Cooler Master HAF XB LAN Box Review
Conclusion
The Cooler Master HAF XB LAN Box is the latest product in the HAF series of cases. It is billed as both a LAN box and a test bench. At first I wasn’t quite sure what to think of it, but after reviewing this case I think Cooler Master has a solid product on their hands. The case is roomy which allowed me to swap out components without taking the whole thing apart except for the power supply, but even swapping a power supply was not a difficult task. Aesthetically the case is pleasing. I like the simple design and minimalist design.
On the inside I found the case easy to work with. The only negative point on the case for me, is the X-dock connections lack the ability to use 90° connections. There are a lot of zip-tie locations to tie power supply and drive cables down.
Let’s break it down even further. I want to talk about using it as a case and as a test bench.
Using the Cooler Master HAF XB as a case is fine. If functions just as well as any other case that I have used. The installation process wasn’t difficult and really did not take any longer than a “normal” case. However, this case is wide. Toting it around to a LAN party is not the easiest of tasks, but it can be done and it doesn’t look like every other case that is out there.
As a test bench the case performed OK as well. At first I was concerned that the frame of the case was going to get in the way. However, after using the case as a test bench for a couple of weeks I found this was not true. Swapping out components was easy and quick. Here is the stand out feature as a test bench for me and my particular situation. Right now I am limited in space so I cannot always have a test bench on my desk. The HAF XB allows me the ability to protect the components by installing the panels and putting the entire thing away which protects the components on the inside. Most other test benches do not have that capability. Size is the only downside to using the HAF XB as a test bench as it is larger than most others.
