Fractal Meshify 2 Nano ITX Computer Case Review: Compact Powerhouse
Fractal Meshify 2 Nano ITX Computer Case Review: Compact Powerhouse
Welcome to my review of the Fractal Meshify 2 Nano, a sleek and compact ITX case designed for building powerful, space-saving systems. I’ve had the chance to build in this case, and I’m excited to share my experience, highlighting its key features, performance, and whether it’s a good fit for your next build.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Fractal Meshify 2 Nano is a compact ITX case that doesn’t compromise on features. It boasts a robust steel construction, a tempered glass side panel, and impressive cooling capabilities. Fractal Design is known for their attention to detail and high-quality components, and the Meshify 2 Nano lives up to that reputation.
Features & Design
The Meshify 2 Nano is packed with features, making it a highly versatile case for a variety of ITX builds. Here’s a breakdown of its key characteristics:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| 3.5″/2.5″ drive mounts | 1 (included) |
| Dedicated 2.5″ drive mounts | 3 (2 included) |
| Expansion slots | 2 |
| Front interface | 1x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, 2x USB 3.0, Audio I/O, Power button, Reset button |
| Total fan mounts | 6x 120 mm or 3x 140 mm (Top 140 mm fans needs to be max 15 mm thick) |
| Front fan | 2x 120/140 mm (1x Dynamic X2 GP-14 included) |
| Top fan | 2x 120 or 1x 140 slim fan (max 15 mm thick) |
| Rear fan | 1x 120 mm (1x Dynamic X2 GP-12 included) |
| Bottom fan | 1x 120 mm (requires removal of HDD tray) |
| Dust filters | Top, front and bottom |
| Cable routing space | 15-25 mm |
| Cable routing grommets | Yes |
| Fixed cable straps | Yes |
| Tool-less push-to-lock | Top, front and side panels |
| Captive thumbscrews | SSD and PSU brackets |
| Left side panel | Tempered glass |
| Right side panel | Steel |
| Motherboard compatibility | Mini ITX / Mini-DTX |
| Power supply type | ATX |
| Front radiator | 120/240, 140/280 mm (316 mm max height, 146 mm max width, 280 recommended in “push” configuration for easier fit) |
| Top radiator | N/A |
| Rear radiator | 120 mm |
| Bottom radiator | N/A |
| PSU max length | 165 mm recommended (200 mm without HDD-tray and modular air duct) |
| GPU max length | 331 mm 306 mm with front fan |
| GPU max thickness | 57 mm / 2.8 slot |
| CPU cooler max height | 167 mm |
| Case dimensions (LxWxH) | 396 x 205 x 361 mm |
| Case dimensions w/o feet/protrusions/screws | 384 x 205 x 345 mm |
| Net weight | 5.9kg (TG) |
| Package dimensions (LxWxH) | 412 x 277 x 462 mm |
| Gross weight | 7.1kg (TG) |
One of the standout features of the Meshify 2 Nano is its impressive cooling potential. It supports up to six 120mm fans or three 140mm fans, and it’s compatible with a variety of radiator sizes. The included Fractal Dynamic X2 GP-14 and GP-12 fans provide excellent airflow, keeping your components cool even under heavy load.
Performance & Cooling
I built a system with an AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti graphics card, and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. The Meshify 2 Nano handled this setup flawlessly, providing ample space for all components and allowing for easy cable management. The included fans did a great job of keeping everything cool, even when I was gaming and rendering videos.
During my testing, I observed excellent temperatures for both the CPU and GPU. Even under stress, the system remained stable and quiet. The case’s design emphasizes airflow, with well-placed vents and dust filters that effectively prevent dust buildup. This translates to consistent performance and a longer lifespan for your components.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Excellent build quality and design
- Impressive cooling performance with ample fan support
- Easy cable management system
- Tempered glass side panel for showcasing your build
- Versatile for various ITX builds
Cons:
- Limited storage space compared to larger cases
- Can be a bit tight for larger components, especially if you’re using a 280mm radiator
- Price point may be higher than some other ITX cases
Final Verdict
The Fractal Meshify 2 Nano is an excellent ITX case for anyone looking for a compact, high-performance build. It’s well-designed, well-built, and offers excellent cooling capabilities. While it might be a bit on the pricier side, the overall quality and features justify the cost.
I highly recommend the Meshify 2 Nano to anyone building a small form factor system, especially if you prioritize performance and aesthetics. If you’re on a tight budget or need more storage space, there are other ITX cases on the market that might be a better fit. But for those looking for a well-rounded and capable ITX solution, the Meshify 2 Nano is an excellent choice.
