Performance Analysis

A switch to lower-speed fans sees thermal performance drop off compared to the original case, but the upside is that noise output – even at full speed for all four fans – is lower. We were expecting a better result on the CPU side, but a delta of 54°C is still in-line with what we see from our test setup on an open test bench. Also, the original case was one of the best performers, so losing to it isn’t a huge deal. The reality is that there’s sufficient airflow with this case to deal with overclocked hardware.

The GPU delta T of 49°C is further up the charts; after all, there are three intake fans pushing air towards your graphics hardware here.

Conclusion

SilverStone is a case manufacturer that isn’t always the first that comes to mind these days when looking for recommendations, but this is perhaps undeserved, as it consistently produces high-calibre chassis. The SilverStone Primera PM02 is an example of this, as it does plenty right and not much wrong. The value for money in today’s market is simply excellent given the amount and quality of the metal (including the paint job) and the inclusion of four 140mm fans.

The inside certainly plays it safe, delivering few design or feature innovations, although the little spring-loaded SSD mounts are nifty, but it also doesn’t make a mess of anything – the way graphics and expansion cards are installed needs work, though. With dust filters aplenty, sufficient airflow, USB Type-C, and a tempered glass side panel, all it’s really missing is a nod towards RGB, but the neutral colour scheme on both the black and white versions means that it won’t stand in the way of you adding RGB goodies of your own. The £100 case market is fiercely competitive, and while the PM02 isn’t a clear-cut dominator, it’s a stand-out entry and should certainly make your shortlist.