A Closer Look - Outside

NZXT has done a good job in designing the Tempest 210 in such a way that it should be obvious from which line the chassis stems. Both the 210 and 410 feature the same industrial design, without any real depth or theme behind it, but the Tempest 210 at least avoids any round elements. As mentioned before, the chassis utilizes the exact same metal body as the Source 210, 210 Elite and 220, with the only difference being the cutout in the main side panel. Each of these cases carries a different price tag, which may be hard to understand for the enduser.


Taking a look at the main sides of the Tempest 210, the front utilizes black metal mesh and plastic. In the rear you have a bottom mounted PSU and all black paint job. NZXT has reused the main side panel found in the Tempest 410, allowing you to install two fans with a bit of space to line them up to fit your needs perfectly. The other side is completely solid and does not feature any openings.


In the front, the bottom area is clearly intended as an intake opening for the front fans, as you can see right through the metal mesh into the interior of the chassis. Above that are the three 5.25 inch bay covers, which each feature a sliding lock, allowing you to easily remove them when needed. This is one aspect you will not find in the Source 210 or 220 cases. A single USB 2.0, one USB 3.0 along with a pair of audio plugs is all you get in terms of I/O. I would have liked to see at least one additional USB 2.0 or 3.0 here.


Taking a closer look at the rear, the bottom is intended for the PSU, while there are seven standard expansion slots for the mainboard above that. Above that is another 120 mm fan pushing air out the back of the case.


NZXT has also created two openings in the ceiling panel. Even though they are too far apart for water cooling, you are free to install 120 or 140 mm fans here. In fact, NZXT included one such fan to pull hot air out of the chassis. In the front area, a small, flat plastic piece acts as a sort of tray in which you may place your keys, USB flash drive or the likes. Fairly high, soft rubber feet are used for the Tempest 220 case, just like in the entire Source line.