Yeah modular makes more sense for ITX as people who use an ITX case would actually care about having the optimal size of the case for their components. Whereas ATX buyers would probably just go for a case that can support everything and save the hassle of doing modular assembly
I really like this case it's why I already purchased one before this vid even came out. Having the ability to stack pcs like a server rack and add a so-called rack whenever is amazing.
Love the concept of this case even have a the layout in mind that will provide the best airflow and temperatures but the price is a little high for a case change right now; maybe in a few years
I can see myself enjoying the build, but I probably won't go back to change anything once it's built. Also with my 5-7 year upgrade cycle, I find that each time there's a newer chassis I like (whether aesthetically or functionally).
I really like the vertical, open frame layout. I've been looking at the Thermaltake CTE T500 which is a similar design but fully enclosed. An open frame would eliminate the need for some fans and not have a "front" side. Both are about the same price too.
*_"I Thought of this EXACT Same Idea Thirty Five Years Ago!"_* . . . . . ok, it was like two or three years ago. And I'm glad someone is finally doing it.
let's be real for a moment. Once you buy this case, you set it up the way you like it and then it's gonna stay that way for at the very least a couple of years when you upgrade your PC, if you even change things up at all. Meanwhile you'll be left with a bunch of optional side panels taking up storage room. I think it's not worth it, just get a case that has all you need for your build with some space for future upgrades like we've always done (personally I'm still using the same 2 cases for 10+ years).
This reminds me of Cooler Master HAF Stacker. They had sectioned areas. And you could order additional pieces, could stack them on top of each other and link it together. Still have this case as my primary case ;)
Just ordered this case, deluxe model + 1 extra Mod III. Will go for the Cube config, As for storage, I have an 8 bay hot-plug 2.5 drive case that fits in 2 x 5inch bays which should fit without issues in the front side of Mod II. For the moment I have only an AIO for the CPU but this case will be perfect for a custom loop.
Would be cool if you could mount the modules with a half-half setup on the side of the large core module and then make that one of those classic "flat bed" cases.
love the video ive been waiting a year to see this case for sale but i got to say 250 is a little high for a plain jane box with a basement attachment something that my mountain mods case had over 20 years ago.... so not a new concept. if it were like 140 for the deluxe it would be more tempting
Oh yes oh yes oh YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🤩 I remember seeing videos of that when it was shown off at a trade show earlier this year, and forgot about it since. I do hope the series succeeds and if it does, I did imagine there being additional modules to allow it to work as a server chassis instead of just a desktop PC, one of which could add externally accessible SATA or SAS hard drive bays, and another which could be an alternative front panel with more ports and indicators (for server mainboards which tend to support more indicators on their front panel connectors, as well as SAS HBAs which also have their own activity indicator connectors), though I have also imagined aftermarket modules that could make multiple modules look like older Inwin chassis models including those that had been discontinued.
its definitely a good thing for the PC market. it'll be interesting to see what this "case" starts from potential other manufacturers. great work Canucks!
Love the concept, but if you go to inwin's web store, there is only 2 models. There is not an option to buy the 3 different modules separate. I want to buy Mod I and 2x Mod II to make a dual chamber case.
Tbh it's a nice but unsatisfying. I've been looking for a horizontal desktop PC case for years, which I can put my screen on top of. These were the first computers that I have used and I'd love for them to have a comeback. That desk setup would be rather minimal with a case as your monitor stand and nothing standing left or right of the screen or under the table. No cables would touch the ground and it would not take up any desk space (because you're not using the desk space under your screen in most cases).
put psu in main atx case and dump all the little ones lol for me atleast a rad in front am and a sfx-L psu in rear 120mm fan hole. would be good sized water cooled full size atx case thanks for sharing
Aesthetics arent everything i love the look of this Modular Case looks rugged almost Militaristic which is awesome im happy to see there is no embedded RGB Puke lights can really make a Dark build with Subtle lighting.
I like the concept. Unsure if this is the ideal state of it, but hopefully this opens the door to even more creative-yet-still-somewhat-normal case designs
I've wanted a modular case for a long time, but there's two issues with modularity that're demonstrated well here, lack of modules and the issues with panels. For example on the former, say that I want the volume of two Mod2 or Mod3 modules, why is there not a module that allows for this without using multiple other modules, or for another example say that I have either on both sides of the case but want a fourth side (keep in mind that 1xMod2 + 2xMod3 only coveres 3 sides as an extension of the base Mod1) yet there's no Mod4 that covers the gap of the final corner as the Mod3 is not long enough to do so; personally, I'd rather see modularity be down to the frame itself, rather than having pre-built boxes that snap together, the system needs to be brackets that hold the wireframe together, this eliminates the issue of having a Mod1, Mod2, Mod3, a missing Mod4, the missing doubl-thickness units of the Mods 2-4, etc. Then of course the latter, where there's so many configurations that paneling either has to be segmented, which is _very_ hard to get it to look decent, or the panels have to be custom to fit a configuration nicely; and the only real way around this is to have some kind of platform where people can provide solutions and/or products, such as what the 3D printing and 3D modelling sphere has done, or similarly what DIY forums have done in terms of suggesting solutions. And if you haven't caught on by now, the largest issue of modularity is scale, you either have to heavily restrict the system, or allow freedom beyond what a typical case manufacturer can do, and this is why modularity makes more sense as a DIY approach, spec your own chassis rail dimensions and base the panels off of that, otherwise modularity is too limited to make sense outside of a one-off gimmicky product; the only silver lining is custom order boutiques, remember companies like Mountain Mods and their insanely wide scope of products for a boutique, per-order manufacturing is really the only way to properly do an adaptable case, but that costs a lot more money, which circles back to the need of a social platform of people who can provide solutions, whether that's sellers, shops providing quotes, distributors, or DIYers. I'm not saying In-Win's attempt is bad, it's just limited. For example look at the Mod1 brackets, the I/O and fan plates, they can only be mounted in the center of their respective frame rails, where a better design would've been a bit more flexibility but this also comes at the cost of complexity; for example the I/O panel could've been split into segments that could be rearranged, similar to the dust filter's adjustability. But it extends beyond just this, circling back to the whole issue around modules and lack of extended variety; a better modular system would be on a better tesellating grid, the issue of lack of a Mod4 should otherwise be able to be made up of two Mod2s side by side, this would give a Mod5 being mdae of 2+3, a Mod 6 being 3+3, etc., and in both axes where the Mod1 base is of two units in height and width, and another factor should also be depth as a modular case should also include the third dimension, especially if people are wanting dual-chamber cases. Having a tessellating system like this is the _only_ way modularity would work outside of a very narrow scope, else the only real solution is again to spec your own chassis rail dimensions with custom panels; if modularity is limited it's a gimmick, if modularity tessellates nicely then it can work at the cost of aesthetics and complexity, otherwise a semi-custom solution remains the best long-term. The comment towards the end about 'how often are you likely to rearrange your system' is entirely valid, and also part of why I don't think modularity inherently works and why a semi-custom case is the ultimate goal. Unless you're constantly swapping components or doing different orientations for testing (I can't wait for GN to get this case), then the idea of easy to modify modularity is a bit lost, a case is typically one-and-done outside of minor upgrades, which is also why aesthetics and complexity of proper modularity is a massive concern; and thus again, a semi-custom case will be a better solution for the market this thing is targeting. This kind of modularity makes sense if you're building something in the form of building blocks, but givent the Mod1 is already an E-ATX base that forces the addition of the Mod2 or Mod2+3, I don't really see the point, just have two or three different cases total; but if tessellation was better and started from a smaller basis, say mini ITX, or even smaller such as the newer NUC style of an add-in card as a compute module, then this form of modulatiryt makes more sense where you could easily adapt the platform to fit the full range of common motherboard sizes and then some, at least it makes sense from the business side of it. Though I still say a semi-custom platform is still a better solution, even though a business such as In-Win could not provide that product. I think a good middle ground would be nice, have swappable chassis rails, rather than have a Mod2 or Mod3 (or a double-height unit, or what would otherwise be the Mod4 in length, etc.), you can just order rails of the predetermined scale and _build_ each unit yourself, and order it via a configurator, this would be a step closer towards a semi-custom case while still being friendly for the more traditional manufacturer; plus there's a benefit of flat packing the entire system, simplifying SKUs, the customer more readily achieves what they envision, and it leads to a solution where the idea of full modules doesn't entirely get out of hand. All in all, this approach makes me think of open air benches, in the way that you have a motherboard shelf, a drive shelf (at least before m.2 was widespread), a PSU shelf, etc., except here it all gets enclosed. Somewhat like the Cooler Master MasterFrame, where it took the open air bench, modularized it, then somewhat enclosed it, with a few options of what you can do with it, excapt again this modular case goes a step further and has actual modules and is fully covered in panels. But at the end of the day, you're just putting a few boxes together, all the internals are all over the place with little option for organization beyond custom accessories. Again, the semi-custom option is the way forward, because outside of what In-Win does provide you're going to end up needing non-OEM customization to make the case be somewhat decent in comparison to your typical standard cases, and part of that issue is a missing catalog of modules that'll likely never come, and the argument for custom parts is especially apparent when you talk about how people are about interior aesthetics, the lack of a PSU shroud is insanely bad for the current market trends, they could at least provide segmented blocker plates to at least act like a shroud option; I had mentioned dual-chamber before, but could we at least get a set of backside modules for any semblance of cable routing? And the paneling arguments from before also do not take into consideration the variety of materials or aesthetics. The fact that there could be more than just a flat panel also bolsters that argument, where there needs to be a network of people to provide solutions and sources for such customization. And again, this gets into the semi-custom argument once again; modularity is nice, but it has downsides where a semi-custom chassis and paneling do not show those same downsides, and again I think there can be a middle ground between the two where you're not relying on a boutique manufacturer for this kind of product. And to further these arguments, the idea of shapes, I already touched on the idea of adding depth to the platform beyond what the base unit provides, but a variety of shapes gets into custom territory again. If there is a version 2 of the ModFree, there will have to be a lot of changes, and those changes need to start at mentality and approach to the concept, so that the final product is more open to what people might want to do with the platform. But I honestly don't see this happening, ModFree is a one-and-done concept, because companies can't figure out how to do modularity correctly, and they're too afraid of a money pit if they continue developing a concept. At best, a v2 would be minimal updates to the platform, but we'd still see the same limitations. Unless someone within the company is able to pitch, and have it approved, to have a modifiable chassis so that you can do more with less modules, again getting into that middle ground that overlaps with the semi-custom approach. In-Win does do some crazy stuff, but I just don't see them being successful within this market niche, again it's better left to a halo product of good mentality or better left to a boutique that can do per-order customizations.
Can you get additional modules? And is there any limit to how many you stack? I have this funky idea where you just have the PSU base on the front, and then like 3 or 4 top stacks holding nothing but radiators. It might be able to hold enough radiators to let even the thickest system run completely passive.
I like how you can changeup the case to any configuration to meet your needs except what I want and that is Dual Chamber/ lay down. n. My only downside of this case and it go's for all cases is in black they only give you tinted side windows so to get clear glass in most cases you have to buy white case. Like you said about the dual chamber layout it would be nice to see a square back chamber for the power supply and laydown like the old HAF X is for desktop and all they would have to do is make Mod II fit the backside of the case. Fan mounts on the bottom would also be nice to have on the basic case. In Win keep the fans an reduce the cost as $160 is way to high and you can buy good quality cases in your basic size with higher quality fans for $100 and would like to see a back panel power supply module instead of bottom and another fan mount to have fans on all 4 sides to lay the case over for desktop and have the feet be in back or bottom and I like the larger open holes with filter over fine mesh.
Please make a build with the IO facing down. add module to the bottom and back. then cabled in through either side of users choosing. I hope I could explain enough. lol
Cool idea, but I would prefer a lower profile option. I say that because I don't see the appeal of a modular full tower, since most cases in this category already have sufficient space for most hardware and already are fairly "future proof", so to speak. A modular SFF or MFF case would be more interesting, since the added modularity would certaily be more helpful and significant
If that wasn't costy around 300€ for me in Italy, i would have copied the Thermaltake X9 we are using to make a "copy" of that case with a smaller frame (the ModFree case is smaller in terms of pieces) with the same result (Horizontal motherboard as the same as the X9)...
I'm more interested in mini-itx or micro-atx cases rather than regular ones. Btw, why do we still use old fashened GPU position in nowadays? It consume more power that CPU and produce more heat! It should be somewhere on top or on the side or even with a liquid cooling. Just think about it: we use a huge tower cooler for cooling CPU that produce 120-170W heat and still stuck with flat coolers for GPU. Why? Why don't make a motherboard/case where you can put your CPU and GPU side by side or split air flow betwenn them and put it in a small case?
I like the concept but to make it more versatile I'd wish to be able to change the case layout from ATX to µATX or even mITX with the PSU or radiator being able to stay the same. A little bit like the O11 mini where you can choose between mITX and massive radiators or ATX with fewer or air cooled. The biggest problem is still how long InWin will support this, do you remember the Cooler Master Master Box or what it was called?
It is pretty awesome they went for a modulair case design. For myself as a watercooling guy I would have a list of stuff I would like to see in the future to get a really good watercooling case. As it is now I would not buy it.
I can almost imagine myself trying to put 3 different PCs in that with those extra slots... Why would I do that? Not sure. Maybe to see if I can. Would be fun nonetheless
I hope the Mod III is wide enough to accommodate 5.25" expansion. I would fill them bottom to top with 3.5" and 2.5" hot swap bays for a home server. Edit: Potentially even attach a Mod III to both sides. And, are there also mesh covers available?
hopefully not dead like the mastercase from coolermaster which barely supported the addons availability, they sold you the whole case but buying the extras was tough as heck and if so, was as expensive as the case.
This is exactly what the market is missing. If they can add in a slightly smaller version for small formfactor they will do very well with this concept.
I've been searching for the last 6 years - for a case manufacturer who has designed & is selling a case with the motherboard tray which lays flat/horizontal inside. Should handle an EATX and smaller. Who wants a 5 pound GPU hanging while they are horizontal inside your case? You're just asking for problems with that arrangement.
I love InWin because they are the ones who really push the aesthetics in case design. But the end result looks very generic. I agree, hope they can come out with interesting panels that will make this case stand out.
2 things : - No cutouts on the motherboard tray - no support for future motherboards with headers on the other side - No PSU shroud cover as positive!? 2023! EDIT: MORE THINGS: - 200 USD for BASIC edition with only basic and +1 module! - side panel (glass) mounted and dismounted on "push harder" mechanism from 2000's. God luck if it wont want to came off and you will be forced tu put more force in it - glass ITS NOT FLEXIBLE. Tempered glass explode.
This is dope especially for water cooling, I can actually separate one of my radiators from the rest of the case so it isn't sucking in warm air from inside the case. Hp Omen did something similar with their case but it wasn't modular
No case is the best case. Don't let a metal box and sheets of glass limit you. Edit: It's a good idea but non practical as I am very sure most of the people out there are going to mess with the configuration the first week they got the case, after that they are going to leave it the way they last put it together.
I'd love to see more options like itx or matx or something, that'd be sick
Agree completely. ModFree Mini and ModFree Micro would decimate the market.
yeah I hoped for sth smaller as well. Just the first two modules together are quit big
@@WhiteG60 those are some great ideas
WAIT FOR THE STREACOM FF1
Yeah modular makes more sense for ITX as people who use an ITX case would actually care about having the optimal size of the case for their components. Whereas ATX buyers would probably just go for a case that can support everything and save the hassle of doing modular assembly
I feel this would be more useful with itx or m atx. To fit different size components like putting 2 wide by side for large tower coolers.
I really like this case it's why I already purchased one before this vid even came out. Having the ability to stack pcs like a server rack and add a so-called rack whenever is amazing.
Love the concept of this case even have a the layout in mind that will provide the best airflow and temperatures but the price is a little high for a case change right now; maybe in a few years
This is simply the best tribute to the good old caselabs cases, just sheer modularity and customization🥰
I think it can be really cool to use the mounting system to mount the whole system to the wall or something, or mount a monitor onto it
Mounting a monitor directly to the actual desktop PC ... LOL new meta discovered
I can see myself enjoying the build, but I probably won't go back to change anything once it's built. Also with my 5-7 year upgrade cycle, I find that each time there's a newer chassis I like (whether aesthetically or functionally).
I really like the vertical, open frame layout. I've been looking at the Thermaltake CTE T500 which is a similar design but fully enclosed. An open frame would eliminate the need for some fans and not have a "front" side. Both are about the same price too.
That looks like an easy to build case, I totally dig the compartmental approach. Min-Max and not a mandatory PSU shroud.
*_"I Thought of this EXACT Same Idea Thirty Five Years Ago!"_* . . . . . ok, it was like two or three years ago. And I'm glad someone is finally doing it.
let's be real for a moment.
Once you buy this case, you set it up the way you like it and then it's gonna stay that way for at the very least a couple of years when you upgrade your PC, if you even change things up at all.
Meanwhile you'll be left with a bunch of optional side panels taking up storage room.
I think it's not worth it, just get a case that has all you need for your build with some space for future upgrades like we've always done (personally I'm still using the same 2 cases for 10+ years).
This reminds me of Cooler Master HAF Stacker. They had sectioned areas. And you could order additional pieces, could stack them on top of each other and link it together.
Still have this case as my primary case ;)
There are going to be some crazy custom loops with this
Just ordered this case, deluxe model + 1 extra Mod III. Will go for the Cube config, As for storage, I have an 8 bay hot-plug 2.5 drive case that fits in 2 x 5inch bays which should fit without issues in the front side of Mod II. For the moment I have only an AIO for the CPU but this case will be perfect for a custom loop.
Would be cool if you could mount the modules with a half-half setup on the side of the large core module and then make that one of those classic "flat bed" cases.
love the video ive been waiting a year to see this case for sale but i got to say 250 is a little high for a plain jane box with a basement attachment something that my mountain mods case had over 20 years ago.... so not a new concept. if it were like 140 for the deluxe it would be more tempting
Inwin is tapping into some of that magic that made Case Labs great.
Oh yes oh yes oh YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🤩
I remember seeing videos of that when it was shown off at a trade show earlier this year, and forgot about it since. I do hope the series succeeds and if it does, I did imagine there being additional modules to allow it to work as a server chassis instead of just a desktop PC, one of which could add externally accessible SATA or SAS hard drive bays, and another which could be an alternative front panel with more ports and indicators (for server mainboards which tend to support more indicators on their front panel connectors, as well as SAS HBAs which also have their own activity indicator connectors), though I have also imagined aftermarket modules that could make multiple modules look like older Inwin chassis models including those that had been discontinued.
oh i talked about this on a dutch forum, it would be nice for a modulair nas system
This would also be great for people who want to build this into a desk or table or other type of furniture.
This is also very good 4K. Right up the what's inside and MKBHD area.
Thanks for this. Buying 2 deluxe tomorrow.. stacking 2 PCs into a super tower w one inverted. Hell.. this might replace my server rack too.
This reminds me of what Cooler Master did many years ago. Even another company had modular cases in the past.
Yeah CM sorta tried it with their Stacker series.
I have been waiting on this.. I sure wish they would have a add on for 5.25 bays..
It seems all case manufacturers never consider storage. Some of us still use HDDs.
Even so, this is an intriguing concept.
Looks like a fancy and expensive open air test bench case.
The 420 radiator will fit. The mod free app says the mod 3 measures 388mm , its closer to 505 mm
its definitely a good thing for the PC market. it'll be interesting to see what this "case" starts from potential other manufacturers.
great work Canucks!
Oh yeah, I love this modularity.
Great video !!
Are you going to review the Coolermaster QUBE 500 ??
users tend to building ITX most time thesedays, not sure whether it will work. but it seems pretty cool
I would like to see more horizontal cases for dual gpus and threadripper. Workstations with enough airflow for the 3090s and 4090s
Interesting. Can you put 2 chassis together, side by side? This would help those that have 2 systems.
I would of liked to see a rear power supply position. I definitely would consider for my goal of a 2-3x 420mm rad setup
How about a downsized MATX or ITX version?
I'd like to see INWIN develop a similar case with horizontal motherboard mount. I use a Thermaltake Core X9.
i love the idea but i would love it more if it had an itx version.
Love the concept, but if you go to inwin's web store, there is only 2 models. There is not an option to buy the 3 different modules separate. I want to buy Mod I and 2x Mod II to make a dual chamber case.
Tbh it's a nice but unsatisfying. I've been looking for a horizontal desktop PC case for years, which I can put my screen on top of. These were the first computers that I have used and I'd love for them to have a comeback. That desk setup would be rather minimal with a case as your monitor stand and nothing standing left or right of the screen or under the table. No cables would touch the ground and it would not take up any desk space (because you're not using the desk space under your screen in most cases).
put psu in main atx case and dump all the little ones lol for me atleast a rad in front am and a sfx-L psu in rear 120mm fan hole. would be good sized water cooled full size atx case thanks for sharing
Aesthetics arent everything i love the look of this Modular Case looks rugged almost Militaristic which is awesome im happy to see there is no embedded RGB Puke lights can really make a Dark build with Subtle lighting.
I like the concept. Unsure if this is the ideal state of it, but hopefully this opens the door to even more creative-yet-still-somewhat-normal case designs
Id love to see this in a old school "Desktop" orientation. Is something like that possible with this?
Very interesting. I would like to see another side module to put the psu in (like the wider cases like Lian li o11 or thermaltake cte).
I've wanted a modular case for a long time, but there's two issues with modularity that're demonstrated well here, lack of modules and the issues with panels. For example on the former, say that I want the volume of two Mod2 or Mod3 modules, why is there not a module that allows for this without using multiple other modules, or for another example say that I have either on both sides of the case but want a fourth side (keep in mind that 1xMod2 + 2xMod3 only coveres 3 sides as an extension of the base Mod1) yet there's no Mod4 that covers the gap of the final corner as the Mod3 is not long enough to do so; personally, I'd rather see modularity be down to the frame itself, rather than having pre-built boxes that snap together, the system needs to be brackets that hold the wireframe together, this eliminates the issue of having a Mod1, Mod2, Mod3, a missing Mod4, the missing doubl-thickness units of the Mods 2-4, etc. Then of course the latter, where there's so many configurations that paneling either has to be segmented, which is _very_ hard to get it to look decent, or the panels have to be custom to fit a configuration nicely; and the only real way around this is to have some kind of platform where people can provide solutions and/or products, such as what the 3D printing and 3D modelling sphere has done, or similarly what DIY forums have done in terms of suggesting solutions. And if you haven't caught on by now, the largest issue of modularity is scale, you either have to heavily restrict the system, or allow freedom beyond what a typical case manufacturer can do, and this is why modularity makes more sense as a DIY approach, spec your own chassis rail dimensions and base the panels off of that, otherwise modularity is too limited to make sense outside of a one-off gimmicky product; the only silver lining is custom order boutiques, remember companies like Mountain Mods and their insanely wide scope of products for a boutique, per-order manufacturing is really the only way to properly do an adaptable case, but that costs a lot more money, which circles back to the need of a social platform of people who can provide solutions, whether that's sellers, shops providing quotes, distributors, or DIYers.
I'm not saying In-Win's attempt is bad, it's just limited. For example look at the Mod1 brackets, the I/O and fan plates, they can only be mounted in the center of their respective frame rails, where a better design would've been a bit more flexibility but this also comes at the cost of complexity; for example the I/O panel could've been split into segments that could be rearranged, similar to the dust filter's adjustability. But it extends beyond just this, circling back to the whole issue around modules and lack of extended variety; a better modular system would be on a better tesellating grid, the issue of lack of a Mod4 should otherwise be able to be made up of two Mod2s side by side, this would give a Mod5 being mdae of 2+3, a Mod 6 being 3+3, etc., and in both axes where the Mod1 base is of two units in height and width, and another factor should also be depth as a modular case should also include the third dimension, especially if people are wanting dual-chamber cases. Having a tessellating system like this is the _only_ way modularity would work outside of a very narrow scope, else the only real solution is again to spec your own chassis rail dimensions with custom panels; if modularity is limited it's a gimmick, if modularity tessellates nicely then it can work at the cost of aesthetics and complexity, otherwise a semi-custom solution remains the best long-term.
The comment towards the end about 'how often are you likely to rearrange your system' is entirely valid, and also part of why I don't think modularity inherently works and why a semi-custom case is the ultimate goal. Unless you're constantly swapping components or doing different orientations for testing (I can't wait for GN to get this case), then the idea of easy to modify modularity is a bit lost, a case is typically one-and-done outside of minor upgrades, which is also why aesthetics and complexity of proper modularity is a massive concern; and thus again, a semi-custom case will be a better solution for the market this thing is targeting. This kind of modularity makes sense if you're building something in the form of building blocks, but givent the Mod1 is already an E-ATX base that forces the addition of the Mod2 or Mod2+3, I don't really see the point, just have two or three different cases total; but if tessellation was better and started from a smaller basis, say mini ITX, or even smaller such as the newer NUC style of an add-in card as a compute module, then this form of modulatiryt makes more sense where you could easily adapt the platform to fit the full range of common motherboard sizes and then some, at least it makes sense from the business side of it. Though I still say a semi-custom platform is still a better solution, even though a business such as In-Win could not provide that product. I think a good middle ground would be nice, have swappable chassis rails, rather than have a Mod2 or Mod3 (or a double-height unit, or what would otherwise be the Mod4 in length, etc.), you can just order rails of the predetermined scale and _build_ each unit yourself, and order it via a configurator, this would be a step closer towards a semi-custom case while still being friendly for the more traditional manufacturer; plus there's a benefit of flat packing the entire system, simplifying SKUs, the customer more readily achieves what they envision, and it leads to a solution where the idea of full modules doesn't entirely get out of hand.
All in all, this approach makes me think of open air benches, in the way that you have a motherboard shelf, a drive shelf (at least before m.2 was widespread), a PSU shelf, etc., except here it all gets enclosed. Somewhat like the Cooler Master MasterFrame, where it took the open air bench, modularized it, then somewhat enclosed it, with a few options of what you can do with it, excapt again this modular case goes a step further and has actual modules and is fully covered in panels. But at the end of the day, you're just putting a few boxes together, all the internals are all over the place with little option for organization beyond custom accessories. Again, the semi-custom option is the way forward, because outside of what In-Win does provide you're going to end up needing non-OEM customization to make the case be somewhat decent in comparison to your typical standard cases, and part of that issue is a missing catalog of modules that'll likely never come, and the argument for custom parts is especially apparent when you talk about how people are about interior aesthetics, the lack of a PSU shroud is insanely bad for the current market trends, they could at least provide segmented blocker plates to at least act like a shroud option; I had mentioned dual-chamber before, but could we at least get a set of backside modules for any semblance of cable routing?
And the paneling arguments from before also do not take into consideration the variety of materials or aesthetics. The fact that there could be more than just a flat panel also bolsters that argument, where there needs to be a network of people to provide solutions and sources for such customization. And again, this gets into the semi-custom argument once again; modularity is nice, but it has downsides where a semi-custom chassis and paneling do not show those same downsides, and again I think there can be a middle ground between the two where you're not relying on a boutique manufacturer for this kind of product. And to further these arguments, the idea of shapes, I already touched on the idea of adding depth to the platform beyond what the base unit provides, but a variety of shapes gets into custom territory again.
If there is a version 2 of the ModFree, there will have to be a lot of changes, and those changes need to start at mentality and approach to the concept, so that the final product is more open to what people might want to do with the platform. But I honestly don't see this happening, ModFree is a one-and-done concept, because companies can't figure out how to do modularity correctly, and they're too afraid of a money pit if they continue developing a concept. At best, a v2 would be minimal updates to the platform, but we'd still see the same limitations. Unless someone within the company is able to pitch, and have it approved, to have a modifiable chassis so that you can do more with less modules, again getting into that middle ground that overlaps with the semi-custom approach. In-Win does do some crazy stuff, but I just don't see them being successful within this market niche, again it's better left to a halo product of good mentality or better left to a boutique that can do per-order customizations.
Can you get additional modules?
And is there any limit to how many you stack?
I have this funky idea where you just have the PSU base on the front, and then like 3 or 4 top stacks holding nothing but radiators. It might be able to hold enough radiators to let even the thickest system run completely passive.
Could of sworn the classic orientation of the power was originally at the top or am I wrong?
I like how you can changeup the case to any configuration to meet your needs except what I want and that is Dual Chamber/ lay down. n. My only downside of this case and it go's for all cases is in black they only give you tinted side windows so to get clear glass in most cases you have to buy white case. Like you said about the dual chamber layout it would be nice to see a square back chamber for the power supply and laydown like the old HAF X is for desktop and all they would have to do is make Mod II fit the backside of the case. Fan mounts on the bottom would also be nice to have on the basic case. In Win keep the fans an reduce the cost as $160 is way to high and you can buy good quality cases in your basic size with higher quality fans for $100 and would like to see a back panel power supply module instead of bottom and another fan mount to have fans on all 4 sides to lay the case over for desktop and have the feet be in back or bottom and I like the larger open holes with filter over fine mesh.
horizontal setup. mobo top then 2 chamber system bottom. 1 PSU and 1 Storage
could you make 1 big rack of it ? like multiple PC stacked on each other ?
This is just the HAF Stacker idea but more tightly integrated.
Oh man, a Lego case? This might be the one for my next build.
Please make a build with the IO facing down. add module to the bottom and back. then cabled in through either side of users choosing. I hope I could explain enough. lol
Can you mount any of the modules on their side?
Cool idea, but I would prefer a lower profile option. I say that because I don't see the appeal of a modular full tower, since most cases in this category already have sufficient space for most hardware and already are fairly "future proof", so to speak. A modular SFF or MFF case would be more interesting, since the added modularity would certaily be more helpful and significant
If that wasn't costy around 300€ for me in Italy, i would have copied the Thermaltake X9 we are using to make a "copy" of that case with a smaller frame (the ModFree case is smaller in terms of pieces) with the same result (Horizontal motherboard as the same as the X9)...
I'm more interested in mini-itx or micro-atx cases rather than regular ones. Btw, why do we still use old fashened GPU position in nowadays? It consume more power that CPU and produce more heat! It should be somewhere on top or on the side or even with a liquid cooling. Just think about it: we use a huge tower cooler for cooling CPU that produce 120-170W heat and still stuck with flat coolers for GPU. Why? Why don't make a motherboard/case where you can put your CPU and GPU side by side or split air flow betwenn them and put it in a small case?
Not possible to make it horizontal? Would be cool to have the opportunity to make it horizontal
Yeah ITX option should be next
I am searching for spring like this but they still in work
Does any of these modules have 5,25" slot for dvd/bluray combo?
amazon links in description don't have any product mentioned in the video, just click bails
It's really cool. Reminds me of the Fractal laptops in a way :)
If only it would support decent storage mods this would be awesome for a Homelab/NAS case.
I like the concept but to make it more versatile I'd wish to be able to change the case layout from ATX to µATX or even mITX with the PSU or radiator being able to stay the same. A little bit like the O11 mini where you can choose between mITX and massive radiators or ATX with fewer or air cooled.
The biggest problem is still how long InWin will support this, do you remember the Cooler Master Master Box or what it was called?
Please make a non temp glas version. Need more mesh.
It is pretty awesome they went for a modulair case design.
For myself as a watercooling guy I would have a list of stuff I would like to see in the future to get a really good watercooling case. As it is now I would not buy it.
can't the PSU module be put behind the motherboard? so it's hidden, like an o11
I can almost imagine myself trying to put 3 different PCs in that with those extra slots... Why would I do that? Not sure. Maybe to see if I can. Would be fun nonetheless
its time for open source era of the cases and we can print the parts and front panel in a 3d printer =)
I hope the Mod III is wide enough to accommodate 5.25" expansion. I would fill them bottom to top with 3.5" and 2.5" hot swap bays for a home server.
Edit: Potentially even attach a Mod III to both sides.
And, are there also mesh covers available?
Too niche. Go for workstation/server cases for hotswap drive trays and backplains.
Is there a matx version?
Need a rack mount kit
hopefully not dead like the mastercase from coolermaster which barely supported the addons availability, they sold you the whole case but buying the extras was tough as heck and if so, was as expensive as the case.
Can this fit a 420mm rad up top? or in front?
I remember when coolermaster tried a similar thing, but it was super ugly. These look much nicer.
This is exactly what the market is missing. If they can add in a slightly smaller version for small formfactor they will do very well with this concept.
Awesome!
the trouble with all these modular systems is even when released hard to get extra bits and after a year or two you can forget it.
duel chamber mod free attachment when?
Ikea gonna come up with a more complex modular case.
GN Steve is going to have an aneurysm trying to review this case
Any news about The Ncase x Streacom FF1?
I like it but can't get it in white.
and for itx?
I've been searching for the last 6 years - for a case manufacturer who has designed & is selling a case with the motherboard tray which lays flat/horizontal inside. Should handle an EATX and smaller. Who wants a 5 pound GPU hanging while they are horizontal inside your case? You're just asking for problems with that arrangement.
all in, semua ukuran masuk, keren keren
I love InWin because they are the ones who really push the aesthetics in case design. But the end result looks very generic. I agree, hope they can come out with interesting panels that will make this case stand out.
I always remember inWin doing flashy stuff with bad result, I wouldn't say they've ever pushed anything.
@@progste either terrible air flow or basically an open bench with decorations for insane prices
This should have been the standard like 15 years ago
Wish you guys state the price first
hustle of the future 😂
Ah exactly what I need more headache.
Nice.!
2 things :
- No cutouts on the motherboard tray - no support for future motherboards with headers on the other side
- No PSU shroud cover as positive!? 2023!
EDIT: MORE THINGS:
- 200 USD for BASIC edition with only basic and +1 module!
- side panel (glass) mounted and dismounted on "push harder" mechanism from 2000's. God luck if it wont want to came off and you will be forced tu put more force in it - glass ITS NOT FLEXIBLE. Tempered glass explode.
1:42 😂
I thought in the future where we dont need cases anymore.
This is dope especially for water cooling, I can actually separate one of my radiators from the rest of the case so it isn't sucking in warm air from inside the case. Hp Omen did something similar with their case but it wasn't modular
The idea is good, but the execution is not quite there yet. for example, there is so much wasted space either for storage as for radiator support.
Am i the only one that wants to bring back the optical drive bay at least one laptop sized
No case is the best case. Don't let a metal box and sheets of glass limit you.
Edit: It's a good idea but non practical as I am very sure most of the people out there are going to mess with the configuration the first week they got the case, after that they are going to leave it the way they last put it together.