Introduction and First Impressions
An unique case with a compact dual-frame design
The Portal isn't a new case by any means, but it's still a unique mini-ITX offering from BitFenix that blends an unusual design with an easy build process thanks to a sliding "dual-frame" design for unfettered component access. It offers a compact footprint while still supporting a full-length graphics card, and the aluminum exterior provides light weight and a high-end appearance.
Our review sample includes a top window to showcase the graphics card, and between the white finish and black trim and stand this case really stands out. How well did it perform? Read on to find out!
Specifications
- Chassis Type: ITX Chassis
- Colors: Black or White
- Materials: Aluminum, SECC Steel, ABS, Transparent acrylic
- Compatibility:
- Motherboard: Mini-ITX
- CPU Cooler: Up to 125mm Height
- Graphic Card Length: Up to 300mm
- Power Supply: SFX Form Factor
- Storage Capacity:
- 3.5" HDD x2
- 2.5" HDD 1+2
- Cooling Capacity
- (Front) 120mm x 1 (Included)
- (Rear) 80mm x 1 (Included)
- Radiator Capacity (Front): Up to 120mm
- Front I/O ports: USB 3.0 x2, 3.5 mm Audio
- Dimensions with stand (WxHxD): 247 x 395 x 411 mm (9.72 x 15.55 x 16.18 inches)
- Weight 5.81 kg (12.81 lbs)
- BitFenix Portal: $99.99, Amazon.com
The Portal doesn't look like your typical mini-tower mITX case, but there is just enough room for a full system inside.
On the right side we find the USB 3.0 and 3.5 mm ports, and there is some ventilation from the narrow grills on the upper right and left. The left side has the same narrow vents on the upper half.
The top of our review unit has the optional GPU window, which occupies most of the top of the case:
Down on the bottom of the case we see the most significant ventilation on the Portal:
The back of the case shows the inverted motherboard layout, with the GPU mounted above the I/O panel.
And finally we'll take a look at the included hardware pack:
Next we'll take a look inside the Portal and check out the build process.
Review Terms and Disclosure All Information as of the Date of Publication |
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How product was obtained: | The product is on loan from BitFenix for the purpose of this review. |
What happens to the product after review: | The product remains the property of BitFenix but is on extended loan for future testing and product comparisons. |
Company involvement: | BitFenix had no control over the content of the review and was not consulted prior to publication. |
PC Perspective Compensation: | Neither PC Perspective nor any of its staff were paid or compensated in any way by BitFenix for this review. |
Advertising Disclosure: | BitFenix has purchased advertising at PC Perspective during the past twelve months. |
Affiliate links: | This article contains affiliate links to online retailers. PC Perspective may receive compensation for purchases through those links. |
Consulting Disclosure: | BitFenix is not a current client of Shrout Research for products or services related to this review. |
Someone really must have a
Someone really must have a sense of humor. “Compact” Mini-ITX case, hehe… The size of the thing (~29 liters without stand) would be compact if that thing were an mATX case. On the other hand, perhaps my English language comprehension is lacking and “compact” really just means nothing else than “biggish”. Guess i need to check the dictionary… 😉
Yeah, I like the look but for
Yeah, I like the look but for a mini-itx case it is huge. Each to their own obviously, but if you are going to pay the mini-itx premium, it doesn’t make sense to end up with a mATX size system.
No red LED in power button?
No red LED in power button? boo
It does have an LED. Check
It does have an LED. Check out the photo on the last page
A good looking computer case
A good looking computer case for people who don’t care about computers.
The Portal looks really cool
The Portal looks really cool and is aptly named. If it can bring down the temp a bit more, I don’t mind housing my next build with it. I still might. Keeping it on my short list.
Thanks for the review.