A Closer Look - Outside

Fractal Design is staying true to their approach with another clean and understated case. The Node 304 reminds us of the Array series. There is no external drive bay, and it utilizes a mini-ITX chassis, so the basics are the same on the outside.


The front of the chassis feels cold, and it can be assumed that the panel is lined with a sheet of brushed aluminum. It curves outwards ever so slightly. Turning the case around, one will notice that there is something different about its internals. There is no visible PSU bay, as there is a large 140 mm exhaust fan instead. Both sides of the Node 304 have air vents, with the one for the motherboard expansion-slot being considerably larger.


Tipping the Node 304 on its side, there is a large vent covered by a dust filter. This is probably where Fractal Design intends the PSU to be. The only mention of the company can be found as a little printed logo on the front of the chassis. The basic I/O, consisting of a pair of USB 3.0 ports and the usual audio connectivity, can be found on the side of the case.


A power connector located to the left of the motherboard shows that Fractal Design has relocated the actual power supply within the chassis before routing the power plug to the rear. You will also find the two motherboard expansion bays, protected by signature white covers and a simple fan controller switch, above these power connectors.