Just the other day we kicked off a review asking the question "Is bigger really better?" That same question seems appropriate once again, but this time for far different reasons. Previously we were wondering if a large "micro" case was worthwhile, but now we're asking the question as it relates to cooling fans.

120mm fans used to be considered big for a computer system, but lately 250mm (25cm) fans have been popping up here and there. We recently reviewed an Enermax case that featured a 25cm in the side panel, and now Thermaltake has a couple in their line up, too.


The Thermaltake Armor and Kandalf cases are now available with a 25cm fan in the side panel, and for those who already own one of these cases, the side panel is also available separately. Since we already had an Armor case on hand from a previous review, we asked Thermaltake to send over just the new side panel for evaluation.

Before taking a look at the side panel and how it performs, let's take a look at some published data.

Features:

» Transparent side panel with 25cm cooling fan
» Compatible with Thermaltake "Armor & Kandalf" full tower cases
» Fan speed & noise : 600RPM and 15dBA only
» Meshed grill to provide the greatest amount of cold air intake and prevent injuries
» Benefits CPU and GPU temperature and reinforces system stability

Specifications:

» Color: Black
» Material: SECC & PC
» Side Panel: Windowed
» Application for: Armor and Kandalf Full Tower series » Fan Dimension: 9.80" x 9.80" x 1.18"
» Rated Voltage: DC 12V
» Fan Speed: 600RPM ±10%
» Airflow: 67.69CFM
» Noise: 15 dBA
» Connector: 4 Pin Molex connector

At 600RPM and 15dBA, the new side panel shouldn't have much (if any) impact on system noise, but pushing 67.69 CFM of air through the side could make a huge impact on the temperature of system components.

The Basics:

As with all things Thermaltake, the packaging is quite colorful and descriptive. You get a great look at the product, the features/specifications, and a few shots of it in action. The side panel is available in silver or black, which are also your only color choices for the Armor or Kandalf.