SilverStone Redline RL06 Case Review

A feature often overlooked is the location of the front panel controls.  Some cases include them with the bezel while others might scatter them about to provide the most flexibility in placement and usage.  The SilverStone RL06 is breaking slightly with tradition by placing their controls at the top of the case and include both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports along with the standard audio jacks and power button. 

Personally I like this arraignment but I’m also one who always has their tower on the floor next to the desk so there could be come bias.

With the RL06 I dropped in a rather high-end MSI X299 Gaming Pro Carbon motherboard with the intent it would provide a sense of scale and give you an idea as to where cables can be routed.  I have to admit the fitment is very good.  You’ll find a minor gap where the bottom of the motherboard meets the PSU cover.  The right edge of the board sits nicely against the cable channels with just enough room for cable routing.

There is minimal room at the top of the case and is something SilverStone calls out in their specifications.  There is around 30mm of space at the top of the case for fans and even less depending on your motherboard. 

The area to the right of the motherboard is basically empty space and good for just about anything from custom graphics to extra storage.  This area could also be left open for watercooling components such as pumps and reservoirs.

When people come to me asking for build advice I tell them two things.  Spend money on your motherboard and don’t skimp on the case.  Other items like processors and video cards can always be upgraded however, swapping out a motherboard or chassis is an involved process and deserves your attention sooner rather than later.  This becomes especially apparent when dealing with custom loop watercooling where the PETG tubes are custom designed for your case and motherboard combo.  Changing either one of these often results in a full rebuild of the water loop and most of your evening.

With the SilverStone RL06 you have a good platform for just about any cooling situation.  The three intake fans and open front bezel are great for basic aircooling and if you wanted to use an AIO watercooler you have two really good options for radiator placement with 120mm at the back of the case and 120 to 240mm up front.  The PSU cover and lower 3.5” drive rack prevent you from running a triple fan 360 radiator but anyone with a Dremel and plenty of SSD storage can resolve that problem rather quickly.

Overall I really like the RL06 for a variety of reasons.  It is a case that delivers what a majority of system builders need and comes with trim options allowing you to choose what you want.  If your build requres tempered glass, pick that option.  You can choose between Black, White or Red color combos and even decide if you want the factory LED fans.  With the RL06 you are given those choices.

PSU Cover (Basement)
LED Fans Included
Two Colors Available
Lots of Modding Options
Shaded Tempered Glass Side Window
Four External USB Ports
10 Fan Hub
Supports Watercooling
Great Cooling

Lighter gauge metal rattles a bit
Limited radiator options