As promised during the test of the MasterBox 520 from Cooler Master, here is the article presenting their new vertical graphics card holder. Indeed, the brand sent us its Vertical Graphics Card Holder Kit v3 (which we will shorten to VGCHK v3) in addition to the case. So we will see what it looks like, what it offers and how to mount it.
Unpacking the Vertical Graphics Card Holder Kit v3 (VGCHK v3) :
Like the brand’s XG Plus 850 Platinum power supply, the brand’s graphics card holder arrives in a very colorful box. Nevertheless, the packaging remains quite classic with an illustration of the product on the front. A reminder of the features/characteristics is still present on the sides/back. Inside, the holder is protected by cardboard pieces surrounding it. We will also find the accessories in bulk. 
By the way, speaking of accessories, the bundle part remains quite succinct with the presence of :
- An installation/assembly manual
- One 16.5 cm long PCIe 4.0 riser
- Seven Phillips screws
The Vertical Graphics Card Holder Kit v3 (VGCHK v3) itself :
Once unpacked, we are now facing the support itself. This last one surprises us a little by its weight of 810g. At the same time, it is made of steel with a black paint. The dimensions remain quite substantial since it displays 249 (W) x 148.1 (D) x 141.8 (H) mm when closed. When open, the dimensions increase to 305 (W) x 178.1 (D) x 141.8 (H) mm. Yes, the VGCHK v3 can be adjusted in length and depth. This allows for the best possible fit of the graphics card in your case.
Also, let’s not forget to mention the universal compatibility of this bracket. Indeed, it will be compatible with ATX and micro-ATX cases. And whether the expansion slots are separate or not, compatibility is still assured, you can still connect your video cable to your graphics card.
Otherwise, the bracket will occupy six expansion slots in your case in ATX configuration. In micro-ATX, it will occupy all four slots of the case. As for the graphics card, even if it occupies three slots, this will not be a problem, as the bracket is compatible with this format.
The assembly
The first step of the assembly will be to screw the PCIe riser on its support. To do this, we use a Phillips screwdriver and two screws provided in the kit. We position the female connector of the riser on the base and screw it on the two corresponding spacers.
Next, you will need to free the extension slots that will accommodate the bracket. To do this, simply remove the corresponding PCIe brackets from the case.
The next step is to insert the bracket into the case. Before doing so, we advise you to connect the male part of the riser to the motherboard. And when positioning the VGCHK v3 in the case, you may have to force it a bit, the riser being quite rigid, it will resist a bit.
Once positioned in the case, it only remains to screw it to the case with two screws. The installation will be finished when the graphics card will rest on the female slot of the riser and will be screwed to the Cooler Master bracket.
Once in place, you can move the graphics card from right to left or front to back. Indeed, the support has two small levers to adjust our GPU from right to left. The adjustment from front to back is done via a screw, while leaving a travel of ±3 cm against ±6.5 cm from right to left. This allows to free up enough space at the front of the card to allow the connection to the screen in particular… Or to better highlight it.
Conclusion
If you don’t have a case with vertical PCIe slots, this bracket is clearly the solution for you. It is compatible with all ATX and micro-ATX cases on the market and you can even adjust the graphics card from front to back and from left to right.
As we have seen, the assembly is not very complicated although you should not hesitate to use a little force to fit the bracket into the case. Here, the PCIe 4.0 riser will put up some resistance, curled up between the motherboard and the bracket. Otherwise, it’s “easy peasy”.
The only thing left is the price, which is rather high, since it will cost more than 70 € (LDLC) to buy. Moreover, we don’t know of any support that allows so much adjustment.
A big thank you to Cooler Master!
