MSI MPG Velox 100R Mid-Tower Case Review

Today, we review MSI’s MPG Velox 100R Mid-Tower chassis, a versatile gaming case that incorporates great looks with excellent functionality. The MPG series represents MSI’s premium chassis line. Other cases in the MPG line-up include the Gungnir, Sekira, and Quietude, with each receiving several sub-models. Each one features similar aspects with key elements that define and personalize the individual models. We reviewed the Gungnir 110R and Sekira 100R previously, so now it’s on to the Velox 100R.

Features and Specifications

The MPG Velox 100R features seven PCIe expansion slots and measures 490 mm tall by 474 mm deep and 231 mm wide, making this a proper mid-tower chassis. The steel frame is painted in a black satin finish with a plastic and tempered glass front panel. The left side panel is also tempered glass and hinged for easy access.

Four 120 mm Addressable RGB fans are included with the Velox 100R. The lighting is controlled through the included Insta-Light Loop button or the motherboard’s lighting software. The included controller features 26 different colors and effects. There is also a light bar that runs the length of the PSU shroud providing a little extra ambiance. In addition to the four fans, there are locations to mount additional fans at the right side, top, and on top of the PSU shroud for a maximum of up to 12 fans.

There is plenty of room for multiple hard drives in the MPG Velox 100R. Two 2.5″ SSD trays are located behind the motherboard tray, and the hard drive caddy can house an additional two HDDs or SSDs. When combined with a motherboard’s M.2 slots, there are ample storage locations for virtually any build.  User connectivity is located at the top of this chassis. It features the Insta-Loop LED controller button, USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, two USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A, microphone port, headphone port, HDD activity LED, power LED, reset button, and power button.

Here’s a list of the specifications per the MSI website.

We have also included a list of features sourced from MSI’s website.

MSI MPG VELOX 100R Features
	UNMATCHED POWER Equip your battle station like no other with the MPG VELOX 100 Series. Inspired by speedy patterns and lively lighting effects, the MPG VELOX 100 Series is sure to help you dominate the battlefield with unmatched power.
	VENTILATED FRONT PANEL The MPG VELOX 100R’s front panel consists of tempered glass that can clearly showcase the fans’ ARGB lighting without any obstruction.
	ARGB SHOWROOM Create your own ARGB battle station with the MPG VELOX 100 Series, fully supported by MSI Mystic Light.
	INSTA-LIGHT LOOP BUTTON Quickly control the MPG VELOX 100 Series’ lighting effects with the Insta-Light Loop at the touch of a button. Click through the profiles at ease and choose a favorite.
	VERTICAL GPU MOUNT The MPG VELOX 100 Series comes with a vertical GPU bracket as an accessory that allows you to mount your graphics card vertically.
	SIDE AIR VENTS The MPG VELOX 100 Series comes with a side air vent that can support up to 2 fans / 240mm radiator. *Installing fans or radiator on the side requires the front fans to be uninstalled first.
	BETTER TOGETHER Synergize the MPG VELOX 100 Series with an MSI motherboard by bridging a USB Gen2x2 Type-C port with 20 Gbps for convenient access. Establish a complete MSI gaming ecosystem with a graphics card, liquid cooler, and power supply.
	BIG VOLUME The MPG VELOX 100 Series provides excellent components clearance, capable of having 1 x 360mm radiator/3 x 120mm fans on both the top and the front.
	HARDWARE CAPABILITIES Front USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type C Side Ventilation Ventilated Front Panel 1 to 6 Control Board Dust Filter Hinged Tempered Glass Window Magnetic Dust Filter
	OPTIMIZED AIRFLOW The MPG VELOX 100 Series is optimized to provide generous and effective airflow for system cooling with vents built throughout the system. The MPG VELOX 100 Series comes with 4 fans and can mount up to 7.
	HINGED TEMPERED GLASS SWINGING WINDOW The 3mm hinged tempered glass swinging window offers the best durability and system accessibility.
	RISER CABLE SUPPORT With the help of the vertical GPU bracket, the MPG VELOX 100 Series can also install MSI’s MAG PCI-E 3.0 X16 Riser Cable, which can be bought separately as an accessory.
	COMPONENTS CLEARANCE: Motherboard Mini-ITX Micro-ATX ATX Extended-ATX
	COMPONENTS CLEARANCE: CPU/GPU/PSU CPU Cooler Length: 175mm GPU Length: 380mm PSU Length: up to 220mm (without 3.5″ HDD tray)
	COMPONENTS CLEARANCE: Fans Front: 140 mm x3 or 120 mm x3 Top 140 mm x2 or 120 mm x3 Right Side: 120 mm x2 Rear: 120 mm
	COMPONENTS CLEARANCE: Radiator Front: up to 360 mm or 280 mm Top: up to 360 mm or 280 mm Side: up to 240 mm Rear: 120 mm

Packaging

The packaging MSI uses to ship its chassis follows typical industry standards. The brown cardboard is double-walled and thick enough to protect against most jostling during shipping. Printed on the two larger sides are identical images of the Velox 100R. One side displays a specifications chart like the one listed above, while the other lists a few key features in multiple languages. Inside, the case is surrounded by soft foam padding and a large plastic bag. This time-tested method proves to be highly effective in protecting the contents.

Packaging

Packaging

Packaging

Contents

Inside the chassis is where one will find the accessories included with this case. There are five small cable ties, a bag of assorted screws, a fan splitter, a quick start guide, and a user’s manual. The large cardboard box protects a vertical GPU bracket that is also included.

Exterior At A Glance

The MPG Velox 100R is constructed primarily of steel, the only exceptions being the plastic front panel and the tempered glass side and front insert. It looks and feels like a premium chassis with all the seams fitting snug and is sturdy when moving it around. It comes available in only one color, the ever-fashionable black with a satin finish.

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A Closer Look

The Velox 100R is an attractive option. It provides a classic look with modern touches such as tempered glass, ARGB lighting, and up-to-date USB connectivity. Let’s look and see what sets this case apart from all the others.

Front

Starting at the front, we find tempered glass inlaid into the removable front panel. The glass features an angular cut at the top and bottom with a medium-grade tint applied. At the top right is an MSI dragon logo emblem in black and silver. MSI’s trademark MPG lettering is located at the bottom left, printed in gray. A simple tug from the bottom of the panel easily separates it from the rest of the chassis. Both sides of the panel feature steel mesh that allows cool air to enter. These measure 20 mm by 350 mm each and provide ample ventilation. While each mesh insert can be removed via three screws, this should not be considered a quick removable filter.

There are three 120 mm ARGB front-mounted fans included with this case. A closer look will reveal fastening slots for 140 mm fans or radiators if you choose to go that route. With the fans removed, we can see through to the rear of the chassis as there is nothing left to obstruct the view or the airflow.

Left

The left side panel features a pull handle and hinges for a smooth swinging door. The door is held closed by a pair of magnets and, when opened, can be lifted from the hinge posts. A lot is going on with the motherboard tray. In addition to the five grommeted holes on the motherboard tray and three on the PSU shroud, there are two non-grommeted holes. These are for use when an E-ATX motherboard is installed. For anyone familiar with larger E-ATX boards, this is a welcomed sight. Many manufacturers list their chassis as E-ATX compatible but leave out cable routing options. Kudos to MSI for this foresight. Also in this area, you may notice the ventilation and mounting holes for a pair of 120 mm fans or a 240 mm radiator.

At the rear of the left side, we find the fourth included 120 mm ARGB fan. This chassis does not have the width required to house a 140 mm fan at the rear. Below the rear intake are the seven expansion slots and some additional ventilation. Looking to the top and front, we see the fan and radiator mounting slots. Finally, at the bottom is the PSU shroud. The top of the shroud is nearly completely ventilated and features a large opening for mounting a front radiator. There is also a series of tapped holes for mounting up to three 120 mm fans on top of the shroud for added airflow. The side of the shroud has an ARGB light bar and PSU display window.

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Right

The right panel is secured with a pair of captive thumbscrews. It also features ventilation in the event fans, or a radiator is installed on the motherboard tray. With the right panel removed, we get a good look behind the scenes of the Velox 100R. Three velcro straps work in conjunction with the multitude of cable tie points located throughout the right side. Situated below the CPU cooler mount cut-out are the two SSD trays. At the epicenter of the chassis is the powered ARGB hub. It can power up to six devices and is controlled with the included Insta-Loop LED button at the top of the case or via the installed motherboard.

Below the PSU shroud and towards the front is the HDD caddy. It can be relocated XX mm to the front for added PSU clearance or positioned as shown for front radiator clearance or removed entirely. At the rear is the PSU garage. This fully ventilated area features two large rubber strips to absorb any vibrations. The last image is of the removable magnetic filter attached to the right-side panel.

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Rear

The rear of the Velox 100R is laid out like many other mid-tower chassis. The rear 120 mm fan mounts are slotted for slight adjustments of up to 22 millimeters. Any place that MSI could add ventilation holes at the rear, you will find them. This includes the seven expansion slots and the small rectangular area. A power supply opening is located at the bottom and will allow the PSU to be installed right-side-up or up-side-down.

Top

Laying the case on its right side, we rotate it to get a better look at the top. A magnetic dust filter covers the majority of the chassis. It is the course type commonly found here and can be pretty helpful. Under the top filter are the slots for mounting either a radiator or additional fans. The spacing is somewhat unusual, with slots at 105 mm, 115 mm, and 125 mm.

MSI opted to locate the user connectivity at the right side of the top. From front to back are the power button, reset button, power and HDD LEDs, headphone jack, microphone jack, two USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports, USB Gen2x2 Type-C port, and the Insta-Loop LED button. This makes for a clean main compartment and easy cable management.

Bottom

Rotating the case 180°, we can inspect the bottom. A removable dust filter is located at the power supply intake. This filter is the only fine mesh filter located on this chassis and will help prevent most dust from getting into the PSU. It is easily removed by simply sliding to the rear. The feet, for this case, are large and robust. The rubber pads are slightly smaller than we are used to seeing but more than adequate for keeping the case positioned on the desk.

Fans

Four identical fans are included with the MPG Velox 100R. They are all 120 mm and feature addressable RGB. The nine blades and hub are frosted white and provide a uniform color when the RGB is on. The blades feature dimples and grooves on the back, presumably improving airflow. The all-black frames are equipped with rubber pads at the corners to absorb any minor vibrations generated by the rotation of the fan. A 3-pin motherboard connector is used for power, and the speeds can be DC controlled via the BIOS. The ARGB lighting uses a standard 3-pin ARGB connector that can connect directly to a compatible motherboard or the included ARGB hub. Specifications for these fans are not included with the case or online but we achieved a top speed of approximately 1300 RPM.

Storage

Located under the chassis’s power supply shroud at the front is the removable HDD/SSD combo caddy. Either two 3.5″ hard drives, two 2.5″ solid-state drives, or one of each can be mounted here. The single sled allows for the toolless installation of an HDD, while you’ll use screws for an SSD. Additionally, there is a pair of SSD trays that can mount behind the motherboard tray for a total of four possible drives.

The Builds

We’ve analyzed each section of this case now. Let’s grab some parts for a mock-up custom water cooling build as well as a functioning air-cooled rig.

Water Cooled Build

We’ve installed a 240 mm radiator at the top and a thick 360 mm radiator upfront for a custom loop mock-up build. To mount two 360 mm radiators, it is essential to use a thin radiator up top. There just wasn’t enough room for the 30 mm radiator with 25 mm fans. As you can see, even with the 60 mm thick front radiator, there is plenty of room for a smaller diameter reservoir. If mounting to the motherboard tray, you can use a longer one. There are plenty of options available here. Looking at the top fan spacing, we find slots available at 105 mm, 115 mm, and 125 mm. The 105 mm spacing is used for 120 mm wide fans and radiators, while the 125 mm sloats are for 140 mm wide fans. We are unsure what the 115 mm spacing is used for and are waiting to hear from MSI. They may be just additional venting slots for the 140 mm wide fans.

Air Cooled Build

For the air-cooled build, we are sticking with the trusty be quiet! Dark Rock 4. This cooler measures 160 mm tall and represents the typical large tower cooler height. With the cooler installed, there was 12 mm of clearance. This is just a little shy of the 175 mm that is called out in the specification, but darn close. If stock cooling isn’t enough and you desire additional fans, you can mount two 120 mm fans at the right side, three at the top, and three on the PSU shroud for a total of twelve fans. That’s a lot of potential airflow.

Cable Routing

Behind the motherboard tray, there is 18 mm of cable clearance. This is not a lot of space, but the location of the cable pass-through holes and multiple tie points makes for surprisingly easy cable management. In the image below, we have loaded this chassis up with every possible hard drive and installed a non-modular power supply to display the worst-case scenario. As you can see, the MPG Velox 100R does a fine job of managing all the cables.

Vertical GPU Mounting

The vertical GPU mounting adapter included with this case is rather large due to its included riser support plate. Most chassis that allow vertical GPU mounting does not provide support under the card. With this bracket attached and a compatible riser, there is no chance your GPU will move around. The adapter can hold up to triple slot cards and provides oodles of space between the GPU and the left side panel.

Lighting

In today’s market, there are two schools, those who love RGB and those who don’t. If you love RGB, then you will like the Velox 100R. If you are not a fan of internal lighting, you too are in luck as holding down the LED button turns all the lighting off. For those interested in the bling factor the Velox provides, the four addressable RGB fans and the PSU shroud light bar features 26 different colors and effects. Users have the option of using the top side Insta-Loop LED button to control these effects, or you can drive the light show with your compatible motherboard’s installed software. The chart below shows the possible colors and lighting effects available. The slideshow of images displays most of the colors under different lighting scenarios. My apologies for the less-than-professional photos.

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Thermal Testing Procedure

As usual, we save the thermal testing for last. In its stock configuration with all fans at full speed, an overclock is applied to both the CPU and GPU. The overclock will be as high as possible while maintaining stability and staying within the thermal limits of the components. To apply a load to the CPU and GPU, Aida64 Extreme and 3D Mark Firestrike will be run together until a maximum internal case temperature is reached, generally about 15-20 minutes. We then remove the left side panel and continue for another full run of Firestrike, measuring the maximum temperature without the side panel. If the case is getting proper airflow, the case temperatures will remain within a few degrees. If there is a significant temperature drop with the side panel off, the case is struggling to provide cool air.

The MSI MPG Velox 100R does a good job regulating the internal temperature. The four included fans can bring in cool air and exhaust the heated air. With the internal temperature peaking at 4°C above ambient, the Velox is on par with other cases we have tested in this manner. Removing the side panel dropped the temperature about 1.5 degrees. This is an excellent result and nearly identical to the MSI Gungnir. With the ability to add a bunch more fans, it’s safe to say the Velox is capable of housing the most powerful PC components on the market without heat being an area of concern.

Conclusion

We have scrutinized every detail the Velox has to offer, and we are genuinely impressed. Its slightly larger capacity allows the user to install EATX motherboards easily, large custom water cooling loops, plenty of storage mounting points, additional fan locations, and a very sturdy vertical GPU mount. MSI’s premium build quality has never let us down. The Velox is just another great example of exceptional quality. The four included fans do a superb job of keeping everything nice and cool. If one detail could improve, it would be the lack of a removable front filter. While the existing mesh will aid in keeping out some of the dust, a removable fine mesh filter would make routine maintenance a bit easier. However, this certainly is not a significant concern.

The MSI MPG Velox 100R retails for $119.99 on Amazon and Newegg. This price firmly plants this chassis in the lower range of premium cases, making it a smart buy. With the quality of the build, abundant features included, and reasonable price tag, the MSI MPG Velox 100R receives Overclocker.com Stamp of Approval.

-John Nester (Blaylock)

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