Cooler Master NR200 Review - They Listened!
optimum
11 min, 19 sec
A detailed review of the Cooler Master NR200, comparing it to its predecessor and other small form-factor cases.
Summary
- The NR200 is a significant improvement over last year's Cooler Master H100.
- Priced at $60, it offers space optimization and is competitively cheaper than similar cases like the Ncase M1.
- The NR200 can accommodate large components, up to a 280mm AIO, triple-slot GPUs, and is air-cooling and custom loop friendly.
- Thermal performance is impressive, beating similar cases in CPU and GPU thermals, partially due to its larger size and additional fan support.
- Despite being budget-friendly, the NR200 does not compromise on build quality or design, and is recommended for desktop gaming systems or workstations.
Chapter 1
The NR200 is introduced as a superior ITX case compared to Cooler Master's previous models.
- The NR200 is a significant improvement over the H100, featuring better design and thermal performance.
- The NR200 is part of a trend where big case manufacturers focus on space-optimized cases.
Chapter 2
The NR200 is priced at $60, with an alternate variant that includes additional features for a premium.
- The NR200 starts at $60, with an NR200P variant that includes a tempered glass side panel, vertical GPU riser cable, and an additional fan for $30 more.
- The NR200P positions itself as an affordable small form-factor case, significantly cheaper than the Ncase M1.
Chapter 3
The NR200's design is inspired by premium small form-factor cases and aims to provide a budget-friendly option.
- The NR200's design takes cues from premium cases such as the Ghost S1 and Ncase M1.
- It targets consumers looking for premium small form-factor cases but are deterred by high prices or low availability.
Chapter 4
The NR200 boasts a clean design with a mesh top panel and options for tempered glass or ventilated side panels.
- The mesh top panel allows for mounting two additional fans, enhancing cooling capabilities.
- The side panels are ventilated by default, with the NR200P variant offering a toolless tempered glass option.
Chapter 5
While the NR200 is larger than some small form-factor cases, it compensates with superior hardware compatibility.
- At 18 liters, the NR200 is considered on the upper limit of small form-factor, making it less portable but more versatile.
- The case's size allows for larger components, making it a good option for desktop builds rather than portable ones.
Chapter 6
The NR200 can house large components, including a 280mm AIO, large CPU coolers, and triple-slot GPUs.
- It supports CPU coolers up to 158mm in height and GPUs up to 330mm in length, accommodating most high-end hardware.
- Custom loop cooling is viable with dedicated pump mounting locations, despite being a budget case.
Chapter 7
The NR200's optimal cooling configuration includes multiple fans, a large AIO, and results in impressive thermal performance.
- The NR200's cooling can be maximized with two bottom fans, a top-mounted AIO, and additional exhaust fans.
- Thermal performance is outstanding, surpassing similar cases in both CPU and GPU temperatures.
Chapter 8
Building in the NR200 is straightforward, but cable management requires attention due to the number of fans and potential splitters.
- The spacious interior makes assembly easy, but the presence of several fans necessitates careful cable management.
- Using zip ties and spending extra time on cables will result in a neater build.
Chapter 9
The NR200's thermal and noise performance is benchmarked against other cases, showcasing its superior cooling efficiency.
- With revamped testing methodology, the NR200 beats the Ncase M1 and Steck DA2 in CPU thermals and operates quieter.
- Motherboard and GPU thermal performance in the NR200 is also impressive, with the case managing heat well even under heavy loads.
Chapter 10
The review concludes with a strong recommendation for the NR200 as a versatile and affordable ITX case.
- The NR200 is recommended for its flexibility, cooling capabilities, and value for money.
- Suitable for desktop gaming systems or workstations, the NR200 is expected to remain a top performer in thermal efficiency.
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