The Test Candidates In Detail

Antec SLK2650-BQE, In Classic Black

Antec's small black PC case called SLK2650-BQE shows that a conservative design can be chic too. Unfortunately, the euphoria fizzles out when you get to the front panel and its mount. The plastic panel does not have dependable-looking fixing bolts. An unintentional nudge with the leg or a chair can easily lead to broken mounting pins, and once the panel falls off, it's essentially useless.

Four 5.25" and two 3.5" drive slots are concealed by the SLK2650-BQE's front panels, which can be simply removed using a finger-friendly notch that releases them. A preinstalled 120mm fan and various mounts for more 80mm-diameter fans ensure good air circulation. Unfortunately, the SLK case does not have a dust filter. A funneled air duct on the side panel of the midi tower helps draw off the heat generated by the CPU. The funnel is telescopic, allowing a larger CPU fan to be used.

SLK2650 case from Antec: in classic black

Behind the front panel: the 5.25" drives

On the back is a small box for screws and accessories