Fractal Design is known for crafting cases that merge aesthetics with practical design. The Fractal North takes this philosophy a step further, introducing a blend of modern tech and a touch of Scandinavian-inspired elegance. With its unique wood accents and high-end airflow design, the North caters to users who want a case that complements their space without compromising on cooling, expandability, and overall usability. Here’s a closer look at what makes the Fractal North stand out.
Design and Aesthetics
The first thing you’ll notice about the Fractal North is its unique appearance. The case has wood-paneled front accents, available in walnut or oak, which offer a refreshing contrast to the usual metal-and-glass approach of most PC cases. This aesthetic choice lends a warm, home-friendly vibe, making it ideal for setups in living rooms or offices where appearance matters as much as function.
- Wood Finish Options: Walnut (darker) and Oak (lighter) finishes.
- Color Choices: Available in black or white, which complements the wood options.
- Overall Dimensions: This mid-tower case is compact enough to fit most desks but spacious enough to house larger GPUs and components.
Fractal’s use of wood isn’t purely decorative; the wood adds texture to the case and helps distinguish the North from other cases in its class. Combined with brushed metal details, the case manages a balance between warmth and high-tech.
Cooling and Airflow
Cooling is often a critical factor in case design, and Fractal hasn’t skimped on airflow in the North.
- Front Panel Ventilation: The North’s wood front has a slatted design that, while stylish, allows for ample airflow. Behind the wooden slats, there’s a fine mesh that keeps dust out while ensuring good airflow.
- Included Fans: Fractal includes two 140mm Aspect fans, known for quiet performance and efficient airflow. These can be upgraded or supplemented depending on your cooling needs.
- Fan and Radiator Support: The case supports up to three 120mm or two 140mm fans at the front, a 120mm or 140mm fan at the rear, and up to a 240mm radiator at the top. This makes it versatile for both air and liquid cooling setups.
Build Quality and Usability
Fractal has always been known for its build quality, and the North is no exception. The case feels sturdy and well-constructed, with a blend of tempered glass, wood, and metal. The tempered glass side panel gives a clean view of the components while being easy to install and remove.
- Cable Management: The case includes ample space for cable routing, and Fractal has provided Velcro straps and grommets to keep everything tidy.
- Tool-Free Installation: Many of the mounting points are tool-free, making it easy to swap out components without extra effort.
- Ample Clearance: With 355mm of GPU clearance and 170mm CPU cooler clearance, it accommodates larger components comfortably.
Compatibility and Expandability
While the Fractal North is compact, it’s designed to support a range of builds:
- GPU Clearance: With up to 355mm of space, it supports large GPUs, making it ideal for high-performance gaming or workstation setups.
- Motherboard Support: Supports ATX, mATX, and Mini-ITX boards, offering flexibility for various builds.
- Storage Options: The North has two dedicated 3.5-inch drive bays and two 2.5-inch SSD mounts, which is sufficient for most users. For more extensive storage needs, you may need to add external drives.
This case strikes a good balance between size and component compatibility, offering enough space for high-end parts while maintaining a compact footprint.
Noise Levels
The Fractal North’s design and included Aspect fans help keep noise low, even under load. The front wood panel adds a subtle buffer to fan noise, though the slatted design keeps airflow high. If you’re aiming for a silent build, adding a few more low-noise fans or opting for a water-cooling solution can reduce noise further.
Pricing and Value
The Fractal North is positioned as a premium mid-tower case, with a price that reflects its design and build quality. It may cost more than standard cases in its size range, but the combination of aesthetics, functionality, and build quality makes it a worthwhile investment for those who want a case that stands out in appearance without compromising on performance.
Conclusion: Is the Fractal North Worth It?
The Fractal North is an ideal choice for users who prioritize both style and performance. It’s not just another PC case—it’s a piece of furniture that complements a thoughtfully designed space. The blend of wood, metal, and tempered glass adds a unique aesthetic, while the internal design offers strong cooling and excellent build quality.
If you want a case that adds character to your setup and don’t mind paying a premium for a well-thought-out design, the Fractal North could be the perfect addition to your build. For those who prioritize function over form, however, other cases may offer similar features at a lower cost.
