NZXT Phantom Full Tower Case Review

NZXT took the wraps off its newest Crafted Series case last month and, when it becomes available this September, the NZXT Phantom promises to the be an enthusiast favorite. With room for seven fans, a fully integrated fan controller, and an enthusiast-inspired design, it's easy to see why expectations of this case are high. Benchmark Reviews has been provided with an early sample and, hoping it will live up to the hype, we take an in-depth look at the Phantom Full Tower Case (PHAN-001BK) and deliver a verdict on this latest offering from NZXT.

With any computer case, there are several aspects we examine here at Benchmark Reviews. First, and foremost in my mind, is functionality. In other words, how easy or difficult is the installation and how well does the case support the components once installed. Along the same lines, I'll be looking at overall quality, as this plays an important role in both of these areas. It also leads to another key priority, particularly for the enthusiast crowd this case is aimed at, thermal performance. While we won't be running a thermal test in this review, with fours fans, and room four three more, you can expect the Phantom fare pretty well here. The Phantom also, in my opinion, racks up some points when it comes to appearance. Although a bit more subjective, appearance is also an important aspect of case design and is what we'll take a look starting on the next page.

Before we move on, though, it's worth pointing out our fifth and final review category: value. It helps keep everything else in perspective. With unlimited funds, I'm sure we could all dream up the perfect case, but with an MSRP of $139.99, it's clear NZXT tried to squeeze everything in that they could at a relatively fair price-point. We'll revisit this value perspective throughout this review.

Manufacturer: NZXT Corporation
Product Name: Phantom Enthusiast Full Tower Case
Model Number: PHAN-001BK
Price As Tested: $139.99 (MSRP)

Full Disclosure: The product sample used in this article has been provided by NZXT Corporation.

NZXT Phantom Features

• High Performance Cooling Advantages - Phantom's extensive cooling capabilities include 7 fan cooling options with dual 200mm, single 230/200mm, triple 120mm, and front 140mm fans. For enhanced control and expandability, NZXT includes dual radiator support, quad watercooling cutouts, and an integrated fan controller with up to five 20W channels.
• Simple Installation - Phantom celebrates an array of innovative features designed to enhance every stage of the build. Meticulous wire management is easily attainable with large spacing behind the motherboard. The innovative all-new 5.25" screwless rails make installing and swapping HDDs an effortless process. Rubber grommets dampens vibration during operation.
• Additional Advanced Features - Further distinct features include an LED on/off button to control fan lighting, rubber PSU and case feet to reduce vibration, easily removable front and top panels, and top mounted USB, Audio/Mic, and E-SATA ports.
• Extensive Compatibility and Expandability - Features support for larger heat sinks, graphics cards, and E-ATX motherboards enabling enthusiasts to include any of today's hottest components. Vast space within the enclosure allows for 7 hard drives with SDD support and up to five 5.25" bays.

Phantom Full Tower Case Specifications

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