Overview

The be quiet! Pure Base 501 (PUR-BSE-501) is a mid-tower PC case from the German brand known for silent operation. It comes with two pre-installed 140mm fans and features a high-airflow mesh front and top panel. The tempered glass side panel shows off your components while the integrated cable cover keeps the interior tidy.
Supporting ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards, this case is suitable for entry-level to mid-range builds. Its understated black design works equally well for gaming rigs or professional desktop PCs.
Positioned in the mid-range market segment, the Pure Base 501 offers a balanced mix of silence, cooling, and ease of building.

Compatibility Guide

  • Motherboard form factors: ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX
  • Power supply: rear-mounted, standard ATX PSU
  • Front and top panels support large radiators (exact sizes depend on configuration)
  • Graphics card length and CPU cooler height: designed for modern large components, but always verify with official specs before purchase
  • Storage: multiple 3.5" and 2.5" drive bays (check manual for exact count)

Product Info

Released in late 2024, the Pure Base 501 is available through Japanese online retailers for around ¥13,000. As an official be quiet! product, it comes with a 3-year warranty (confirm at purchase). Cooling is air-only with two included 140mm fans; no fan controller is included but motherboard PWM control works fine.
Market positioning: mid-range. It competes with cases like Fractal Design Pop Air and Corsair 4000D Airflow, offering a quieter alternative.

Best Use Cases

  • First-time PC builders: the cable cover and spacious interior make cable management easy, reducing assembly stress.
  • Silence-focused users: be quiet!'s engineering and stock fans keep noise low, perfect for home offices or media centers.
  • Mid-range gaming builds: pairs well with RTX 4060/4070 and Ryzen 5/7 systems, providing adequate airflow and a clean look.
  • Minimalist aesthetics: if you prefer a subdued, professional appearance over RGB-laden cases, the Pure Base 501 fits right in.

Things to Consider

  • Only two fans are included; for maximum cooling, consider adding more fans or a radiator.
  • Top-mounted radiator installation may conflict with tall RAM or VRM heatsinks—measure before you buy.
  • High-end GPUs (e.g., RTX 4090) may exceed the maximum GPU length, so verify clearance.
  • No 5.25" drive bay means you'll need an external optical drive if you still use discs.

FAQ

Q: Can I install a 360mm radiator in the front?
A: The front likely supports 360mm radiators, but the top is generally limited to 240mm. Check the official manual for exact measurements.
Q: Is the side panel easy to remove?
A: Yes, the tempered glass panel is secured with thumbscrews and can be removed without tools for quick access.
Q: How does this compare to the be quiet! Pure Base 500?
A: The Pure Base 501 improves airflow with a mesh front panel and includes a cable cover. It's a more modern design for better cooling and easier building.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: be quiet!
  • ASIN: B0DGXQL5T9
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.