The NZXT S340 Case Review

Conclusion

We should start our conclusion stating the simple fact that the NZXT S340 lacks 5.25" device mounts and there are no options for any form of optical media devices, therefore those that do want to install an ODD should instantly look elsewhere or invest in a USB ODD drive. NZXT designed the S340 to be a competitively priced, compact and visually elegant solution for a home and a gaming PC. The retail price of just $81 including shipping definitely is appealing, yet there are several shortcomings that need to be considered first.

Aesthetics are a subjective topic. It is natural that some will love the appearance of the S340, while others will not. In our opinion, the design of the S340 is very simple and straightforward. Those driven by minimalism will love the plain design of the S340 and the contrast between the glossy white and matte black colors. On the other hand, the S340 is far too plain and the flat surfaces are cold and uninspiring, so it may look out of place in a modern environment or in a youth's room.

Although aesthetics are a subjective topic, quality is not. Mechanically, the NZXT S340 is a rather solid design, without significant apparent issues. Still, the quality of the paint job is concerning. In particular, the matte black paint is very susceptible to scratches and requires a lot of attention when working inside the case or when placing items on top of it. We did not face any issues with the white glossy paint during our short time with the S340, which is significantly better applied, yet we were worried that it could lose its luster and become damp, especially if cleaning chemicals were applied. We tested that theory by applying common household cleaning compounds and the glossy paint of the S340 remained unscathed. On the other hand, bleach and dipentene dampened the surface of the S340 almost instantly and irreversibly. It would be very wise to use only very soft chemicals or no chemicals at all while cleaning the S340.

Aside from the obvious inability to use a 5.25" device or even an external 3.5" device, the S340 is a relatively practical product but there still are some shortcomings. The user is limited to two 2.5" drives and three 3.5" drives. No 2.5" drives can be installed in the 3.5" bays and there are no other expansion options. Still, the number of drives should be more than enough for the majority of home and gaming PCs. It also lacks any "luxurious" features, such as rubber grommets to cover the cable holes, fan controllers or even a cover for the large opening and exposed screws of the expansion cards. On the other hand, the spacious rear of the motherboard tray and the concept of the cable management bar greatly aid the user to assemble a very clean system. The only issue here is that the cable ties on the management bar warrant that they will have to be cut each time that the bar needs to come off or when there are significant system changes.  

From a purely practical point of view, the NZXT S340 is the perfect case for those that want to assemble a good home/gaming PC and keep it untouched for a relatively long time. It is spacious enough to hold powerful components, large coolers and liquid cooling options. On the other hand, the lack of ODD support and the relatively small number of drive slots are insignificant flaws for the majority of home PC users, and especially gamers. If the plain appearance and practical simplicity of the NZXT S340 are considered and found acceptable, its low retail price and compact design make it a very competitive product that should easily find its way among the top slots of a shopping shortlist. 

Additional: Due to great timing, for those keeping track of our Build-A-Rig project, the NZXT S340 (black) was chosen by Zotac for their $1500 gaming build as part of the minimalist design and aesthetic. With Build-A-Rig, we invite companies to produce a parts list for a PC which we build, test and giveaway. Readers can enter the giveaway to win a PC, read about the machines being built and also interviews with the companies. Details to enter are here.