Details of ASUS' next generation BTF 2.0 (BTF stands for Back to the Future) platform have appeared online, courtesy of Andreas Schilling from HardwareLuxx. The editor posted pictures from an ASUS presentation over at Bluesky that details one major change to the power connector design, which will make the BTF 2.0 graphics cards compatible with non BTF systems. This suggests that ASUS might consider offering more graphics cards with BTF 2.0 support, since they can be used in any system with the proposed changes.

As you may or may not know, the first generation BTF graphics cards ended up with a power connector at the rear, bottom edge of the graphics cards, placed somewhat behind the PCIe gold fingers. The cards also lacked any other power connectors, which made them exclusive for BTF builds. To solve this conundrum, ASUS moved its GC-HPWR PCB power connector up on the PCB, making sure it clears any motherboard components. However, instead of increasing the height of the motherboard BTF 2.0 connector, the company provides a small adapter that plugs in between the motherboard and graphics card, to make its new BTF 2.0 cards compatible with any system.

ASUS extended its line of motherboards at CES 2025, featuring a design that moves power connectors to the back of the board. The company calls this approach "BTF" (Back To Future), aiming to improve cable management in PC builds. The TUF GAMING B850-BTF WIFI and B860-PLUS WIFI models demonstrate this new design, which can deliver up to 600 watts through the motherboard to support modern graphics cards. The boards include Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, PCIe 5.0 support, and multiple M.2 slots for storage devices. In the high-end segment, ASUS presented the ROG Maximus Z890 HERO BTF, compatible with Intel's LGA1851 processors. This board features DDR5 memory support, dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, and tools like Q-Release for easier graphics card removal.

For professional users, ASUS released the ProArt Z890 CREATOR WIFI, equipped with Thunderbolt 4 ports and specialized cooling systems. The company also showed new gaming-focused models including the ROG Crosshair X870E APEX, for the fastest Ryzen 9000X3D series gaming processors. The motherboards share several technical features across different price points. All models support PCIe 5.0 for graphics cards and storage, while most include Wi-Fi 7 capabilities. ASUS has added tool-free installation mechanisms for M.2 drives across the lineup. ASUS has not yet announced pricing or specific release dates for the new motherboards. The BTF design represents a significant change in motherboard layout, though it will require compatible PC cases and power supplies to function as intended. This marks one of the first major changes to standard motherboard design since the ATX format became common in the 1990s.

With its futuristic look, including the tempered-glass side and front, the AK5G RGB is the ultimate home for high-end hardware which has to be seen. The inside of this ATX case has been spaciously designed and offers room for up to eleven fans or two radiators. In addition, modern input-output connections and support for the new BTF mainboards will all ensure that the case stays future-proof.

Futuristic Look
With its eye-catching front panel and tempered-glass side panel, the AK5G RGB is ideal as an impressive showcase for impressive hardware.

Phanteks is excited to introduce the G400A, a next-generation mid-tower chassis that builds on the success of the P400A. Designed with gamers and PC builders in mind, the G400A delivers exceptional airflow, efficient cable management, and a clean, modern aesthetic. Its redesigned, spacious interior supports the largest graphics cards and enhances cooling potential, making it ideal for high-performance builds.

With up to 10 fan mounts, support for 140 mm fans, and space for a 360 mm top radiator, the G400A is engineered to handle demanding systems. A sleek, cable-free rear-side connector layout further ensures a neat, organized build while maximizing airflow. The G400A offers robust cooling, ample space, and modern aesthetics, making it the ideal choice for gamers and creators seeking a versatile,
high-performance PC case.

XPG, a fast-growing provider of systems, components, and peripherals for Gamers, Esports Pros, and Tech Enthusiasts, today launched two new products developed with a focus on providing the ultimate in cooling performance. XPG STARKER AIR BTF offers an ATX chassis that delivers exceptional airflow without compromising on style. Meanwhile, XPG HURRICANE MAG offers a 4-pack of high-performance ARGB fans featuring an XPG patented multidirectional controller. These innovative products were built to not only meet but exceed the demands of gamers and tech enthusiasts who seek exceptional functionality and cutting-edge future-proof design.

Engineered to provide superior airflow and ventilation, XPG STARKER AIR BTF is the pinnacle of ATX gaming chassis. With room for 360 mm radiators and up to 12x 120 mm fans, this case ensures that high-end components remain cool during even the most intense gaming sessions. Built for those who demand both exceptional functionality and bold, forward-thinking design, STARKER AIR BTF is a testament to XPG's commitment to gaming innovation.

Today CHIEFTEC is proudly announcing the availability of two Gaming Cases in the VISIO Series, targeted at different audiences stylistically and functionally. The CHIEFTEC Visio and Visio Air feature a dual-chamber design that supports the latest back-connect motherboards (compatible with ASUS BTF and MSI Project Zero). This design optimizes cable management for a clean interior view and unobstructed airflow.

Both cases allow for the mounting of 360 mm radiators on the top and bottom, 240 mm radiators on the motherboard side, and CPU tower coolers up to 175 mm in height. High-end GPUs up to 410 mm can be easily accommodated thanks to the spacious and well-ventilated configuration. Both models are ideal for gamers and versatile enough for both work and home environments.

If you want a stylishly modern glass look for your hardware, then the AK6 RGB is just what you need! This eye-catching ATX case not only puts the focus on the hardware, but also on a good airflow. This is thanks to four pre-installed addressable RGB fans along with a specially designed intake of air through a side panel. In addition, the AK6 RGB is equipped with modern connectivity, broad BTF mainboard compatibility, and plenty of space for components.

Stylish Glass Look
A special highlight of the AK6 RGB is the modern look of the tempered glass, which forms a continuous window around the front and side of the case.

be quiet!, the German manufacturer for premium PC components, is proud to introduce the Light Base series of PC cases with panorama design, designed with hardware enthusiasts in mind that like to see their beloved PC components at work. The series consists of Light Base 900 FX, Light Base 900 DX, Light Base 600 LX and Light Base 600 DX, with each model offering fully windowed front and side panels. Switching between regular, inverted or horizontal layout is a matter of seconds thanks to a breathtakingly easy inversion method, and the massive ARGB strip that spans around the case provides impressive illumination.

The Light Base series offers a fully windowed panoramic design for an eye-catching view of your system. Each model offers the three different orientations: regular (right side), inverted (left side), or horizontal (desktop style) and inverting between these orientations is a matter of seconds, thanks to the unique and easily removeable feet. To make the inside of the system look good, Light Base offers clever features such as a subtle VGA holder that works in every orientation, two ARGB/fan hubs with 12 connectors in total, support for 1x 3.5" drive and 2x 2.5" drives out of the box, user-friendly and cleanable dust filters, and a motherboard tray that fully supports all backside connector designs on the market (Asus BTF, MSI Project Zero, Gigabyte Project Stealth). The state-of-the-art I/O panel includes a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C port, a reset button, and an ARGB controller button. The cases offer impressive illumination, thanks to a massive ARGB strip that wraps around the case and supports different lighting effects.

Thermaltake, a leading PC DIY brand for premium hardware solutions, is proud to launch The Tower 600 Mid Tower Chassis in Black, Snow, Hydrangea Blue, and Matcha Green. It is a new ATX case of The Tower series with unparalleled aesthetic appeal and hardware compatibility. The Tower 600 is built with a classic vertical case design and comes in a distinctive octagonal prism shape. It supports a hidden-connector motherboard and a special horizontal placement, elevating its visual charm to new heights. Additionally, The Tower 600 can accommodate up to a 420 mm AIO radiator on the right side and a 360 mm AIO radiator on the left side, enabling a superior cooling solution to your high-end PC configuration.

The Tower 600 is compatible with both standard motherboards and the latest hidden-connector motherboards such as ASUS BTF Series, MSI PROJECT ZERO Series, and GIGABYTE PROJECT STEALTH Series. Hidden-connector motherboards can simplify cable routing by directing cables to the back, leading to improved cable management and a more refined look for the interior build. The Tower 600 ensures seamless integration and compatibility with these next-generation motherboards.

Thermaltake, a leading PC DIY brand for premium hardware solutions, is delighted to announce that the Ceres 350 MX Mid Tower Chassis is available now, offered in 7 colors: Black, Snow, Matcha Green, Hydrangea Blue, Racing Green, Bumblebee, and Bubble Pink. The Ceres 350 MX is an ATX case built with a focus on visual appeal. It supports the latest hidden-connector motherboards for excellent cable management. Furthermore, this case features two interchangeable front panels, enabling PC enthusiasts to choose their preferred setup. Users also can upgrade the Ceres 350 MX with an additional 2.1" Circle LCD Screen Kit, achieving a more eye-catching build.

Besides standard motherboards, the Ceres 350 MX supports hidden-connector motherboards as well, including the ASUS BTF Series, the MSI PROJECT ZERO Series, and the GIGABYTE PROJECT STEALTH Series. It is beneficial for aesthetics inside the chassis by organizing messy cables to the rear. Through the 4 mm tempered glass panel on the left side of the Ceres 350 MX, the outstanding cable management and the RGB lighting of components can fully be displayed. The case comes with a dual interchangeable front panel design, users can install a tempered glass panel for wide viewing or a perforated panel for enhanced airflow.

XPG, a fast-growing provider of systems, components, and peripherals for Gamers, Esports Pros, and Tech Enthusiasts, has launched the XPG INVADER X BTF Mid-Tower chassis to markets around the globe. After the award-winning success of the original XPG INVADER X case, the world is now graced with a new, updated version, adopting reverse-connector motherboard compatibility. As one of the earliest members of the ASUS BTF ALLIANCE, XPG leads the charge into a world of immaculate PC builds with ocean-view tempered glass panels and completely hidden cables. On top of ATX BTF compatibility, INVADER X BTF also supports up to ten 120 mm fans, five of which come pre-installed.

The Future is Now
Gone are the days of messy cables ruining the aesthetics of high-end builds. No longer must your system be hidden behind opaque panels, shrouds, and a collection of zip ties. INVADER X BTF leverages the new reverse-connector conventions of ASUS BTF ALLIANCE components coupled with front and side 3 mm tempered glass panels to deliver stunning views of your system from any and every angle. With additional accessories, also provided by XPG, PC builders can build systems that are beautiful, personal, and highly capable.

Following the recent showcase of numerous Phanteks products at Computex 2024, Phanteks is proud to announce the release of the NV5 MKII mid-tower chassis. This upgraded version of its popular predecessor is designed to support BTF/Project Zero mainboards, offering users a state-of-the-art experience in PC building.

The NV5 series has previously been celebrated for its unique visual appeal and small footprint. The NV5MKII continues this tradition with the favorited near-seamless glass panel, perfect for showcasing true craftmanship in custom PC building. With the graphics card and mainboard-centric design, the new NV5MKII elevates the display of components while keeping all wiring meticulously hidden.

Chieftec brought an impressive lineup of SFF gaming PC cases, power supplies, and AIO liquid CPU coolers to Computex 2024. We begin our booth tour with the Visio, a cube-shaped ATX case with a pillarless front-left corner. The case is wide, and vertically partitioned, so you orient the PSU sideways. Since the right-side compartment has ample Z-clearance, the case should be a boon for those planning builds with backside connectivity (ASUS BTF, MSI Project Zero, GIGABYTE AORUS Stealth, etc). It supports up to three radiators, with a large 360 mm along the top and bottom; 240 mm along the side, and 140 mm along the rear. The motherboard tray offers 41 cm clearance for graphics cards. The Visio Air is essentially the same case, but with a mesh intake along the front panel, instead of glass, there's no pillarless edge with this one.

The Pro Cube 2 is a Micro-ATX cube-shaped case with its motherboard tray oriented along the plane of the base. Its front panel is dominated by a large 200 mm fan, with its vent giving the case the appearance of a subwoofer. Inside, there's room for graphics cards up to 32 cm in length, and CPU coolers up to 16 in height. It's not just the front, a 200 mm fan is also strategically located along the top panel, providing exhaust ventilation. The case folds open along the front- and top panels, like a truck's hood. The Apex Snow is a conventional mid-tower with a large trapezoid front mesh intake with preinstalled RGB LED fans. and a horizontally partitioned internal layout. There's room for motherboards as large as EATX, graphics cards up to 40 cm in length, and large radiator mounts that include 420 mm x 140 mm along the front, 360 mm or 280 mm along the top; and a 140 mm rear. Four ARGB fans are included.

When we think of InWin, we think of their Signature PC chassis - an equally long-lived and impressively designed line of exclusive products that have garnered appreciation, establishing InWin among top manufacturers. This year, at Computex 2024, InWin unveils its 11th Signature Series chassis, taking a standard case and making it unique. The main visual highlight is the 180-degree curved glass panel (the largest we've seen on a PC), which blends seamlessly with the aluminium frame into a sleek design.

The chassis is a full tower that can accommodate E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards, including support for ASUS BTF and MSI Project Zero Series Back-Connector motherboards. It offers 7x PCI-E expansion slots, 2x 2.5" internal drive bays, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 x 2 Type-C port, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and HD audio combo ports. For cooling, it is compatible with 120 mm fans (3 at the front, 1 in the rear), and a water cooling 360 mm x 65 mm radiator could also be fitted in the front. No information regarding exact availability and pricing has been provided at this moment.

We've all had to wrestle with long AIO CPU cooler tubing to find the right position, and still end up with surplus tubing that sticks out in a U-shape, which looks ugly. ASUS ROG has a possible solution to this. The company showed off a concept AIO CPU cooler based on the ROG Ryujin III, which physically shortens the tubing. The radiator-side tubing terminals are located in a central portion, rather than at the edge of the radiator.

This way, you can have the radiator located along the top panel of your case, or even side-facing 3x 120 mm vents, and there would be just enough tubing to reach the radiator from the pump-block (including clearance with the memory modules). The optimal position for this cooler would still be along the top panel, in our opinion. This cooler would fit nicely into the cable-free aesthetic of ASUS BTF builds, where you can have the radiator terminals facing the motherboard tray for better concealment.

At Computex 2024, Wizmax, a manufacturer of computer hardware such as cases, headphones, mice, etc., offered an interesting perspective on the inspiration for its computer cases. Diversifying from the regular sleek panels, Wizmax turned to more traditional art when designing its PC case lineup. Starting with the M60-Moon, the case brings a traditional Korean design pattern on its front bezel, carrying a touch of cultural elegance to modern PC setups. This ATX form factor case supports 410 mm-long GPUs and 160 mm-tall CPU coolers. It also includes room for a 360 mm front water cooler, ensuring adequate airflow and cooling performance.

ZALMAN rolled out the P50 DS, a feature-packed mid-tower case that supports motherboards with reverse-side connectors, from the ASUS BTF and MSI Project Zero ecosystems. The case comes in black and white color variants. Its two most striking design aspects are the pillarless front-left corner, which gives you a panoramic view of your build; and a small programmable display that plugs into a USB 2.0 header, and gets the included software to read out temperature or fan-speed monitoring from ACPI. The case features a conventional horizontally partitioned layout.

The upper compartment with the motherboard tray offers room for graphics cards up to 43.5 cm in length, and CPU coolers up to 17.8 cm in height. The three 120 mm fan vents along the motherboard tray are recessed, so they don't impede long graphics cards. With three 120 mm fans included and in place, the setup is flush with the rest of the motherboard tray, so adding a typical 360 mm radiator would barely come in the way of a graphics card. The motherboard tray has cutouts positioned for compatibility with ASUS BTF and MSI Project Zero motherboards with connectors on the reverse side of the PCB. Besides the three side-facing vents, you get a 140 mm rear exhaust, three and three 120 mm top exhausts. Four 120 mm ARGB-illuminated fans come included with the case. There are two 3.5-inch drive bays in the lower compartment, and a couple of additional 2.5-inch mounts. Front panel connectivity includes a USB3 type-C, two USB 3.2 type-A, and HDA jacks. The case measures 240 mm x 480 mm x 512 mm (WxDxH), weighing 10.5 kg. The company didn't reveal pricing.

Colorful unveiled the iGame B760M Ultra Z, a Socket LGA1700 motherboard in the Micro-ATX form-factor, with a distinctive white PCB, but that's hardly the story—this is Colorful's first motherboard with backside connectors, for more discretely cabled PC builds. The board doesn't use any marketing buzzwords such as "BTF" or "Project Zero," but has its onboard connectors aligned to support PC cases with motherboard tray cutouts for either of the two standards. The board draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX and 4-pin ATX connectors (sufficient for Intel Performance Power Delivery profile). The processor is wired to a PCI-Express 5.0 x16 slot, and an M.2-2280 Gen 4 slot. Colorful used the region of the PCB next to the four DDR5 memory slots—where you'd normally have 24-pin and other connectors—to position an additional M.2 slot hidden behind a heatsink. There is yet another M.2 slot between the two PCIe slots.

The backside of the PCB has the board's power connectors, four SATA 6 Gbps ports, the USB- and HD audio headers, fan headers, and the front-panel headers. Networking connectivity include Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 GbE. USB connectivity includes two 5 Gbps type-A USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, a 10 Gbps type-C USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, and four USB 2.0 ports. There are two additional 5 Gbps ports via an internal header. HDMI and DisplayPort make up the display connectivity. The motherboard offers the USB BIOS Flashback feature. Available now in the Chinese market, the Colorful iGame B760M Ultra Z is priced at RMB ¥1,199 or (converts to USD $167).

ZALMAN today introduced the P30 Air line of Micro-ATX mini-tower cases with a design focus on high airflow. The case comes in two color variants—black and white. Its design is characterized by panel perforations along not just the entire front-panel, but also the sides of the bottom half. The left side-panel only covers the upper compartment, the bottom compartment opens from the right side-panel that covers both compartments. ZALMAN included three ARGB-illuminated fans with this case, the front mesh intake has two pre-installed 140 mm spinners, while the rear exhaust is handled by a 140 mm fan. This presence of 140 mm rear exhaust also means that the motherboard tray has a high amount of clearance for tall graphics cards and CPU coolers.

A star attraction with the ZALMAN P30 Air is its motherboard tray, which has strategically located cutouts for motherboards with reverse-facing connectors, such as the ASUS BTF series, and MSI Project Zero series. The motherboard tray has room for graphics cards up to 39.2 cm in length, and CPU coolers up to 181 mm in height. The bottom compartment has a single 3.5-inch drive tray, with an additional 2.5-inch mount on top. There are two additional 2.5-inch mounts along the motherboard tray. Besides the two 140 mm front intakes and 120 mm rear exhaust, the case features three 120 mm top exhausts, along which you can mount a 360 mm radiator. Due to its design, a radiator cannot be mounted along the front panel. Measuring 235 mm x 452 mm x 420 mm (WxDxH), the case dry weighs 7.6 kg. The company didn't reveal pricing.

ASUS today announced the TUF Gaming GT302 ARGB chassis, a case that makes it easy to build a high-performance PC with great cooling. Prepped and ready for great out-of-the-box cooling, equipped for wide compatibility with high-performance parts, and thoughtfully constructed inside and out for an easy PC DIY experience, the GT302 ARGB resets expectations for a mainstream case.

Great cooling - right out of the box
Most PC builders go big on cooling to ensure an excellent balance of performance and quiet operation. From the moment it is pulled out of the packaging, the TUF Gaming GT302 ARGB gives users a superb foundation for high-end cooling. This starts with a front panel designed first and foremost to maximize airflow efficiency. It is constructed of a wide-open, high-porosity square-type mesh that leaves ample room for fresh air to enter a PC. Four pre-installed 140 mm ARGB case fans move cool air through the chassis. These fans are exceptionally thick, measuring 28 mm in depth. These fans deliver up to 3 mmH2O static pressure and 115 CFM airflow for excellent cooling with quiet operation.

Today, Phanteks, a leading innovator in PC chassis design, proudly unveils a new line of chassis - the XT series. Designed to meet the escalating demands of new hardware releases, the XT series promises exceptional cooling capacity and internal space while delivering outstanding value to tech enthusiasts. The XT Series will be available in three variants, the XT Pro, XT Pro Ultra, and XT View. The XT-Series represents a significant leap forward in chassis design, addressing the evolving needs of PC enthusiasts and gamers. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an avid gamer, the XT-Series ensures that your hardware is housed in a sleek and efficient enclosure.

Corsair today announced its re-entry into the dual chamber PC case market. Building on the direct airflow and impressive performance of the 680X and 280X cases, the new 6500 and 2500 Series deliver unprecedented levels of customization. Whether you need the spacious mid-tower chassis of the 6500 for a powerhouse desktop or the compact mid-tower design of the 2500 for a micro ATX build, their dual chamber layout makes building easier, promoting efficient cooling alongside a clean and professional look. With support for the latest reverse connector motherboards, options to convert from fully mesh airflow to tempered glass panels, and a range of functional and aesthetic accessories, these new cases mark a leap forward in dual-chamber case design.

The new reverse connector motherboards are a game-changer for PC builders. These motherboards, such as the ASUS BTF and MSI Project Zero, feature connections discreetly tucked away behind the motherboard tray. This layout, especially when combined with the Corsair iCUE LINK ecosystem, dramatically simplifies the building process and enables a nearly cable-free view within the main chamber of the case. iCUE LINK technology takes this a step further by enabling fans and other internal components to connect to each other seamlessly, reducing the need for multiple types of cables and connectors.

[Editor's note: Our in-depth review of the Corsair 6500X case is now live]

In Win Development Inc. (InWin), a leading innovator in PC enthusiast and gaming hardware, has launched its D5 E-ATX mid-tower PC chassis for PC builders looking for optimized airflow, sensible layout, and versatile hardware installment. With tool-less quick-release panels, a rotatable PCI-E mounting bracket, and optimized cable management, the D5 offers a PC building experience that unlocks build convenience and unparalleled performance.

The full mesh front and top panels ensure optimal cooling for the internal components. Inside is a removable cable shield on the motherboard tray, which not only discretely and effectively manages cable clutter, but also is designed to channel and concentrate airflow towards the main hardware. Offering mounting areas for a total of three front fans, three top fans, and one rear fan. There are excellent air-cooling opportunities, and liquid cooling support for both 360 mm and 280/360 mm radiators. Matching the all-black chassis aesthetic, InWin bundles a Neptune AN120 ARGB fan as a starting point for PC builders that often prefer to choose their own fans. The AN120 offers an exceptional performance-to-noise ratio at just 20.5 dBA nominal and up to 60 CFM airflow.

In Win Development Inc. (InWin), a leading innovator in PC enthusiast and gaming hardware, has launched its F5 full tower EATX PC chassis for enthusiast PC builders looking for design customization, extensive cooling options, and support for vertical GPUs and hidden cable motherboards. Customizable Front Panel—First showcased at Computex 2023, the InWin F5 features customizable front panel bezels that can easily be popped-off and swapped between glossy or wooden aesthetics, depending on the users preferred style. The F5 is available in both black and white color options with a 3 mm tempered glass side panel that gives great views of the inside hardware, while both side panels offer convenient, tool-less removal. Mesh grills on the front, top, bottom, and opposing side panel provide ample opportunities for ventilation. Helpful design additions include the quick-remove dust filter for the bottom fans, and a bundled magnetic GPU holder to prevent sag of heavier graphics cards.

Extensive Cooling Options
The spacious interior and versatile cooling options are engineered to accommodate high-end hardware including flagship graphics cards up to 435 mm in length, larger CPU heatsinks up to 180 mm in height, and high-performance ATX power supplies up to 230 mm long. Both vertical and horizontal GPU orientations are supported, with a vertical adapter bracket bundled in the package.

Bitspower brought a large bag of new toys at the 2024 International CES. The first thing that caught our attention was a familiar-looking case with infinity reflection lighting. On a closer look, it turned out to be a Lian Li PC-O11D Evo XL that's been given a neat aesthetic uplift thanks to the new Enigma Light Panel kit by Bitspower. You arrange these along the edges of your side- and front panels, and the provide an impressive, infinity reflection effect. It works with standard 3-pin ARGB, so you can mix it with your regular lighting setup. Next up, are a slew of CR Slim series reservoirs that are designed in the distribution plate format, which they line up with one of your glass panels, providing a better view of your coolant. There are various sizes, ranging from 120 mm x 120 mm, going all the way up to 803 mm. x 140 mm, with fitting ports at strategic locations to align with your CPU and VGA blocks, and radiators. The reservoirs come with preparation for a standard D5 pump, and feature a side cover that has the ARGB LED lighting, the diodes aren't studded into the acrylic as such. Bitspower released a mounting brackets of various sizes to help you correctly mount the reservoirs and accessories in place.