Fractal Design Node 304 Case Review

Fractal Design Node 304 Case Review

Fractal Design are a Swedish company who specialise in producing products with standout design which don’t compromise on quality, functionality and pricing. In the past we have seen some impressive products from them such as the Arc Midi and more recently we looked at the flexible Define XL R2.

For those looking to build a mini-ITX system, maybe as a HTPC, server or just as a compact desktop Fractal Design recently released the Node 304. With support for standard PSUs, six hard drives and graphics cards up to 310mm in length this could make for a very flexible mini-ITX build…

Fractal Design package the Node 304 in a reasonably plain cardboard box which has a detailed image of the product on the front. Inside we find the case suspended in polystyrene and wrapped in a plastic bag for added protection. Fractal then bundle a set of installation items such as screws in a bag within the case.

Before we look at the case we wanted to note a couple of items that Fractal Design also produce, the first is the Adjust 108 fan controller. Although not used in this build (due to requiring a 5.25" drive bay) it is an interesting addition for almost any PC and allows us to control up to six fans from our front panel. We simply move the LED lit sliders up and down to vary the fan speed within our case.

Next is the Tesla R2 PSU, a component which we have used in today’s build. With a quality finish, nice styling and gold rated efficiency it is ideal for a build where minimising temperatures and noise are required. Models are available from 500-1000w and the 650w version is also available in white.