The South Korean manufacturer Zalman presents two new products: the i3 and i3 Edge Midi-Tower. The emphasis was on good space, flexibility and a good price-performance ratio. Both models are available from about 50 Euro.
And this is how they look
Four fans each and white LED lighting, integrated fan control; these are the cornerstones that the manufacturer names. Various configuration options have also been created for component cooling. The side panel made of tinted acrylic glass provides a cool look.
Elegant appearance
In addition to the aforementioned acrylic glass side panel, the case also has a matt black surface and a lacquered interior. The front differs between the two models: the i3 shows a mesh front panel with very good ventilation, while the i3 Edge model is particularly focused on looks, and the front is also equipped with acrylic glass.
In both cases, the cases are perfectly set off by white LED light.
The inner workings
An integrated three-stage fan control system allows the speed to be adjusted directly via the housing, which is equipped with a control panel. In addition, there are six connections: even if the optional mounting locations are used, the fans remain adjustable.
In addition, the manufacturer scores with one USB 3.0 port and two USB 2.0 ports as well as two HD audio jacks to which microphones or headphones can be connected.
The total size of 204 x 479 x 445 mm provides space in the interior so that various components can be installed. Good cable management does the rest to create a lot of space.
Notable is the compatibility with ATX, Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX formats. CPU air coolers up to 15.6 cm high can also be used, as can a 240 mm radiator at the front. The graphics card can be up to 36 cm long.
The power supply is “hidden” in a separate tunnel. Cables can also be installed invisibly through the tunnel. In its front area there is a hard disk cage in which two 2.5-inch storage drives or alternatively a 3.5-inch drive can be inserted on a removable carriage.
Two additional 2.5-inch drives can be installed in front of the motherboard inside, and a fifth drive can even be installed on the back. The three fans used can be supplemented by two more.
