and GPU-intensive tasks. The H500i still offers respectable cooling for its class, supporting decent fan configurations and radiators, but it might require more careful component selection and fan placement to achieve optimal temperatures compared to the H700i.
Smart Device Integration and RGB Lighting
Both the H500i and H700i feature NZXT’s Smart Device, which is a key selling point for integrated RGB lighting and fan control. This allows for easy customization of internal lighting effects and intelligent fan speed adjustments based on system temperatures, all managed through NZXT’s CAM software. The number of RGB strips and fan headers might differ slightly between the two, with the larger H700i potentially offering more options for elaborate lighting setups, though the core functionality remains consistent.
Build Complexity and Cable Management
Building within the H700i is generally a more straightforward experience due to its expansive interior. There’s ample room to maneuver components and route cables cleanly, making for a tidier build and improved airflow. The H500i, while still designed with good cable management in mind, can become a bit more cramped with larger components or extensive cabling. This might require a bit more patience and planning to achieve a professional-looking and well-ventilated build within its more compact frame. (See Also: Pixel 6a Vs Iphone 12 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy NZXT H500i If…
- You’re building a mid-range to high-end PC and want a compact yet stylish case.
- You primarily use ATX, Micro-ATX, or Mini-ITX motherboards.
- You don’t plan on extensive custom water cooling loops or multiple large radiators.
- You’re looking for a clean aesthetic with integrated RGB and fan control without a massive footprint.
Buy NZXT H700i If…
- You’re building an enthusiast-level PC with E-ATX motherboards or require maximum component space.
- You plan on extensive custom water cooling or need ample radiator support for high-performance cooling.
- You need a large number of drive bays for storage solutions.
- You want the most premium and spacious build experience from NZXT’s H-series.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the H500i and H700i?
The primary distinction lies in their physical size and internal volume. The H500i is a mid-tower case, offering a more compact footprint suitable for a wide range of builds. The H700i is a full-tower case, providing significantly more space for larger components, extensive cooling solutions, and easier cable management. This difference in size directly impacts their cooling potential and the complexity of builds they can comfortably accommodate.
Does the H500i have enough space for a large GPU?
Yes, the NZXT H500i generally has sufficient clearance for most modern graphics cards. While it’s a mid-tower, NZXT designs its cases with ample GPU length support. However, for the absolute largest, most power-hungry GPUs, it’s always a good idea to check the specific GPU dimensions against the case’s maximum GPU length specification to ensure a perfect fit and adequate airflow around the card.
Which case offers better airflow for high-performance gaming rigs?
For high-performance gaming rigs that generate significant heat, the H700i typically offers superior airflow. Its larger chassis allows for more fans, larger radiator support for custom or AIO liquid cooling, and generally better unobstructed airflow pathways. While the H500i can manage heat effectively, the H700i’s increased volume and expansion capabilities provide a distinct advantage in maintaining lower temperatures under heavy load. (See Also: Galaxy Watch 6 Vs Active 2 )
How does the Smart Device function in both cases?
The Smart Device in both the H500i and H700i serves as a central hub for controlling RGB lighting and managing fan speeds. It connects to your motherboard and allows you to customize lighting effects and fan curves through NZXT’s CAM software. This integration simplifies RGB setup and enables intelligent, temperature-based fan control, enhancing both the aesthetics and thermal performance of your build without needing separate controllers.
Is the H700i overkill for a standard gaming PC?
For a standard gaming PC that doesn’t feature extreme overclocking or multiple high-end GPUs, the H700i might indeed be considered overkill in terms of size and cooling potential. The H500i is often a more practical and cost-effective choice for such builds. However, if you plan on future upgrades, extensive custom water cooling, or simply prefer the spaciousness and aesthetics of a larger case, the H700i can still be a worthwhile investment.
Final Verdict
When comparing the NZXT H500i and H700i, the choice hinges on your build’s scale and ambition. The H500i is an excellent, more compact option for mainstream builds, offering smart features and good performance. However, for enthusiasts demanding maximum space, superior cooling potential, and the ability to house the most demanding hardware, the H700i stands out. Its larger size and enhanced cooling capabilities make it the better choice for high-end systems and future-proofing.
Winner: NZXT H700i