New cases: Kolink Observatory Duo & Inspire K12

Kolink has introduced two new midi towers. The Observatory Duo and Inspire K12 models are supposed to be technically straightforward yet aesthetically ambitious. With all that, they are priced in the lower mid-range.

Observatory Duo

The midi-tower Observatory Duo’s design is the result of a compromise between airflow optimization and impressive aesthetic orientation, seamlessly following on from other models in the Observatory range, such as the Observatory Y. It is made of steel and tempered glass. As a special feature, a removable front panel is built in, with a choice of mesh or tempered glass as materials. Both options are included with the case. If the mesh bezel is used, the airflow is optimal and cooling is thus at its maximum. The tempered glass can’t do that, but makes the midi tower look much more elegant in return.

Inside the case, there is room for motherboards up to E-ATX form factor. It can also accommodate a maximum 330 millimeter long GPU (with fans installed, otherwise max. 355 millimeters), up to six 120 mm or up to four 140 mm fans or three radiators with sizes of once 360, once 280 and once 120 millimeters. Three RGB-lit 120 mm fans are pre-installed. The CPU cooler may be a maximum of 160 millimeters high, while the PSU may not exceed a length of 180 millimeters. There is also room for two 3.5-inch or two 2.5-inch drives. A third 2.5-inch drive can also be installed via removable brackets.

The Observatory Duo’s equipment is rounded off by numerous ports. Two USB 3.1 ports, a USB 2.0 port and a jack plug can be found here.

Inspire K12

In addition to the Observatory Duo, the Inspire K12 midi tower was also newly introduced. According to the announcement, this one is supposed to tie in with the previous models of the Inspire series and bring RGB lighting as well as a stylish look. In addition, it should be optimized in terms of ventilation and be able to outshine the previous Inspire models in this regard. Among other things, the case is equipped with a mesh panel that features two ARGB LED strips that provide colorful accents. On the back, there is also a pre-installed 120 mm fan that can also be illuminated. Like the Observatory Duo, the Inspire K12 is also equipped with a tempered glass side panel that allows a view into the PC’s interior. This shows off the hardware used there to its best advantage.

Among other things, up to six 120 mm or three 140 mm fans can be accommodated inside the case. There is also room for radiators: the lid can accommodate a 280 mm radiator in slim format, while the front of the case can accommodate a 360 mm radiator. Furthermore, CPU coolers with a maximum height of 160 millimeters, motherboards up to ATX format, a GPU of up to 330 millimeters in length and up to four 2.5-inch or two 3.5-inch SSDs can be installed. Rounding out the Inspire K12’s features are an I/O panel, two USB 2.0 ports, and one each USB-A 3.1 and HD audio ports.

Observatory Duo and Inspire K12: Pricing and Availability

The two new cases will be available starting March 20. They can already be pre-ordered now. Prices are 54.90 euros (K12 Inspire) and 74.90 euros (Observatory Duo).