A Closer Look - Outside

Out of the box, the Zalman X3 looks pretty cool at first sight. Clocking in at a hefty 9.1 kg, where some of this weight sits is pretty apparent, as the side panels are pretty large and extend to the front of the case.


Looking at the front, the two side panels extend across this area of the case, leaving just a slim gap between them. Pulling the panels apart is easy as they are held in place by pins and clips. While the accessibility is great, hinges in the rear with less clips could have also been a good approach. Once you remove the covers, you have access to a plastic-framed metal-mesh layer that is also easily removed. By doing so, you are able to see the three retail-grade Z-Spectrum ARGB fans set to pull cool air into the case.


Taking a quick look at the rear, the side panels extend slightly to this part of the Zalman X3 as well. In terms of the internal layout, the chassis follows the modern norm, with the PSU bay at the bottom of the chassis.


Looking at the main side of the X3, you will find an embedded glass panel and cool branding, which is a nice departure from the full glass implementations that have become commonplace. The engineering of the panel does result in a really clean glass window, but Zalman tinted it heavily, so you will have a hard time showing off your hardware. Turning the enclosure around, the opposite side is completely solid.


In the rear, the bottom PSU bay comes with a set of mounting holes, so the PSU is meant to have its fan face downward. Above that, you will find seven expansion slots with individual, reusable covers. Zalman also designed these in a way that does away with metal beams dividing the slots, so you could use a universal vertical GPU mounting brackets if you like. In the very top is a fourth retail-grade Z-Spectrum 120 mm ARGB fan, this time set to blow hot air out the back.


Zalman seems to have focused heavily on the top panel. It is not only shaped uniquely with venting in the back and the large I/O square in the front, but comes with two embedded ARGB strips with 13 LEDs each. These are already pre-routed and attached to the internal ARGB controller via proprietary connectors. While Zalman does not officially mention radiator support for the top, the mounting holes are offset and should at least allow for a 240 mm unit. In terms of fans, you may choose between two 120 or 140 mm cooling units.


Towards the front, the Zalman X3 comes with two USB 3.0 ports alongside a pair of the aging USB 2.0 variant. On top of the dual audio connectors, you will find a large LED toggle button and the usual power/reset/LED setup.


Taking a quick look underneath the case, there is a full-length dust filter you may pull out through the back for easy cleaning.