Antec NSK2400 HTPC Case

One of my favorite things about Antec’s cases is that I can generally recommend them without reservation to anyone who’s looking for a solid chassis with the features they want, and an elegant exterior design, and I know they won’t be disappointed. With the NSK2400, Fusion, and P180, Antec has led the charge in developing innovative cases that take some liberty with the standard ATX and Micro ATX form factor, and push the envelope of what’s possible.

The Antec NSK2400 is a case unlike any other, thanks to Antec’s initiative in designing an innovative internal airflow scheme that improves upon the performance of the typical ATX design, and providing the user with amenities such as built-in cable management and a high-quality bundled power supply.

Throughout, this case speaks volumes about Antec’s attention to detail. Sharp edges on the case metal are rolled. The removable 5.25″ drive cage, the clever method of mounting the 3.5″ drives for optimum cooling, and the numerous cold-air intakes for heat-producing components are just more evidence of this – working on the NSK2400, I get the impression that there isn’t a single thing Antec has missed in this case’s design. Sure, it’s only a MicroATX case – but the motherboard manufacturers have answered the call with a variety of high-performance Micro ATX motherboards. SLI still remains off-limits, though – you’ll need the P150, SOLO, P180, or one of the larger NSK-series cases for that.

At this price point, I can’t think of any better case to use for a HTPC. If you don’t mind spending a little more, the Antec Fusion features the same internal structure, but adds front Firewire, a 2-line VFD (at the price of one of the optical bays), a brushed aluminum front panel, a big control knob, and a glossy finish like that found on the Antec SOLO. I happily award this case a superb 9/10 score.

Good
• Innovative internal design provides superior cooling in a smaller case
• Integrated cable management keeps everything neat and tidy
• Included PSU is of high quality, not a ‘$20 special’.
• Heavy steel construction is rock-solid
• A variety of airflow-management options provide highly optimized cooling

Bad
• Only supports Micro ATX motherboards.

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