After Fractal Design already targeted the entry-level segment with a Lite version of Meshify 2, the Pop series is now being followed by a whole series of cases that claim to represent the manufacturer’s new entry-level range. Fractal Design configures the series as a standard, mini and XL variant.
3 variants in each size
First of all, Fractal Design divides the new pop cases into three size variants. Apart from the sheer difference in size, the Mini, Standard and XL variants are based on different motherboard form factors, so the mini branch only allows for the mITX and µATX form factor. The standard variant also allows the installation of ATX motherboards, while the XL branch also supports E-ATX motherboards up to 280mm.
To truly cover all case tastes and preferences, Fractal Design also differentiates the concept into Silent, Air and Air RGB case versions in addition to the three size variants. The diversity is crowned with 6 possible color variants and the choice between conventional or glass side panels.
-
Fractal Design Pop Air Solid (Image: Fractal Design)
image 1 of 11
The series in detail
Aside from the differences in specifications associated with the different sizes, all three case variants are based on the same concept. The exterior doesn’t have flashy features like Fractal Torrent, for example, and it’s pretty plain. The different case versions look very similar. The biggest differences can be found on the front and the lid.
The insulated Silent version has a closed front part with side air inlets. Also, there are no fan spaces in the lid. However, the latter are offered with Air and Air RGB, and the closed front of these also gives way to a braided mesh. The difference between Air and Air RGB lies in the pre-mounted fans, which are illuminated with colors in the Air RGB. In addition to that, Air RGB offers a lighting controller and a corresponding control button on the I/O panel.
-
Fractal Design Pop Mini Air RGB (Image: Fractal Design)
image 1 Out of 8
Despite the closed front, the Pop series offers two external 5.25″ drive bays. These are hidden behind a magnetic screen in the lower front area.
-
Fractal Design Pop XL Air RGB (Image: Fractal Design)
image 1 of 5
The top front mounted I/O panel offers 2 × USB 3.0 (USB 3.2 Gen 1) and two audio connections. USB-C is not used for cost reasons, rather Fractal Design offers the slot as a separate accessory (USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C). The Fractal Meshify Lite has already experienced the same economy. There are also savings on drive recordings.
Inside, the Pop series is based on a two-chamber design and hides the power supply and some drives behind a panel. There are no vertical expansion slots on the main camera for cost reasons.
The new series is now available in all versions. In addition to the classic black or white, the Pop central branch will also be available in the colors green, cyan, magenta and orange. A detailed description of the model and the corresponding recommended prices can be found in the table below.
ComputerBase has received information about this article from Fractal Design under an NDA. The only requirement was the earliest possible publication date.
Introvert. Beer guru. Communicator. Travel fanatic. Web advocate. Certified alcohol geek. Tv buff. Subtly charming internet aficionado.
