Cougar Volant Case Review – Astounding Midi-Tower Chassis At A Modest Price

The front panel I/O includes 1 USB 3.0, 1 USB 2.0, as well as mic and audio jacks. It’s simple and doesn’t take away the overall design, but two USB 3.0 ports would have made a lot more sense. Framing the I/O is the reset and power buttons embossed with little dots which are perfect for feeling around for if not visible; they are quite solid and have the right amount of give. The LED power lights are also built into the power/reset buttons and gives a nice blue glow for easy visibility at night. We wish they went with a red/orange LED to compliment the different colour case and fan theme, but that’s more of a personal request.

On top of the chassis sits the top access external 3.5” & 2.5” HDD/SSD SATA dock perfect for extra storage; no need to buy an external enclosure. This is one of my favorite features as the drives fit snug and secure while making it super simple to share files with friends. Of course the drives are naked and out in the open, so care is required.  Continued on the top you can install two 120mm optional fans for extra exhaust.

On the left side panel is another mesh intake vent you can install 2 x 120mm fans for additional optional airflow. The Volant was designed very well to take advantage of all the negative space inside.

On the bottom we have the same intake vent setup except it comes with air filters to help trap dust from entering the power supply. You can add only one 120mm fan here for extra cooling. The plastic feet are a relief since they are screwed on and should pass the test of time, but unfortunately are not rubber for better vibration control.

They do however lift off the ground with a good amount of clearance, which not only allows for proper airflow and easy cleaning of the aforementioned air filters, but also allows easy access for removing the front panel of the Volant.

The rear is full of ventilation, most notable from the installed 120mm Cougar Vortex exhaust fan. The Volant has seven vented slot covers for additional airflow; they can be removed and added back later. As mentioned priort, the Volan also supports water-cooling. You will notice the two retention holes under the fan. If you went with the eight fan set-up you will have more than enough cooling for even the most demanding gaming machine. The Vortex fans are whisper quiet, so as long as you keep them clean, you will have a silent machine.