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NZXT Zero Ultimate Cooling Chassis

 Having a water cooler system in my previous case, the CPU temperature readings really give no indication of how well the cooling system performs in this case.  So, I took the reading of the motherboard sensor placed on the Northbridge, and the reading of the HDD sensor in my previous case.  The system was left to idle for about 30 minutes and readings were taken.  The same was done in the NZXT Zero.

In my previous case (the Thermaltake Kandalf LCS), the Northbridge sensor was hanging right around 39-40C.  The HDD sensor was sitting around 59-60C.  After installing everything in the NZXT Zero, the temperatures dropped down a few noticeable degrees.  The Northbridge reading was now at 36C, and the HDD reading has dropped to 57C.  Although this isn't much of a noticeable difference, it should provide enough to keep the system running cool.

More importantly is the noise level.  When I lower the speed of my CPU cooler fan down, the NZXT Zero barely gives off a whisper.  It's slightly louder than the Thermaltake Kandalf LCS, but I believe that's mostly due to my CPU cooler.  The 80mm fan on the top of the chassis gives off a little more sound than the larger 120mm's on the front, side, and back, but it's barely noticeable.

Conclusion

NZXT brings a lot to the table with the Zero.  The Aluminum polished chassis radiates elegance.  The smoked front panel and intake grill add enough spice to draw the eye, but will fit in just about any room.  The roomy interior provides more than enough work space, and there's enough drive space for the enthusiast as well as the casual user.  The seven installed 120mm fans provide plenty of airflow through the case while barely making a sound.

If I had to make any suggestions as to what to change, a removable mainboard tray is always a welcome addition.  The only other thing I'd like to see changed would be the replacement of the top 80mm fan with a 92mm, or even a 120mm fan to lose even more noise.  However, even with those small suggestions, I'd have no problem recommending the NZXT Zero to anyone looking for an easy-to-install, elegant, stylish, and quiet air cooled system.

Pros

  • Aluminum chassis

  • SEVEN installed 120mm fans

  • Elegant black and silver polished finish

  • Roomy

  • Plenty of drive bays

  • Flawless tool-free design

Cons

  • No removable mainboard tray

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Pg 1 - Introduction
Pg 2 - Exterior
Pg 3 - Interior
Pg 4 - Installation
Pg 5 - Conclusion


 



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