Features and Specifications

A radical case, designed for elite gaming enthusiasts. The first part of this review will cover the limited edition enclosure and later in Part 2 we will take a detailed look at the optional water-cooling system.
Introduction

Thermaltake’s new SwordM full-tower enclosure is a real beauty and includes numerous features, which are sure to set it apart from the crowd.  A pop-up convertible top, multiple hinged doors, and hydraulically damped spring actuators make this enclosure very unique.  It is available with or without an integrated water cooling system and is designed to accommodate a 7” LCD monitor bay device.  There are just too many interesting features to cover in a single review so we are going to present the SwordM in two parts.  In Part 1 we will focus on the SwordM limited edition enclosure and the optional 7” LCD monitor and in Part 2 we will take a detailed look at the optional water-cooling system.

•    Part 1 – Thermaltake SwordM Full-Tower enclosure and 7” LCD Monitor
•    Part 2 – Thermaltake SwordM Liquid Cooling System
   
Unlike some of the other high-end gaming cases that we have reviewed recently (that exhibit clean lines and reserved styling) the SwordM full-tower enclosure is big, bold, and incorporates one of a kind styling.  Thermaltake designers blended elements of modern technology with the streamlined curves of ancient Chinese swords to create the SwordM case.  The limited edition SwordM chassis is hand assembled to deliver both aesthetic appeal and functional features to meet the demands of modern PC gaming enthusiasts.  And don’t think this bad-boy stands on looks alone.  It comes with five built-in 120mm case fans for powerful yet quiet case cooling (plus two more if you go with the water-cooling option).

Thermaltake SwordM Full-Tower Case Review - Part 1 - Cases and Cooling 53
(Courtesy of Thermaltake)

The Thermaltake SwordM full-tower case is available with or without an integrated water-cooling system.  We have the top of the line VD500LBNA in for review, which includes a high performance radiator, powerful 12 VDC pump, universal CPU waterblock and all the necessary accessories required for easy installation.  We will be taking a detailed look at the water-cooling system in Part 2 of this review.  The good guys at Thermaltake also sent along one of their retractable LCD monitors to show off the SwordM’s 7” drive bay capability.

Thermaltake SwordM VD500LBNA Key Features:

•    Radical styling designed to be the true dream gaming PC
•    All aluminum construction and fully hand assembled
•    Built-in liquid cooling system with high performance radiator
•    Seven pre-installed 120mm cooling fans (5 case fans, 2 radiator fans)
•    Convertible top panel for better ventilation and easy access
•    Hydraulic mechanisms for the top and side panel
•    Revolutionary open back plate design provides maximum internal airflow
•    Ventilation openings all around for optimized thermal management
•    Stylish back door hides cable clutter to perfect the appearance
•    Tool-free design for easy installation
•    Supports up to ten 5.25” drives
•    Detachable HDD cage
•    Stylish, reinforced handles for easy transport
•    7” Drive bay for optional touch screen LCD monitor

Thermaltake SwordM Full-Tower Case Review - Part 1 - Cases and Cooling 54
(Courtesy of Thermaltake)

SwordM Specifications (from the Thermaltake website)

Thermaltake SwordM Full-Tower Case Review - Part 1 - Cases and Cooling 55

The SwordM ships in a large, colorfully printed cardboard box nestled between four poly-foam blocks and wrapped in a protective cloth-like bag.  All of the accessories are securely packed in cardboard boxes and wired in place inside the enclosure.

Thermaltake SwordM Full-Tower Case Review - Part 1 - Cases and Cooling 56

In addition to the case and pre-installed liquid cooling system components, the SwordM package also includes the following items securely packed inside the enclosure.

Thermaltake SwordM Full-Tower Case Review - Part 1 - Cases and Cooling 57

•    Water-cooling accessory kit (waterblock, coolant, tubing, etc.)
•    Multi-lingual User’s Manual
•    Four caster wheels
•    Upper and lower aluminum visors
•    (2) Bag of mounting screws and hardware
•    (2) 7” Bay cover
•    Cable tie and Thermaltake case badge
•    Power cord right-angle adapter

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