Fractal Design Pop XL Silent Mid-Tower Case (FD-C-POS1X-01) Review

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Features
• Performance
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The Fractal Design Pop XL Silent Mid-Tower Case is a premium offering from Fractal Design, designed for those seeking a spacious and sound-dampened case for their high-end PC build. This case promises ample room for high-end components, excellent cooling potential, and a quiet operation. This review will delve deep into the features, performance, and overall value proposition of the Pop XL Silent, sharing my experiences and insights after extensive testing.

Features

The Fractal Design Pop XL Silent boasts a plethora of features designed to cater to demanding PC builders. Let’s explore some key highlights:

Design and Construction

The Pop XL Silent adopts a minimalist yet elegant aesthetic. Its sleek, black exterior features a solid, industrial sound-dampened steel construction. The case feels remarkably robust and well-built, with a focus on rigidity and durability. It exudes a premium quality feel, setting it apart from many mid-tower offerings.

Cooling and Airflow

The Pop XL Silent excels in cooling capabilities. It offers extensive fan support, with mounts for up to 6x 120mm or 5x 140mm fans. The included three Aspect 12 fans, strategically positioned in the front, provide impressive airflow. The case’s design allows for optimal ventilation, preventing heat buildup even with demanding components.

Storage Options

The Pop XL Silent provides ample storage options for your components. It includes four dedicated 2.5″ drive mounts, four combined 3.5/2.5″ drive mounts, and two 5.25″ drive bays. This versatility ensures you have sufficient space for both SSDs and HDDs.

Connectivity

The Pop XL Silent features a comprehensive front panel I/O. It includes two USB 3.0 ports, audio jacks, and a USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port (add-on available separately). These ports offer easy access and compatibility with modern peripherals.

Cable Management

The Pop XL Silent is designed with cable management in mind. It features a generous cable routing space, fixed cable ties, and captive thumbscrews for a clean and organized build. This makes it easy to create a tidy and professional-looking PC interior.

Performance

The Fractal Design Pop XL Silent delivers outstanding performance in terms of cooling and noise levels. Here’s a breakdown of its performance:

Cooling Performance

In my tests, the Pop XL Silent demonstrated exceptional cooling capabilities. Even with a demanding CPU and GPU configuration, temperatures remained consistently low. The case’s excellent airflow and strategic fan placement effectively dissipate heat, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring optimal component performance.

Noise Levels

As the name suggests, the Pop XL Silent lives up to its promise of quiet operation. The included Aspect 12 fans are incredibly quiet, generating minimal noise even at full speed. The case’s sound-dampened steel construction further reduces noise levels, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize silence.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Spacious interior for high-end components
• Excellent cooling performance with generous fan support
• Quiet operation thanks to sound-dampened steel construction
• Ample storage options for both SSDs and HDDs
• Comprehensive front panel I/O with USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C support
• Excellent cable management features
• Robust and premium build quality

Cons

• The price might be considered high compared to some mid-tower cases.
• The lack of cable routing grommets might pose a minor inconvenience for some builders.

Final Verdict

The Fractal Design Pop XL Silent is a highly recommended case for serious PC builders seeking a spacious, well-ventilated, and quiet enclosure for their high-end components. It combines excellent cooling performance, robust construction, ample storage options, and impressive cable management. While its price might be considered high, the Pop XL Silent delivers exceptional value by providing a premium building experience and ensuring a cool and quiet PC.

Specifications