Page 2 - Physical Look - Outside
Upon initial review, it becomes apparent Cooler Master has sought to differentiate the MasterBox 5t from other MasterBox cases. Externally, the case has a very similar look to its predecessor, the Cooler Master MasterBox 5. However, it has some distinct differences that set it apart. The symmetrical case boasts clean lines, includes I/O ports, and features a primarily steel body in a black matte finish with a splash of red color on both the front panel and top dust cover. This being said, the red color scheme does somewhat limit the inclusion of lighting in different LED colors, should that be of interest. The front of the case is a tinted plastic window where the fans, especially if they are equipped with LEDs, can be highlighted. The Cooler Master logo is prominently located on the face of the case, and a carrying handle can be found behind the I/O ports, which effectively addresses portability. Overall, the aesthetics of the case are striking in my opinion, and the quality has been factor as I believe the MasterBox 5t is both well-constructed and built to last.
Looking at the dimensions of the Cooler Master MasterBox 5t, it stands at a balanced 513.5mm in height, with a length of 541.2 mm and a width of 220 mm. In comparison to its forerunner, the MasterBox 5, this case stands a little taller and is a bit a longer, which gives it more flexibility in terms of build size. As a mid-tower, the case itself is actually quite large in relative, and despite the extra room and differing dimensions as compared to the MasterBox 5, the case differs by mere decagrams in overall weight. The Cooler Master MasterBox 5t comes in at 7.73 kg, while the Cooler Master MasterBox 5 compares at 7.64 kg, which speaks to the ongoing evolutionary efforts of Cooler Master.
Cooler Master has located the input and outputs on the top of the Cooler Master MasterBox 5t. Moving from left to right, there is an HDD activity light, reset button, USB 3.0 port, 3.5 mm headphone jack, 3.5 mm microphone jack, another USB 3.0 port, and finally a fan control button. The power button is located directly in front of and between the two 3.5 mm jacks. The placement of the input and outputs by Cooler Master is ideal for a case being placed on the floor. However, it may not accommodate as well those users who prefer locating a case on top of a desk. Lastly, at the very back of the case is a ventilated panel on top, which is meant to help address cooling.
The panel on the front of the case is something that will catch any consumer’s eye, and for a good reason. The front of the case is composed of dark tinted plastic that is detachable for fan installation and maintenance. This design is extremely efficient as removal and reinstallation of the front panel can be achieved in mere seconds. The red accents on the dust filters give it an aesthetic edge that has not been seen on previous Cooler Master cases, and is a stylistic change I can appreciate. The plastic panel, however, is somewhat problematic in that it attracts dust quite easily, and would need to be wiped fairly regularly to remove build-up due to static, prints, or pet fur. Aesthetically, the tinted plastic detracts slightly from any lighting a user might wish to install behind the panel, because the dark hue tends to mute the brilliance of an LED light source. In reality, this is a small issue based on personal preference, and does not detract from the case in any critical measure. Removing the front panel reveals sufficient space to accommodate up to three 120mm fans, two 140 mm fans, or a front mounted radiator up to 360mm. It should be noted front facing fans behind the solid panel will have to work harder in order to drive the same amount of airflow that would be more readily available in a mesh front panel. However, this case boasts plenty of space overall those interesting in considering a variety of builds.
Examining the back of the case, the layout of the Cooler Master MasterBox 5t is fairly typical in terms of layout. The power supply is located at the bottom of the case with all seven of the expansion slots placed neatly above it and the motherboard cut out just above the seven expansion slots. In fact, for those familiar with Cooler Master’s MasterBox 5, it should be noted the back panel of the Cooler Master MasterBox 5t is pretty much identical in design. There is a slot for a single 120 mm fan, which comes pre-installed, as well as the Cooler Master’s patented bottom expansion slot cover, known as their StormGuard system, used to secure peripherals. Finally, there is ventilation for rear exhaust. The fan controller switch is included in the front as aforementioned.
Checking out the bottom of the case, Cooler Master has opted for incorporate a two-leg system, which slant out from the bottom of the case in both the back and front. Rubber pads have been attached to protect the surface of both the case and the resting place of the computer, and are effective in reducing any vibration emanating from the case itself. The case also features a removable dust filter to prevent dust from entering the power supply, which is simple to remove and clean. The final notable entry for the bottom of the case are the extra mounting holes, which will be discussed later on in this review.
Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. Physical Look - Outside
3. Physical Look - Inside
4. Installation and Conclusion
