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Test setup:
CPU: Intel i5 655K
CPU Cooling: Scythe Big Shuriken with 120mm Noctua NF-S12 fan
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-H55N-USB3
Power Supply: ThermalTake Smart 430w
Memory: 2x2GB Mushkin Silverline 1333Mhz
Storage: 40GB Mushkin Castillo
GPU: VTX 1GB 6450
In order to test how well ventilated the case is, we will fully stress both the processor and graphics card using a combination of system stress tools. The CPU stress test will contain a 10 minute run of Prime95 (blend) at stock speed whilst the GPU results will be recorded after a 5 minute run of Furmark.
As the graphics card is passively cooled, this will test the efficiency of the case’s cooling solutions. Running both tests for the selected length of time is sufficient enough for the temperatures to plateau and carries a low risk of damaging hardware, should any problems arise.
The processor was operating well within expected parameters however the passively cooled graphics card ran a little hotter than we had hoped. I believe this to be primarily caused by the drive cage obstructing much of the air flow to the bottom section of the case.
It looks ok, but im not sure about the handle. I can appreciate why its there, but it puts me off the shape. can it be removed?
Its a nice idea, but there are flaws. the corners of the case for instance, why not make the four protective extra ‘pads’ rubberised? they are aluminum, and I know the black version of the case will mark extra easy when moved about. Thats the biggest mistake IMO. id rather have a thin rubber pad on each corner of the case to keep the aluminum off the surfaces, rather than have it all stratched.
The price is also a little high.
Built my last system using this case. Removed the drive cage & installed the Addonics snap-in bay for hard drives. There was enough room to fit a H70 water cooling unit with the radiator fitted via a manifold to the front fan. To finish off a Seasonic fanless PSU & a Gainwind 670 Phamtom (with the shroud removed). Positive air pressure cooling that runs nice & quiet 🙂
I for one like this design – especially the handle.
It looks sturdy and has soft edges; I have been stabbed by the edges of my old case because of the twisted sheet metal (but hey, I just about lost an eye putting up a steel shed).
The grating for the large fan makes this case look like a cheap guitar amp, which is good in my opinion.
Looks very portable.
I love the appearance and I bought one after reading this review. I do agree and never actually thought about the rubberised corners. they should be rubber, not metal, as this will mark badly over time, as its meant to be moved.
Hopefujlly they change this in the next revision to be more ‘durable’. im sure lian li can get it looking right and not cheap.