The fan count on a case box can hide the cost of finishing the build. NZXT S5 RGB and Deluxe share their basic shell, making this a useful example of how to compare included cooling rather than choosing by lighting alone. Your graphics card, cooler and motherboard wiring still need to fit together after the glass panels go back on.
Quick Answer
S5 RGB and Deluxe use the same chassis and clearances; Deluxe adds bottom and rear fans to the supplied side assembly. NZXT lists 415mm GPU clearance and 162mm CPU-cooler clearance. For local budget context, the different Corsair 3200D RS ARGB was R1,649 and in stock at Evetech on 23 September 2026; an S5 Rand price is not confirmed here.
🌬️ Count the cooling you will actually use
The standard version includes a single-frame side fan assembly. Deluxe adds a 120mm bottom reverse fan and a 120mm rear fan. NZXT describes the Deluxe arrangement as three fan units containing five fans, which is why counting assemblies and counting individual fans can produce different numbers without either description being wrong.
Build a simple shopping list around the airflow layout you intend to use. If the extra positions would otherwise stay empty, the Deluxe package may save separate purchases and installation. If you already own suitable fans, paying for another set could leave spare hardware in a drawer. The relevant comparison is the finished system cost, including any control hardware you actually need.
📏 Check the tightest dimension first
GPU length is only one measurement. Measure the exact graphics card and allow for its power connector and cable routing. A length limit does not prove that a stiff cable will clear the side panel comfortably. Likewise, compare the whole air cooler with the 162mm allowance, including a fan that may need to sit higher to clear tall memory.
Use the mid-tower case range to compare alternatives by these physical constraints. Start with the component you are keeping, especially a large graphics card or existing CPU cooler. It is cheaper to choose around that requirement before ordering than to discover a conflict halfway through transferring a working PC.
🔧 Plan radiator and lighting connections
A radiator support figure identifies a possible mounting size, not a guarantee that every radiator-and-fan stack fits every motherboard. Check the complete thickness, the position of memory and heatsinks, and where the tubes can turn without strain. Keep the manufacturer's installation guidance alongside your component list while making that decision.
NZXT specifies PWM fan control and 5V ARGB for the included cooling. Check the motherboard manual before connecting either lead; motor control and lighting serve different purposes. If your board lacks enough suitable headers, include the correct splitter or controller in the budget instead of assuming every illuminated case works independently of the motherboard.
🧮 Compare complete builds rather than overseas stickers
The announced overseas price is not a delivered South African quote. Local pricing depends on the actual listed model and package, so do not use currency conversion as a substitute for a current offer. The R1,649 Corsair reference is a different in-stock case and simply shows a real alternative budget on the day of the catalogue read.
Check case fans only after deciding which positions need filling. Adding every possible fan is not automatically a better result: you also have to manage cables, noise and control. If the standard case plus the fans you own meets the layout, it deserves a fair comparison with Deluxe. If you want the supplied arrangement intact, compare the final quote with that convenience included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Deluxe chassis larger?
No. The two versions share dimensions, volume and component clearances; the main difference is the included cooling.
How do the supplied fans differ?
The standard includes a side single-frame fan assembly. Deluxe adds a bottom 120mm reverse fan and rear 120mm fan.
What graphics-card length is listed?
NZXT lists up to 415mm GPU clearance. Check the full build arrangement and cable space before ordering.
What air-cooler height is supported?
The advertised CPU-cooler clearance is 162mm. Compare the exact cooler height, including any raised fan.
Does radiator support guarantee every build fits?
No. Check radiator and fan thickness against the motherboard, memory and cable routing.
What local case price offers context?
The Corsair 3200D RS ARGB was R1,649 and in stock on 23 September. This is an alternative case, not an S5 price.
Ready to plan the case around your components? Compare Evetech cases with your GPU, cooler and complete fan list beside you, then choose the layout that fits.
