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If you’re fed up with all the fancy SFF boxes that are becoming ever more popular, then the Chieftec BX-02B-SL-B case might be something that appeals to you. It’s not massive, but it is large enough to fit any normal size motherboard and even some of the smaller server and workstation boards out there. This is a case for those who, like me have more drives in their PC than they sensibly need. It seems like I own more drives than I can fit in my current case and the BX-02B-SL-B might just be the solution.

The very odd name is made up from the different colour combinations that Chieftec uses. There is a wide range of options available and you can even mix and match different panels to personalise your BX case. Some of the options might be localised and you would have to check with your supplier to find out what is available. This is a new concept as far as I know, so Chieftec should be applauded for being a little different.

But let’s get down to the nitty-gritty details and take a closer look at what the BX-02B-SL-B has to offer. With aluminium cases en vogue at the moment, heavy steel cases are not as popular as they where. That said the BX-02B-SL-B is a solid case that’s built like a tank, but all that sturdy build quality does mean it’s also very heavy.

One of the best features of the Chieftec range is the little handle on the side panel. This means that you can have the case closed, but still gain quick and easy access to the internals of your PC when necessary. The rest of the case has been given a good overhaul and the BX-02 series is definitely a step in the right direction.

Most of the changes are minor, but starting from the back and moving forward, Chieftec has added a removable bracket that holds expansion cards in place, rather than having to use screws. You can of course still use screws if you want to, so you’re not limited by the bracket. A new air vent has also been added at the rear, but sadly there is still no space for a 120mm fan at the back of the case, so you’re stuck with two 80mm units.

Towards the front you’ll find more changes. First, the cages for the 3.5in drives have acquired air holes for better ventilation. Then there is the new, optional side mounted 92mm fan, which has been given a vent hole on the side panel to draw in fresh, cool air from the outside to aid the drive cooling.

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