Fractal North XL E-ATX Mid Tower Computer Case Review: A Spacious and Feature-Rich Option

The Fractal North XL E-ATX Mid Tower Computer Case is a spacious and feature-rich option that offers a compelling blend of style, functionality, and cooling capabilities. Designed for demanding PC enthusiasts, it has the capacity to accommodate high-end components and offers a range of customization options. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore its strengths, weaknesses, and real-world performance.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Key Features
• Performance and Cooling
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The Fractal North XL is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the North. This case is built for users seeking a spacious chassis with excellent cooling potential. It’s an excellent choice for enthusiasts building powerful gaming PCs, workstations, or even media servers.

Key Features

The Fractal North XL is loaded with features designed for ease of use and optimal performance:

• E-ATX Support: Accommodates even the largest motherboards.
• Tempered Glass Side Panel: Offers a stunning view of your components.
• 3x Aspect 140mm PWM Fans: Provide excellent airflow and quiet operation.
• Up to 7x Fan Support: Allows for customized cooling configurations.
• Up to 420mm Radiator Support: Enables the use of high-end liquid coolers.
• Dust Filters: Minimize dust accumulation for a cleaner and healthier build.
• USB 3.0 and Type-C Ports: Convenient connectivity for peripherals.
• Cable Management System: Keeps your build tidy and organized.

Performance and Cooling

The Fractal North XL excels in both performance and cooling thanks to its spacious interior and efficient design. The included Aspect 140mm PWM fans provide excellent airflow, and the ample room allows for the installation of multiple fans or radiators for optimal cooling. During testing, even with a high-end CPU and GPU, the case maintained cool temperatures without excessive noise.

One of the most impressive features is its cable management system. The case includes ample space behind the motherboard tray for routing and securing cables, making for a clean and organized build.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Spacious interior for high-end components.
• Excellent cooling performance with ample fan and radiator support.
• Tempered glass side panel provides a great view of the build.
• Effective cable management system keeps things tidy.
• Dust filters help keep the interior clean.

Cons:

• The case can be somewhat heavy.
• The price point is higher than some competitor models.

Final Verdict

The Fractal North XL E-ATX Mid Tower Computer Case is a solid choice for users looking for a spacious and feature-rich chassis. Its excellent cooling performance, generous interior, and thoughtful design make it an excellent option for building high-end gaming PCs, workstations, or any system where cooling and expansion are priorities. While it’s a bit pricier than some alternatives, the quality and functionality make it a worthwhile investment for PC enthusiasts.

Specifications