The assumption as to whether a case performs well is down largely down to how easy it is to install components and the standard of the build quality. Whilst this does determine the performance of a case, we really need to know how good the airflow is inside the P183 under various fan speed operations, along with the loudness of the fans at each speed mode. To ascertain this, we will perform 2 short tests along with comparing the P183 against the Antec Twelve Hundred Gaming case.

Low fan speed - idle/load
High fan speed - idle/load

Idle temperatures are taken from the CPU after a cold boot - 15 minutes idling in Windows. Load temperatures are taken from the CPU after 45 minutes of OCCT CPU stress test.

Test Setup

Processor: Intel 920 i7 @ 3.8GHz
Motherboard: Asus P6T Deluxe X48
CPU Cooler: Noctua NH-C12P
Graphics: XFX 7900GT 256MB PCI-e
Audio: Creative X-Fi XtremeMusic
Hard Disk: 1xSamsung Spinpoint 500GB SATAII 1xWD 160GB SATAII
PSU: Antec Signature Series 650W PSU

Results

Antec Twelve Hundred



Antec P183



It’s pleasing to see that from the above results the P183 isn’t all that far behind the Antec Twelve Hundred case which hosts 6 fans including the notorious Antec Big Boy fan. When you compare the P183 only has 2 case fans, it leaves us in no doubt that the chamber along with the shutter system definitely aids airflow. I’m almost certain that if we were to install additional fans to the P183 it would be on par with the Antec Twelve Hundred’s cooling ability.

Sound

Whilst we cannot fault the build quality and cooling solutions found on the P183, we should not miss out the audible factor. After all this is something that can be an issue for some people.

I found the P183 to be a very quiet case on low and medium settings. The sound proofing on the door panels really does help here and of course all devices are secured using anti-vibration padding so there is no movement at all. When we move the notches up to high though, things do get quite noisy and disruptive.

Conclusion

The Antec P183 is an impressive addition to the Performance One Series of cases. From start to finish I have been pleased with every aspect. The construction, aesthetics and performance are reflected well for the price tag.

Installation was made very easy by the neat features inside, and given the functionality of this case we can further improve the already brilliant airflow by installing additional fans without much bother at all.

One slight niggle, that I feel could be addressed is the absent instructions manual from the case. For some, the task of installing various devices might not be so apparent.

All in all, the P183 is a visually appealing case that features some great craftsmanship and noise reduction. Suitable for any enthusiast that wants looks, performance and functionality. I would gladly recommend this case.



Vortez Hardware would like to thank Antec for supplying the P183 case. Discuss this review at our forum.