The Cougar CFV235 is a visually striking Midi-ATX showcase case, known for its Central Floating Ventilation design. This dual-chamber mid-tower unit features two tempered glass panels and is defined by the gap separating its upper and lower chambers, which measures just under 3 cm high.
This significant vertical gap contributes both to the aesthetic appeal—creating the illusion that the upper chamber is floating—and provides a practical benefit: both chambers can draw fresh air through this space. The case structure separates the power supply unit (PSU) and a drive cage in the lower chamber, while the rest of the hardware resides in the upper section.
The design mandates an unusual PSU mounting method; rather than standing on bulky feet with bottom grille access, the PSU is mounted upside down here. The frame rests instead on flat, non-slip rubber feet. An anthracite-gray magnetic mat with a dust protection grille accessory is included for the lower chamber’s floor.
Functionally, several panels are designed for ease of use; the front panel of the lower compartment can be removed without tools. Another removable side panel requires only a screwdriver for removal. The upper chamber features tempered glass on its front and left sides, allowing clear views of installed hardware. Its side panel is easily removable without tools, while the main front panel needs a few screws loosened.
The bottom of the case has a large ventilation grille, and it includes an attached magnetic dust filter. Furthermore, the included L-shaped Aurora ARGB LED frame can be magnetically mounted from below. The top panel also features a large, fine-mesh ventilation grille and is easily removable without tools; although there is no dust filter here, air typically exits through this area.
The right side panel has only a smaller ventilation grille for the two 120mm fans positioned in front of the motherboard. This panel can also be removed without tools, though it lacks a dust filter despite drawing air into the case. The rear panel is covered by a wide-mesh ventilation grille and supports a vertically adjustable 120mm fan. The case offers seven expansion slots, and all metal bezels are screwed in place but removable for maintenance.
The build quality of the CFV235 is described as extremely high-end, with all metal components finished in matte black. The frame is sturdy and resistant to twisting, though reviewers note that the design’s gap remains a potential mechanical weak point. Despite this, the overall layout is highly praised for making hardware installation easier, as most panels can be removed without tools.
In use, pre-installed fans were noted as being quiet and visually appealing, although some wish for additional ventilation sources at the bottom. Assembly was reported as quick and easy, allowing clearance even for slightly larger AIO coolers.
Source: OCInside