CM Storm Scout 2 Review
Conclusion
We’ve been impressed with CM Storm’s previous case creations - Trooper and Enforcer but how does the Scout 2 fare?
Being the 2nd generation of CM Storm’s Scout chassis we were interested to see what alterations would be made and to ascertain if this new version is a better product than its predecessor and we weren’t disappointed. Scout 2 has numerous improvements over the original Scout. Gone are the sharp and uninspiring aesthetics and instead we have a much more refined product in the Scout 2. Its physical appearance lends itself to being smooth, sleek and pleasing to the eye.
Its features and build quality are great. Tool-less design mechanisms have been used throughout to make the installation of hardware an easy process and the chassis can entertain high-end components thanks to the generous space within. Cable management is a particular area which Scout 2 delights in – cable management grommets have been well-placed and clearance behind the motherboard tray along with cable tie brackets ensure hassle-free cable storage. It was easy to tidy away cables and of course having a clean, tidy interior can contribute to lower temperatures because airflow has no obstacles to battle with.
Although the Scout 2 is a triumph over the 1st Scout chassis there are some shortfalls however. CM Storm have decided to only install a single cooling fan within the case, this inevitably impedes cooling performance – for its price, Scout 2 should have more cooling fans – having one at the front as an intake is almost obligatory nowadays. There are plenty of spots for attaching 3.5” drives but only two places for 2.5” we feel this is another shortfall, there should be more housing for this form factor.
Priced at £85 / $99 the Scout 2 is a costly purchase when you weigh in the balance the features and spec. The calibre of this chassis puts hints at it sitting better at £70 rather than £85 given the lack of fans and size of the case. Scout 2 is just slightly bigger than CM Storm Enforcer yet Enforcer is just shy of £70 and even has a dual fan configuration.
Being the 2nd generation of CM Storm’s Scout chassis we were interested to see what alterations would be made and to ascertain if this new version is a better product than its predecessor and we weren’t disappointed. Scout 2 has numerous improvements over the original Scout. Gone are the sharp and uninspiring aesthetics and instead we have a much more refined product in the Scout 2. Its physical appearance lends itself to being smooth, sleek and pleasing to the eye.
Its features and build quality are great. Tool-less design mechanisms have been used throughout to make the installation of hardware an easy process and the chassis can entertain high-end components thanks to the generous space within. Cable management is a particular area which Scout 2 delights in – cable management grommets have been well-placed and clearance behind the motherboard tray along with cable tie brackets ensure hassle-free cable storage. It was easy to tidy away cables and of course having a clean, tidy interior can contribute to lower temperatures because airflow has no obstacles to battle with.
Although the Scout 2 is a triumph over the 1st Scout chassis there are some shortfalls however. CM Storm have decided to only install a single cooling fan within the case, this inevitably impedes cooling performance – for its price, Scout 2 should have more cooling fans – having one at the front as an intake is almost obligatory nowadays. There are plenty of spots for attaching 3.5” drives but only two places for 2.5” we feel this is another shortfall, there should be more housing for this form factor.
Priced at £85 / $99 the Scout 2 is a costly purchase when you weigh in the balance the features and spec. The calibre of this chassis puts hints at it sitting better at £70 rather than £85 given the lack of fans and size of the case. Scout 2 is just slightly bigger than CM Storm Enforcer yet Enforcer is just shy of £70 and even has a dual fan configuration.
VIDEO REVIEW - VORTEZ TV
Pros
+ Stylish, sleek and good looking
+ Good quality materials
+ Very good cable management features
Cons
- Only a single cooling fan
- Can accommodate just two SSDs
- Price should be lower
+ Stylish, sleek and good looking
+ Good quality materials
+ Very good cable management features
Cons
- Only a single cooling fan
- Can accommodate just two SSDs
- Price should be lower
Click here for an explanation of our awards at Vortez.net.
