Phanteks EX5 PC Chassis Brings a Fresh Take on PC Cooling

Phanteks has introduced its new EX5 PC chassis series, bringing a different approach to airflow and internal PC layout. Instead of following the popular open “fish tank” case design, the new series uses separate compartments to give important components more direct airflow.

The EX5 lineup was first shown at Computex 2026 and is now officially available. Phanteks says the design is aimed at modern high-performance PCs while also helping builders avoid spending extra money on a large number of case fans.

Phanteks EX5 Uses a Different Airflow Design

The main highlight of the Phanteks EX5 PC chassis series is its compartment-based internal design. The case separates key hardware areas so fresh air can reach components more directly, while hot air is pushed out of the system more efficiently.

A rear-mounted mainboard fan comes pre-installed and is positioned to send air toward the VRM and RAM area. It also helps move heat produced by the graphics card away from nearby components.

This approach could be useful for builders who want strong airflow without filling the case with additional fans.

360mm Radiator Support Across the Range

Phanteks has designed all three EX5 models around current-generation hardware. The cases can fit graphics cards measuring up to 358 mm, while each model supports a 360 mm radiator.

There is also plenty of space for cable management, helping users keep the inside of their builds cleaner. The chassis includes integrated ARGB lighting, which can be controlled through compatible motherboards or Phanteks’ optional NEXLINQ ecosystem.

Connectivity includes a high-speed USB Type-C port rated at 20 Gbps, along with two USB 3.0 ports.

EX5, EX5 PLUS and EX5 MAX Models

Phanteks is launching the series in three versions, giving buyers different levels of cooling and features.

EX5

The standard EX5 is designed for builders who want more freedom when selecting their cooling hardware. It comes with the rear mainboard fan already installed but leaves the choice of AIO liquid cooler to the user.

This makes the EX5 the most flexible and affordable option in the lineup.

EX5 PLUS

The EX5 PLUS adds Phanteks’ Glacier One 360S25-SE AIO as part of the package. The cooler uses concealed tubing, giving the system a cleaner look with fewer visible cables and tubes.

The AIO also features a single-frame S25 ARGB fan assembly that uses one cable for the complete fan frame. Phanteks says its large copper base and fin array are designed to handle high-end CPUs under heavy workloads.

The cooler is also designed to provide good clearance around the motherboard and RAM area.

EX5 MAX

At the top of the lineup is the EX5 MAX. It combines the integrated Glacier One 360S25-SE AIO with a 6-inch high-resolution display.

The screen can show real-time system information and customized visuals, making the MAX model more focused on showcase builds.

Like the PLUS, it keeps the AIO tubing hidden inside the chassis for a cleaner appearance.

Built for Cleaner and Simpler Builds

Another useful feature across the EX5 range is the integrated GPU bracket. Phanteks describes it as a server-grade bracket designed to keep the graphics card straight and securely mounted, including when the system is being transported.

The EX5 series also includes ARGB lighting, modern connectivity and dedicated space for cable management. Together with the compartmentalized airflow layout, Phanteks is clearly trying to make the cases both practical and visually clean.

Phanteks EX5 PC Chassis Series Pricing and Availability

The Phanteks EX5 PC chassis series is available now in black. Pricing starts at $109.99 for the standard model.

• EX5: $109.99 / €109.90 / £95.90
• EX5 PLUS: $159.99 / €159.90 / £139.90
• EX5 MAX: $229.99 / €229.90 / £199.90
• Glacier One 360S25-SE: $79.99 / €79.90 / £69.90

The Glacier One 360S25-SE AIO will also be sold separately for builders who want to use the cooler with another compatible setup.

With the EX5 series, Phanteks is moving away from the increasingly common glass-heavy case layout and trying something more focused on airflow and component separation. The three models also give builders a choice between a basic chassis, an integrated 360mm AIO setup, and a premium version with a built-in display.