Conclusion
There are very few things that we
managed to find that we didn’t like with the PC-B25F, but if Lian-Li were to
make some improvements, we’d like to have the option to fit the hard drives the
other way around in, as this would allow for an even tidier build. A SATA
backplane as an add-on upgrade option could also be a potential candidate here
which would make it even easier to install the hard drives and it should reduce
the cable clutter to a degree, as it would require less power connectors to be
used.
There’s also no native support for
2.5-inch drives, but at least Lian-Li is offering an optional kit for 2.5-inch
drives to be fitted into the 3.5-inch drive bays, although it’s limited to one
drive per rack which seems like a bit of a wasted opportunity. While on the
subject of optional extras, Lian-Li is also offering a noise reduction foam
kit, but the noise levels from the PC-B25F are quite reasonable as it is,
despite the five fans. Several side panels with windows and extra fan mounts
are also available, not to forget a wide range of card readers and fan
controllers. The great thing with Lian-Li and its accessories is that they all
match in terms of colour and materials used, although they won’t be as cheap as
other third party accessories.
Click for hi-res
The build experience was very positive
with the PC-B25F and it really is a pleasure to work with a well crafted case
like this. There’s no concern that you’ll cut yourself on sharp edges and
everything fits together neatly. It’s the attention to the little details that
will make or break a high-end case like this and Lian-Li definitely delivers
where it counts. The overall design of the case is quite clean and somewhat
industrial, with a backlit blue circle on the front of the chassis. It might be
too plain to some, but we like the clean lines and understated design.
At €158,- this PC-B25F isn’t cheap,
although it feels robust enough to last many years. Yes, you can find
something similar for less money, but you won’t get the same craftsman ship nor
the same amount of features thrown in as standard. Overall we’re very impressed by the PC-B25FB
and we’d whole heartedly recommend it to anyone that is looking for a well
built, long lasting case.
