MSI MAG PANO M100R PZ Micro ATX Gaming Case Review: Stunning Aesthetics and Great Cooling

MSI MAG PANO M100R PZ Micro ATX Gaming Case Review

Table of Contents:

Introduction

The MSI MAG PANO M100R PZ is a Micro ATX gaming case that aims to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality. Its standout feature is the 270° panoramic tempered glass panel that showcases your build in all its glory. With 4x aRGB fans and support for up to a 360mm AIO, cooling performance is a key focus. This review delves into the MSI MAG PANO M100R PZ to see how it stacks up in real-world usage.

Key Features

The MSI MAG PANO M100R PZ is packed with features that cater to the needs of both casual and serious PC builders. Here are some of the highlights:

  • 270° Panoramic Tempered Glass Panel: The showstopping feature of this case, showcasing your components in all their glory.
  • 4x aRGB Fans: Pre-installed fans with addressable RGB lighting for a customizable and visually stunning build.
  • AIO Support: The case supports up to a 360mm AIO liquid cooler for efficient heat dissipation.
  • Back-Connect Motherboard Support: Allows for cleaner cable management by routing cables behind the motherboard tray.
  • Drive Bay: One 2.5″/3.5″ drive bay with additional space for up to two 2.5″ drives.
  • Expansion Slots: Five expansion slots for future upgrades and customizations.
  • I/O Panel: Includes one USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C port, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port, and a mic/audio combo jack for convenient connectivity.

Performance

The MSI MAG PANO M100R PZ performed admirably in my tests. The 4x aRGB fans, combined with the spacious design, ensured excellent airflow and kept temperatures under control even with a powerful CPU and GPU. The 270° tempered glass panel provided ample visibility, making it easy to admire the internal components.

The back-connect motherboard design was a huge plus, allowing me to tuck away all the cables for a neat and tidy build. The drive bay offered enough space for my storage needs, and the expansion slots provided ample room for future upgrades. I also found the I/O panel’s placement to be convenient and well-designed.

Pros & Cons

Like any product, the MSI MAG PANO M100R PZ has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:

Pros

  • Stunning 270° panoramic tempered glass panel
  • Excellent airflow and cooling performance
  • Pre-installed 4x aRGB fans
  • Support for up to 360mm AIO liquid coolers
  • Back-connect motherboard design for clean cable management
  • Generous drive bay and expansion slots
  • Conveniently placed I/O panel

Cons

  • The case can be a bit heavy due to the tempered glass panel.
  • The lack of a dust filter for the bottom fan might require more frequent cleaning.

Final Verdict

The MSI MAG PANO M100R PZ is a fantastic Micro ATX gaming case that offers a compelling blend of aesthetics and functionality. The 270° panoramic tempered glass panel makes it a visual treat, while the ample cooling potential ensures your components stay cool under pressure. The back-connect motherboard design, drive bay, and I/O panel all contribute to a user-friendly and versatile experience.

If you’re looking for a Micro ATX case that combines style and performance, the MSI MAG PANO M100R PZ is a great choice. However, if you prioritize absolute weightlessness or dust-proof construction, you might want to explore alternative options.

Specifications

Feature Specification
CASE FORM FACTOR Micro-ATX Tower
MOTHERBOARD FORM FACTOR SUPPORT M-ATX (Back-connect supported) / ITX
I/O PORTS 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C
1 x Audio-Out / Mic-in
1 x LED Switch Button
1 x Power Button
DRIVE MOUNT SUPPORT 1 x 2.5”
1 x 2.5”/3.5” combo
(up to 2 x 2.5” or 1 x 2.5” + 1 x 3.5”)
EXPANSION SLOTS 5
MAXIMUM GPU LENGTH 390 mm / 15.35 inches
*Support horizontal installation only.
MAXIMUM CPU COOLER HEIGHT 175 mm / 6.9 inches
POWER SUPPLY SUPPORT ATX
MAXIMUM PSU LENGTH 200 mm / 7.87 inches
FAN SIZE SUPPORT Top: 3 x 120 mm / 2 x 140 mm
Rear: 1 x 120 mm / 1 x 140 mm
Side: 3 x 120 mm
Bottom: 1 x 120 mm
PSU Shroud: 2 x 120 mm
PRE-INSTALLED FAN SIZE Side: 3 x 120 mm
Rear: 1 x 120 mm
PRE-INSTALLED FAN TYPE Side: 3 x ARGB Fan (Reverse-blade)
Rear: 1 x ARGB Fan
RADIATOR SIZE SUPPORT Top: 120 / 240 / 360 mm
Rear: 120 / 140 mm
DIMENSIONS (DXWXH) 440 x 235 x 405 mm / 17.32 x 9.25 x 15.94 inches
NET WEIGHT 8.66 kg
GROSS WEIGHT 11.29 kg
CONNECTION
1x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C
1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
Mic In/ Audio Out
LED Switch Button
Power Button