Exterior
The left side of the chassis features a huge lift-out side panel with a flip-up locking handle at the top. There is an extremely large window with a slight tint that gives you a great view of the chassis interior.
The right side panel is the same general design as the left, with a solid metal panel in place of the window.
The front panel is finished in mostly matte black plastics, and is also slightly recessed into the white frame around it. There are two 5.25″ drive bays at the top with a large ventilated panel below them.
The panel is easily removed via two push-clips at the top; this panel acts as a dust filter and is fully washable. Behind the cover you’ll find loads of mounting options; 2 x 140mm or 3 x 120mm fans, as well as support for 280/360mm radiators. There are two high quality 140mm LED fans pre-installed.
Above the 5.25″ drive bays, you’ll find a small LED lighting strip that lights up when the system is powered on.
Around the back you’ll find some extra ventilation near the top, a universal fan mount, the motherboard I/O, 9 expansion slots, two routing holes with pop-out metal covers and the PSU mounting area.
The universal mount features elongated screw holes and can mount 1 x 120mm or 1 x 140mm fans or radiators. A high quality 140mm fan has already been pre-installed.
The top panel features another clip-in dust filter that runs the complete length of the chassis.
Behind the cover you’ll find a vast amount of room for fans and radiators, with support for 3 x 120mm or 2 x 140mm fans, as well as 280mm and 360mm radiators. Rubber washers are pre-applied to the 120mm fittings; these will help dampen vibrations from any fans you choose to install.
The front I/O panel is nicely designed and features a three speed fan controller, two USB 2.0 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, HD Audio jacks and the reset button. Towards the front you’ll also find a very cool start/stop button for the master power control.
On the base you’ll find a two huge feet that run the length of the chassis, each featuring two thick rubber pads to prevent the chassis from slipping around on your desk or floor.
There are two dust filters on the base of the chassis. One slides out from the back, and the other from the front. Each filter is washable for easy maintenance and they help provide clean airflow to the PSU area and any bottom mounted cooling.
It looks like a very nice chassis albeit a little on the expensive side. I’m also not swayed by the inclusion of a fan controller or USB 2.0 ports either. In my opinion they could’ve left these out altogether, shoved in two more USB 3.0 ports and maybe knocked a bit more off the price but hey, people stuffing circa 2006 parts into this 2014 case could find they come in handy.
Still can’t beat my phanteks enthoo primo that I got for £135 new from Scan. Never seen it that low before or since was a real bargain considering the features and build quality. For the price it looks like they have used way too much plastic on this.