We've explored many unique PC cases over the years, about recently having reviewed the Silverstone Raven RVZ01, In Win tou, and Xigmatek Nebula then far in 2022, all the same one model has continued to elude us. First unveiled at Computex 2022, Corsair's Carbide Air 540 employs an interesting dual-chamber pattern.

The Carbide Air 540 was offset released in black only white and silver versions have been available for a few months at present and we are finally going to cheque both of them out. Along for the ride is Corsair's Obsidian 450D, another mid-tower case that the company announced on March 25 of this yr.

Unlike the Carbide Air 540, the Obsidian 450D features a more traditional tower example design. In fact, it looks a lot like a smaller version of the 650D, which is in turn a smaller version of the legendary 800D. Despite having unlike designs, the Carbide Air 540 and Obsidian 450D are closely priced at $110 and $120.

Obsidian Serial 450D

Corsair claims that performance has been the key focus of the Obsidian 450D stating that the instance provides high airflow and plenty of cooling flexibility. Apart from beingness a high performance mid-tower the Obsidian 450D is besides designed to be roomy enough for impressing gaming gear.

Every bit expected Corsair has gone with the iconic Obsidian Serial brushed aluminum pattern for the 450D. Although the design does reflect what nosotros saw from the 800D, 700D and 650D, the 450D actually gets its styling from the 350D. In fact, both cases are most identical with the exception of the front panel, which has been modified for a more than ambitious await on the 450D.

Measuring 497mm long, 210mm wide and 494mm alpine the 450D tips the scales at just 7kgs. Although both the 450D and 650D are classified as mid-towers, the 650D is larger measuring 546mm long, 229mm wide and 521mm tall while weighing considerably more at 14kgs. While the 650D has a 65L capacity, the 450D is 21% smaller with its 51.5L chapters.

Surprisingly, despite weighing very little, most of the example has been constructed from steel. Only the façade features aluminum, though much of it is also plastic. The key to the lightweight design is the compact size, and once we get inside the 450D you'll run into there aren't many steel accessories to be plant.

The Obsidian 450D is available exclusively in black with a case window. Although the pattern appears very simple, it's far from boring. The dark matte paint job gives it a stealthy wait that will appeal to those afterwards a more than subtle design, while the case window could exist outfitted with aftermarket lighting for a bolder style.

The front bezel looks aggressive and while there are visible I/O connectors, they do not spoil the design. At the top, y'all will find a pair of audio jacks, ii USB 3.0 ports forth with a small-scale reset button. The power button is located correct at the summit and it features blue LED lights on either side. The issue is pretty cool.

The top of the case dons a large removable dust filter which is held in place using high quality magnetic strips then the dust encompass won't fall off when transporting the case. Under the filter is a big grill that can support 3 optional 120mm or two 140mm fans. There is also room to install a large triple-fan radiator if you lot desire h2o cooling.

Both example doors are secured with thumbscrews while the left ane features a window and so you can display your hardware.

Turning the 450D on its side reveals a filter that is designed to terminate the power supply from collecting dust from the flooring, while also preventing debris from slipping into the example. Corsair has also included four big feet that raise the 450D an inch from the ground, assuasive for plenty of airflow under the example.

Around back the 450D looks much like whatsoever other mid-sized tower case, though we should indicate out that the matte black paint chore is likewise connected around to the rear. Up tiptop is the motherboard I/O panel and reverse that is a preinstalled 120mm fan backside nonetheless some other honeycomb grill.

The 450D sports 7 expansion slots and 3 one-inch holes for h2o-cooling hoses, while the power supply bracket is at the bottom of the example -- the norm these days.