Review of the Fractal Design Array R2 Mini-ITX Case

1. Very nice case indeed. I build a server for a client using the Lian-Li http://www.lian-li.com/v2/en/product/product06.php?pr_index=480&cl_index=1&sc_index=25&ss_index=64 PC-Q08 case, that one gives you the DVD drive and can hold 6 HDD.

   This case shares a lot of simularities. If I were choosing a 6 drive case without a DVD bay, I would choose this one. I like the internal power supply, Lian-Li cases support the larger power supplies and I find that excessive in the smaller case.

   Room for a DTX motherboard is a nice touch. Even if you use a M-ITX motherboard, you can still use the extra rear slot to add a backplate with some USB slots.

   I like that the front is clean and without USB or audio inputs. If this box is on display in your AV system, it’s not pretty having stuff hang off the front.

   Also it looks like this case can handle a i3/i5 motherboard, some case can only accomadate Atom boards.

   • thanks John – it really is a great case.

     Ive got an i3 mobo coming soon so I will test it and let you know

2. If you get a chance Andrew can you post some side by side photo’s with the HP Microserver & your Tranquil SQA-5H ? I would like to see how they differ.

   • Ask and you shall receive :
     http://forums.usingwindowshomeserver.com/topic/265-photo-comparison-between-tranquil-sqa-5h-hp-microserver-and-fractal-design-array-r2/

     • Where did you buy the case from? Is it available in the US?

       • Hi Jonathan

         Im based in the UK so I got mine via Europe. If you visit the Fractal Design website using the link in the article you can see where to buy in the US.

         Andrew

3. I have been looking closely at this case for a project later this year. Unfortunately, it falls into the category of ‘good but could do better’.

   I picked up on the lack of front USB ports, but would also have liked to see a fitting for a slimline DVD drive, directly in front of the motherboard, underneath the drive cage.

   But it’s the drive cage where I think immediate improvements are needed: a lay-flat handle to facilitate placement and removal, and something to keep the cables tidy at the back – a backplane would be the best solution, of course.

4. I’ve just been looking at the Lian Li PC-Q25. The drive cage is much better. Only I think they’ve blundered by not inverting the PSU.

   http://www.lian-li.com/v2/en/product/product06.php?pr_index=584&cl_index=1&sc_index=25&ss_index=64

Comments are closed.