NZXT Adamas Aluminum ATX Case

Final Thoughts & Conclusion

Maybe I have only myself to blame.  You see, I search for the relatively perfect computer case.  When I was asked to review the Adamas, I reviewed the information on the NZXT web site, and thought that I had found pay dirt.  Alas, it was too good to be true; the NZXT is not without its flaws.

As I pointed out in detail on the previous pages, the cramped work space and use of non-standard screw threading is a minor irritant.  Additionally, the drive access and removal could be unbearable for those who occasionally swap optical or hard drives, but not a major issue for most everyone else.  The Adamas may be indestructible, but thanks to its weight you sure won't see gamers, which are NZXT's target market, toting the Adamas to any LAN parties.

On the redeeming side of this review, the NZXT Adamas offers many positive features which compensate for it's short comings (there's that pun again).  For example, the case is finely crafted of billet aluminum and will tolerate even the most abusive environments.  Available in black or silver, NZXT has designed a real show pony with this case.  Additionally, the finish is going to withstand much more abuse then most every other case on the market.  The aluminum construction paired with its built-in heatsink fins and four cooling fans will most certainly keep temperatures at their lowest.  Finally, the Adamas has so many small details that prove its refinement that you come to appreciate the extraordinary attention to detail.

In conclusion, I recommend the Adamas for those who demand a well-designed and fashionable computer case with durability and performance at the forefront.  The Adamas is best suited for computers which do not get transported a lot or undergo continuous hardware changes.  Furthermore, NZXT has delivered a case that offers superior active and passive cooling well beyond the needs of the average consumer, as well as enough for the hardware enthusiast or gamer.

At the time of this writing, NZXT has just started to release this product to online merchants.  A search discovered Page Computers selling both silver and black versions for $154.43.

Pros:

+  Very well designed and constructed
+  Excellent cooling performance
+  Incredible attention to detail
+  Four quiet 120mm cooling fans included
+  Extremely durable all-aluminum construction
+  Attractive and fashionable design
+  Impressive use of billet materials

Cons:

-  Cramped interior quarters prohibit frequent hardware changes
-  Non-standard screw threading on expansion card slots
-  Should include matching replaceable expansion card blanks
-  Front I/O cables should be under 18" long
 

Final Score: 8.5 out of 10 and the Bjorn3d.com Seal of Approval.

Special Thank-you:

This review would not be possible if it weren't for manufacturers like NZXT who are willing to stick their neck out there and have a picky hardware analysts like me dissect their products.  I am grateful, and certainly appreciate the opportunity.