Conclusion
BitFenix is clearly trying to cover all its bases here by creating a wide range of cube cases to appeal to just about everyone. Expanding the form to include mATX systems is also another step in this direction. The Colossus M is distinct amongst their current cube lineup as it features the most aggressive design yet. Let’s break down the score:
Build Quality. We’ve mentioned it twice before when we covered both the Phenom and Prodigy: BitFenix made a very high-quality frame for their cube chassis and this design is so effective that its practically unchanged for all the cube offerings from BitFenix. There’s still some room for improvement but given the complexity and sacrifices that goes into the existing chassis, it is already an engineering feat.
Functionality. Whereas the Prodigy and Phenom are aimed at the elegance crowd, the Colossus is certainly a whole other beast for a different audience. Bearing the same frame as the other cubes, the flexibility is there. What sets it off for the Colossus M is its looks. Definitely a desktop centerpiece, the sinister illumination is subdued yet attractive.
Bundle. The pattern we’re seeing here is that BitFenix is banking more on the out-of-box experience rather than accessory bundles to round out the BitFenix cube experience. You still get some cable management tools like zip ties and of course screws, but the design itself is enough to really provide an impressive, above average bundle.
Value. If you’re named after the company’s flagship product, you’re bound to get tossed around as the next poster boy and billed as such also. And by billed we mean price tag. The BitFenix Colossus M currently sells for around $109 on e-tailers, a slight markup versus its brothers but let’s recount what we’re getting: premium quality steel construction, coated exterior, full expansion flexibility to accommodate mATX/ITX (depends on your version) and unique to the Colossus M is its LED lighting.
Expanding from that last segment, you can easily spend the same amount for a mid-range midtower but try and find a similarly sized chassis, with the same style and features and you are easily left with just one option: the Colossus M. Simply put, there is no competition.
As a chassis, the Colossus M offers a well-thought out product with cooling, flexibility and compatibility in mind. A quick personal note though, I am a very big fan of the original Colossus and the the Colossus M does not resonate the feel of the original. The design is totally different, with only the lighting the hint of similarity and even at that, there is no way an average Joe would even relate the Colossus M to the tower Colossus.
Don’t get me wrong though, the Colossus M is great as it is. If the Prodigy and Phenom just aren’t your style but still want to keep your choices in the cube form factor, then the Colossus M is for your consideration.
We award the BitFenix Colossus mATX with our B2G Editor’s Choice.