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Review: Trying out the KXRORS S400 Mini-ITX Gaming Case (2024)
Introduction
I recently obtained the KXRORS S400 Mini-ITX case. This case offers portability without compromising on hardware capabilities. Ideal for those who value compactness, it can house high-performance components without taking up too much space. The case fits comfortably in various locations and maintains functionality, which was a significant advantage for me.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | KXRORS | Motherboard Compatability | Mini ITX |
| Case Type | Mini-Tower | Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming |
| Color | S400 White | Material | Aluminum |
| Power Supply Mounting Type | External Hex | Cooling Method | Air |
| Fan Size | 65 Millimeters | Number of USB 2 Ports | 1 |
Photos
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Prices
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Design and Portability
When it comes to the KXRORS S400 Mini-ITX Case, the aspects of design and portability are significant factors that I find personally appealing, though not without their drawbacks. The case measures 13.4 x 6.1 x 8 inches and has a volume of 10.8L, which makes it a compact solution for those seeking a small form factor build.
Here are some points to break down my thoughts:
Compactness: This size is ideal for a desktop that won’t dominate your space, and I appreciate that it could fit comfortably in various environments, from a cluttered desk to a minimal setup.
Aesthetics: The use of pure aluminum wire drawing material gives the S400 a sleek and modern look. I’m also fond of the small leather handle on the top, which adds to its portability without impeding the design.
Portability: The handle makes it easy to carry, suggesting that this case could be a suitable choice for those who frequently move their PC.
Front I/O: The inclusion of a USB3.0 Type-C port is a thoughtful touch for a mini-ITX case, allowing for current and future connectivity.
Despite these positives, there are some considerations to bear in mind. The case’s small stature, while convenient, results in a tight space for assembly, which can be a challenge. The air-cooled models lacking a bracket for water-cooling also means that anyone looking into liquid cooling solutions will have to source additional parts.
In terms of portability, while the case is easy to transport thanks to its small size and handle, there are concerns about the handle’s durability with a fully loaded build. It’s definitely worth handling with care to avoid any potential issues.
I am particularly drawn to the inclusion of three-sided MESH panels, which promise efficient hot and cold air exchange. For a build that’s going to be moved around, good ventilation is crucial, especially considering the compact size which can usually result in higher temperatures due to limited airflow.
When it comes to the GEN3 PCI-E setting, it’s a noteworthy point for compatibility but poses a minor inconvenience; remember to adjust the BIOS settings accordingly to avoid startup issues.
Overall, the KXRORS S400 strikes a balance between fashionable looks and functionality. The portability aspect, with its manageable size and handy leather grip, complements the urban lifestyle of frequent movers. Yet, the case also proves that small can be powerful, given its support for substantial hardware such as ≤ 335mm graphics cards.
While I haven’t come across any substantial sources that delve deeply into the S400’s design philosophy, it’s evident that KXRORS has crafted this case with a user-centric approach, prioritizing not just the ease of transport but also the visual appeal. As a tech enthusiast with an eye for design, these traits go a long way in making the S400 a notable choice among the array of mini-ITX cases on the market.
Cooling and Hardware Compatibility
The KXRORS S400 Mini-ITX case emphasizes portability without compromising on cooling performance, a feat not easily achieved in small form factor builds. From my experience, the three-sided MESH panels are its standout feature. They facilitate excellent air exchange, crucial for maintaining lower temperatures in a compact enclosure. Here’s a quick rundown:
Pros:
Excellent airflow from MESH design.
Accommodates large graphics cards up to 335mm.
Supports 65mm high CPU coolers, satisfactory for most low-profile options.
Compatibility with SFX and SFX-L power supplies is a versatile choice.
Cons:
Potential space issues with a 90mm bottom fan, largely due to cable management challenges.
65mm CPU cooler height limit may exclude some preferred cooling solutions.
The included PCIe 3.0 riser cable may necessitate BIOS adjustments.
Regarding hardware compatibility, it easily fits the standard ITX motherboard with dimensions of 170*170mm. The case also supports rather long graphics cards up to 335mm in length, and I found the height limit of 65mm for the CPU fan to be generally adequate, although it does limit cooler choices. It’s worth noting that, although the case supports an SFX power supply, selecting a power supply should be done with care, considering the space constraints for cable management.
The case’s support for a 100-125mm SFX/SFX-L power supply is a thoughtful inclusion, yet it’s imperative to opt for a modular PSU to mitigate cable clutter. With the build’s interior space at a premium, the last thing you want is a rat’s nest of cables obstructing airflow.
While the air-cooled configurations don’t come with a bracket for water-cooling, opting for a separate bracket is a consideration for those looking to push their system’s performance further. Admittedly, my use of a low-profile air cooler has met my needs, but I appreciate the provision for those wanting to explore liquid cooling options.
On a slightly critical note, despite the case’s accommodation of large graphics cards, there’s a caveat: It comes with a pre mium PCIe 3.0 16X Riser Cable, which may require tinkering within the BIOS to avoid incompatibility issues with systems capable of PCIe Gen 4 speeds. While this didn’t significantly impact performance in my case, it’s a detail one should be mindful of before assembly.
In conclusion, the KXRORS S400 strikes a balance between compactness and performance. Its design facilitates impressive airflow for its size, and though it has its quirks in terms of hardware fit and compatibility, it remains a strong contender for those seeking a compact, portable, and cool-running ITX case.
Building and Setup Process
When delving into the build and setup process of the KXRORS S400 Mini-ITX Case, I encountered both its merits and limitations firsthand. Initially, I appreciated the necessity to adjust the motherboard BIOS to PCIe GEN3 to accommodate the 3.0 graphics card extension line. This step is crucial to avoid any boot-up issues, an insight that may be less obvious to individuals new to the world of custom builds.
While assembling the unit, I made a list to keep track of critical points:
Motherboard Configuration: Essential to alter the BIOS settings to prevent compatibility issues with the graphics card.
Space Utilization: The compact, well-thought-out internal layout demands careful component selection but rewards with an efficient use of space.
Component Fit: Accommodating a large graphics card and a suitable CPU cooler posed a challenge. Dimensional restrictions require careful measurements and selections.
Cooling Strategy: Opting for low-profile fans for airflow management is a must.
Cable Management: Owing to tight quarters, strategizing cable placement is a task but achievable with patience.
The prospect of fitting all my components into such a compact space felt like a bit of a puzzle. I gravitated towards its space-saving attributes, but the challenge of ensuring all my high-performance parts fit without overheating did occupy a significant amount of my planning time.
Upon physical assembly, I admired the unit’s ease of build, given its size. Large graphics cards can indeed fit, with my experience aligning with other reviews that noted the ability to include beefy GPUs without needing to force the case closed.
However, the advice to stick with a low-profile cooler under 65mm tall is wise—anything larger simply wouldn’t accommodate. The limitation on cooling also does rule out larger air coolers and liquid cooling solutions unless you invest in an additional bracket which is something to consider as a potential extra cost.
Using the included PCIe Gen 3 Riser Cable was straightforward, but as others have noted, it’s important to remember to change the BIOS settings to match. Neglecting this step can lead to much frustration during the initial boot.
While working within the confines of the case, I found a need for careful cable management to maximize airflow and prevent any compromise in performance. Also, the provided handle, while sturdy, did produce some concerning sounds when the case was fully loaded, so I recommend using additional support when transporting the build.
The lack of included screws was, for me, a minor annoyance easily remedied, but for someone expecting a complete out-of-the-box solution, this could be a drawback.
Overall, the KXRORS S400 offers a pragmatic balance between portability and performance for a Mini-ITX build, albeit with a few caveats that should be addressed during the installation process.
Performance and Value
The KXRORS S400 Mini-ITX case is a solid choice for those who value compact size without compromising on the ability to build a powerful system. Throughout my use, I’ve observed several key points that shape my opinion on performance and value:
Compact Design: Despite its small footprint, this case can house a full-sized graphics card, which was a pleasant surprise. I managed to fit in a high-end card without issues, and the case didn’t require any bending of panels or forced fits.
Build Quality: The aluminum material gives it a premium feel, and the build quality exceeds expectations for its price point. It’s also easy to build in, relative to other small form factor cases I’ve encountered.
Thermal Performance: The case’s support for various cooling methods, especially the three-sided MESH panels, proves to be quite effective. While it’s not the coldest running case I’ve used, temperatures stay well within safe limits during heavy use.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks. I noticed the following:
Limited Cooling Options: Given the height restriction for CPU coolers and the unfeasibility of fitting a 90mm fan at the bottom, cooling options are limited. This could be a potential issue for those eyeing high-TDP CPUs.
Potential Durability Concerns: The handle, while a useful feature, makes me slightly nervous due to the sounds it makes under the weight of the build. It seems sturdy enough, but I am cautious when using it.
Here’s a summary of my findings: Pros:
High compatibility with long graphics cards
Excellent build quality for the price
Effective three-sided MESH panel cooling
Cons:
Limited CPU cooler height
Bottom fan practically impossible to install
Handle may not be the most reliable for heavy builds
In conclusion, the KXRORS S400 represents a robust value proposition for builders looking for a space-saving case without sacrificing performance. Its build quality, coupled with its ability to accommodate powerful hardware, certainly strikes a chord with me. While there are some trade-offs in terms of cooling options and the handle’s durability, they are overshadowed by its practical features and affordability. I’ve yet to experience any issues with heat or the integrity of the case structure during transport, which speaks volumes about its capability as a portable gaming or workstation build. Overall, my experience is largely positive and leads me to believe that this case is a worthy investment for those prioritizing a blend of portability, quality, and performance.