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InWin unveils modular Covalent full-tower with back-connect motherboard support

23 April 2026 at 16:00

InWin has announced the Covalent, a flagship full-tower case designed for high-performance computing (HPC), AI development, and professional workstations. The case features a modular internal architecture and a refined industrial aesthetic, offering a choice between tempered glass or solid metal side panels.

The Covalent is designed to accommodate workstation-class hardware, providing native support for EEB (12″ x 13″) and E-ATX motherboards. Notably, the case is compatible with “back-connect” (BTF) motherboard designs, which move cable headers to the rear of the PCB for a cleaner interior. The spacious interior supports graphics cards up to 480mm in length and CPU heatsinks up to 190mm tall. With eight PCIe expansion slots, users can install multiple GPUs in either horizontal or vertical orientations, and InWin includes optional GPU support brackets to prevent card sag.

Thermal performance is a primary focus for the Covalent, as it supports up to 13 fans (140mm or 120mm) and can house dual 420mm radiators simultaneously on the top and side panels. For out-of-the-box airflow, the case comes pre-installed with four CV140 fans, three in the front and one in the rear. The front panel utilises a vertically slotted design to maximise intake, while a dedicated PSU chamber helps isolate the heat from the rest of the system. An integrated fan hub supports up to six PWM and ARGB connections, simplifying cable management.

Storage and connectivity are generous, with a modular layout that can hold up to eight 3.5-inch drives or nine 2.5-inch drives via optional brackets. The front I/O panel includes one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 port, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and two USB 2.0 ports, along with a standard HD audio jack. To assist with assembly and maintenance, InWin has implemented tool-free side panels and a removable dust filter system. The tempered glass model is priced at €149.99, while the metal version retails for €144.99.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Which model of the new InWin Covalent do you like the most?

The post InWin unveils modular Covalent full-tower with back-connect motherboard support first appeared on KitGuru.

InWin COVALENT full tower case brings strong cooling and flexible design

By: Bahleem
22 April 2026 at 14:37

InWin Development Inc. has introduced a new full tower PC case called the InWin COVALENT. This case is made for users who need high performance, such as AI work, heavy computing, and professional workstation builds. It focuses on strong cooling, large space, and a clean design.

InWin COVALENT full tower chassis 12
InWin COVALENT

The InWin COVALENT comes in two side panel options. One version has tempered glass, which lets users see inside the build and show RGB lighting. The other version uses solid metal panels, giving a more simple look while also improving strength and airflow. The front panel has a vertical slot design that helps bring more air inside, keeping temperatures under control during long usage.

InWin COVALENT full tower chassis 10

This InWin COVALENT case is built for serious hardware. It supports large motherboard sizes like EEB, which are often used in workstation systems. There is enough space inside for multiple high-end graphics cards and storage drives without blocking airflow. The case includes eight PCIe slots, allowing both horizontal and vertical GPU installation. A strong steel frame and optional GPU support help keep everything stable over time.

Cooling is one of the main highlights. The COVALENT can support up to two 420 mm radiators and up to 13 fans. It already comes with four pre-installed fans, giving good airflow out of the box. This makes it suitable for heavy workloads like AI tasks or multi-GPU setups where heat can be a problem.

InWin COVALENT full tower chassis 3

The inside layout is modular, so users can adjust it based on their needs. It supports both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives, with extra options available through add-ons. Other useful features include a separate power supply chamber, tool-free panels, a front USB Type-C port, and a built-in fan hub for easier cable management.

InWin COVALENT full tower chassis 9

InWin COVALENT specifications

InWin COVALENT full tower chassis 2

Overall, the InWin COVALENT is clearly made for users who need space, cooling, and flexibility in one case. It targets high-end systems and offers features that support long-term and heavy use.

Thermaltake Retro 360 TG Case Review

17 April 2026 at 09:30

Here at KitGuru we appreciate cases that are slightly different – perhaps with wood panels, or the cooler mounted in an unusual location – and the Thermaltake Retro 360 TG looks like it might offer us a bit of fun. On the one hand the front panel gives the impression this case dates from 1990, but on the other hand you look through the huge glass panel and see a conventional budget case that accommodates a 360mm liquid cooler in the roof or the side.

Timestamps:

00:00 Start
00:48 Retro?
01:37 Removing panels / Fans
03:12 Installing hardware
06:14 Cabling and CPU Cooler
07:04 RGB and Lighting
07:21 Testing the case
09:29 Closing Thoughts

Main features

  • Retro 360 TG Mid Tower Chassis: The Retro 360 TG Mid Tower Chassis is an ATX case featuring a retro-style front panel and a tempered glass side panel, and supports up to a 360mm AIO for maximum cooling efficiency. An optional 6” LCD Screen Kit is available for enhanced visuals. Up to twelve 120mm fans, and it supports up to 360mm radiator at the top, providing flexible options for cooling solutions.
  • Visually Pleasing, Totally Interactive: Maximize your Retro 360 TG Mid Tower Chassis visual effects by upgrading it with our LCD Screen Kit.
    The 6” LCD Display allows you to monitor real-time information and upload any images or GIFs to add extra flair using the latest TT RGB Plus software.
  • Good Dust Protection: Removable dust filters help keep your system clean while maintaining optimal airflow.
  • Storage: The drive plate supports one 3.5” HDD plus one 2.5” SSD or two 2.5” SSDs.

Specification:

  • Motherboard support: ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX (supports hidden connection).
  • Power supply support: ATX.
  • Expansion slots: 7.
  • Included fans: 1x 120mm 1,400rpm front intake, 1x 120mm 1,400rpm rear exhaust (DC not PWM)
  • Fan mounts: 2x 120mm/140mm front, 3x 120mm/2x 140mm roof, 1x 120mm rear, 3x 120mm side, 3x 120mm PSU shroud.
  • Radiator mounts: 240mm/280mm roof, 120mm rear, 360mm side.
  • 5.25-inch optical drive bays: None.
  • Internal drive bays: 1x 3.5-inch/2.5-inch, 1x 2.5-inch.
  • Front I/O ports: 1x USB 3.0 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, audio.
  • Dimensions: 493mm H x 459mm D x 235mm W.

Testing

To put this case through its cooling paces we will be using a test system consisting of an AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D, Palit RTX 5080 and an SSD. This system allows us to produce a substantial amount of heat and effectively test the Thermaltake Retro 360 TG‘s cooling capabilities.

Test System:

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D
  • CPU Cooler: Thermaltake MAGFloe 360 Ultra ARGB Sync
  • Motherboard: MSI MAG X870E Tomahawk Max WiFi PZ
  • Memory: 32GB Thermaltake ToughRAM XG RGB D5 DDR5-6000
  • Graphics card: Palit GeForce RTX 5080 Gamerock OC 16GB
  • Case fans: Thermaltake ToughFan EX 120 ARGB Sync
  • Power supply: Thermaltake ToughPower GT 1200W Gold
  • SSD: Crucial T700 Gen 5 M.2 NVMe
  • OS: Windows 11

Cooling Performance

Cooling Performance Overview

The Thermaltake Retro 360 TG does a reasonable job cooling our test PC, however it would be stretching a point to claim the airflow is impressive. We suggest you either build a mid-range PC inside the Retro 360 TG or, if you must go high end, budget for plenty of extra cooling hardware.

Closing Thoughts

We like the looks of the Thermaltake Retro 360 TG and consider the retro front panel as a bit of fun in a world of PC cases that emphasise mesh and glass.

On the other hand the front panel is quite restrictive when it comes to airflow and the case doesn't support any 5.25-inch external drive bays. In other words, the Thermaltake looks retro at the front but this appearance is only skin deep, and even that look vanishes when you install the accessory LCD screen.

When you turn to the main compartment the Retro 360 TG doesn't look the least bit retro, and it is plain this is a conventional ATX case with a clear glass panel that shows off any RGB lighting you might choose to install. As you will see in our video we used a total of eight 120mm RGB fans and thought it looked pretty darned good.

You can buy the Thermaltake Retro 360 TG for £79.99 HERE.

Pros:

  • Fun retro styling.
  • Low price.
  • Decent amount of room for your ATX gaming PC.

Cons:

  • No optical drive bays.
  • The included case fans are DC and not PWM.
  • Panels are all riveted and fixed in place.

KitGuru says: We applaud Thermaltake for delivering the Retro 360 TG at a low price.

The post Thermaltake Retro 360 TG Case Review first appeared on KitGuru.

The Galaxies Spring 2026 Showcase – Everything Announced

16 April 2026 at 20:37

A digital artwork with the word 'GALAXIES' in bold white letters against a purple space backdrop filled with asteroids and abstract shapes.

The Galaxies Spring 2026 Showcase is here, featuring a solid hour of game announcements and updates for upcoming games, including a few select world premieres to showcase the latest indie titles coming to PC and consoles. Just as we did with the recent Triple-I Initiative Showcase, this roundup will cover everything that was announced so you don't miss out on adding something to your wishlist or picking up any shadow drops. Some of the more notable reveals include the premiere of Mojo Party, a trivia party game from the people behind the Watch Mojo YouTube channel. The show also included […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/galaxies-spring-showcase-2026-everything-announced/

New Razer Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed includes integrated dongle charging case

13 April 2026 at 13:00

Razer has announced the Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed gaming earbuds, featuring dual-mode connectivity via 2.4GHz HyperSpeed Wireless and Bluetooth 6.0. The new model introduces a redesigned charging case that houses the wireless dongle and supports simultaneous playing and charging when connected via USB-C.

The Hammerhead V3 Hyper Speed earbuds use Razer HyperSpeed Wireless for low-latency audio on compatible PCs and handheld devices. A SmartSwitch feature allows users to toggle between the 2.4GHz connection and Bluetooth 6.0, which Razer claims offers improved power efficiency and stability in wireless environments. The included HyperSpeed case acts as both a charger and a wireless receiver when the USB-C dongle is seated inside.

Razer has equipped the Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed with Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, which the company states provides a 50% improvement in noise reduction over the previous generation. For PC users, the earbuds support THX Spatial Audio via Razer Synapse 4, which provides a virtual 7.1 soundstage for enhanced positional awareness.

Total battery life is rated at up to 40 hours, with 10 hours provided by the earbuds and an additional 30 hours from the charging case. The hardware includes touch controls for playback and calls, while an LED status indicator on the case displays charging and connection states. Further customisation of the audio profile and controls can be done through the Razer Audio App and Razer Synapse 4.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Have you ever considered using earbuds for gaming? If the latency was your main concern, that seems to be less of an issue with newer products hitting the market. 

The post New Razer Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed includes integrated dongle charging case first appeared on KitGuru.

Ghostrunner Makers New First-Person Soulslike Valor Mortis Arrives on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series in Fall 2026

10 April 2026 at 16:39

A gameplay scene from the video game Valor Mortis shows a character with dual swords preparing to attack in a forest setting, with the player aiming a firearm at the character.

Valor Mortis is the next game from One More Level, one of the studio's behind first-person fast-paced cyberpunk sci-fi action platformer, Ghostrunner. It was first revealed back at Gamescom 2025, where Wccftech's Francesco De Meo got to check it out and called it one of the best games at the showcase. Now, we're finally starting to get closer to its release, as One More Level reveals a new release window for Fall 2026. The news came as part of Valor Mortis' inclusion in the Triple-I Initiative Showcase 2026, where it showed off new gameplay and capped off the trailer with […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/valor-mortis-release-window-ps-ps5-xbox-triple-i-showcase/

Triple-I Initiative Showcase 2026: Everything Announced

9 April 2026 at 18:20

A logo with three vertical bars above the text 'the triple-i initiative' is displayed on an orange background.

Evil Empire's new indie-focused event, the Triple-I Initiative Showcase premiered its 2026 edition today, and it was jam-packed with announcements from indie developers, some of which were brand-new world premieres for games, while others were highly-anticipated updates about previously revealed titles. This round-up will take you through everything that was announced at today's showcase, so you don't miss checking out any of today's announcements, some of which could very well be the defining indie games for 2026 and beyond. Everything Announced at the Triple-I Showcase

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/triple-i-initiative-showcase-2026-everything-announced/

Multiplayer Space-Sandbox Spacecraft Will Arrive in Early Access in May 2026

9 April 2026 at 16:58

A cockpit view with futuristic controls shows the game 'SPACE CRAFT' with the text 'EARLY ACCESS MAY 20.'

Spacecraft was one of two major announcements from Shiro Games, the studio behind games like Dune: Spice Wars, Wartales, and more. After its initial reveal back in 2024, Spacecraft as accumulated over 300K wishlists on Steam leading up to its early access release date, which Shiro Games revealed today during the Triple-I Showcase to be next month on May 20, 2026. Spacecraft sets players in a vast universe with multiple star systems, where you can freely explore and build your own space-faring ships to cross galaxies and endlessly explore new planets, while hunting and discovering valuable resources along the way. […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/spacecraft-early-access-release-date-shiro-games-triple-i-showcase/

Crop Is a Farming Sim Where You Bury the Previous Owner — And That’s Just the Beginning

9 April 2026 at 16:45

A character from the game CROP in a hazmat suit holding a shovel and flashlight stands next to a house with overgrown vegetation, under the large text 'CROP'.

Today, as part of the Triple-i Showcase, publisher 11 bit Studios (Frostpunk, This War of Mine) and developer Carbonara Games have announced Crop, a gritty farming thriller game. The title is targeting a PC (Steam) release first, with console versions to follow, timing still to be determined. Wccftech checked out a press-only presentation ahead of the reveal, and there might be something interesting here. A single-player experience with a main campaign estimated at around 15 hours, Crop opens with your character half-naked, disoriented, and stumbling out of a truck on a dark, eerie forest road in the pouring rain. You […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/crop-farming-sim-lovecraftian-mystery/

New Survival Co-Op FPS Frostrail Will Have a Playtest Next Week, New Trailer Revealed at Triple-I Showcase

9 April 2026 at 16:12

The image features a character standing in front of a flame with on-screen text reading 'Frostrail' and 'Join the Playtest'.

Developer and publisher Shiro Games has revealed two new titles at today's Triple-I Showcase, one of which is set to arrive next month, and another that will have a playtest as early as next week. This is the latter, Frostrail. An upcoming co-op first-person shooter survival game published by Shiro Games and developed by FakeFish, and it was just shown off with a new action-packed trailer. If Shiro Games rings a bell, that's because they are also the team behind games like Wartales, Dune: Spice Wars, and Spacecraft, which was the studio's other major announcement at today's Triple-I Showcase that […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/new-survival-co-op-fps-frostrail-will-have-a-playtest-next-week-new-trailer-revealed-at-triple-i-showcase/

1000xResist Developer Reveals Prove You’re Human, a New First-Person Adventure That Asks You To Convince an AI She’s Not Human

9 April 2026 at 16:07

A digital artwork shows a close-up of an android's face with the text 'prove you're human' fragmented alongside it.

Sunset Visitor, the studio behind one of the best and most beloved narrative-driven games in recent years, 1000xResist, has revealed its next game titled Prove You're Human, a first-person narrative adventure where an AI called Mesa believes she's human. It's Sunset Visitor's second project after the award-winning 1000xResist, and is the first project to be published by Black Tabby Publishing, the brand-new publishing arm of indie developer Black Tabby Games, the studio behind titles like Slay the Princess and Scarlet Hollow. Prove You're Human seems to be picking up right where 1000xResist left off - not narratively, as the games […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/1000-x-resist-developer-sunset-visitor-reveals-prove-youre-human-triple-i-showcase/

NZXT H2 Flow PC Case Review

31 March 2026 at 12:22

Today we’re checking out the new H2 Flow case from NZXT. It’s a small-form-factor chassis designed to focus on cooling performance while maintaining the clean, minimal looks NZXT is known for. It has a full mesh panels, support for high-end hardware and according to NZXT, a layout aimed at making the build process as straightforward as possible. There’s even support for several fan and radiator configurations, so on paper at least, it looks like NZXT is addressing one of the biggest criticisms of its previous ITX case. But how well does it actually perform? Let’s find out.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro
00:50 Pricing and details
01:34 Overview / Dimensions / Materials
02:10 Panels / A look Inside
04:20 Front IO
04:56 Cooling Support
06:27 Motherboard and PSU support
07:03 Cable Management support
08:14 Graphics Card and some issues
11:45 Motherboard layout and air flow
12:37 Cable Management features
12:52 Power Supply / Drive support
13:46 Building inside the case / accessories
14:41 Thermal and Noise Performance
16:16 James thoughts

Features:

  • High-airflow mesh design: Ultra-fine mesh panels on multiple sides maximise air flow while also helping to filter dust, keeping components cool and clean.
  • Strong liquid cooling support: Designed primarily for AIO setups, with support for up to a 280mm front-mounted radiator to keep thermals under control in a compact system.
  • Compact footprint, high-end compatibility: Despite the small 20.7L layout, it supports GPUs up to 331mm and 3-slots wide, making it capable of handling modern high-performance hardware.
  • Builder-friendly design: the H2 Flow Features tool-less panels, smart cable management, pre-installed fans, and a PCIe 5.0 riser cable, all aimed at making the build process quick and straightforward.

Specifications:

  • Case Type: Small Form Factor
  • Dimensions (HxWxD): 435 mm x 181 mm x 263 mm
  • Materials: Steel, tempered glass
  • Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
  • Back-connect motherboard support: N/A
  • Expansion Slots: 3 (Standard Vertical)
  • Storage bays: 2 x 2.5”
  • Max GPU Length: 331mm
  • Max GPU Thickness: 65mm
  • Max GPU Width: 150mm
  • Max CPU Cooler Height: 75mm
  • PSU Type: SFX up to 130mm
  • Cable Management: Fixed Velcro Straps / Zip Ties Included
  • Supplied Fans: 2 x F120Q (Top)
  • Fan Support: 2 x 120 / 2 x 140mm (Front), 2 x 120mm (Top),
  • Radiator Support: up to 280mm (Top)
  • Font I/O: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, 2 x USB 3.2 Type-A, 1 x combined 3.5mm Auio/Mic jack
  • LCD Screen: N/A

Thermal Performance Testing

To simulate thermal demand, we run the Cinebench R23 multi-thread benchmark and 3DMark Speed Way stress test simultaneously in a loop for 30 minutes to load the system fully. This gives the CPU and GPU enough time to reach constant steady-state temperature. With this data, we can compare how the system handles the thermal demand and measure peak noise levels.

Thermal performance is measured with the case in various configurations, such as the default, with the tempered glass left-hand side panel removed and with the front panel removed to see how these configurations affect the CPU and GPU temperature. During testing, only stock case fans are used unless otherwise specified. All water pumps are set to maximum RPM and fans are set to a custom RPM curve by the Motherboard software/BIOS.

All temperature measurements are presented as Deltas – meaning the ambient temperature has been deducted from the CPU temperature, giving us a Delta. Data shown in the charts represents the average component temperature over the length of the test as measured by HWiNFO, and then the last 15 minutes of the data are calculated to get the average. The ambient temperature during thermal tests is between 19-20⁰C.

Test System Specification:

Thermal Performance Overview

We test case thermals using a 280mm AIO as the intake at the front and with the case in several different fan configurations. The default configuration shown in the charts is with the Front 280mm AIO cooler, 2 x 120mm top exhaust fans and with all case panels installed.

Looking at the thermal results, the H2 Flow delivers pretty solid performance overall, with some interesting quirks. With the side panels removed, we see CPU temperature at 61°C over ambient and 39°C on the GPU. In the default configuration with all panels installed, CPU temperature increases to 65°C over ambient on the CPU and 41°C on the GPU, so out of the box airflow seems reliable, but there's some restriction.

Switching the top fans to intake doesn’t help CPU temperature at all and pushes GPU temperatures up a couple of degrees. Using an AIO as exhaust at the front sees CPU temperatures climb to 68°C, although GPU temps drop back down to 39°C in this configuration, so there’s a bit of a trade-off depending on your setup.

Noise Output

Moving on to noise output, again the H2 performs quite consistently. With the side panels removed we see a maximum load noise level of 41dBA, rising slightly to 42dBA in the default setup with all side panels installed, due to increased temperatures and higher fan speeds.

Switching the top fans to intake doesn’t change things at all, but using the AIO as exhaust pushes noise up slightly to 43dBA, due to higher CPU temperature and AIO fan speed. However, an increase of 1dBA shouldn’t be too noticeable in real-world scenarios. At idle, everything sits between 36 – 37dBA regardless of configuration, so overall the H2 Flow delivers controlled acoustics — its not the quietest case we’ve tested, but certainly nothing much to complain about either.

Closing Thoughts

Overall, the H2 Flow is a bit of a mixed bag, but there are some positives worth highlighting. The compact footprint is one of its best features — it takes up less space desk space than mid-towers and some compact SFF cases with horizontal layouts, which will appeal to users who are working with a smaller desk setup. At the same time, NZXT has done a solid job with cooling support, with compatibility for 280mm AIOs and 140mm fans, so you don’t have to sacrifice cooling for desk space, which is great and a big improvement on its predecessor, the H1.

Building inside the case is mostly a smooth experience. System installation is straightforward, there’s a decent amount of space to work with given the overall size, and cable routing is handled reasonably well for the most part. There are clear channels for running cables, which work well. It's not the most radical design, nor does it include any genuinely innovative ideas, but NZXT has clearly put some thought into making the build process as painless as possible for most users.

That said, there are a few downsides that hold it back. One of those issues is GPU compatibility — the maximum graphics card length is quite restrictive; it's an improvement on the H1 at 331mm, but a lot of current high-end cards simply won’t fit. There are also some concerns around build quality. The motherboard tray has excessive flex, the PCIe riser cable fouls the motherboard tray and the back of the GPU, some of the outer panels feel a bit weak, and small details like the Velcro straps don’t properly secure the 24-pin cable, even though generally cable management is good.

There are a few usability niggles too. Removing a graphics card can be awkward due to the limited access to the PCIe retaining latch, which you only notice when removing the graphcis card. There's only a small cutout in the chassis frame to get a finger in to release the PCIe latch, you may be tempted to use a tool and pry it open, which can result in damage. So while the H2 Flow gets things right in terms of size, airflow, and ease of use, the compromises — particularly around GPU support and build quality mean it doesn’t quite hit the mark.

The NZXT H2 Flow is available to purchase now from Scan priced at £129.98 HERE.

Pros: 

  • Decent cooling support
  • Small footprint.
  • Easy system installation.

Cons:

  • Max graphics card space limits options.
  • Build quality issues.
  • Cable management Velcro straps are a bit weak.
  • A little expensive.

KitGuru says: The H2 Flow is certainly an improvement in terms of cooling compared to the H1, but it still falls short in some areas, which makes it difficult to recommend. The potential for a solid small form factor case is there, but there's still room for improvement.

The post NZXT H2 Flow PC Case Review first appeared on KitGuru.

Xbox Announces its Summer Game Fest Showcase for 2026, Will Feature a Gears of War E-Day Direct Immediately After

30 March 2026 at 13:37

A character from the game Gears of War wearing high-tech armor with illuminated blue lights on the shoulders.

Xbox has announced it will once again host a showcase during Geoff Keighley's annual Summer Game Fest event, which is set to return this year from June 5 to 8 in Los Angeles. Xbox's event will take place on June 7, 2026, at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BT, and just like last year's show was followed by a dedicated look at The Outer Worlds 2, this year's show will be followed by a dedicated look at Gears of War E-Day. The showcase will be what we've come to expect - a look at gameplay from upcoming titles […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/xbox-summer-game-fest-showcase-2026-gears-of-war-e-day-direct/

Xbox Games Showcase returns in June followed by Gears E-Day Direct

30 March 2026 at 15:30

Microsoft has confirmed its plans for the summer Xbox Games Showcase. There will once again be a day of announcements in June, followed by a special Direct presentation on Gears E-Day, the latest game in the Gears of War franchise. 

The showcase, announced by newly appointed Xbox CEO, Asha Sharma, will happen on June 7th starting at 10AM PT. As this is the summer showcase, most featured games are likely to be kept secret until the event happens, but at the very least, Gears E-Day will be a major focus this Summer.

Xbox has a big year ahead for first-party content. The year began with the latest expansion for World of Warcraft and will end with the latest game in the Call of Duty franchise. In between all of that, Microsoft is slotting in Forza Horizon 6, Halo: Campaign Evolved, Fable and Gears E-Day.

Other long-announced games like State of Decay 3 or Clockwork Revolution could also feasably get an update, although with how busy the release calendar is already, I wouldn't be surprised if both of those games were saved for next year.

KitGuru Says: Is there anything you are hoping to see during the Xbox showcase this year? 

The post Xbox Games Showcase returns in June followed by Gears E-Day Direct first appeared on KitGuru.

GAMDIAS debuts Atlas M5 and M5 CG panoramic PC cases

24 March 2026 at 13:30

GAMDIAS has introduced the ATLAS M5 series, a new line of mid‑tower PC cases designed to offer wider component visibility and improved airflow. The range includes two models, the ATLAS M5 and the ATLAS M5 CG, with the latter being distinguished by a single-piece curved tempered glass panel.

Both cases focus on panoramic component presentation. The ATLAS M5 CG uses an L‑shaped curved glass panel for an unobstructed view of the interior, while the standard ATLAS M5 features tempered glass panels on the front and side. The design removes corner obstructions to create a cleaner showcase layout.

Cooling is handled by three pre‑installed NOTUS M1 ARGB PWM fans, with support for up to nine fans in total. The cases also include an integrated ARGB light strip and offer multiple radiator mounting points for liquid cooling setups.

Connectivity is provided through a side‑mounted I/O panel with a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type‑C port, two USB 3.0 ports, LED controls and HD audio. Inside, the ATLAS M5 supports Mini‑ITX, Micro‑ATX and ATX motherboards, GPUs up to 425mm long and PSUs up to 140mm. Storage options include configurations for 3.5‑inch and 2.5‑inch drives. To keep your system clean and simplify maintenance, dust filters are included at the top, side and bottom of the case.

The ATLAS M5 will be available around $84.90, while the Atlas M5 CG will cost slightly more at $99.90.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Have you used a Gamdias PC case before?

The post GAMDIAS debuts Atlas M5 and M5 CG panoramic PC cases first appeared on KitGuru.

Antec Flux Pro Noctua Edition PC Case Review

22 March 2026 at 13:19

Today we’re taking a look at the Antec Flux Pro Noctua Edition, a full-tower case designed around high airflow and low-noise performance. It combines Antec’s Flux Pro chassis with a set of pre-installed Noctua G2 fans, tuned to deliver strong cooling with minimal acoustic impact. The case features extensive ventilation and support for large radiators, high-end GPUs, and oversized air coolers. In this review, we’ll be checking build quality, layout, and thermal performance to see how it stacks up.

Timestamps:

00:00 Start
00:44 Pricing / Costs
01:38 Accessories
02:02 Dimensions
02:14 Materials / Build
03:00 Recommended Fan Config
03:19 Front I/O (top)
03:47 Temperature display
04:27 Getting Inside the case / Colours
07:13 Install Options
12:27 Rotated PSU Design
13:36 Right hand side / drive positions
17:10 Floor of the case
17:55 Testing Methodology
19:08 Thermal and Noise Performance
21:09 Visual Airflow demo and thoughts
23:22 Closing Thoughts

Features:

  • Pre-installed Noctua G2 fans – Includes four Noctua NF-A14x25 G2 and two NF-A12x25 G2 premium fans, delivering high-end airflow straight out of the box.
  • Optimised for low noise operation – Noctua’s Extensive lab testing and offset fan speeds are designed to reduce vibration and “beat frequency” hum for quieter performance.
  • Integrated fan hub and clean wiring – It also comes with a pre-wired NA-FH1 fan hub for synchronised control and simplified cable management.
  • High-airflow Flux Pro chassis design – Flux Pro Noctua Edition is built on a low-airflow-resistance platform designed to maximise cooling efficiency for high-performance systems.

Specifications:

  • Case Type: ATX Full Tower
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 530 x 245 x 546 mm
  • Materials: Steel, Tempered Glass, Walnut Wood, Silicone, Plastic
  • Motherboard Support: STX, Mini-ITX, µATX, ATX, E-ATX (Max 280mm)
  • Back-connect motherboard support: No
  • Expansion Slots: 8
  • Storage bays: 5” x 2 / 2.5/3.5” x 4
  • Max GPU Length: 455mm
  • Max CPU Cooler Height: 190mm
  • PSU Type: ATX up to 470mm (300mm with HDD) (180mm Rotated 90°)
  • Cable Routing Space: 5mm
  • Supplied Fans: 3x NF-A14x25 G2 PWM (Front), 2x NF-A12x25 G2 PWM (PSU shroud), 1x NF-A14x25 G2 PWM (rear)
  • Fan Support: 3 x 120 / 3 x 140mm (Front), 3 x 120 /  3 x 140mm (Top), 2 x 120 / 2 x 140mm (Bottom), 1 x 120 / 1 x 140mm (Rear) 3 x 120mm (PSU Shroud)
  • Radiator Support: 120/140/240/280/360/420 mm (Front/Top), 120/140mm (Rear/Bottom), 120/240/360mm (PSU Shroud)
  • Dust Filters:
  • Font I/O: 1x USB-C 3.1 (10 Gbit/s), 2x USB-A 3.0 (5 Gbit/s), 3.5 mm headphone/mic combo jack, Power / Reset / Temperature / Display Switch
  • LCD Screen: Yes – Temperature Display

Thermal Performance Testing

To simulate thermal demand, we run the Cinebench R23 multi-thread benchmark and 3DMark Speed Way stress test simultaneously in a loop for 30 minutes to load the system fully. This gives the CPU and GPU enough time to reach constant steady-state temperature. With this data, we can compare how the system handles the thermal demand and measure peak noise levels.

Thermal performance is measured with the case in various configurations, such as the default, with the tempered glass left-hand side panel removed and with the front panel removed to see how these configurations affect the CPU and GPU temperature. During testing, only stock case fans are used unless otherwise specified. All water pumps are set to maximum RPM and fans are set to a custom RPM curve by the Motherboard software/BIOS.

All temperature measurements are presented as Deltas – meaning the ambient temperature has been deducted from the CPU temperature, giving us a Delta. Data shown in the charts represents the average component temperature over the length of the test as measured by HWiNFO, and then the last 15 minutes of the data are calculated to get the average. The ambient temperature during thermal tests is between 19-20⁰C.

Test System Specification:

Thermal Performance Overview

We tested the case thermals using a Noctua NH-D15 G2 LBC / 360mm AIO as the exhaust at the top and with the case in several different fan configurations. The default configuration shown in the charts is with the Noctua NH-D15 G2 LBC CPU cooler, 3 x 140mm front intake fans, 2 x 120mm PSU shroud intake fans, 1 x 140mm rear exhaust fan and with all panels installed.

Thermal performance from the Flux Pro Noctua Edition is generally very strong. In the default configuration, CPU temperatures average 56°C over ambient, with the GPU at 45 °C. There is a clear improvement over the air-cooled setup when using a top-mounted 360mm AIO. This is due to the AIO's increased cooling power rather than any limitation of the case.

However, in the air-cooled setup, adding top fans as exhaust negatively affects CPU thermals, raising temperatures to 58°C, suggesting an airflow disruption. Adding a 120mm top intake fan can have a minor improvement in CPU temperature, but GPU temperature is unchanged with both top fan configurations, so leaving top fans out completely is fine.

GPU temperature remains consistent across most setups at around 45°C over ambient, highlighting the effectiveness of the case’s airflow design in the recommended configuration. Removing the PSU shroud fans leads to a small increase in GPU temperature at 48°C. Overall, the results show that the case performs best with balanced airflow in the default configuration, delivering solid all-around thermal performance.

Noise Output

Noise performance is fairly consistent across test configurations, with load noise at 46 dBA in the default setup, which doesn’t really change whether you switch to top intake or add extra exhaust fans. Noise shifts slightly when you remove the PSU shroud fans or install a top-mounted AIO, increasing to 48 dBA under load, suggesting those configurations introduce a bit of fan noise from the GPU cooler and from the AIO compared with the default configuration and using the D15 G2 air cooler.

Idle noise, however, is rock solid across the board at 36 dBA. Overall, it’s a pretty well-balanced acoustic in any configuration, but clearly best optimised in the recommended Noctua configuration.

Closing Thoughts

The Antec Flux Pro Noctua Edition is a case that does exactly what it sets out to do — deliver strong airflow, great cooling and low noise performance. In testing, it handles both CPU and GPU thermals with ease, and more importantly, it manages to keep noise levels impressively low, not just at idle, but also under load. Something that case manufacturers don’t always get right with pre-installed fan configurations. However, the Noctua Fans are not pre-installed; this is the job of the user. They arrive in a separate box.

A big part of that comes down to the included Noctua fans. You’re getting a set of high-quality NF-A12x25 and NF-A14x25 G2 units, along with a Noctua fan hub, all designed to work together. Build quality is exactly what you’d expect from an Antec/Noctua partnership, and the colour scheme is carried throughout the case, giving it a very distinct look that suits the whole package very well and will no doubt please Noctua enthusiasts.

In terms of compatibility, there’s plenty to like here too, including support for dual 420mm radiator installation, as well as generous clearance for large air coolers such as the Noctua NH-D15 G2 and high-end graphics cards. So whether you’re building a high-performance air-cooled system or going all-in with liquid cooling, the Flux Pro has the space and layout to handle it. But this means the case is quite large with Full tower dimensions, not ideally suited to placement on top of the desk.

That said, it’s not without its downsides. At around £350, it’s a very expensive case; at that price, you start to expect a bit more in terms of features. There’s no integrated GPU support bracket, no back-connect motherboard support, and some of the internal panels — particularly the top and front fan mounting brackets could be more intuitive to remove. Even so, if your main priority is excellent cooling performance with low noise levels straight out of the box, the Antec Flux Pro Noctua Edition is a very capable, premium option.

The Antec Flux Pro Noctua Edition is available to purchase now from Amazon priced at £348.90 HERE.

Pros: 

  • Great thermal performance and low noise.
  • Very high-quality fans included.
  • Built-in fan hub.

Cons:

  • Expensive.
  • Missing basic key features such as an integrated GPU support arm, tool-free parts, and back-connect motherboard support.
  • Fans are not pre-installed.

KitGuru says: If you have the cash to splash on a case and want a large chassis with great cooling and low noise, then this might be ideal, especially for Noctua enthusiasts. But in the current economic conditions, it could be money better spent on core system components.

The post Antec Flux Pro Noctua Edition PC Case Review first appeared on KitGuru.

Corsair 3200D RS ARGB Case Review

19 March 2026 at 13:00

Today we’re checking out the new 3200D case from Corsair. It’s a compact mid-tower chassis aiming to combine strong airflow with the latest builder-friendly features, including support for 360mm radiators, reverse-connection motherboards, and graphics cards up to 370mm long. In this RS ARGB version, you also get three included fans, a tempered glass side panel, and a built-in GPU support bracket. But how well does it actually perform? Let’s find out.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro
00:48 Meet the 3200D – pricing and variants
01:19 Key specs
03:08 Accessing internals
05:34 Cooling and hardware support
07:51 At the back of the case
08:22 Behind the mobo tray
11:02 The case floor
11:48 Accessories and setup
12:24 Thermals and noise
13:34 James’ thoughts so far
14:45 Some compromises made…
16:19 USB 2.0?! And a potential explanation…
19:24 Last minor negative
19:55 Closing thoughts

Features:

  • Strong Cooling Potential – Supports up to nine 120mm fans with three RS120 ARGB fans included out of the box and 360mm radiators are supported front and top.
  • Reverse-Connector Motherboard Support – Compatible with reverse-connector motherboards, helping create clean builds with minimal visible cabling.
  • GPU-Focused Design – Includes a built-in GPU anti-sag stabilisation arm and angled PSU-shroud fan mount to direct airflow toward the graphics card.

Specifications:

  • Case Type: ATX Mid Tower
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 476 x 214 x 446mm
  • Materials: Steel, Plastic, Tempered Glass
  • Motherboard Support: ATX / mATX, Mini-ITX
  • Back-connect motherboard support: Yes
  • Expansion Slots: 7
  • Storage bays: 2 x 2.5” / 1 x 3.5”
  • Max GPU Length: 370mm
  • Max CPU Cooler Height: 165mm
  • PSU Type: ATX up to 180mm
  • Pre-installed Fans: 3 x RS120 ARGB (Front)
  • Fan Support: 3 x 120 / 2 x 140mm (Top), 3 x 120 / 2 x 140mm (Front), 2 x 120mm (Bottom), 1 x 120mm (Rear)
  • Radiator Support: 360 / 280 / 240mm (Top), 360 / 280 / 240mm (Front)
  • Dust Filters: Front / Bottom / Top
  • Front I/O: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (20Gbps), 1 x USB 2.0 Type-A, 3.5mm Audio and Mic Combo Jack, Power Button
  • LCD Screen: N/A

Thermal Performance Testing

To simulate thermal demand, we run the Cinebench R23 multi-thread benchmark and 3DMark Speed Way stress test simultaneously in a loop for 30 minutes to load the system fully. This gives the CPU and GPU enough time to reach constant steady-state temperature. With this data, we can compare how the system handles the thermal demand and measure peak noise levels.

Thermal performance is measured with the case in various configurations, such as the default, with the tempered glass left-hand side panel removed and with the front panel removed to see how these configurations affect the CPU and GPU temperature. During testing, only stock case fans are used unless otherwise specified. All water pumps are set to maximum RPM and fans are set to a custom RPM curve by the Motherboard software/BIOS.

All temperature measurements are presented as Deltas – meaning the ambient temperature has been deducted from the CPU temperature, giving us a Delta. Data shown in the charts represents the average component temperature over the length of the test as measured by HWiNFO, and then the last 15 minutes of the data are calculated to get the average. The ambient temperature during thermal tests is between 19-20⁰C.

Test System Specification:

Thermal Performance Overview

We tested the case thermals with a 360mm AIO as the exhaust at the top and in several different configurations. The default configuration shown in the charts is with the 360mm AIO at the top, 3 x 120mm RS ARGB fans at the front as intake and with all panels installed.

Looking at the thermal results, the 3200D performs consistently across all of our test configurations. With the case in its default setup, we saw CPU temperatures of 52°C and GPU temperatures of 47°C above ambient, which are solid out of the box results.

Removing the glass side panel or the dust filters doesn't make a meaningful difference, suggesting airflow through the chassis is already quite unrestricted by default. Interestingly, adding bottom fans shaves a few degrees off the GPU temperature, dropping it to 44°C, which shows that directing airflow toward the graphics card can provide a small benefit.

Noise Output

Moving on to noise output, results are again consistent across the different configurations. In the default setup the system measures 49 dBA under full load, while idle noise sits at a steady 36 dBA regardless of configuration.

Removing the dust filters or the glass side has little impact, with load noise varying only slightly from 49 to 50 dBA. The configuration with bottom fans installed produces the lowest load noise at 48 dBA, suggesting the additional airflow allows the GPU fans to work a little less aggressively under load, lowering overall system noise.

Closing Thoughts

Taken as a whole, the Corsair 3200D is a solid addition to the affordable airflow-focused case market. In our testing it delivers strong thermal performance with little variation in performance across configurations, so the case is well optimised for airflow and cooling straight out of the box. Build quality is also impressive for the price point, with a sturdy overall feel and a generally clean, understated design that should appeal to a wide range of consumers.

Hardware support is positive too, as the case manages to squeeze in high-end components despite its fairly compact mid-tower footprint. There’s room for large graphics cards, decent CPU cooler clearance, 360mm AIOs and support for several motherboard formats, which helps make the 3200D a flexible platform for mainstream gaming builds. While the interior layout does involve a few compromises due to the case dimensions, overall it still offers a fairly straightforward building experience.

That said, there are a few areas where the design feels slightly underdeveloped. The 360mm top radiator support is there technically, but compatibility can be limited depending on radiators and fan size, plus installation itself is a little awkward without a detachable top panel or radiator/fan bracket. Similarly, the front I/O feels somewhat dated with the inclusion of a USB 2.0 Type-A port, where a USB 3.0 connection would make more sense for a modern chassis. This could come down to the choice of reverse connector motherboard support and tight right-hand side clearance for cable management, although Corsair suggests otherwise.

There are also some smaller usability quirks to be aware of. The included GPU support bracket may not work with some graphics cards, particularly those with fans that extend lower than the shroud, plus there's no fan/ARGB hub included. However, these drawbacks don’t completely undermine what the Corsair 3200D does well. With strong airflow performance, solid build quality and good overall hardware support, it remains a capable budget builder-friendly case – even if a few design tweaks could have made it a much stronger contender.

The Corsair 3200D RS ARGB is has an MSRP of £79.99 here in the UK.

Pros:

  • Strong airflow and cooling,
  • Solid build quality at this price point.
  • Good hardware support for its size, even with the compromises with a top 360 rad.

Cons:

  • Top 360 radiator compatibility is limited, and installation can be awkward.
  • USB 2.0 Type-A should be upgraded to USB 3.0.
  • No detachable top rad/fan mount.
  • GPU support bracket not compatible/interferes with fans on some graphics cards.
  • No fan/ARGB hub included.

KitGuru says: Corsair almost nailed it with the 3200D, it has great cooling potential and hardware support, but some extra attention to detail would have resulted in a more well-rounded case.

The post Corsair 3200D RS ARGB Case Review first appeared on KitGuru.

Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case

By: Bahleem
18 March 2026 at 17:38

Thermaltake, a well-known name in PC hardware, has introduced its new TR200 Series. This compact microATX case is made for users who want strong performance, good cooling, and a clean modern look without using a large case.

The TR200 Series includes two models, TR200 and TR200 WS. Both have the same internal design and features, but the front panels are different. The TR200 comes with a simple mesh front for better airflow, while the TR200 WS adds real wood accents on the front, giving it a warmer and more premium look. This gives users the choice between a clean or more stylish setup.

Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case
Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case 7
Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case 8
Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case 9

Even though the case is compact, it still supports powerful hardware. It can fit microATX motherboards and graphics cards up to 365 mm long. This means users can install high-end GPUs without any problem. The case also supports up to seven 120 mm fans and even a 360 mm radiator, which is usually seen in larger cases. This helps keep the system cool during heavy use.

Another useful feature is the 5.25-inch drive bay. This can be used for optical drives, fan controllers, or other add-ons. It adds flexibility for users who want more control over their build.

Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case 3
Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case 4
Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case 5
Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case 6 1

For users who like visual customisation, the TR200 Series also supports an optional 6.0-inch LCD screen. This display has a resolution of 1480 × 720 and can show system information, images, and even GIFs. With the help of TT RGB PLUS 3.0 and AI Forge, users can create custom designs using simple text prompts. There is also support for mobile control through the TT PlayLink app.

Thermaltake launches TR200 Series compact PC case 2

The case is also designed for daily use. It includes dust filters on the top, bottom, and side to keep the system clean. The front panel offers useful ports like USB Type-A, USB Type-C, and audio jacks, making it easy to connect devices.

Overall, the TR200 Series brings a strong mix of performance, cooling, and design in a smaller size. It is a good option for users who want a compact PC without losing power or features.

Cougar CFV235 Case Review

17 March 2026 at 11:52

Today we’re taking a look at the Cougar CFV235 mid-tower chassis. It features Cougar’s Central Floating Ventilation design, support for up to EATX motherboards, including back connect, and comes with pre-installed ARGB PWM fans straight out of the box. On paper, there’s plenty of cooling potential too with support for up to nine fans and 360mm radiators, along with clearance for graphics cards up to 430mm long. As always, we’ll be checking out build quality, ease of installation, thermal performance, and overall value to see if the CFV235 is worth considering for your next build.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro
00:45 Pricing + key info
02:38 Getting inside
04:10 Cooling support, pre-installed fans
05:55 CPU and GPU compatibility
06:52 Looking at the rear
07:18 Area behind the mobo tray
09:32 Storage support
10:21 Floor of the case
11:17 Accessories
12:14 Thermal tests + noise
13:49 James’ experience so far
15:19 Closing thoughts

Features:

  • Central Floating Ventilation (CFV) structure: A unique floating chamber design that creates separation between the PSU cabin and main chamber to enhance airflow and gives the case its distinctive look.
  • Pre-installed Unity 240 ARGB PWM reverse-blade fan & Aurora RGB lighting: Included is a Cougar Unity 240 single-frame ARGB fan and an integrated Aurora RGB lighting strip for enhanced cooling and aesthetics.
  • Versatile hardware support: CFV235 is compatible with motherboards up to E-ATX size, including back connect, 360mm radiators, 175mm tall air coolers and supports GPUs up to 430 mm in length.

Specifications:

  • Case Type: Mid Tower
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 235 × 493 × 460 mm
  • Materials: Steel, Plastic, Glass
  • Motherboard Support: Mini ITX / Micro ATX / ATX / CEB
  • Back-connect motherboard support: Yes
  • Expansion Slots: 7
  • Storage bays: 5″ ×2, 2.5″ ×2 + 2 (converted from 3.5″ bays)
  • Max GPU Length: 430mm
  • Max CPU Cooler Height: 175mm
  • PSU Type: ATX up to 200mm
  • Pre-installed Fans: Unity 240 ARGB PWM Reversed Fan × 1 (Side) 120mm ARGB PWM Fan × 1 (Rear)
  • Fan Support: 120mm × 3 / 140mm × 3 (Top), 120mm ×2 (Side), 120mm x 3 (Bottom), 120mm x 1 (Rear)
  • Radiator Support: 360mm / 280mm / 240mm / 140mm / 120mm (Top), 120mm (Rear)
  • Dust Filters: Bottom
  • Front I/O: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C ×1, USB 3.0 Type-A ×2, 4-Pole Headset Audio Jack ×1, RGB Button
  • LCD Screen: N/A

Thermal Performance Testing

To simulate thermal demand, we run the Cinebench R23 multi-thread benchmark and 3DMark Speed Way stress test simultaneously in a loop for 30 minutes to load the system fully. This gives the CPU and GPU enough time to reach constant steady-state temperature. With this data, we can compare how the system handles the thermal demand and measure peak noise levels.

Thermal performance is measured with the case in various configurations, such as the default, with the tempered glass left-hand side panel removed and with the front panel removed to see how these configurations affect the CPU and GPU temperature. During testing, only stock case fans are used unless otherwise specified. All water pumps are set to maximum RPM and fans are set to a custom RPM curve by the Motherboard software/BIOS.

All temperature measurements are presented as Deltas – meaning the ambient temperature has been deducted from the CPU temperature, giving us a Delta. Data shown in the charts represents the average component temperature over the length of the test as measured by HWiNFO, and then the last 15 minutes of the data are calculated to get the average. The ambient temperature during thermal tests is between 19-20⁰C.

Test System Specification:

Thermal Performance Overview

We tested the case thermals with a 360mm AIO as the exhaust at the top and in several different configurations. The default configuration shown in the charts is with the 360mm AIO at the top, Cougar Unity 240 intake side fan, 1 x 120mm rear exhaust and with all panels installed.

In our thermal testing the Cougar CFV235 delivered fairly consistent thermal results across different configurations. With the default setup, the system recorded 53°C over ambient on the CPU and 49°C on the GPU. Taking off the mesh top panel produced similar behaviour, with the CPU reaching 53°C and the GPU 49°C. So the mesh isn’t too restrictive.

Removing the glass side panel had little effect on CPU or GPU thermals at 52°C and 48°C, respectively. But adding bottom intake fans reduced GPU temperature further to 46°C over ambient, while CPU temperature remained the same at 52°C. Overall, the results suggest the case’s stock airflow configuration is reasonably well balanced, but there are minor GPU thermal gains to be had from adding bottom intake airflow.

Noise Output

As with thermals, the noise testing shows only a minor difference between configurations under load. In the default configuration, the maximum load noise measures 52 dBA, which drops to 49 dBA when bottom intake fans are installed – showing the cooler GPU temperature helped reduce fan speed.

At idle, the system remained consistent across all configurations at around 36–37 dBA. Overall, our testing would suggest the additional bottom fans help reduce system noise slightly under load, while panel removal has a minor impact on acoustics.

Closing Thoughts

First impressions of the Cougar CFV235 are good thanks to its distinctive design. Cougar’s Central Floating Ventilation layout gives the chassis a unique look that stands out from more conventional mid-tower designs, while the overall construction feels surprisingly solid and well put together. Panel fitment is good, materials feel sturdy, and the case generally gives the impression of a well-built product.

Thermal performance is decent rather than class-leading. The stock configuration delivers stable temperatures in our testing, but it doesn’t quite extract the maximum possible cooling potential straight out of the box. That said, adding bottom intake fans provides a small but noticeable improvement in GPU temperature and noise, suggesting the airflow design benefits from a little extra intake to help feed the GPU and main chamber. Based on that, it does seem odd that Cougar doesn’t include bottom intake fans as the default.

There are a couple of minor usability issues worth mentioning, such as the lack of removable radiator brackets, meaning that it's difficult to connect cables at the top of the motherboard with an AIO installed. This is a feature I like to see at this price point. Additionally, the side cable cut-out grommet can be easily dislodged during cable routing, which may prove to be a little frustrating during the build process.

Even with those small drawbacks, the CFV235 still offers a well-rounded package with strong build quality, extensive hardware compatibility, including back-connect motherboards, big graphics cards, plenty of cooling potential, and a distinctive aesthetic that all work in its favour. Thermal performance is also perfectly respectable once airflow is optimised with bottom intake fans. For builders looking for something a little different visually without sacrificing practicality or build quality, the Cougar CFV235 is a solid option.

UK availability is scarce but we found it listed on Amazon HERE.

Pros: 

  • Unique look with the free-floating top chamber.
  • No adverse chassis flex due to the 1.5mm thick steel frame.
  • Good hardware support, with up to EATX motherboards, including back connect, and big graphics cards.
  • Included six-port PWM ARGB hub.

Cons:

  • Thermal performance is a little limited out of the box.
  • Non-removable top radiator bracket.
  • Side cable grommet is easily dislodged.

KitGuru says: If you want a case that has a distinctive look but doesn't sacrifice build quality or practicality, the Cougar CFV235 is worth a look.

The post Cougar CFV235 Case Review first appeared on KitGuru.
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