Conclusion
We are now at the end of our test of the H5 Elite from NZXT. So, good case or not? We tell you everything!
A design as sober and minimalist as ever:
With its H5 Elite, NZXT continues to offer us cases with a sober and pure design. If this is the style you like, you will surely be satisfied, especially since the finish is very clean with two glass panels and a well applied black paint.
On the other hand, it’s a shame to have a control panel that is still so poor with only one USB type A. Having a second one would not be a luxury.
Easy to assemble features
One of the big advantages of NZXT products is the options that are integrated in their cases to facilitate the assembly. This is also the case with the H5 Elite, which has a system of channels and velcro strips to facilitate wiring and cable layout. Nevertheless, we can also count on a generous rear space.
Otherwise, we are dealing with a reference that offers a number of interesting features. The front ventilation mounted on a removable plate for example, or the RGB hub sauce NZXT to control the lighting equipment of the brand.
On the other hand, you won’t have to collect hard drives since there are only two storage slots. Similarly, if you want to replace the front fans, you’ll have to switch to 140 mm! But, compared to the previous generation of cases, we have a support for watercooling radiator in 240 mm at the top.
Correct temperatures, beware of noise
In terms of temperatures, overall, this model keeps our components at decent levels, especially the processor where it does pretty well even. On the GPU side, the situation could be better, supplementing the already existing ventilation allows to gain a few more degrees. Fortunately, that the graphics card is watered by the additional fan at the bottom, which seriously limits the breakage in our opinion.
However, the ventilation inside this model is quite noisy, so if you are sensitive ears, do not hesitate to regulate it, especially since the natural insulation of this model is quite average.
A complicated availability… :
For the price, you should know that NZXT decides to position its box at a price of $139.99. The bill remains quite high despite everything. Nevertheless, you have to keep in mind its numerous features and its simplified installation. And if you don’t want to spend so much on a box, the H5 Flow is also offered at a price of $94.99. At this price, it loses the RGB feature, the glass on the front and only comes with two fans.
NZXT H5 Elite:
We liked:
- A sober design that we really like
- The finishes are of a good level
- The system of channels / velcro strips for easy wiring
- The generous rear space for wiring
- The simple assembly and without (bad) surprises
- The presence of three fans, including one dedicated to the graphics card
- The controlled temperatures, especially on the CPU
- The addition of a 240 mm watercooling radiator support at the top (compared to 120 mm for the previous generation)
We liked less:
- The price that becomes high, especially in comparison with the ” Flow ” version
- A control panel poor in USB type A port
- The noise of the basic ventilation
- The storage unit support which is reduced to two units
In the end, we choose to give the H5 Elite a silver award. Indeed, the price placement remains delicate, especially within the brand’s range. For its price, we can turn to a larger H7 Flow with superior thermal performance. On the other hand, we will keep in mind a well equipped and elegant case. And if you don’t have the budget, you have the much cheaper H5 Flow which does not have the RGB and the front glass panel
Many thanks to NZXT !
