| Thermaltake Shark ATX Case - Page 4 of 4 |
Performance:
Previously these components were installed in my Antec full tower case. The ambient temperature was usually 2C (idle) - 5c (load) warmer than the CPU temperature. Once the components were installed and allowed to run for a couple of hours, I noticed the ambient temperature of the case was only 1c (idle) - 3c (load) warmer than the CPU. Lowering the temperature of the case and components is always a good thing.
The biggest drawback to this case is the noise level. While it's not very loud, you will notice the noise as there is no solid barrier to isolate the CPU fan, power supply, and the two 12cm fans. I could hear a distinct difference when I covered the vents.
As you would expect with any high quality case, all the edges are either rolled or have been smoothed out so you will not cut yourself while installing your components.
Conclusion:
This is the most solid aluminum case I've had the opportunity to look at. When using this case you will never get the feeling that corners were cut in the manufacturing of it.
This case has recently hit the market, and can be found at places like Xoxide and Newegg for around $160.00 without a power supply. Definitely much more expensive than your typical case, but the Shark is far from typical. Comparing it to high end cases from other manufacturers puts the price on the competitive side.
While this is easily one of the best cases I have ever had the opportunity to look at, I have to take a few points off because of the amount of noise that escapes due to the "honey-comb" side panel, as well as the door lacking a latch. Overall I have to give the Thermaltake Shark ATX Case a 4.5 out of 5... "Readily Recommended".
Final Rating (4.5 out of 5 stars):  
Pros:
• Lightweight (14 lbs)
• Very sturdy (feels like it's made out of steel not aluminum)
• Tool-less
• Removable motherboard and hard drive trays
• Plenty of room for installation
• 120mm Case fans
• Rails for tool-less drive mounts kept secure and easily located
Cons:
• No latch to securely close front door without locking it
• Honey-comb side panel lets you hear anything from inside your case
Special thanks to Thermaltake for providing the Shark Full Tower case to BigBruin.Com for review!
Please drop by the BigBruin.Com Forum and feel free to discuss this review.
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