Fractal Design NORTH Case: Is It Worth Buying?

TL;DR

The Fractal Design NORTH case stands out for its unique materials and smart styling. It offers PWM control for fans and a modern front I/O panel. However, it lacks a rear fan, which may impact cooling efficiency. The case provides good airflow but can get noisy, and its temperature management is adequate though not exceptional.

Transcript

fractal design has named this new PC case North which is considerably more easy to say than for example the fractal design Define R7 which is the type of name they've used up to now so North also despite the fact it is white and the label says it is white in the reviewer's guide they refer to it as chalk the black case is called charcoal furthermor... Read More

Key Insights

• Fractal Design NORTH features unique styling with materials like oak and walnut.
• The case includes PWM-controlled aspect fans and a PWM hub.
• Front I/O panel offers up-to-date connectivity, including USB Type-C.
• The case supports various storage options, accommodating multiple SSDs and HDDs.
• Despite good airflow, the case's temperature management is average.
• No rear fan is included, likely a cost-saving measure by Fractal.
• The PWM hub supports only four fans, which may limit expandability.
• The case can become noisy, especially at higher fan speeds.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the unique features of the Fractal Design NORTH case?

The Fractal Design NORTH case features unique materials such as oak and walnut for its exterior, providing a distinct aesthetic. It includes PWM-controlled aspect fans and a PWM hub for better fan management. The front I/O panel is modern, featuring a USB Type-C port, enhancing connectivity options.

Q: How does the Fractal Design NORTH handle cooling?

The Fractal Design NORTH offers good airflow due to its mesh panels and PWM-controlled fans. However, it lacks a rear fan, which might impact cooling efficiency. The case supports additional fans and radiators, but its temperature management is adequate rather than exceptional, especially under heavy loads.

Q: What storage options does the Fractal Design NORTH provide?

The Fractal Design NORTH supports a variety of storage configurations, including mounts for SSDs and HDDs. It offers multiple positions for drive bays, allowing users to install up to two 3.5-inch hard drives and four SATA SSDs. Additional accessories can further expand storage capacity.

Q: Is the Fractal Design NORTH case noisy?

The Fractal Design NORTH can become noisy, particularly when fans operate at higher speeds. While the mesh panels facilitate good airflow, they do not significantly dampen noise. Users seeking a quieter build may need to consider additional noise-reducing measures or operate fans at lower speeds.

Q: Does the Fractal Design NORTH include a rear fan?

No, the Fractal Design NORTH does not include a rear fan, likely as a cost-saving measure. While this omission may not drastically affect temperatures, it could impact overall cooling efficiency. Users may consider adding a rear fan to improve airflow and cooling performance.

Q: What are the pros and cons of the Fractal Design NORTH?

Pros of the Fractal Design NORTH include its unique styling, PWM-controlled fans, modern I/O panel, and versatile storage options. Cons include average temperature management, the absence of a rear fan, limited PWM hub capacity, and potential noise at higher fan speeds.

Q: How does the Fractal Design NORTH compare to other cases in terms of design?

The Fractal Design NORTH stands out with its use of unique materials like oak and walnut, offering a distinct and stylish look compared to typical cases. Its design appeals to users seeking a case that combines aesthetics with functionality, although personal taste will ultimately determine its appeal.

Q: What is the price range of the Fractal Design NORTH case?

The Fractal Design NORTH case is priced at approximately 135 pounds in the UK, 155 Euros in Europe, and 130 dollars in the United States, excluding taxes. This pricing is consistent across its different versions, whether mesh or tempered glass, offering a competitive option in its category.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Fractal Design NORTH case combines unique styling with practical features like PWM-controlled fans and modern I/O options. It supports multiple storage configurations, making it versatile for different setups. However, the absence of a rear fan and limited PWM hub capacity may restrict its cooling potential.

• While the NORTH case offers good airflow and stylish design, its temperature control is not outstanding. The case can become noisy, and the limited fan connections may pose challenges for users with diverse cooling needs. Overall, it's a well-designed case with some trade-offs.

• The case's unique materials and design set it apart, but its cooling system has limitations. The lack of a rear fan and minimal PWM hub capacity might be drawbacks for some users. Nevertheless, the NORTH case is a solid choice for those prioritizing aesthetics and modern features.