We've explored many unique PC cases over the years, most recently having reviewed the Silverstone Raven RVZ01, In Win tou, and Xigmatek Nebula so far in 2014, yet one model has continued to elude u.s.a.. First unveiled at Computex 2013, Corsair'south Carbide Air 540 employs an interesting dual-chamber blueprint.

The Carbide Air 540 was first released in black but white and silverish versions take been available for a few months at present and we are finally going to check both of them out. Along for the ride is Corsair's Obsidian 450D, some other mid-tower case that the company appear on March 25 of this year.

Unlike the Carbide Air 540, the Obsidian 450D features a more than traditional belfry case pattern. In fact, it looks a lot like a smaller version of the 650D, which is in plough a smaller version of the legendary 800D. Despite having different designs, the Carbide Air 540 and Obsidian 450D are closely priced at $110 and $120.

Obsidian Series 450D

Corsair claims that performance has been the primal focus of the Obsidian 450D stating that the instance provides loftier airflow and plenty of cooling flexibility. Apart from being a high operation mid-tower the Obsidian 450D is also designed to be roomy enough for impressing gaming gear.

As expected Corsair has gone with the iconic Obsidian Series brushed aluminum design for the 450D. Although the design does reflect what nosotros saw from the 800D, 700D and 650D, the 450D actually gets its styling from the 350D. In fact, both cases are virtually identical with the exception of the front end panel, which has been modified for a more aggressive look on the 450D.

Measuring 497mm long, 210mm wide and 494mm tall the 450D tips the scales at only 7kgs. Although both the 450D and 650D are classified as mid-towers, the 650D is larger measuring 546mm long, 229mm wide and 521mm tall while weighing considerably more at 14kgs. While the 650D has a 65L capacity, the 450D is 21% smaller with its 51.5L capacity.

Surprisingly, despite weighing very little, well-nigh of the case has been constructed from steel. Only the façade features aluminum, though much of it is besides plastic. The key to the lightweight blueprint is the meaty size, and once we get inside the 450D yous'll encounter there aren't many steel accessories to exist constitute.

The Obsidian 450D is bachelor exclusively in black with a case window. Although the design appears very uncomplicated, information technology's far from boring. The night matte pigment job gives it a stealthy look that will appeal to those subsequently a more subtle pattern, while the example window could be outfitted with aftermarket lighting for a bolder mode.

The front bezel looks ambitious and while in that location are visible I/O connectors, they practice not spoil the design. At the superlative, you will notice a pair of audio jacks, two USB 3.0 ports forth with a small reset button. The ability button is located right at the top and it features blue LED lights on either side. The outcome is pretty cool.

The top of the case dons a big removable dust filter which is held in place using high quality magnetic strips so the dust embrace won't fall off when transporting the case. Nether the filter is a big grill that can support iii optional 120mm or two 140mm fans. There is besides room to install a big triple-fan radiator if you want water cooling.

Both case doors are secured with thumbscrews while the left i features a window and so you can display your hardware.

Turning the 450D on its side reveals a filter that is designed to stop the power supply from collecting dust from the floor, while also preventing debris from slipping into the case. Corsair has also included iv big anxiety that raise the 450D an inch from the footing, allowing for plenty of airflow under the case.

Around back the 450D looks much like whatsoever other mid-sized tower case, though nosotros should point out that the matte black paint task is also continued around to the rear. Up top is the motherboard I/O panel and reverse that is a preinstalled 120mm fan backside yet another honeycomb grill.

The 450D sports seven expansion slots and 3 ane-inch holes for h2o-cooling hoses, while the power supply bracket is at the bottom of the instance -- the norm these days.