NZXT Noctis 450 Review

Performance Analysis

We're currently migrating the vast majority of our test systems to new hardware, and the ATX case testbed is one of the first to make the jump. As such, the graphs are decidedly sparse for now, and with previously reviewed cases kept at a different location to the new testing hardware retesting old favourites hasn't yet been possible. As such, we're only able to compare the Noctis 450 to using the hardware on an open test bench, but you have to start somewhere with these things and fear not; the graphs will soon become repopulated as we review more cases.


With that said, the Noctis 450 performs admirably, keeping our test system close to the temperatures observed on an open bench. This shouldn't really come as a surprise, given that the chassis has a trio of fans feeding cool air to the hardware through a well-ventilated front panel, and virtually uninterrupted front-to-back airflow. This, coupled with the hefty 140mm exhaust fan, ensures our CPU is well looked after; its delta T went up by just 1°C compared to the test bench. The GPU climbed a little more, 4°C to be precise, but this is still a good result and demonstrates that it's receiving a healthy amount of cool air.

While we can't make comparisons to other cases yet, it's safe to say that the Noctis 450 is more than capable of taming an overclocked system. Given the amount of intake fans, we'd also feel comfortable installing an SLI or CrossFire system inside, provided there was at least a one slot gap between the cards (this is always recommended, regardless of how good your case is). We tested the fans at full speed, and with four fans this does make the Noctis 450 audible, but it's certainly not loud or unpleasant. Plus, given the performance, there's obviously scope to limit fan speeds via the PWM hub using your motherboard's settings, especially if your CPU and GPU are already equipped with decent coolers.

Conclusion

The Noctis 450 is a solid all-rounder. It's well made, very easy to work with and good-looking too, with the LED lighting done subtly rather than in a tacky way. It cools very well out of the box and can be adapted to fit a decent water-cooling set-up easily as well. The pricing is a little steep, as it's in line with the Phanteks Enthoo Luxe, which is arguably better, especially when it comes to cable routing and water-cooling, for example. That said, there are no real major flaws at all, so if the Noctis 450 takes your fancy looks-wise, we've little hesitation in recommending it as a home for your next high-end build.