Nzxt H7 Flow
Is this the pick of the bunch?
Nzxt’s latest H7 line-up of cases consists of three new models, the H7, the H7 Flow, and the H7 Elite. The Elite was an impressive and handsome chassis and, as the most expensive option, we’d naturally assumed that it would be the best performing choice out of the three. But while the main focus of the Elite model was its good looks, how does its sibling, the Flow, compare? Costing $110 less than the Elite, is it a better option?
Visually, the Flow sits in the middle of the three H7 cases. It’s better looking than the standard case with its flat front panel but not as striking as its more expensive sibling, the Elite. However, looks aren’t everything. The front panel on our review sample features a matte white perforated cover that allows an unrestricted flow of air through the case. Nzxt has executed this well as it not only looks stylish but also allows light from RGB fans to shine through. The clue may be in the name, but this functionality is the H7 Flow’s main selling point.
Accessing the internals of the case is a breeze. Just like the H7 Elite, the Flow has thumb screws to hold the panels in place. The panels pop off and slide in easily, which is a bonus for those who are planning on making any upgrades or replacing parts in the future. Inside the case, there is more than enough room for either a Mini-ITX, Micro-ITX, ATX, or even an EATX build, so long as the latter motherboard is up to 272mm. This allows for a lot of versatility, making it a great size for most custom PCs.
As well as great compatibility, the H7 Flow features a wide choice of routing options for cable management. Of course, you can pile the cables in, shut the back panel and cross your fingers, but you’ll regret it down the line. It’s always best to set aside some time to plan your cabling and Nzxt does a great job of helping the process with plenty of channels for your wires. There are also Velcro straps to keep everything neat and tidy.
Unlike the H7 Elite, the H7 Flow comes with only two 120mm quiet Airflow fans. Whereas the former comes with three 140mm RGB fans and one 140mm quiet Airflow fan.
Going back to the H7 Flow, the build quality remains high, just as with all the H7 models. Without being too heavy, the case feels rigid and has even panel gaps around it, showing that quality control is important to Nzxt. Internally, it features the same clearance and support offered by the standard H7 and the Elite. That’s availability for three 120mm fans or three 140mm fans at the front, three 120mm fans or two 140mm fans at the top, and one 120mm or 140mm fan at the back. To help your cooling requirements even further, it’s compatible with a 360mm radiator at the top with push-pull, a 360mm radiator at the front, and a 140mm radiator at the rear. Overall, the H7 Flow has some great cooling capabilities.
When it comes to the pricing of the H7 range, it’s hard to argue against the Flow being the bargain of the bunch. With the H7 Flow, you get premium styling, a high-quality finish, and versatile functionality.
Best thermal performance in the lineup, bold colour combo and solid build quality. Sam Lewis
------