yo dimitri! i have a serious request for a case! the Zalman ZM-T4. it is a mATX case for only 20$! i have one, and for its price, it's really good! just check it out, it might be fun to do an ultra budget case review! cheers!
+HardwareCanucks I like your usual more :) Maybe try mixing them by giving a quick recap in this format, then staying more to the "old" format when getting deeper into the specs
Its still a very high quality video, but why not keep the style that you used before? i think the less casual more professional style was the feature, that elevated this channel above the others.
Been using this case for the past 6 years, and it's gone thru a lot of component changes. I still think this case aesthetically holds up at least in late 2022/early 2023
Still even does for 2024. Just threw a 7900xt in mine, still room to spare. Bought it new about 8-9 years ago it feels. 3 computers later on it, I dont ever wanna get rid of it lol
Dimitri, I love you, but please go back to the great lighting and b-roll with a voice over. That's what really sets this channel apart from other tech channels. The style is excellent
I kind of see how MOLEX only fans might be a good idea, because if you are looking for a budget case like this chances are you have a budget motherboard. Those motherboards usually come with only 1 SYS FAN header, thus forcing you to use an splitter or adapter if you want to use more than 1 case fan making up an extra cost since lots of fans only come with 3 or 4 pin connectors, also even budget Power Supplies include an excesive amount of molex connectors and this could be a good use for them (looking at you EVGA 500W). However, all of this problem could be fixed by including fans with both 3 or 4 pin and MOLEX connectors, such as in the Cooler Master N600 I have right now :P. For all the other stuff done good in this case I actually think it deserves the damn good value award.
The ASUS Z170-P motherboard allows for just two case fans while the ASUS Z170-A allows for 4. Still not 5, so there's nothing bad about the MOLEX approach.
My daughter just picked this case for her first build. I didn't look for reviews before, but I must say that I'm pretty impressed by the case. It offers quite a bit more than expected.
Very slick presentation, and the story flowed well. But I do prefer your usual style more. Mainly because it makes all your videos interesting, rather than just the ones with products I'm interested in. I've shown various people your NZXT manta review, describing it as the best review production values on RUclips - that's what I'd love to see more of. Love the videos as always though Dmitry!
First off, dang. That was an amazing case review. I don't think I'm exaggerating at all when I say it's my favorite case review I've ever watched. It kept me interested the whole time and I love the way you presented all the info in succession. Second of all, dang, that case looks sick. For $69 I'm going to be recommending this to a lot of people.
Just built a system for a friend with one of these cases in black, and I've got a few notes. The side panels and front panel do have a different tone (but they match), giving a more uniform appearance then the white version. One can fit a 240mm long rad in the front but only up to 30mm thick (I tested it), though be aware the lower half of the rad and fan will dump heat straight onto any HDD's installed in the drive bays that may get housed in the bottom of the case. The top will accommodate a 240mm long 60mm rad easily, but depending on motherboard design, you have to watch clearance between any heat sinks at the top of the motherboard and ram slots - so 45mm thick or less rad is most ideal for water cooling. If one installs 140MM fans in the front, one will find that the 2.5 SSD mounts on the tray become useless (this shocked me). I didn't have any problems looping some extra front panel wiring in the top, making it dead easy to pull the front with out damaging the cables. Lining the stock filer with panty hose works like a charm if you want a real dust filter, but yes, it's a pain to get at. The fans that come with the case are annoyingly loud - best to just toss them and install one's favorite fans (I'm a Notcua "fan" - yeah, that was awful). I actually wish this case came with zero fan's, but that just my humble opinion. I know you feel the case is a bit restrictive in the front, in practice it actually flows surprisingly well. The 5.25" bays could prove very handy for one who wants to install a fan speed controller, lighting controller, bay reservoir, or any other other 5.25" bay accessories - one doesn't have to use it for an optical drive. And if none of those things are wanted/needed, they can be pulled out easily as you noted. Cable management is a snap - gobs and gobs of tie down's everywhere in the back - meaning all the wires you don't see in the back can be tied up so neatly that if you take the rear panel off to say, replace drives in the lower bay's, you don't have to fight cables. I know quite a few more expensive cases that aren't as good in this department. Too bad Zalman only included 5 zip ties... But on that front, I wasn't expecting to find 4 Velcro tie downs pre-installed - now that's handy. I had no issue's with SSD's or HDD's having the cable facing towards the rear panels in those trays - the wires stick out just below the large tab and there is more then ample clearance for those wires between the drive and the rear panel. The case may not have any sound deadening, but it is an impressively quiet case (depending on one's components and esp. by not using the fans the case comes with). Few quibbles aside, using 140mm front fans and the interference with the 2.5 drive mounts erks me the most. I think this case is the best of the best of the inexpensive cases I've dealt with (from 25 years of building). I was expecting it to be a much more frustrating case to build then it was. I also wasn't expecting much in terms of how the case would work for cooling, and it really surprised me in that area. Maybe when I build a new system for myself later on this year I'll get one of these (or perhaps the Z9 Neo Plus I seen on Zalman's website - same case, but with a full acrylic window side panel) - I'm that surprised by this case.
I've got this case in black and a glass panel instead of plastic. It looks really good! I ended up cutting two circular holes on top for more air flow. The Zalman Z9 Neo Plus PT (with glass panel) is an excellent enclosure to display my RGB lit rig. (Beautiful Beast!)
+Nakano2k1 I have the case as for the noise its somewhat quiet but its not enough to be annoying as for the vibration ...I feel nothing even at startup
its really quiet I really don't hear it at all while it being almost next to me so i say it worth it if you can get passed being that most of the fans are molex
its a pretty good case. 4 pin molex to 4/3 pin pwm is available everywhere if you need it and inexpensive. i like the fact that this kind of case keeps corsair, phanteks, nzxt, etc up on their feet/ tight we should make this a standard for budget case
Just bought this case for my 2d system, it is amazing for the price! One of the nicer cases I've seen, and I don't care at all about the molex fan connectors. This case is a beauty and easy to install.
Since it is a budget case, maybe they thought people would install budget motherboards in it. And often these motherboards don't have 5 enough fan headers. Maybe this is why they put the molex connectors. I think this case could have gotten the daln good value award
They actually make pretty decent budget chassis (which they again once proved with the Z9), I find myself often picking their Z1 (or even T5 and T1) when I'm building on a tight budget for my colleagues. P.S. Dmitry, loved the new style, I feel like you're talking only to me!
Nice! My case is over 10 years old. I just kept upgrading components instead :) everything still fits in it. Thanks for the find. Not in the budget right now but I'd definitely buy this, depending on how much it costs in Canada.
Was a nice change up! Looking forward to seeing this style of video mixed in with the others. Agree on the Molex point very strongly. Such a pain to see this aging and annoying connector still clinging to life. Phase it out already!
I've been asking for a ZALMAN CASE review for a long time! Here in EU I'm using ZALMAN cases to assemble PC's on a daily base! Even better - my FAVORITE BUDGET case is ZALMAN Z9 PLUS (pre-NEO case). And the molex, well, its a BUDGET case - MOST of the budget ATX/mATX MBO's don't have 5x 3/4pin headers for the fans, so it fits nicely! And BTW, on the Z9 Plus, the White non-LED fans are 3-pin, and the case has it's own regulator build in for 2x 3pin fans! :) And one more thing - the Z9 Plus has the front IO on the CASE mounted, and the plastic front can be separated with out any problems. For me, Zalman Z series are BEST BUY all the way.
+Valnjes Yea, I also was rly looking fwd to this review. I've been using the Z11 Plus for quite some time (very satisfied) now and I was considering the Z9 Neo ever since it's been announced. Although it would've been nice to know about its watercooling abilities.....
For the value this case seems remarkable. Five fans no matter what the connection is pretty okay. Even if you don't like the connector they're basically free fans compared to other cases.
Entusiasta de hardware sem grana What's not to hate? An outdated format that is awkward to use with pins that easily are pushed out? SATA connectors are much better.
iGameOver I have pro problem using molex,the only problem for me is not control the speed.Some peoples have problems connecting it but is pretty easy for me.
Entusiasta de hardware sem grana Problem is, this design has been invented in 1950's, and as such should be considered too old for current technology. We sure can do better than this!
I'm using Z1 Neo, cheaper than Z9, but i just bought it about ~30usd in my local, cheaper than amazon! Disadvantages: less space for hiding cables, too small hole for 4/8-pin supply for mainboard btw, zalman is great, and great review too (y)
no wire bundle on mine on front panel fantastic buy I applied what I saved and upgraded the motherboard. 3 fans on top blue led fans on top one on back.Have to send along my picture.
hmoham Yeah, the connector is smaller, also less metal. only higher precision is needed.. the fans would be still 2 pin with no RPM signal but you could control them at least..
+Bartosz Olszewski Just take a pair of scissors, cut out the molex connector and attach a 3-pin (or even 2-pin) connector. You won't get RPM feedback but you'll be able to voltage control them if you wire the fans to 3-pin motherboard headers
i believe that at a $69 price point people will be using budget motherboards that have only a couple fan headers. So, instead of buying a separate fan controller, molex connectors on those fans make sense because they can be hooked up to most budget power supplies.
i would say the neo if you haven't made a choice yet the s340 is flimsy and the window scratches easy and for a case thats 110$CAD it should include rubber gromets
i just built a system with this case last night, i agree with everything that Dimitri said and also i had trouble fitting my modular psu into the case so i had to ditch all the hard drive bay areas in order to fit all my modular cables that were needed. Those molex fans running at full speed at all times really does make the whole system a lot noisier despite the sound dampening system that they implemented to block out sounds. All in all good bang for a buck but please be aware the precautions before making the purchase.
I feel that they've nailed the exterior look of the case but it does need more work internally to make the building process a lot smoother and future upgrades/modifications easier.
thanks for keeping your channel true to itself. High quality video work, great info, and sharp dialog. LTT has drifted lately so Hardware Canucks has become my go to for quick tech vids.
I've used several Zalman cpu heatsinks on previous builds and have always been impressed with their products. Your review of this case was honest in pointing out the pros and cons. I think it has real potential if Zalman looks at some of the flaws noted here and corrects them. Z9 Neo is a good looking case and with a bit of tweaking that many people would be interested in given its features in this price range. Add another 5-10 bucks on it and make it solid.
I built my system in this case (all black, though) and it was a breeze to do the installation and maintaining it. I upgraded from a CoolerMater N500, because I wanted to have a custom watercooling loop with 2x 240mm rads. I did it with a moded/expanded Raijintek Triton (it now includes my graphics card and a second 240mm rad) and everything works great. The fans aren't a major issue for me because I only use high static pressure fans (noctuas and corsairs), so I ditched those molex ones, but the SSD mount it is!! Can't understand how Zalman expect anybody to pass the cables through the opening on the right! Yes, my SSD is also flipped :( Anyway, I think the case has great value! It acomodates a lot of hardware and allows for great cable management. It ticks all my needs: PSU enclosure, 2 HDD brackets, removable 5.25" caddies, side window and place for 2x240mm rads and fans (with enough clearance) So, yeah, if would want something with theses characteristics and really not expensive, I can recomend these case. Great review as always!
Really like this case! Have always loved Zalman products! Just bought a GS1000SE Case! Granted it doesnt have a side window but when in top of a desk who needs a window when you can just use it without the side panel! Great review like always Dimitri!!!!
Just build a system in the z9 neo and those molex connections are zero issue. I easily got them hidden away because the cables are so long. I think you cheaped out on not giving the case a damn good value award. Had the fans been 3pins some would probably have critized them for not being 4pin pwm.
true the fans are molex, but its damn good to have so many standard fans if you are on a tight budget and want to build a really budgeted pc, this case has so many features other cases around this price point don't have.
Considering 5 decent fans with 3 or 4 pin connectors will run more than this case, I think you should reconsider the award. At 69 USD they had to cheap out somewhere. Great looking case with a lot of high end features on the cheap.
Jazz Greiner now imagine they did that for every issue with the case. No more 69 dollar case. My point was if the only reason he didn't give it the value award was because of the fans than I disagree. Too many strong points on this case to knock it back because if fan connectors. If you disagree than maybe your expectations are a bit too high in this price range.
Jazz Greiner Like I said, your expectations are too high at 69 dollars. Please, link a better case that has equivalent or better features for an example if you really think so. I'll wait till Tiny Tom Logan reviews this case to make a real opinion anyway, but watching this short overview I think it's great for the price.
Interesting format Dmitry, like the fact you're moving the case yourself and there is very little B-roll for this style, not that B-roll is bad, but a mix of this and the "standard" types would be good :D
I liked this format much better Dimitri! It was much more personal seeing you, like Jayz2Cents or Linus, it puts more of you and your character in the reviews and just seems really nice and a firm step up without loosing your stellar camera footage as always.
It's good to see you're experimenting with different presentation styles. This new one gives a better perspective on the case size. But I miss all the cool shots of your old style of presentation. Perhaps you may want to consider adding a little of this style to the old format? I think that will work just nice.
surely five molex fans are better than two pwm fans plus i think molex looks alot nicer because your motherboard is not occupied with cables stringed everywhere. the molex connection makes the case look alot nicer because builders will have to route the fan cables through the back of the case ( i know most cases include a pwm fan hub but i dont think there are many at this price point) just sharing my opinion on the case -Tom
Its a really good presentation style . Although I still prefer the voice over those sexy b roll shots , which is the reason why this channel is different and better from the others.
+HardwareCanucks I think you could first route the cable needed for ssd, attach the wire to it and then mount the SSD. or does the fan interfere with the wire due to less clearance? or did i miss something else?
Since this is a budget case the molex plugs would not be a deal breaker. But I can see why it almost got the dam good rating. However if a budget build is the aim and the best case for the money is a goal then this fits the bill and then some. Something to keep in mind for my next budget build. Great review!
Hi, Dimitri. Nice video like always, but I prefer the old style. I love the close look to the case with informative voice-over, and most importantly, the lighting with nice background music is work of art! Keep up :)
You can purchase Molex adapters on Amazon for about $2-us each and many times they come in packs of 4 for the same price. So its no big deal when connecting fans to motherboard. just FYI. - Yes, would be nice if the company included them, but for $69.99-us, what can you expect... :)
Still worthy of a damn good value in my opinion. A sub 100$ case is unlikely to see a radiator, so SSD mounting points are ok. Toolless drive cage, rubber grommets, velcro cable ties, AND 5 fans (2 led fans to boot)? Led fans roughly 7-12 bucks each and we can say 5 dollars for a non led fan. You get far more than you pay for.
I'd sure buy that case.... and then regret having to replace the Molex fans. That's a shame, for sure. Also, I hope they choose if they want to go for matte or gloss panels and not one of each. Puts my Rosewill Star Predator to shame, though.
To be completely honest, I think I prefer the old video style more. With the sexy b-roll and the voice over. It seems like it allows for more focus on the product itself and all the little details you might be mentioning. In addition to that, with this format there will be jump cuts which are more jarring that the b roll cuts. This channel is known for having some of the best looking cinematic B-roll in the tech community and I think that should remain a staple of the channel. Also, with the other format, the audio was better with a proper condenser mic rather than the lavalier. It sounds less clear and more tinny. However, I wouldn't mind having some videos of this format that aren't full formal reviews. Keep up the great work! :)
Just a heads up to people, I have a older zalman case and I see they have not changed the kind of fans that they put into their cases so be warned while they haven't outright fail on me after 3 year which is good but they have gotten increasingly louder over the years, with one needing to be replaced because of a vibration issue. I'd say get this case but plan to upgrade to something better after a few years.
To be fair to them, my case has a 3pin fan in the front but molex in the back and it doesn't cause me any issues at all. This is with a 2500k @ 4.4ghz + dual graphics cards with only 2 case fans. Perhaps they should have put fewer fans in but made them 3 pin instead.
think this is more than a fair attempt by Zalman. Always loved their coolers so i look forward to good things from their fans in this case. this it could have been awarded despite the molex, seeing as i'm sure we can find converters
I really want to see you make a video(a shout out) to case manufacturers about things WE want to become standard and all the little annoying details manufacturers often miss for no good reason
Dear HardwareCanucks, Great video. I can totally see the Enthoos inspiration built in it. THis isa realy nice case for $69 bucks. When you said 5 fans in it, That sealed the deal for me. The cenamatics are great HC. Keep up the amazing videos! Best,
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Looking to your feedback on this presentation style. What did you like? What didn't you like? All constructive conversation helps :) Thanks.
-Dmitry.
yo dimitri!
i have a serious request for a case!
the Zalman ZM-T4.
it is a mATX case for only 20$!
i have one, and for its price, it's really good!
just check it out, it might be fun to do an ultra budget case review!
cheers!
+HardwareCanucks I like it more but I will still love the b-roll footage. A good balance between informational and b-roll.
+HardwareCanucks I like your usual more :) Maybe try mixing them by giving a quick recap in this format, then staying more to the "old" format when getting deeper into the specs
Its still a very high quality video, but why not keep the style that you used before?
i think the less casual more professional style was the feature, that elevated this channel above the others.
Love the video. Nice case too.
Been using this case for the past 6 years, and it's gone thru a lot of component changes. I still think this case aesthetically holds up at least in late 2022/early 2023
Still even does for 2024. Just threw a 7900xt in mine, still room to spare. Bought it new about 8-9 years ago it feels. 3 computers later on it, I dont ever wanna get rid of it lol
Dimitri, I love you, but please go back to the great lighting and b-roll with a voice over. That's what really sets this channel apart from other tech channels. The style is excellent
agree
+QuestionmarkX3 fucking this, tired of seeing his shrunken face
I completely agree. His old style looks so much more professional. I hope he moves back :/
+QuestionmarkX3 I agree.
same here ;)
I kind of see how MOLEX only fans might be a good idea, because if you are looking for a budget case like this chances are you have a budget motherboard. Those motherboards usually come with only 1 SYS FAN header, thus forcing you to use an splitter or adapter if you want to use more than 1 case fan making up an extra cost since lots of fans only come with 3 or 4 pin connectors, also even budget Power Supplies include an excesive amount of molex connectors and this could be a good use for them (looking at you EVGA 500W).
However, all of this problem could be fixed by including fans with both 3 or 4 pin and MOLEX connectors, such as in the Cooler Master N600 I have right now :P.
For all the other stuff done good in this case I actually think it deserves the damn good value award.
+ThePolulos
Sometimes fans in cases got both connectors: 3 pin and molex :)
Chlodzenienet
yeah thats the best implementation imo.
The ASUS Z170-P motherboard allows for just two case fans while the ASUS Z170-A allows for 4. Still not 5, so there's nothing bad about the MOLEX approach.
of Course you can, it's not like they are bolted to the case mate ;]
ThePolulos Just get a corsair 750w psu your problem os solved
Looks like a much better budget case than most at that price range, and a nice color scheme, unlike the common black and red/green/blue
+Alex The Lion Black and green and black and blue aren't common at all!
My daughter just picked this case for her first build. I didn't look for reviews before, but I must say that I'm pretty impressed by the case. It offers quite a bit more than expected.
I was about to say! I very much enjoyed this presentation style. Thanks for sharing this case.
+Science Studio hey i watch your vids
+Rqb me too!
I see people complaining about this presentation style but I really like it, quite a bit more than the old one actually! Great review by the way.
You could just insert the Sata and power cable through the slots first, attach it to the SSD, then screw it in the SSD mount.
Jigs Omyoca very valid point
You're like a Russian Chris Pratt.
lol! Why?
Very slick presentation, and the story flowed well. But I do prefer your usual style more. Mainly because it makes all your videos interesting, rather than just the ones with products I'm interested in. I've shown various people your NZXT manta review, describing it as the best review production values on RUclips - that's what I'd love to see more of. Love the videos as always though Dmitry!
First off, dang. That was an amazing case review. I don't think I'm exaggerating at all when I say it's my favorite case review I've ever watched. It kept me interested the whole time and I love the way you presented all the info in succession. Second of all, dang, that case looks sick. For $69 I'm going to be recommending this to a lot of people.
I think they used molex for fans cause most MB don't have 6 3pin connectors (5 fans + 1 cpu)
WiseRiley a lot of atx motherboards do though
Nope. So much pins is rare even on expensive mobo.
I love that budget cases have come so far over the years... It wasn't that long ago that paint in the interior was considered a luxury item...
Nice review! but is is just me or did the SSD not have a sata cable attached?
Molex fans is what had me sold for this case. My mother board only supports one fan, and I needed more. Molex made it an easy work around.
Just built a system for a friend with one of these cases in black, and I've got a few notes. The side panels and front panel do have a different tone (but they match), giving a more uniform appearance then the white version. One can fit a 240mm long rad in the front but only up to 30mm thick (I tested it), though be aware the lower half of the rad and fan will dump heat straight onto any HDD's installed in the drive bays that may get housed in the bottom of the case. The top will accommodate a 240mm long 60mm rad easily, but depending on motherboard design, you have to watch clearance between any heat sinks at the top of the motherboard and ram slots - so 45mm thick or less rad is most ideal for water cooling. If one installs 140MM fans in the front, one will find that the 2.5 SSD mounts on the tray become useless (this shocked me). I didn't have any problems looping some extra front panel wiring in the top, making it dead easy to pull the front with out damaging the cables. Lining the stock filer with panty hose works like a charm if you want a real dust filter, but yes, it's a pain to get at. The fans that come with the case are annoyingly loud - best to just toss them and install one's favorite fans (I'm a Notcua "fan" - yeah, that was awful). I actually wish this case came with zero fan's, but that just my humble opinion. I know you feel the case is a bit restrictive in the front, in practice it actually flows surprisingly well. The 5.25" bays could prove very handy for one who wants to install a fan speed controller, lighting controller, bay reservoir, or any other other 5.25" bay accessories - one doesn't have to use it for an optical drive. And if none of those things are wanted/needed, they can be pulled out easily as you noted. Cable management is a snap - gobs and gobs of tie down's everywhere in the back - meaning all the wires you don't see in the back can be tied up so neatly that if you take the rear panel off to say, replace drives in the lower bay's, you don't have to fight cables. I know quite a few more expensive cases that aren't as good in this department. Too bad Zalman only included 5 zip ties... But on that front, I wasn't expecting to find 4 Velcro tie downs pre-installed - now that's handy. I had no issue's with SSD's or HDD's having the cable facing towards the rear panels in those trays - the wires stick out just below the large tab and there is more then ample clearance for those wires between the drive and the rear panel. The case may not have any sound deadening, but it is an impressively quiet case (depending on one's components and esp. by not using the fans the case comes with). Few quibbles aside, using 140mm front fans and the interference with the 2.5 drive mounts erks me the most. I think this case is the best of the best of the inexpensive cases I've dealt with (from 25 years of building). I was expecting it to be a much more frustrating case to build then it was. I also wasn't expecting much in terms of how the case would work for cooling, and it really surprised me in that area. Maybe when I build a new system for myself later on this year I'll get one of these (or perhaps the Z9 Neo Plus I seen on Zalman's website - same case, but with a full acrylic window side panel) - I'm that surprised by this case.
Nice review but I miss the old format. It was tidier and much more informative.
I've got this case in black and a glass panel instead of plastic. It looks really good! I ended up cutting two circular holes on top for more air flow. The Zalman Z9 Neo Plus PT (with glass panel) is an excellent enclosure to display my RGB lit rig. (Beautiful Beast!)
WERE IS THE OP NAIL SCRATCH!?!?!?! DUDE YOUR CHANNEL IS CHANGING ;-;
WHERE IS THE B-ROLL?! NOT ENOUGH B-ROLL!!
i think the case deserve the award because, there is always stuff that can be better and for this price point it did a dam good job.
I like this style of review. Maybe do a mix of both types. Either way your videos are awesome!
I have this case and absolutely love it. You can't beat it for the price.
Noise and vibration? Would have liked to hear about those.
+Nakano2k1 I have the case as for the noise its somewhat quiet but its not enough to be annoying as for the vibration ...I feel nothing even at startup
can u please tell me how you connected your molex fans ? I mean what Do I need cause motherboards dont have molex connectiion ?
all with my ps
+JustKJoy How noisy is it? I'm planning to get this case and I'd rather not buy a bunch of extra fans.
its really quiet I really don't hear it at all while it being almost next to me so i say it worth it if you can get passed being that most of the fans are molex
its a pretty good case. 4 pin molex to 4/3 pin pwm is available everywhere if you need it and inexpensive. i like the fact that this kind of case keeps corsair, phanteks, nzxt, etc up on their feet/ tight
we should make this a standard for budget case
Buying this case is a freaking steal!
I Agree. Loving mine!
wich do you recommend?
Just bought this case for my 2d system, it is amazing for the price! One of the nicer cases I've seen, and I don't care at all about the molex fan connectors. This case is a beauty and easy to install.
Since it is a budget case, maybe they thought people would install budget motherboards in it. And often these motherboards don't have 5 enough fan headers.
Maybe this is why they put the molex connectors.
I think this case could have gotten the daln good value award
Zalman has a update for this case: the Z9 NEO PLUS with a FULL ACRYLIC SIDE PANEL and it looks soooo gorgeous
They actually make pretty decent budget chassis (which they again once proved with the Z9), I find myself often picking their Z1 (or even T5 and T1) when I'm building on a tight budget for my colleagues.
P.S. Dmitry, loved the new style, I feel like you're talking only to me!
Nice! My case is over 10 years old. I just kept upgrading components instead :) everything still fits in it.
Thanks for the find. Not in the budget right now but I'd definitely buy this, depending on how much it costs in Canada.
It looks alot like the white H440.
I like it actually
Didn't know you were a computer enthusiast aswell.
Discount H440?
Was a nice change up! Looking forward to seeing this style of video mixed in with the others. Agree on the Molex point very strongly. Such a pain to see this aging and annoying connector still clinging to life. Phase it out already!
Nooooo that's what my awesome four dollar Chinese LEDs are powered by
I've been asking for a ZALMAN CASE review for a long time!
Here in EU I'm using ZALMAN cases to assemble PC's on a daily base!
Even better - my FAVORITE BUDGET case is ZALMAN Z9 PLUS (pre-NEO case).
And the molex, well, its a BUDGET case - MOST of the budget ATX/mATX MBO's
don't have 5x 3/4pin headers for the fans, so it fits nicely!
And BTW, on the Z9 Plus, the White non-LED fans are 3-pin, and the case
has it's own regulator build in for 2x 3pin fans! :)
And one more thing - the Z9 Plus has the front IO on the CASE mounted, and the plastic front can be separated with out any problems.
For me, Zalman Z series are BEST BUY all the way.
+Valnjes Yea, I also was rly looking fwd to this review. I've been using the Z11 Plus for quite some time (very satisfied) now and I was considering the Z9 Neo ever since it's been announced.
Although it would've been nice to know about its watercooling abilities.....
This was the video that sold me on this case, still using it in 2020!
It's an OK case, those fans can be replaced. They had to cheap out somewhere.
For the $ it's pretty nice! I would swap out those fans anyway.
+Tony Dates Soooo... You purchase this case, throw away the fans, purchase more fans. You just got into ~$100 category. xD
For the value this case seems remarkable. Five fans no matter what the connection is pretty okay. Even if you don't like the connector they're basically free fans compared to other cases.
When i see molex fan cables dangling, i get sad
Nice profile pic
I have a Z3 plus, which is a fantastic case for 40€. GJ Zalman again!
Molex? What year is this?
2016.
+iGameOver what is the problem with molex?
Entusiasta de hardware sem grana What's not to hate? An outdated format that is awkward to use with pins that easily are pushed out? SATA connectors are much better.
iGameOver I have pro problem using molex,the only problem for me is not control the speed.Some peoples have problems connecting it but is pretty easy for me.
Entusiasta de hardware sem grana Problem is, this design has been invented in 1950's, and as such should be considered too old for current technology. We sure can do better than this!
I'm using Z1 Neo, cheaper than Z9, but i just bought it about ~30usd in my local, cheaper than amazon!
Disadvantages: less space for hiding cables, too small hole for 4/8-pin supply for mainboard
btw, zalman is great, and great review too (y)
not bad for a budget case
no wire bundle on mine on front panel fantastic buy I applied what I saved and upgraded the motherboard. 3 fans on top blue led fans on top one on back.Have to send along my picture.
Molex fans is a sacrifice that they shouldn't have even thought about
Not a bad case for $69 ! Great video as always! = ) Changing three times for a video like a champ!
+Matthew Moniz
Still didn't get a Value award even at that price is not very good.
Dmitris new favorite word? Populate.
I have this case (black one) and it's awesome. I highly recommend it to any budget builder.
using 3 pin instead of molex would be like $1 more..
+Bartosz Olszewski probably not even that.
hmoham Yeah, the connector is smaller, also less metal. only higher precision is needed.. the fans would be still 2 pin with no RPM signal but you could control them at least..
+Bartosz Olszewski Just take a pair of scissors, cut out the molex connector and attach a 3-pin (or even 2-pin) connector. You won't get RPM feedback but you'll be able to voltage control them if you wire the fans to 3-pin motherboard headers
Giacomo De Lazzari ikr.
i believe that at a $69 price point people will be using budget motherboards that have only a couple fan headers. So, instead of buying a separate fan controller, molex connectors on those fans make sense because they can be hooked up to most budget power supplies.
This or NZXT S340?
nzxt
hellboy's films k
+Rqb ofc the nzxt s340. It's beautiful, and it does everything this case does, but better.
i would say the neo if you haven't made a choice yet the s340 is flimsy and the window scratches easy and for a case thats 110$CAD it should include rubber gromets
i just built a system with this case last night, i agree with everything that Dimitri said and also i had trouble fitting my modular psu into the case so i had to ditch all the hard drive bay areas in order to fit all my modular cables that were needed. Those molex fans running at full speed at all times really does make the whole system a lot noisier despite the sound dampening system that they implemented to block out sounds. All in all good bang for a buck but please be aware the precautions before making the purchase.
$69... wahey :D
I feel that they've nailed the exterior look of the case but it does need more work internally to make the building process a lot smoother and future upgrades/modifications easier.
thanks for keeping your channel true to itself. High quality video work, great info, and sharp dialog. LTT has drifted lately so Hardware Canucks has become my go to for quick tech vids.
5 fans included in a $70 case is why I just bought this case, watching this as I'm impatiently waiting for it to ship
I've used several Zalman cpu heatsinks on previous builds and have always been impressed with their products. Your review of this case was honest in pointing out the pros and cons. I think it has real potential if Zalman looks at some of the flaws noted here and corrects them.
Z9 Neo is a good looking case and with a bit of tweaking that many people would be interested in given its features in this price range. Add another 5-10 bucks on it and make it solid.
I built my system in this case (all black, though) and it was a breeze to do the installation and maintaining it. I upgraded from a CoolerMater N500, because I wanted to have a custom watercooling loop with 2x 240mm rads. I did it with a moded/expanded Raijintek Triton (it now includes my graphics card and a second 240mm rad) and everything works great.
The fans aren't a major issue for me because I only use high static pressure fans (noctuas and corsairs), so I ditched those molex ones, but the SSD mount it is!! Can't understand how Zalman expect anybody to pass the cables through the opening on the right! Yes, my SSD is also flipped :(
Anyway, I think the case has great value! It acomodates a lot of hardware and allows for great cable management. It ticks all my needs: PSU enclosure, 2 HDD brackets, removable 5.25" caddies, side window and place for 2x240mm rads and fans (with enough clearance)
So, yeah, if would want something with theses characteristics and really not expensive, I can recomend these case.
Great review as always!
Great review and I agree with the score... I see that they're a sponsor too. This makes me appreciate the honest review even more.
Hell yeah! I was checking out this case waiting for a comprehensive review
Zalman made good work on the bugs with this case. Respect!
Really like this case! Have always loved Zalman products! Just bought a GS1000SE Case! Granted it doesnt have a side window but when in top of a desk who needs a window when you can just use it without the side panel! Great review like always Dimitri!!!!
Just build a system in the z9 neo and those molex connections are zero issue. I easily got them hidden away because the cables are so long.
I think you cheaped out on not giving the case a damn good value award. Had the fans been 3pins some would probably have critized them for not being 4pin pwm.
I like the cinematic shots and all more. :D Still a better video then most of other channels
true the fans are molex, but its damn good to have so many standard fans if you are on a tight budget and want to build a really budgeted pc, this case has so many features other cases around this price point don't have.
Considering 5 decent fans with 3 or 4 pin connectors will run more than this case, I think you should reconsider the award. At 69 USD they had to cheap out somewhere. Great looking case with a lot of high end features on the cheap.
Jazz Greiner now imagine they did that for every issue with the case. No more 69 dollar case. My point was if the only reason he didn't give it the value award was because of the fans than I disagree. Too many strong points on this case to knock it back because if fan connectors. If you disagree than maybe your expectations are a bit too high in this price range.
Jazz Greiner Like I said, your expectations are too high at 69 dollars. Please, link a better case that has equivalent or better features for an example if you really think so. I'll wait till Tiny Tom Logan reviews this case to make a real opinion anyway, but watching this short overview I think it's great for the price.
Interesting format Dmitry, like the fact you're moving the case yourself and there is very little B-roll for this style, not that B-roll is bad, but a mix of this and the "standard" types would be good :D
I liked this format much better Dimitri! It was much more personal seeing you, like Jayz2Cents or Linus, it puts more of you and your character in the reviews and just seems really nice and a firm step up without loosing your stellar camera footage as always.
Seems like a good first case. They will learn and hopefully, improve upon this case. Thank you Demitre.
My NZXT Source 530 has modules for front panel connectors. They are attached to the case. I love my case. But this looks good too.
It's good to see you're experimenting with different presentation styles. This new one gives a better perspective on the case size. But I miss all the cool shots of your old style of presentation. Perhaps you may want to consider adding a little of this style to the old format? I think that will work just nice.
surely five molex fans are better than two pwm fans
plus i think molex looks alot nicer because your motherboard is not occupied with cables stringed everywhere. the molex connection makes the case look alot nicer because builders will have to route the fan cables through the back of the case ( i know most cases include a pwm fan hub but i dont think there are many at this price point)
just sharing my opinion on the case
-Tom
Considering it would place it in line with the enthoo pro to fix the fan problem, yes I think it's justified.
Its a really good presentation style . Although I still prefer the voice over those sexy b roll shots , which is the reason why this channel is different and better from the others.
+HardwareCanucks I think you could first route the cable needed for ssd, attach the wire to it and then mount the SSD.
or does the fan interfere with the wire due to less clearance? or did i miss something else?
The fan presses down on the SSD cable/cables with an uncomfortable amount of pressure , so there is definitely compromises to be made.
Since this is a budget case the molex plugs would not be a deal breaker. But I can see why it almost got the dam good rating. However if a budget build is the aim and the best case for the money is a goal then this fits the bill and then some. Something to keep in mind for my next budget build. Great review!
Hi, Dimitri. Nice video like always, but I prefer the old style. I love the close look to the case with informative voice-over, and most importantly, the lighting with nice background music is work of art! Keep up :)
"Molex connections for the fans?!?! Wot it dat about?!?!"
the way you said that made me chuckle
I have to admit no matter how old that copper ball cpu cooler is. it still does a great job of cooling my xeon
You can purchase Molex adapters on Amazon for about $2-us each and many times they come in packs of 4 for the same price.
So its no big deal when connecting fans to motherboard. just FYI. - Yes, would be nice if the company included them, but for $69.99-us, what can you expect... :)
i actually run the first cooler you showed today, behemoth but it does it's job
I have a Z3 Plus white from Zalman and i love it!
Bought this case today, glad I did! thank you for the review
Yeah I have the Z9 but I am about to switch to the Phanteks evolv x. Gonna be my first pc build because my dad’s IT guy insisted on building my old pc
Still worthy of a damn good value in my opinion. A sub 100$ case is unlikely to see a radiator, so SSD mounting points are ok. Toolless drive cage, rubber grommets, velcro cable ties, AND 5 fans (2 led fans to boot)?
Led fans roughly 7-12 bucks each and we can say 5 dollars for a non led fan. You get far more than you pay for.
Well it's a $69 Budget Case for a Reason with Some Pros & Cons what did you expect?
All in all not a bad Build looks pretty decent.
I'd sure buy that case.... and then regret having to replace the Molex fans. That's a shame, for sure. Also, I hope they choose if they want to go for matte or gloss panels and not one of each.
Puts my Rosewill Star Predator to shame, though.
IDK why but, I liked the way you did case reviews before with voice overs and Cinematic shots. But still Nice Review :)
To be completely honest, I think I prefer the old video style more. With the sexy b-roll and the voice over. It seems like it allows for more focus on the product itself and all the little details you might be mentioning. In addition to that, with this format there will be jump cuts which are more jarring that the b roll cuts. This channel is known for having some of the best looking cinematic B-roll in the tech community and I think that should remain a staple of the channel. Also, with the other format, the audio was better with a proper condenser mic rather than the lavalier. It sounds less clear and more tinny. However, I wouldn't mind having some videos of this format that aren't full formal reviews. Keep up the great work! :)
I bought one for my budget build and it looks really nice! I don't really notice the different whites
Just a heads up to people, I have a older zalman case and I see they have not changed the kind of fans that they put into their cases so be warned while they haven't outright fail on me after 3 year which is good but they have gotten increasingly louder over the years, with one needing to be replaced because of a vibration issue. I'd say get this case but plan to upgrade to something better after a few years.
I got this but in the plus version at my local goodwill within 550 psu for only 32 dollars, and I was able to talk my way down to only 16
Do you only need to put 1 molex connector into the psu for all 5 fans?
Greenpilz yes
4. the 5th on the back goes to mobo
dont talk shit,. you can use one molex connector from the power supply, you can chain em together
sure you can,but the back fan is no molex,sherlock
oh ok you mean the last one, okay yeah that is right
To be fair to them, my case has a 3pin fan in the front but molex in the back and it doesn't cause me any issues at all. This is with a 2500k @ 4.4ghz + dual graphics cards with only 2 case fans. Perhaps they should have put fewer fans in but made them 3 pin instead.
i love this Case the cooling and build is very good bought it week ago
think this is more than a fair attempt by Zalman. Always loved their coolers so i look forward to good things from their fans in this case. this it could have been awarded despite the molex, seeing as i'm sure we can find converters
You can get molex to 3 pin adaptors and be good on the fans connecting to motherboard.
If the panels snap off like that you could send them to an artist to airbrush or paint for a kickass theme. That would be epic.
I really want to see you make a video(a shout out) to case manufacturers about things WE want to become standard and all the little annoying details manufacturers often miss for no good reason
Dear HardwareCanucks,
Great video. I can totally see the Enthoos inspiration built in it. THis isa realy nice case for $69 bucks. When you said 5 fans in it, That sealed the deal for me. The cenamatics are great HC. Keep up the amazing videos!
Best,
the molex on the fans is not a big deal you can buy adapters to make them 3 pin conectors