Cougar QBX black
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This is an ultra-compact case, on the basis of which it will be possible to assemble a modern and powerful gaming PC. The case is designed for a mini-ITX motherboard. The Cougar QBX chassis will be able to accommodate a powerful two-slot graphics card up to 350 mm long. Regarding cooling, the case received only 1 regular fan, in total, the system unit provides 7 seats for coolers with a diameter of 80 to 120 mm.
Air ventilation can be replaced with liquid cooling. Of the interfaces on the case, there are several USB 3.0 connectors and a pair of mini-Jack jacks for HD audio. The case received the Cube Case form factor. Despite the rather modest dimensions, a power supply unit with a typical ATX size (length limit 140 mm) can easily fit in the system unit. Inside the case, it will be possible to mount 1 device for 3.5 "and 4 solid-state drives for 2.5". In the role of an optical drive, it will turn out to use a slot drive. There are only a couple of plugs for PCI-E expansion cards on the back cover. This case is designed more for computer enthusiasts who are experimenting with assembling compact and powerful PCs. The system unit will ensure comfortable operation of the computer. It is quiet, reliable and safe.
Simple, roomy and elegant
At first glance, QBX looks simple and elegant: neat plastic panels “in brushed aluminium look” on the front and top, viewing windows with mesh on the sides. The panels are thick and made of quality material to match the price of the case. The power/light button, HDD activity lights and front ports are hidden on the right side of the case. The location is not the most familiar (usually these panels are placed on the left) and not very convenient, since all ports are literally on the very edge and it is inconvenient to connect to them because of the tiny gap. In general, the USB hub is what it asks for.
Proper use of dimensions
But inside the full order. The Cougar QBX layout allows you to mount a large-sized video adapter (up to 350 mm long), a powerful power supply unit (up to 140 mm long), five drives and a whole bunch of additional fans paired with an existing 90 mm cooler on the rear wall. In total, 7 mounts for coolers are scattered around the case. It is clear that it is not necessary to install all 7 at the same time, and this is unlikely to work out, however, such variability unties hands during assembly. We were also pleased with the compartments for hidden wire pulling, which are more common to see in full-size modular cases, and a pair of removable dust filters.
Suitable for building a really powerful system
Such a combination is not seen every day in cases of this level, so positioning the QBX as a gaming case is more than justified. Some kind of GeForce GTX 1080 Ti AORUS can fit inside the chassis without any problems. At the same time, there is enough space for it not to rest against the power supply, and the large displacement of the case will ensure good air circulation in a limited space. The reverse side of the coin is not the best acoustic isolation of the Cougar QBX. The stock cooler turned out to be especially noisy, which emits a strange rattle at medium speeds. We hope that this is the marriage of our test sample. You can also find fault with the allowable height of the processor cooler (only 105 mm), but in the era of fast and energy-efficient processors, this is not such a minus. Moreover, no one buys such cases for overclocker assemblies, in which each part will work at 120%. Although no one forbids installing a dropsy in the Cougar QBX, there are corresponding fasteners here.
