Silverstone Tek CS-ML04B Micro ATX Media Center Case

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82%
18%
88%
Build Quality
90%
Design & Aesthetics
85%
Ease of Setup
60%
Cooling Performance
92%
Space Efficiency
87%
Versatility of Drive Bays
80%
Security Features
85%
Expansion Card Support
80%
Compatibility with Hardware
72%
Noise Levels
92%
Value for Money
75%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Silverstone Tek CS-ML04B Micro ATX Media Center Case is a compact, slim-profile case designed for small yet powerful PC builds. This space-saving case offers support for low-profile expansion cards and standard PS2 power supplies, making it versatile for various setups. Its sleek, desktop-style design ensures it fits seamlessly into a media center or business workspace. Users looking to build a functional home theater or business PC in a compact form factor will find this case to be a practical and space-efficient option.

Features & Benefits

The Silverstone Tek CS-ML04B Micro ATX Media Center Case boasts a lockable front door and power button for enhanced security. It supports up to four 80mm fans, ensuring efficient airflow despite its small size. The drive bays are highly versatile with multi-purpose mounts, eliminating the need for adapters, making the build process simpler. The combination of an aluminum front door and steel body offers both durability and an aesthetically appealing design, perfect for those looking for both style and function.

Best For

This Micro ATX case is ideal for those seeking a compact, low-profile solution for a home theater PC or a business setup. It works well for PC builders needing a small desktop case that still offers adequate storage options. If you're looking for a secure case that's easy to assemble and compatible with low-profile components, this case is an excellent choice for small, space-conscious builds.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the Silverstone Tek CS-ML04B for its compact design and ability to fit in tight spaces, such as home theaters or small offices. Many appreciate the tool-free assembly process, which makes setup easier. However, some have expressed concerns about its cooling capabilities, noting that the four 80mm fans may not provide enough airflow for more powerful builds. Despite this, its security features and versatility for various hardware configurations remain key selling points.

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Pros

  • This Micro ATX case is compact and ideal for space-limited setups, such as small apartments or offices.
  • The tool-free assembly feature makes it easy for beginners to set up without the need for additional tools.
  • Its slim desktop design blends well with home theater or business equipment, offering a sleek, professional look.
  • Security-conscious users appreciate the lockable front door and power button, providing extra protection for the system.
  • With support for up to four 80mm fans, this case offers decent cooling performance for lower-power systems.
  • The versatile drive bays accommodate multiple storage configurations, making it suitable for both personal and business use.

Cons

  • The limited space inside the case may not accommodate larger components like full-sized graphics cards or high-end cooling systems.
  • Some users report that the cooling performance is inadequate, especially for higher-powered systems or intensive tasks.
  • The case's aluminum front door is prone to scratches, which may affect its appearance over time.
  • With only four low-profile expansion slots, this device is not suitable for users requiring extensive hardware expansions.
  • The airflow is somewhat constrained, and installing additional fans may be challenging due to the case's compact size.
  • While the lockable door is a nice feature, some users feel that it doesn't offer the highest level of security for sensitive components.

Ratings

The Silverstone Tek CS-ML04B Micro ATX Media Center Case has been reviewed by users worldwide, with feedback sourced from various platforms in multiple languages. After filtering out spam, bot-driven, and off-topic reviews, the ratings reflect authentic, high-quality user experiences, highlighting both the product's strengths and areas of concern. Based on this comprehensive analysis, the following ratings provide a well-rounded view of this case's performance and value for users across different needs and setups.

Build Quality
88%
Users consistently mention the solid build quality, particularly appreciating the sturdy steel body and the aluminum front door. This construction offers a premium feel, which is important for those seeking a long-lasting and durable case for their setup.
A few users have reported that while the build quality is solid, the overall weight of the case may be a bit cumbersome for some. Additionally, some users feel that the steel body could have been slightly lighter without sacrificing strength.
Design & Aesthetics
90%
Many reviewers admire the sleek, minimalistic design, especially its compact form factor that fits well in tight spaces. The slim desktop profile and clean aesthetics are perfect for users looking to blend the case into home or office environments without drawing too much attention.
Some users have noted that while the design is attractive, the lack of variety in color options limits its appeal for those looking for a more personalized or colorful setup. A few also mentioned the front door may be a bit too plain for those seeking a more modern, striking look.
Ease of Setup
85%
The tool-free design of this case is highly appreciated by users, as it simplifies the assembly process. Many buyers report that installing hardware such as drives and expansion cards is quick and easy, even for first-time builders. This ease of setup makes it a solid choice for both beginners and more experienced users.
While the tool-free setup is convenient, a few users have experienced issues with securing certain components, such as drives, firmly in place. Some have found that the drive mounts could be more secure, requiring extra effort to ensure everything is stable.
Cooling Performance
60%
40%
Several users find the cooling system adequate for low- to mid-range components. The option to install up to four 80mm fans provides flexibility for those who need to manage heat in a compact space.
Many buyers are dissatisfied with the cooling performance, noting that the small 80mm fans may not provide enough airflow for high-performance hardware. Users with higher-end components or overclocking needs report that the limited fan size leads to higher temperatures and suboptimal airflow.
Space Efficiency
92%
This case excels in maximizing space, offering enough room for essential hardware while maintaining a compact footprint. Users looking to build home theater or business PCs in tight spaces appreciate the efficient use of internal space without compromising on storage capacity.
While the compact design is generally praised, some users have mentioned that it can feel cramped when attempting to install larger components. There may be challenges fitting bulky graphics cards or large power supplies in the tight internal layout.
Versatility of Drive Bays
87%
The case offers a range of drive bay configurations that give users the flexibility to choose the storage setup that best suits their needs. Many reviewers appreciate that no additional adapters are needed for different drive types, making installation easier.
A few users have mentioned that while the drive bays are versatile, they can be a bit awkward to use with certain configurations. The mounting process can be tricky if you're working with unusual drive sizes or need to fit additional drives in the limited space.
Security Features
80%
20%
The lockable front door and power button are highly valued by users who prioritize security, providing an extra layer of protection for their hardware. This feature is especially beneficial for business or public settings where tampering might be a concern.
Some users have noted that the locking mechanism feels a bit flimsy and may not be as secure as more robust options found in higher-end cases. This can be a point of frustration for those relying heavily on the security features.
Expansion Card Support
85%
The four low-profile expansion slots are a standout feature, particularly for users looking to build compact systems with a variety of add-on cards. Users appreciate the support for low-profile GPUs and other peripherals that fit in a slim desktop form factor.
However, some buyers have pointed out that the low-profile slots might limit the upgrade options, especially for those looking to install larger, full-sized expansion cards. This could be a dealbreaker for users with high-performance needs.
Compatibility with Hardware
80%
20%
Users report that the case is compatible with a wide range of Micro ATX components, making it versatile enough for a variety of builds. The ability to fit standard ATX PS2 power supplies and low-profile expansion cards makes it a flexible option for many users.
While generally compatible, some buyers have struggled with fitting certain components, particularly high-end GPUs or oversized power supplies. The compact nature of the case requires careful planning and may not suit users with larger, more demanding hardware.
Noise Levels
72%
28%
For many users, the noise levels are acceptable, especially given the small form factor. The case does not generate excessive noise during normal use, which makes it a suitable choice for quiet environments like home theaters.
Several users report that the case can become noticeably noisy when the fans are running at higher speeds. This can be especially problematic when the case is used for high-performance PCs with demanding cooling needs, where noise levels tend to rise.
Value for Money
92%
Many buyers consider this case to be an excellent value, given its sturdy build, compact design, and versatile features. The price point is seen as fair for the quality and functionality it offers, especially for home theater or business setups.
A small number of users feel that the cooling system and internal space might not justify the price for more demanding builds. However, these concerns are typically outweighed by the case's overall value for users with moderate needs.
Customer Support
75%
25%
When users have contacted customer support, some have reported a decent experience with helpful responses and efficient service. The support team is seen as generally responsive to inquiries.
However, there are a few reports of slow response times or unhelpful support, particularly when users encounter issues with missing parts or defective components. This has left some buyers feeling dissatisfied with the after-sales service.

Suitable for:

The Silverstone Tek CS-ML04B Micro ATX Media Center Case is ideal for users seeking a compact, functional solution for building home theater PCs (HTPC) or small business setups. Its slim desktop design and space-efficient layout make it perfect for environments with limited space, such as small apartments or offices. PC builders who need a tool-free, easy-to-assemble case will appreciate its user-friendly features and versatile storage options. It is also a good choice for those who prioritize security, with a lockable front door for added protection. For users looking to build a low-profile, efficient system that blends well with other home electronics or professional workstations, this case offers solid performance without taking up too much room.

Not suitable for:

This Micro ATX case may not be the best fit for users planning to build high-performance systems with large components. Those who require extensive cooling or plan to use oversized graphics cards may find the limited fan size and compact internal space a challenge. Users who prioritize extreme airflow or need to install multiple full-sized expansion cards might find the case too restrictive. Additionally, while the case offers security features, some users have reported that the lock mechanism may not be as secure as desired. High-end gamers or professionals looking for a case with maximum expansion potential and enhanced cooling options should consider other options better suited for these needs.

Specifications

  • Product Type: Micro ATX case designed for space-efficient, low-profile PC builds.
  • Design: Slim desktop form factor with compact dimensions for space-saving setups.
  • Dimensions: 440mm (W) x 105mm (H) x 350mm (D).
  • Weight: 11 pounds.
  • Motherboard Compatibility: Supports Micro ATX motherboards.
  • Expansion Slots: Supports up to four low-profile expansion slots for smaller components.
  • Drive Bays: Includes one 2.5″ bay, two 3.5″/2.5″ bays, and one 5.25″/3.5″/two 2.5″ combo bay.
  • Cooling: Supports up to four 80mm fans for airflow management.
  • Power Supply: Supports standard ATX PS2 power supplies with a maximum depth of 140mm.
  • Front Door: Lockable aluminum front door for added security and aesthetic appeal.
  • Material: Aluminum front door with a steel body for durability.
  • USB Ports: Equipped with two USB 3.0 ports for fast data transfer.
  • Audio Port: Includes one audio-out port for connecting headphones or speakers.
  • Cooling Efficiency: Designed for low-profile components, but cooling may be less effective with high-performance systems.
  • Security Features: Lockable front door and power button to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Tool-Free Setup: Supports tool-free installation for easy assembly and hardware configuration.
  • Expansion Support: Supports low-profile expansion cards, suitable for slim graphics cards and network cards.
  • First Available: Released on June 10, 2013.
  • Best Seller Rank: Ranked #502 in Computer Cases, reflecting its popularity in the category.

FAQ

This compact Micro ATX case is ideal for building home theater PCs (HTPCs) or business setups where space is limited. Its slim desktop design makes it a great choice for users looking to save space while still having enough room for low-profile components and expansion cards.

The case supports standard PS2 (ATX) power supplies with a maximum depth of 140mm. While it’s compatible with most standard ATX PSUs, users should ensure their power supply doesn’t exceed this size, especially if opting for a more powerful unit.

This case supports up to four 80mm fans for cooling. However, due to the limited space, you may need to choose fans carefully for optimal airflow. If building a higher-powered PC, additional cooling solutions might be necessary, as airflow can be a concern in such a compact design.

The case offers versatile drive bays, including one 2.5″ bay, two 3.5″/2.5″ bays, and one 5.25″/3.5″/two 2.5″ combo bay. These configurations provide flexibility for different storage setups without needing additional adapters.

Yes, many users find this case easy to assemble due to its tool-free setup feature. The versatile drive bays and mounting options make the installation of components like storage drives and expansion cards straightforward, even for first-time builders.

This case supports low-profile expansion cards, which are typically smaller and designed for slim systems. If you need to use a full-sized card, you may need a larger case, as this one is limited to four low-profile slots.

No, this case only supports low-profile expansion cards, so full-sized GPUs will not fit. For users looking to install a high-performance graphics card, a larger case would be necessary.

Yes, the case includes a lockable front door and power button, which adds a layer of security by preventing unauthorized access to the components inside. This is particularly useful in business or public environments where security is a concern.

Some users have noted that the cooling performance is limited due to the small size of the case and the 80mm fans. Additionally, the case may not accommodate larger components or provide as much airflow as larger cases, which can be an issue for high-performance systems.

The case has a sturdy steel body and an aluminum front door, which provides durability and a premium aesthetic. However, some users have mentioned that the aluminum front door can be prone to scratches, which may affect its appearance over time.