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Final Thoughts: NZXT Blackline
NZXT is all about the look. It proved it could design a wildly popular Lexa, and it has just proven that it can redesign a good thing and make it both functional and fashionable. The Blackline is not only everything the original Lexa was, it is also more affordable.
Nothing cools a computer quite as well as liquid cooling. Although this form of thermal management may not be the norm for most enthusiasts, the ability to use it has been included. Manufacturers are beginning to catch on, such as Antec, who have included the liquid cooling ports at nearly no additional cost to implement.
NZXT Lexa Blackline Mid-Tower ATX case is clearly the mid-level platform for everyone on a budget who still want to enjoy premium looks and features. For now , there are too many cases under one-hundred dollars which offer anywhere near the same looks and quality, which make the Lexa Blackline perfectly positioned to meet the critical demands of a price-conscious consumer segment who search for the best value possible.
Conclusion
Just as with past NZXT products, the packaging is more then enough to tempt you into a purchase. The presentation is better than most, which helps to add interest to an already appealing price tag.
With a SECC construction the Lexa Blackline is solid and strong. Thankfully a plastic bezel and windowed side panel help to lighten the load, which actually makes the case surprisingly lighter than expected.
One of the key features to the newly designed Lexa Blackline is a new look. Well, thankfully this particular look and style have already proven very successful in the past. The added liquid-cooling ports and reduced price make the functionality stand out that much more.
NZXT has recently turned their focuse towards delivering value, in addition to the long list of features I have previously mentioned. You might try to compare this case to others, but before you do just remember that the NZXT Lexa Blackline is priced for mid-level consumers. NewEgg.com has already begun to stock the Lexa Blackline, which is listed for $99.99.
There were two items I found serious fault with: the rear trim piece, and the tool-less expansion card retaining bracket. If I were to redesign the already redesigned Lexa, it would be without these two items.
More than just an attractive mid-level case, the Lexa Blackline is perfect building block for gamers, hardware enthusiasts, and especially case-modders. I can see great potential within the Lexa Blackline, and I'm certain you will too.
Pros:
+ Extremely well built SECC chassis
+ Liquid-cooling ready
+ Convenient bezel/button design
+ High-quality features at a bargain
+ Plenty of working room
+ Attractive gloss black finish
+ Multiple cooling fan locations
+ Affordable and well designed
Cons:
- Rear trim prohibits easy side panel access
- Expansion card retaining bracket is not friendly with all blade styles
- Hard drive cage should be turned
Ratings:
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Presentation: 8.75
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Appearance: 9.0
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Construction: 9.0
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Functionality: 9.0
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Value: 8.75
Final Score: 8.9 out of 10.
Quality Recognition: Benchmark Reviews Silver Tachometer Award
Questions? Comments? Benchmark Reviews really wants your feedback. We invite you to leave your remarks in our Discussion Forum.
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