HBT+ Shield 700 Case Review

Most of the time removing the side panels of a case will expose everything inside.  While that is true of most cases the Shield is a slight exception.  The HBT+ Shield 700 is what I like to call a two sided case that physically separates the case sections based on what side you are looking at.  From the front you have access to the motherboard location including video cards and cooling.

From the back you have access to cable management and all of the storage devices.  At the top is a single tool less retainer for the 5.25” drive bay followed by two 3.5/2.5” combo drive bays.  At the bottom is anther combo drive rack next to a dedicated 2.5” drive rack that is also removable.  

Fan filters can be found throughout the Shield including the three fan locations at the top, two fan locations at the front, single at the bottom and optional in the rear.  All but the front fan filter can easily slide out for easy cleaning.

The HBT+ Shield 700 gets its name from the sliding door that covers the external 5.25” drive bay.  I have seen many different door styles and this one is by far one of the most elegant.  The panel itself is constructed from a curved piece of aluminum and then covered in a black textured vinyl leaving the edges exposed.

Moving the door is effortless and works due to the weight of the door and gravity.  Turning the case upside down or laying it flat will render the action useless so don’t be surprised when it doesn’t move in those remote situations.

By the looks of it two oil filed gears control the rate the door falls and a clever magnet is used to hold the door in place when closed.  This is why you do not hear a click when the door closes and why it can operate with only a slight touch.  The action shouldn’t wear unless the “shocks” decide to leak.