Chassis expert NZXT reveals their latest case based off the mini itx form factor dubbed " Manta" after teasing it at CES 2016. Now without that secretive vinyl wrap and blacked out window, we're able to finally see this new chassis in greater detail.
Bend The Rules
This is the tag line NZXT is going with—we see what they've did there. In typical NZXT fashion, styling is not your typical boxy shape. Instead, the Manta is made of curved steel for that unique aesthetic. These aren't your typical molded plastic curves, that's actual metal.
According to NZXT, the inspiration for the Manta comes from the curvaceous nature of super cars. Whether an observer sees the parallel is up to them. One thing for certain is that the case definitely is a work of art that utilizes a new manufacturing technique to achieve this fish bowl look.
Cases with mini itx boards in mind usually lack in the cable management department, which is one place the Manta excels at. With those bulged out side panels, you have generous amounts of extra clearance behind the motherboard tray to route cables. Incidentally, this also assists in giving clearance to a 3.5" hard drive mounted in the back.
There are other NZXT specific features in the Manta such as the metal bar covering up cables originally found on the S340 in place of rubber grommets. Other NZXT staples we've grown to expect from the brand are captive thumbscrews, a PSU cover, and a rear i/o light to help you navigate the rear of the PC in low lighting situations.
Word of note: NZXT is going to be re-tooling the SSD mounting mechanism to allow installation of products such as the NZXT Hue+, which is not currently possible. Dimitri of Hardware Canucks showcases this in a video over view of the Manta to give a better idea of what to expect.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7D-sPfveVQ Manta Means Business
Beyond the usual NZXT goodies, the Manta is optimized for extreme water cooled rigs with its larger size plus large radiator support—280mm for both top and front. Considering most mini itx motherboards have a limited amount of fan headers, NZXT includes a PWM fan hub for all your fan requirements.
NZXT demonstrates who this chassis is aimed at with ample water cooling support and the ability to do a push/pull configuration for further performance. Thankfully a pwm fan hub is included or else that large window would give a view to many fan splitters.
Spec Sheet
With a price point of $139.99 and a size closer to a mid tower, this case is aimed squarely at the enthusiast segment and not someone looking to utilize a mini itx board for space efficiency. For an itx tower, the Manta is certainly not going to win any small awards. However, not too many cases have this much water cooling support, including regular sized towers.
| Dimensions | 245 x 426 x 450 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.2 kg |
| Motherboard Support | Mini-ITX |
| 2.5-Inch Bays | 3 |
| 3.5-Inch Bays | 2 |
| Front Cooling | 2 x 140 mm/120 mm (2 x 120 mm fans included) |
| Rear Cooling | 1 x 120 mm (fan included) |
| Top Cooling | 2 x 140 mm/120 mm |
| Radiator Support | Up to 280mm (top and front) / 120 mm (rear) |
| I/O Ports | 2 x USB 3.0, 1x Audio/Mic Jack |
The Manta will be available in several variations consisting of matte black (with or without window), matte black with a red trim, and a white version. If you're inclined to the looks and feature set, you can pre-order your Manta on NZXT's site with an estimated delivery date of Feburary 10th.
Tell us what you think about this new chassis from NZXT and do enthusiast friendly larger itx builds appeal to you?
