NZXT H6 Flow RGB Gaming PC Case Review: A Blend of Cooling Efficiency and Aesthetics
NZXT's H-series has been a mainstay in the PC case market, known for its boxy design and glass side panels. The new H6 Flow RGB, priced at $135 (with a non-RGB version available for $110), represents a significant shift in this series. It introduces a dual-chamber design with a unique focus on cooling, featuring an angled mesh corner panel and three fans.
Design and External Aesthetics
The H6 Flow RGB stands out with its quirky design. While it retains the signature silhouette of the H-series, the case features an angled mesh panel positioned between the front and the side on a 45-degree angle. This design is aimed at optimizing GPU cooling without sacrificing the glass front panel aesthetic. Available in black or white, the case offers a sleek, modern look suitable for various setups.
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Internal Layout and Compatibility
Despite its unusual external design, the H6 Flow RGB maintains a relatively standard internal layout. The case supports up to a 360mm AIO radiator at the top, though thicker radiators may block connectors on the motherboard. It accommodates GPUs up to 14.37 inches and CPU coolers up to 6.42 inches, making it compatible with a wide range of hardware. However, it does not support the largest air coolers like the Noctua NH-D15.
Cooling and Airflow Focus
Cooling is a major highlight of the H6 Flow RGB. The bottom of the case is designed to allow fans to sit flush with the floor, aided by elevated feet for better intake. The case comes with three F120 RGB Core fans, which are efficient and work flawlessly. The dual-chamber design also contributes to improved cable management and airflow.
Storage Options and Limitations
One drawback of the H6 Flow RGB is its limited storage support, accommodating only two 2.5-inch drives and one 3.5-inch drive. This is somewhat underwhelming given the case's size and may be a consideration for users requiring more internal storage.
Acoustic Performance
The acoustic performance of the H6 Flow RGB is tested under various scenarios, including full CPU and GPU load. The case's design and fan configuration ensure that it remains relatively quiet even under stress, making it suitable for gaming and productivity environments where noise levels are a concern.
Assembly and User-Friendly Features
The case is user-friendly when it comes to assembly, with a lot of pre-cable management and a bridged IO cable that simplifies the process. This design eliminates the hassle of dealing with individual tiny headers, enhancing the overall building experience.
Testing Hardware Compatibility
The H6 Flow RGB is tested with Intel’s 12th Gen Alder Lake platform, using a Core i7-12700KF cooled by a Noctua U12s air cooler, and a Gigabyte RTX 3070 Ti Gaming OC graphics card on an MSI Pro Z690-A WIFI motherboard. This setup demonstrates the case's compatibility with current high-end hardware.
Conclusion: The NZXT H6 Flow RGB as a Unique and Efficient PC Case
The NZXT H6 Flow RGB stands as a unique entry in the PC case market, offering an efficient cooling solution combined with an aesthetic that blends modern design with functional features. Its angled mesh panel, dual-chamber layout, and quality fan setup make it a strong contender for gamers and PC builders looking for a case that prioritizes cooling without compromising on style. Despite some limitations in storage capacity and compatibility with the largest air coolers, the H6 Flow RGB offers a compelling package for those seeking a blend of performance and design in their PC build.
