Xigmatek Nebula C Review

Performance Analysis

We were actually pleasantly surprised by the CPU delta T. At 56°C, this mid-table result isn't bad for such a small case and one with just one 120mm fan as well. In addition, the Xigmatek XOF fan that's included was supremely quiet too so its clear the huge mesh in the base does aid cooling. The result puts it on par with typical small mini-ITX cases such as the BitFenix Phenom, Antec ISK600 and Cooler Master Elite 120 Advanced, while the Cooler Master Elite 130 Advanced, Fractal Design Node 304 on its maximum fan speed and the SilverStone FT03-Mini outperformed the Nebula C by a larger margin.


The GPU delta T of 49°C was even more of a surprise - so much so that we had to repeat the test to make sure. However, on further inspection, there is more of a gap between the GPU and the side panel than first appears and with a large vent just a few inches away in the base, the cooling isn't actually that bad. This is with a rear-exhausting reference cooler, though - with a cooler spilling air into the case, the situation could get quite toasty. That said, the result is enough for a top ten result although it's worth remembering that the next 18 places fit within the next 10°C.

Conclusion

Let's start with the negatives. Cable tidying will pose a challenge whatever your setup and the only solution is to use copious amounts of cable ties as those included in the box are nowhere near enough. The drive bays could also do with some refinement, if only to make it easier to install your hardware. The absence of dust filters is way up there as well - magnetic ones are readily available but they should be included with the case as standard.

Our previous concerns about GPU cooling proved unfounded, at least with our setup, so combined with reasonable cooling overall, a modest price tag and enough room for a mid-range gaming PC we can't help but like the Nebula C. We can definitely recommend it to small form factor fans, although you'll likely want to buy some additional cable ties as well as a dust filter for the base.