A Closer Look - Outside

Out of the box, there are certain similarities to the NR400, with the well-placed, smaller glass panel above the metal shroud. It looks like both enclosures share the same base frame, but there are some subtle differences as well.


In the front, the MB311L ARGB is essentially equipped with a fairly fine metal mesh behind which the two ARGB fans come pre-installed. The mesh is not quite as fine as that of the NR400, but should still be sufficient to repel most of the dirt and grime of daily use. You may pull the cover off to reveal the two fans or install a third one.


One noticeable difference between the MB311L ARGB and the NR400 is the use of four thumb screws on this chassis, while the NR400 came with a setup that allows for a clean panel. I have no idea why Cooler Master did not simply continue with that setup instead of back-peddling to this more basic approach. On the opposite side, you will find a solid metal cover that is held in place by a pair of thumb screws.


The PSU bay in the rear comes with two sets of mounting holes and is otherwise pretty standard. Above that are the four expansion slots. Again, Cooler Master has opted to cut cost here compared to the NR400 by using break-out covers instead of the more versatile reusable kind, while keeping the extra cover you will need to remove to allow for expansion card installation. In the very top is a spot for a 120 mm exhaust fan, which means the total number of included cooling units remains two, just like in the NR400—exactly what we would expect.


In the top, you may install a 240 or 280 mm radiator, or respectively sized fans. In addition to this, Cooler Master includes a magnetic dust filter to cover this area up and protect the interior from dust. The I/O of the MB311L is actually quite basic. You will find two USB 3.0 ports, but instead of the combo audio jack we were presented with in the NR400, you will find two separate connectors.


The underside of the Masterbox MB311L ARGB is equipped with a basic metal mesh dust filter for the PSU intake vent.