It’s been a while since I’ve done a PC Case review or even some Genesis gear. A manufacturer I’ve grown to love over the past few years for delivering quality and style at a reasonable price. Moving into an Irid 505F from my previous case, the Genesis Irid 503 ARGB which I’ve loved. However being an m-ATX case, I struggled to expand my rig.
Thanks to some new parts to review from Be Quiet! and a new GPU I’d purchased, I thought it a great opportunity to move into the new Genesis Irid 505F.
Oh man, what a difference a size increase makes. Add to it the new Genesis Oxal 120 Fans, and it’s been an absolute dream. Cool and spacious, but lacking the RGB of its predecessor (it’s no great shakes, but noticeable at night!).
Unboxing and first impressions
When you first unbox the Irid 505F case, you’re greeted with a modest set of accessories: essential screws for assembly, zip ties, and a motherboard buzzer. While the case’s height is more than what photos suggest, it’s surprisingly light even with its tempered glass construction.
The front looks almost identical to the previous case, so it was a treat for me to keep that look!
Design and build quality
The standout feature is the four-millimeter-thick tempered glass that adorns the left side, encased in dark frames. This glass, protected by a film on both sides, is mounted onto rubberized posts and secured with screws. The method of attaching the glass is not only cost-effective but also straightforward. The screws provided are solid, largely all in line with other Genesis kits I’ve had in the past.
It’s well put together with decent components.
The front panel
The front panel of the Irid 505F is largely perforated, with holes averaging 0.8 mm. While these might not trap dust as effectively as a nylon filter, they rank among the smallest in the industry. Accessing the panel is a bit tricky – it’s designed to be pulled out from the bottom, which isn’t the most convenient approach. Above this ‘provisional handle’ is a mesh, contributing to the case’s air intake.
Cooling and ventilation
Behind the front panel lies three Oxal 120 120mm fans. Genesis rates their airflow at just over 78 m³/h at 1300 rpm, with a ±10% deviation at maximum performance. Alternatively, the case can accommodate two 140mm fans or a 360mm liquid radiator.
The fans are actually lovely, too. The previous ARG ones were great when lit up, but looked and felt flimsy compared to these new ones. Genesis has done some significant work here and it shows. The Irid 505F is delivering in style and substance.
I’ll be honest, the blurb is great and all, but the regular usage and temperature monitoring do more for me. The case is kicking out cool air from the exhaust, at all times. In the height of summer, it was cool. Even after a month or so of use, it’s still cool.
I added a nice water-cooled radiator too, knowing that the airflow in there is certainly assisting in keeping my CPU cool as I try to push the PC to its limits.
I/O panel and connectivity
On top, the I/O panel features an unusual array of up to four USB connectors, including two USB 2.0 ports. This is a slight disadvantage speed-wise, but it’s a practical choice given the limited USB 3.x gen. 1 19-pin availability on budget motherboards. However, the absence of a USB Type-C connector might be a letdown for some. Separate 3.5mm jacks are available for headphones and microphones. The case also features a redundant LED button, a small and recessed restart button, a comfortable power button, and two sharp LEDs for power and drive activity indicators.
Top ventilation and back features
The case’s ceiling is also perforated, and covered by a magnetic mesh screen for easy removal. It supports two 120/140mm fans or a 280mm radiator for exhaust. The back of the case offers a standard power supply opening, eight PCI Express expansion card slot covers, and a 120mm fan exhaust.
Base and internal features
Underneath, the case stands on four feet with anti-slip strips. The power supply is shielded by a screen similar to the front and top, suggesting caution against placing the case on dusty grounds. Additionally, there are screws for storage drawers and pre-made holes for alternative placements.
Genesis Irid 505F verdict
I really like the Irid 505F case. With more room, better components and superior cooling, it’s a gem. With a blend of practical design, modest accessories, and commendable build quality. I think it’s an absolute steal for the PC builder on a budget!
Want more details on the Genesis Irid 505F case? Check out the official Genesis website. Want more tech reviews? Then just click right here.
