Mid-Tower Case Final Thoughts

The NZXT H440 Razer Edition isn’t something new. It’s basically a repackaged NZXT H440 that costs an additional $30. The design, the features, the concept, it’s nothing new. This case is purely intended as a special item for Razer fans (or builders who’ve been waiting for a nice green / black case). It is undoubtedly a good case, and has many features builders love, but when you can get the same for less…it’s a hard sell for much of the PC masses.

NZXT H440 Razer Edition Conclusion

The H440 is certainly quieter than other cases I’ve reviewed, which goes to show that the various methods for sound dampening do in fact work. However, this does come at the cost of more restricted airflow through the front and top panels. Furthermore, it doesn’t even have a top dust filter, so unless you plan on getting your system very dusty, your basically limited to three intakes. As a result, its evident that the NZXT H440 Razer Edition doesn’t quite offer the best cooling options in it’s price range.  I award performance 8.75 out of 10.

The NZXT H440 Razer Edition is a great looking case. The matte black finish looks great, and the lighting is not so overdone it detracts from the overall appearance.  But after some use, it became clear the paint job itself could use a little work. It scratches and marks much to easily, and its made even worse when the entire case is matte black. NZXT has said they plan to use this matte paint on all new production H440 cases. That might not be a problem with lighter colors, but with darker colors, it very much is. I didn’t do anything to this case I haven’t to others I’ve reviewed, but you can see how the paint has been scratched off and marked. Because of this issue, I give the appearance score an 8.75 out of 10.

The H440 is made of more steel than plastic, and this is great to see on a case in this budget range. However, as previously stated getting the side panels off the first few times was a bit of struggle, as was removing the top and front panels. As a result, I give this case a score of 9.00 for its construction.

In his review of the original H440, David Ramsey deducted significantly for the lack of 5.25″ drive bays. The lack of such bays could of course turn off anyone needed a disk drive, but for those who don’t need, or a satisfied with an external drive, this is a non-issue. More importantly, a number of case designers are following NZXT’s lead, making it possible to remove the 5.25″ bays or removing them entirely in favor of slim optical drives. Is this a growing trend towards the end of 5.25″ drives? I give the H440 an 8.75 for overall great functionality, deducting for the lack of 5.25″ bays, simply because many still can’t do without them completely.

Value is a tricky one, as this case is priced for $149.99 (Amazon | Newegg). This Razer edition case offers the same features for builders as it’s less expensive brethren do. Instead, you pay an extra $30 for a matte black finish and LED lights. Is that worth it to you? If you are a big Razer, the answer is likely yes. For others though, it may not be. Because we have to compare with other cases in the market though, I give the Razer edition 8.75 out of 10.

In the end, I rated this version of the NZXT H440 slightly lower than the original. The Razer edition not only retained the original problems, but added a few new ones of its own. It is a solid, dependable case that is easy to build in and looks great so long a you keep it spotless, but I suspect that many builders will likely prefer another case for $150, or a cheaper H440. But like I said in at the start, this is intended for Razer’s many fans and those who just like the look, not as the new “case to be desired” on the market.

Pros:

+ Clean, attractive exterior.
+ Subtle, elegant lighting.
+ Strong construction.
+ Simply, clean cable management.
+ Plenty of water cooling options.

Cons:

– Exterior marks much to easily.
– Tinted window panel is a tad dark, masking internals. Dust shows very clearly.
– Outside paint scuffs and marks much to easily.
– Limited intake.
– Price is for looks, not features.

Ratings:

• Performance: 8.75
• Appearance: 8.75
• Construction: 9.00
• Functionality: 8.75
• Value: 8.75

Final Score: 8.8 out of 10.

Quality Recognition: Benchmark Reviews Silver Tachometer Award.