Cooler Master launches $100 compact HAF XB case for LAN-goers

Matthew DeCarlo

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Although we hold the HAF 932 and HAF X with high regard, there's no denying what could be viewed as a major shortcoming: they're massive. Full tower enclosures provide plenty of elbowroom to work with, but they're also a hassle when it comes to attending LAN parties or dealing with a cramped desk area. As such, Cooler Master has unveiled a new chassis for folks who are interested in the HAF series but need a compact solution.

Hitting US shelves this week for $100 and due in Europe later this month, the HAF XB measures 17.4 (W) x 16.7 (D) x 13 (H) inches and weighs 18.1lbs -- about 10 inches shorter, 5 inches less deep and 13lbs lighter than the HAF X -- yet it supports the same high-end hardware you'd typically stuff into a larger case.

Along with support for standard ATX, Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards, the HAF XB can handle seven expansion cards including three GPUs measuring up to 13.1 inches (334mm) long, processor coolers standing up to 7.1 inches (180mm) tall and power supplies extending up to 7.08 inches (180mm) long.

Drive-wise, the HAF XB can accommodate up to two 5.25-inch devices, two 3.5-inch drives via hot-swappable X-Dock bays on the front of the enclosure, and up to six 2.5-inch drives if you factor in the X-Dock bays. Front panel connectivity is fairly standard with two USB 3.0 ports as well as audio input and output jacks.

You'll also find room for dual 120mm or 140mm front intake fans, one 120mm or two 80mm rear fans and one 200mm fan up top, as well as support for a 120mm liquid cooling radiator in back or 240mm up front. Once outfitted, you can ogle your hardware through a transparent window in the top of the enclosure.

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The last paragraph duplicates part of the paragraph. That being said, I find this case kind of silly considering it's pedigree, but at the same time oddly tempted to build something with it... It must be that mild obsession with "small" form factor cases I have. =p
 
Cooler Master must have been reading my mind. I love my HAF 912. It's one of the coolest looking cases. I bought it just to keep young kids away from my computer. :) But seriously, the case looks just as good as the big brother and the smaller size is very welcome for a second computer. Looks like I'll be spending more money on computer parts.
 
100$ isn't pricey for something with high quality materials like that, lol. Pricey is the Corsair 800D.
 
Any idea if these are stackable?! From the pics it appears they could be. Great looking case and appears to be plenty of room. Looks like I'll ned to get a couple to play with!
 
They are not stackable due to the buldge to hold the front panel grill and a 200mm fan
 
ROFLMAO, They DO STACK ! ! ! ! Retail box, right side, 3rd PIC down shows 3 of them stacked...
 
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