While some PC enthusiasts favor enclosed designs without transparent elements or colorful lighting, the NextGear's Clear Shift enclosure stands out for its innovative approach. Equipped with tempered glass on the side and front, it allows the panels to transition from fully clear to frosted state in roughly one second at the press of a button.
In the frosted configuration, the panels maintain partial translucency, permitting light from RGB components to shine through while obscuring direct views of the internals. According to translated promotional descriptions, the options are labeled as 'clear mode' and 'stealth mode.' This capability supports a more restrained aesthetic for occasions like virtual meetings, though its appeal lies primarily in its novelty.
Pre-configured NextGear systems are available through the Mouse-jp.co.jp retailer, as highlighted by VideoCardz.com, with pricing beginning at 164,800 yen (approximately $1,070 USD) for models equipped with a Ryzen 5 4500 processor and RTX 3050 graphics card, and reaching up to 264,800 yen (around $1,719 USD) for versions featuring a Ryzen 7 7700 and Radeon RX 9060XT. The hardware selections appear somewhat basic relative to the enclosure's advanced design, and the case itself cannot be bought independently at this time, though it might appear as a standalone option later.
Michael brings a decade of experience in technology reporting, spanning coverage from Apple products to ZTE devices. At PCWorld, he specializes in keyboards, frequently testing new models and customizing mechanical setups or enhancing his personal workstation during downtime. His work has appeared in outlets such as Android Police, Digital Trends, Wired, Lifehacker, and How-To Geek, including on-site reporting from events like CES and Mobile World Congress. Based in Pennsylvania, he eagerly anticipates his upcoming kayaking outings.