Slim Micro-ATX Case Final Thoughts

I think the Pandora makes more sense if you think of it as a slim, unique, attractive enclosure. It isn’t the easiest case to build in, but that’s to be expected for a slim micro-ATX case (the snap-on aluminum side panels were at least easier to work with than slotted panels would have been). Style is definitely first and foremost, but there’s a compelling amount of performance here too – especially when upgraded a bit.

About the ICON display – while a great idea, I think an LCD capable of displaying changing data would be drastically more useful (think along the lines of Logitech’s G19 keyboard LCD). Even if BitFenix would have used the same screen/controller as Logitech and just added a G19 LCD to the case instead of the current static display…barring any copyright/licensing issues of course. The quality of the display, in this world of 5-inch 1080p LCD displays, is…well, it’s too much of a compromise in my opinion. If it were capable of animation (such as displaying a CPU temperature for example) this would be a lot easier to shrug off as unimportant. As it is, since the sole purpose of the display is to show an image, the novelty wears out far too quickly. It simply isn’t up to the task. Of course, this is all very easy for me to say – I’m not even that familiar with the G19’s LCD or the API it uses to display data, so I’m sure this is FAR easier said than done. I suppose the number of units that sell with the ICON display will be telling…but I can’t help but think there would be more interest with a more capable display (an “if you build it, they will come” approach). Am I off on this? Would you spring for the ICON display version as is? Or would you pay more for a better/stats-capable display? At least the Pandora’s LCD is easy enough to remove…with BitFenix offering parts and components through their own online store now, maybe we’ll see an upgrade in the future.

While I’m not disappointed with the Pandora, frankly it feels like an experiment. This is BitFenix’s first case that uses aluminum and I’m not sure if they’ve worked out all of the kinks yet. It was tough to get that “premium” sense from this chassis, with wiggly power/reset buttons, machining marks on the inside of both the aluminum and plastic fascias, and a top mesh filter with a tendency to warp. Most likely, my perception was irrevocably altered after just having finished working with Phanteks’ Enthoo EVOLV, another mATX case with aluminum sides. While the EVOLV has a larger footprint and volume, its construction was on another level entirely. Some of these details stood out more than they might have otherwise – while I think BitFenix has a unique enclosure in the Pandora, it was tough to find any advantages over other micro-ATX cases (other than appearance and form factor) like the Prodigy/Phenom/Colossus M, EVOLV, and Node 804. Still…the Pandora has a style all its own; there just isn’t anything else like it.

BitFenix Pandora Conclusion

I’ll try and summarize my experience with the BitFenix Pandora in terms of Performance, Appearance, Construction, Functionality and Value categories, but as always I feel like I should add a disclaimer. You must understand that my own preferences and uses for cases differ from most; while I try to view each case as objectively as I can, I probably can’t avoid my own bias from affecting my conclusion in some manner. I implore you to think in depth of your OWN uses and preferences, and use my reviews as a guide or simply as another perspective.

First up: performance. I’ll admit, I didn’t expect the Pandora to handle CrossFireX graphics cards as well as it did. It seems almost contrary to common sense – it’s small, it couldn’t possibly be good at cooling things!! However, placing two 120mm fans directly in front of the motherboard really works, which isn’t that surprising when you consider other chassis that use a similar arrangement (direct airflow is always better). A chassis as slim as the Pandora is a natural fit for an all-in-one liquid cooling unit although with the right components it isn’t entirely necessary. I’d love the option for an additional exhaust fan up top, but it was pretty apparent that wasn’t necessary. I was pleasantly surprised at the level of performance exhibited by the Pandora.

I get the feeling that the Pandora’s appearance takes precedence over the other categories. While it’s no slouch performance-wise, it’s the curved aluminum panels that dominate the feature list. If you opt for the ICON version, you also get a nifty LCD that you can customize with whatever appearance you’d like. However you feel about the Pandora’s looks, they’re certainly unique – this is the only case on the market right now that dared to fit full-length GPUs, AIO liquid cooler compatibility and full-size ATX power supplies in a slim case. It’s both bigger and smaller than you’d think, if that makes sense (although I secretly hope BitFenix is working on a mini-ITX only version – who else would love small, medium and large options of a case with the Pandora’s looks?!). The point is, I have no complaints with the Pandora’s appearance – if you like the way it looks, you’ll probably be satisfied too.

BitFenix typically produces sturdy cases that pack in a lot of features for the money, normally striking a great balance between price, looks and performance. They have a few budget models in their lineup too, but the Pandora is positioned in a higher bracket. The problem is, it didn’t really feel like it. Sure, the aluminum panels were exquisite, without a doubt – for a first try they’re really well done. There’s just some minor details throughout that started to pile up: the power and reset buttons would shift and wiggle when pressed, the top mesh bracket developed a bit of a curve (and therefore wouldn’t latch on one side), machining marks on the inside of the aluminum panels and the mold marks behind the plastic front panel – while admittedly not visible or even that pertinent – just added to that “rough around the edges” feeling. The gloss black surface on the plastic portion could use even more gloss as it seemed a bit dull, especially toward the corners. I wouldn’t expect piano black (if you’ve ever tried to paint a piano black finish on anything, you’ll know what I mean) but if you’re going to make it glossy give it that deep, rich, wet gloss they talk about on all those car wax products. At least the visible portion between the two side panels is uniform, and nothing about it really detracts from the case whatsoever (it’s still a beautiful case). The aluminum is sturdy though, and the rear curved portion doubles as a sturdy handle for moving the Pandora around – I felt comfortable and confident carrying the Pandora with one hand using the top/rear aluminum frame. That’s the thing – when it’s put together, it feels like a million bucks; it just doesn’t retain that feeling when really digging in to the internals. For those “install-once-and-it’s-done” builders, this won’t be an issue; they’ll hardly notice. For someone like me who just can’t leave well enough alone, the construction could use a bit more substance.

It’s also tough to talk about functionality with a case like this since the dimensions and appearance are the main selling points (functionality tends to take up some room); thankfully the Pandora packs a surprising amount of functionality that belie its slim dimensions. You’re limited to 120mm fans, but most popular AIO coolers are a perfect fit. Full size ATX power supplies are just fine, and have less compatibility issues than some of BitFenix’s previous enclosures (like the Prodigy cases). Graphics cards up to 350mm are supported too; overall, you can build a pretty powerful system in the Pandora despite the slim interior. Given the “appearance as a priority” feel of the Pandora, I can’t complain about the wide variety of components that it can accommodate.

Finally, the question on everyone’s mind: how much do the aluminum panels, sleek looks and LCD display cost? Available online for $139.99 (Amazon / NewEgg), I feel like the Pandora is priced appropriately for what you receive. That places it beside cases like the Enthoo EVOLV and Corsair’s Graphite 380T, while the Core version sits among more familiar territory (BitFenix’s own Prodigy/Colossus/Phenom M, Fractal Design’s Node 804 and Arc Mini R2, Aerocool’s DS Cube, etc.). It’s difficult to pin down the Pandora’s value, as that can change depending on your utilization of the LCD display (the ability to personalize an image might be a the main selling point for some, while the quality of the display might be a deal-breaker for others) and your preference for slim cases. $30 might not be that much of a premium, but I feel it’s too difficult to justify without a better (or more functional) display; the Core version is ultimately a better value.

The next Prodigy this is not; it has the feel of a somewhat niche product. Still, it’s an attractive case full of some promising ideas – if you’ve ever questioned BitFenix’s boldness (how could you after the Colossus??) and their desire to push the envelope, the Pandora will set you at ease. Frankly, there’s really nothing like it. It’s attractive, efficient, surprisingly accommodating, and definitely different. I’d hesitate to recommend the ICON version (at the risk of stifling innovation further – I’ll be the first in line for a G19-type LCD though!), but the Core edition would be an excellent choice if you like what you see.

Pros:

+ Attractive
+ Unique, slim form factor
+ Compatible with a surprising amount of hardware
+ Snap-on aluminum panels
+ Removable dust filters on every fan intake
+ Efficient airflow keeps things surprisingly cool
+ Lots of tie-down points for cable management

Cons:

– You’ll need those tie-down points for cable management – no lazy option with this case!
– Construction falls short of “premium”
– ICON display is limited

Ratings:

• Performance: 8.00
• Appearance: 9.25
• Construction: 7.00
• Functionality: 8.00
• Value: 7.00

Final Score: 7.85 out of 10.