![]() The new Fractal Torrent Compact gets a lot of important things right. For the CPU and GPU full load acoustic test, we also stress the Gigabyte RTX 3070 Ti Gaming OC and set the fans at 75% speed, because in gaming the fans never run at 100% and are far too loud when they do.įor the optimized mode, we run the GPU fan speed at 30 percent and run the CPU and included case fans at their lowest speed. The CPU full load test runs the CPU and case fans at their maximum speed. Our acoustic test consists of three scenarios: We run the CPU at full load, the CPU and GPU at full load and an optimized idle. But since the original Torrent was tested on our previous testbed (with an Intel Core i9-9900K and an RTX 2070 Super), not our new i7/ RTX 3070 Ti setup, this isn’t meant as a direct comparison. Since we reviewed the original Fractal Torrent last year we have included our results from that case as well as the new Compact model, in part because we don’t yet have any other results from our new test rig. ![]() Our graphics card is a Gigabyte RTX 3070 Ti Gaming OC. We’re now using an Intel i7-12700KF, which is being cooled by a Noctua U12s air cooler. Since Intel’s 12 Gen “Alder Lake” has shaken up the desktop landscape (and taken prominent spots on our best CPUs for gaming list), we’ve updated our case testing hardware. (Image credit: Tom's Hardware) New Testing Hardware Behind the motherboard tray, there’s only 20 mm, or 0.79 inches of clearance, which is surprisingly little in a case this large. But when I got most of the parts in and most of the cables connected, I quickly became frustrated. When I built in this case initially, I was hyped about how easy it was starting out. This isn’t Fractal’s fault, just a realization since it’s 2022 and power supply cables are still girthy. Cable ManagementĬable management in the Torrent Compact made me realize something: The 24-pin motherboard power cable needs to go on a diet. I know M.2 drives are increasingly popular, and motherboards now often include ports for three or more, but I still would’ve liked to see more storage support here. You get mounts for three 2.5-inch SSDs here, and there’s space in the PSU chamber for either one 2.5-inch drive or one 3.5-inch spinning hard drive. There just isn’t enough room for cables in the rear. Speaking of space constraints, my least-favorite part of the Torrent Compact is the area behind the motherboard. If you want to use a large motherboard, you should opt for the larger original Torrent, or another large case instead. And as we’ll see later, cable routing space is already scarce. However, be prepared to lose out on some cable routing options if you go that route, as larger boards end up covering a portion of the routing grommets. The Torrent Compact does technically allow for E-ATX motherboards. ![]() I even tried mounting the AIO first, then installing the GPU, but that didn’t work either. We couldn’t fit our EK 240mm D-RGB AIO in the front since we’re using a Gigabyte RTX 3070 Ti Gaming OC, which is 12.5 inches (320 mm) long. Since you don’t have the option to mount a radiator to the top of the case (remember, that’s where the PSU lives), you’re limited to impractical mounting options for liquid cooling, either in the front of the case or at the bottom. This isn’t a bad thing, but if you’re using a triple-fan graphics card, you’re cutting it close, as the case only supports graphics cards up to 13 inches (330 mm) with the front case fans installed. While I have experience with the Fractal Meshify C, that case looked small right when I first laid my eyes on it. I didn’t realize how tiny the Torrent Compact was until I started building in it. Mounting the power supply up top feels a bit retro and makes installation easier, but it affects cooling and also made for some cable routing complications (more on that later). The rest of the top panel is barren, thanks in large part to the power supply’s mounting location at the top rear of the case just like the original Torrent. The top I/O also includes two USB 3.0 ports, one USB Type-C port, a reset switch, and mic and headphone jacks. The case’s power switch gives me a sports car vibe as well: Its circular shape combined with the front panel reminds me of an engine start button. The front panel of the Torrent Compact bears an aggressive design, reminding me a lot of the grille on a supercar. ![]()
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