SilverStone Raven RV03 Review

👤by David Mitchelson Comments 📅23-05-12
Conclusion

The Raven has always been a symbol synonymous with intelligence and independence. Over the years many have look to the Raven as a symbol of wisdom and a bird that is able to single-handedly deliver messages of mystery and the RV03 fits perfectly into this ideal.

RV03 has a unique design that sets it apart from almost every case currently on the market. From the external appearance you would be forgiven for thinking RV03 is yet another stylish standard ATX chassis but you couldn’t be any further from the truth. SilverStone has given RV03 a unique layout design meaning hardware is rotated by 90 degrees. The PCI expansion slot covers are at the top of the case and the intake cooling fans that are typically at the front of a computer chassis are found at the bottom. Thanks to this exclusive design thermal performance is distinctly better than the traditional computer chassis. As we all know, heat rises and so this design of having the hardware in its required orientation and large – dual 180mm cooling fans driving air up, over the components and out through the top is superior and very effective.



SilverStone has given the RV03 a substantial width and taken a generous segment of this to aid clearance behind the motherboard tray, lending itself to ample space for cable management. Behind the motherboard tray RV03 can accommodate an assortment of 2.5” and 3.5” storage devices and the brackets used to storage these drives creates channels and cavities for the cables to hide behind. This means that the entire system on both sides can be kept tidy and airflow can remain unrestricted resulting in better overall temperatures.

Experience with RV03 is largely positive but there are a few niggles that are probably worth mentioning. The strength of the magnets found on the air filters on the underside of the case are challenged when the case is moved around. The air filters detach from the case far too easily. The other point that restrains me from awarding RV03 the gold award is that there is a lot of plastic used for the external elements - the front and top fascias cheapen the look and feel, especially when compared to the RV02 which has left very high standards in this area.

RV03 can be found for around £90-100inc. VAT which is quite good value for money when you consider what has gone into the construction of this case. It has 2x 180mm fans, 1x 120mm fan, USB 3.0 ports and a fan controller. It’s also hard to put a price on something so unique.

VIDEO REVIEW - VORTEZ TV


SilverStone has delivered yet another unique product in the Raven RV03. It steps outside of the box, redefines the way we look at computer cases and I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the results. It comes highly recommended by Vortez and attains our much coveted Silver award for excellence.

Pros
+ Unique design sets it apart
+ Looks very stylish
+ Great thermal performance
+ Excellent cable management potential
+ Two-speed fan controller
+ Dual 180mm fans drive airflow
+ Good value for money

Cons
- Air filters at bottom fall off easily
- Lots of plastic



Click here for an explanation of our awards at Vortez.net. Thanks to SilverStone for providing today’s review sample.

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