MODTHEBOX.COM - Canada's Premier Case Modding Source - Reviews

Click image for larger view

The manufactured window in the side panel features a flower design with a clear fan in the middle. The silver screw heads created a good contrast around the window, and interesting note is that there is one screw lined up with the center of each cut out. Combined with a clear fan this seemed to complete the panel. The lack of an indented handle on the panel is inconvenient but not crucial to the construction. Those of you who are worried about security will be glad to know that the Nikao F-2 has a small security tab that you can put a small lock to make it hard to remove the side panel. It’s also to be noted that both side panels are held by thumbscrews, these are a good addition to the case. On the negative side the thumbscrews are off-white and clash with the colour theme of case.

Click image for larger view

The other side panel has the standard recessed handle and vent holes forming a wave pattern at the bottom. Removing this panel reveals the back of the motherboard tray with ample room to allow for adding in the screws to the drive-bays. This is something that I’ve found was well thought, no more struggling with screws. You can find the standard ATX power supply cutout at the rear of the case. Beneath them you will find two 80mm fan grills, most case modders may want to cut them out to increase airflow. There are two supports for the power supply; there is one beneath the rear of the power supply and a second on the motherboard tray. The industry standard I/O shield is part of the case and held in with two screws, it is more solid than the standard one shipped with motherboards. An added bonus is that it makes it easier to paint. Moving to the bottom, we find 7 expansion slot punch-outs.

Click image for larger view

Inside the case is an adequate amount of room to install a complete computer system. The Nikao F-2 supports all ATX motherboards and is AMD and P4 certified. The design of the PSU mount inside the case is adequate at best and consists of two metal tabs that have been positioned on the chassis and rear of the case. An inside view of the external 5.25" and 3.5" drive bays which utilize 6-32 screws for mounting all hardware components. The construction of the drive bays is very solid and I did not notice any sharp edges during my inspection. The bottom of the case chassis features another set of dual 80mm intakes which are hampered by the front bezel design.

Click image for larger view

The Nikao F-2 Mid-Tower Case includes standard header pins for Power LED, HD LED, Power switch, Reset switch, Audio and USB which can be easily connected to a motherboard. Consumers will need to consult their motherboard manual for the orientation of these pins prior to use. The Nikao F-2 also ships with a nice assortment of screws, including 10 brass motherboard mounts, 4 fan screws and a handfull of regular case screws.

Conclusion:
By combining bubble lights, stealth drive bays, side panel window and an elegant paint job, the Nikao F-2 has followed in its brethrens footsteps offering a stylish case at a great price. A power supply and a better front fan exhaust are the only points that would need addressing to complete the package. Overall, I'm rating the Nikao F-2 Mid-Tower Case a final score of 8 out of 10 and would recommend this product to any computer enthusiast who wants a good pre-modified case that is reasonably priced. If you have any questions regarding this review be sure to visit the Tradex Information Technology website for more information or discuss them in our forums.

Pros:

Stealth Floppy and CDROM bays
Pre-modified side panel window
Front USB and Audio ports
Attractive black finish
Dual bubble lights
Cons:

Stamped intake and exhaust grills
No slide-out motherboard tray
No power-supply included
Front intake hampered by front bezel design