14 DAY TRIAL // Computers based on mini-ITX motherboards are always smaller than others, deliberately on the part of their makers. After all, HTPCs are supposed to be innocuous little things, with just the right level of good looks for when you can't help but lay eyes on them.
Yet some mini PCs can't help but be set up in spots where there is no way to overlook them, which means that a good-looking case might be in order.
Also, some owners might appreciate it if they still got enough room for an add-in graphics card. After all, LAN parties aren't places where you can easily bring your full-size gaming system.
Sharkoon has just released a case made for such occasions, bearing the full name of Shark Zone C10 mini-ITX PC Case.
The SHARK ZONE C10 Mini-ITX PC Case
First off, there is room inside for only one mini-ITX case. Not dual-system or micro-ATX capability here. This really is made for only the smallest of the gaming systems.
Nevertheless, even then, there is enough room inside for full-height graphics cards of 31.5 cm in length, or 12.4 inches. Not sufficient for the biggest heavy hitters out there, but enough for, say, the GeForce GTX 970.
For storage, Sharkoon included one 3.5-inch hard drive bay which can be used for a 2.5-inch bay, but there is a way to bring the number up to 2 in both cases.
The secret is to sacrifice the 5.25-inch drive bay. While normally used for an optical disk drive or some other accessory (fan controller, liquid cooler), it can be used for a second 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch drive instead.
Furthermore, there is space on the back panel for a third 2.5-inch drive, provided you are okay with removing the 80 mm fan from there.
Fortunately, with how small the case is, the air is bound to flow freely just thanks to whatever coolers the CPU and graphics card use. And you still have the 120 mm top fan, and an optional 120 mm secondary fan.
Or you could go with minimal storage and place a 240 mm radiator at the top of the compartment where the 5.25-inch drive would normally be.
Availability
The Sharkoon Shark Zone C10 Mini-ITX PC Case, complete with a front/side panel featuring two USB 3.0 ports and audio jacks, should be up for sale at €40 / $40. Altogether, the product measures 37.0 x 22.5 x 18.0 centimeters / 14.59 x 8.85 x 7.08 inches.
