CONCLUSION

   After spending quite some time with the Core X71 Full Tower by Thermaltake I can only say that it could have been the largest and best full tower to ever pass from our lab if only it was slightly lengthier and featured support for XL-ATX mainboards. I really don’t know why Thermaltake chose this route since the Core X71 has the height needed to accommodate XL-ATX mainboards so the main issue is the available PCI expansion slots and the somewhat taller than needed bottom/PSU chamber. On the bright side with enough room for up to 4 large radiators (280/360/420/480mm) and/or 15 fans (3 already installed) you will never have to worry about CPU (and system) temperatures ever again and that also happens to be its strong selling point right next to its ample interior space. Again however due to the somewhat limited length the Core X71 doesn’t feature exactly the same amount of available space for very long graphics cards but luckily this is resolved by removing the 3.5/2.5” drive cage. The ability to mount the PSU vertically in the lower chamber or horizontally at the top (if you decide to place two radiators at the bottom chamber) is a very good feature (one which enthusiasts will probably be happy to see) but again it’s unfortunately part of the reason the Core X71 doesn’t support XL-ATX mainboards.

   Another thing that makes the Thermaltake Core X71 really special is its very affordable price since currently you can find it for just USD131.99 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 140Euros inside the EU (Amazon.co.uk). Of course the reason we say “very affordable” is because similar models cost at least twice as much and so unless you really want room for an XL-ATX mainboard the Core X71 has virtually nothing to be jealous of those. Bottom line we all like the Core X71 and although I still don’t consider it to be the jack of all trades still we believe it’s the best full tower for water cooling enthusiasts currently at under USD200/200Euros and for that it gets our Platinum Award.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Design
- Interior Space (180mm Tall CPU Coolers – 420mm Long Graphics Cards – 220mm Long PSUs)
- Three 140mm Pre-Installed Fans
- Room For Up To 15 Fans
- 4 Radiator Mounts (3x360mm – 1x420/480mm)
- Removable Air-Filters
- Fully Removable Drive Cages
- Two PSU Areas
- Three Vertical Drive Mounts
- Price (For Some)

CONS

- Does Not Support XL-ATX Mainboards
- Overall Length
- Two And Not Three Vertical Drive Trays