Hardware Review
NZXT Zero 2
We have been a long time fan boys of NZXT cases. Through the years we've been reviewing cases from them, we have always been impressed with their designs. They re-release cases that they have designed in the past and bring out various improvements to it. NZXT was kind enough to send us a sample of their newly improved Zero 2 Case. We would like to also thank the NZXT team for making this review possible. As the name of the case implies, this is the second version of the Zero case that we reviewed a couple of years back.
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At first glance, you will be able to tell the Zero 2's resemblance with its predecessor. The front panel of the case is a bit more curvier than the original Zero case. You will also notice that this case now has black on black color for the entire case, compared to the duo tone black/silver color of the Zero. Physically, the dimensions of the cases were very close. However, the Zero 2 is somewhat more heavier than the original Zero. Please refer to the chart below for more details for the Zero 2.
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One of the most noticeable feature of the Zero 2 case compared to the original Zero is the placement of the front ports. The Zero had the front panel ports located at its right hand side, but now the Zero 2 has the front panel ports located on top of the case. NZXT has provided two USB, audio ports as well as an e-SATA connectors. The top also includes an exhaust vent that an 80mm would fit in to. The Zero 2 still sports four 120mm fan grills on its left side panel. The front panel also sports blue activity LEDs.
Internally, the Zero 2 is still similar to the first Zero. It still uses a tool-less drive rail solution. However, we would've like to have seen more improvements internally. Tool-less drive rails are still okay, but a built in locking system are more acceptable nowadays. A removable motherboard tray would've also been a good addition as well. Just like it's predecessor, the Zero 2's interiors are very roomy, and you have plenty of space to work on.
When we looked at the original Zero, it had seven 120mm fans included. The newer Zero 2 only comes with three 120mm fans. NZXT actually has made the other four side panel fans an optional accessories. At first you might not like this idea. However, when we looked back at the original Zero case, having seven 120mm fan running was very noisy. We ourselves would've preferred a window panel instead of the mesh panel the case came with
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The overall quality of the case is very good. The new outer design is very clean as well. We would've like to have seen more internal improvements on the case, but it's a very good upgrade nonetheless. Looking at the front panel, its actually nice and sleek. But a tone of silver could've added more jive to the case. Overall, we give the Zero 2 case a score of 8 out of 10.
Pros:
External Improvements
Nice front panel design
Tool less drive rails
Roomy Interiors
Cons:
No removable motherboard tray
No PSU included
Still uses rail design
Only comes with 3 120mm Fans
Manufacturer Link:
