BitFenix Prodigy M review

The BitFenix Prodigy M is a microATX case with flexible handles and feet, designed to make it easy to carry and to leave the case raised slightly off the ground, so improving ventilation. The handles flex when you pick the case up, but are certainly strong enough to cope with the weight of a fully-built PC.

Inside, there’s a vertical tray on which to mount your motherboard. To get at it, it’s easiest to remove both side panels, unclip the top air vent and remove the drive tray, which is fitted vertically between the top and bottom of the case like a spar, and can house three 2 1/2in or two 3 1/2in drives. You can also put a couple of 3 1/2in drives at the bottom of the chassis if you need to. An external 5 1/4in bay is built into the front of the case.

With the drive tray out, there’s plenty of room to position your motherboard standoffs and drop the board into place. The Prodigy M can take CPU coolers up to 180mm high and when it comes to fitting expansion cards, it’s brilliantly designed. A metal clamp holds all five slots’ cards or blanking plates in place, and you just loosen one thumbscrew and slide it up to release them.

If you want to fit a powerful graphics card, you have a little over 320mm of space to work with, which is enough for monstrous models such as an AMD Radeon R9 290. Although constructing a system in this small chassis is a little more involved than it can be in larger cases, the case’s layout lends itself to neatness and clear airflow. The case comes fitted with 120mm fans at the top and bottom, and has space for up to three more, as well as optional fittings for larger fans. There are two USB3 ports on the right side panel, along with the usual audio ports.

The Prodigy M is eye-catching without being ugly, easy to work in and surprisingly quiet in use, despite being fairly well ventilated. We love its looks, convenience and price, making it a Best Buy compact case.