Kingwin SK-523 Case

Manufacturer: Kingwin Inc.
Supplied by: Kingwin Inc.
Price: $68

by Dean Barker (1/02/2006)

Introduction

Kingwin can always be counted on for fresh ideas that won't break the bank of the end user.  This 'best bang for the buck' type of thinking is what has made Kingwin as successful as they are today.  Their newest chassis looks to position itself between their currently available high end KT-424 (which by the way, remains one of the best cases anywhere for any price) and their gamer designed budget Mutant-X Case.  This was done by employing many high end features on a lightweight SECC steel chassis with an aluminum front bezel to provide its aesthetic appeal.  Thanks to the Kingwin crew, we have a chance to take a closer look at their newest offering for the new year.

Specifications

• Observed Dimensions (LxWxH): 505 x 202 x 432 mm

• Construction: SECC Steel

• Observed Weight: 8.8 kg

• Mainboard: Micro ATX, ATX

• Drive Bays 5 x 5.25"; 2 x 3.5"; 3 x 3.5" (Hidden)

• Side mounted accessible ports: USB x2, speaker, mic, SATA

• Side mounted Fan Controller

• Cooling: Front 120mm fan (included), mounting for rear 120mm fan

• Tool free drive rails

• Power Supply: Not included

• Window: Yes

• Available Colors: Black, Silver

The Unit

At first glance on our silver colored review unit you would think the Kingwin SK-523 was an all aluminum rig.  The nickel color paint on the SECC steel shell blends very nicely with the bezel door that is constructed out of aluminum.  Aluminum doors on steel rigs are nothing new.  It's an easy way to give a case a snappy look while keeping production costs under control.  The bezel design shows tasteful but not gaudy appeal.  The lengthwise panel look also allows the blending of the cases' lighting that lies below the bezel's center panel.  Let me point out that the door's weight "feels" right.  A lot of steel cases with aluminum doors make the door way too heavy.  That is not the case here.  A nice clean balanced feel.

  

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