CM Storm Sniper Black Edition Case Review

Introduction (Cont’d)

The top panel from Sniper Black Edition impresses by its study looks. It has two handles that helps whenever you need to transport your computer. Another 200-mm fan identical to the ones used on the left and front panel is present here, also controlled by the big knob.

Figure 5: Top panel.

The buttons and connectors available on the top panel makes Sniper Black Edition one of the most complete cases in this area: four USB ports, one FireWire port and one eSATA port, plus the traditional mic in and headphones out jacks. The big knob controls the speed of the top, front and side fans (it doesn’t control the rear fan), and by pressing it you can turn the LED’s from these fans on or off. This is definitely a highly desirable feature.

Figure 6: Buttons and connectors.

The bottom panel, portrayed in Figure 7, is meshed and the feet can be rotated to match your own personal taste.

Figure 7: Bottom panel.

Finally we have the rear panel in Figure 8. On Sniper Black the power supply goes on the bottom of the case. The slot covers are meshed, which can improve airflow inside the case. Above the expansion slots there is a cable holder for you to lock your mouse and keyboard, making sure nobody will steal them (very useful if you pretend to carry your computer to LAN parties or are thinking in making it available in public spaces). A tab for installing a padlock or a warranty seal is also available. On the top part of the rear panel there are two holes for passing hoses from liquid cooling solutions, protected by rubber covers. Two extra holes are available near the power supply, but they must be broken to be used. A 120 mm fan is available on the rear panel (1,200 rpm, 17 dBA), but as mentioned it is not connected to the main fan controller.

Figure 8: Rear panel.

The rear panel is painted black, as you may have already inferred by the name of the product.

Now let’s take a look inside CM Storm Sniper Black Edition.