The Fractal Design Node 304 is an excellent choice for the user who is building a small form factor (SFF) computer and wants a product with a stylish design, support for regular-sized power supplies, and great features.

Excellent cost/benefit ratio; Stylish design with aluminum front panel; Support for a regular-sized ATX power supply; Air filter for the front and power supply fans; Air filter on the left panel mesh; Three-speed fan controller; Anti-vibration rings for 3.5" hard drives; Support for six 3.5" or 2.5"...

Lack of support for internal optical drives may be a problem for some users; Could come with thumbscrews for the video card

I was having a conversation with a patient about how the NFL has evolved into a passing game. Years ago, teams strived for a good running back and a strong defense. Quarterbacks averaged less then 20 throws a game.

Modular Design; Mini-ITX / DTX Motherboard Support; ATX PSU Support; Tool Free Design; Two Front 92mm One Rear 140mm Silent Fans; Two Front USB 3.0 Ports; 6 Drive Support; Fan Controller; Supports Up To 310mm GPU Size; Supports Up To 165mm CPU cooler; 2 Full Size Expansion Bays; USB 2.0 Header Built...

No ODD Support; No Official Micro-ITX PSU Support

Fractal Design expands their line of cases with the NODE family aiming to provide unique enclosures to storage and HTPC enthusiasts. We take the little one - the NODE 304 - for a spin to see what scenario it is best suited for.

The Fractal Design Node 304 Case is tiny, doesn't have a 5.25" drive, but up to six 2.5" or 3.5" drives can be installed. This is a simple, elegant SFF case that would be perfect for a server or if you require a compact mini-ITX/DTX solution with lots of storage.

Everything is getting smaller. With today's emphasis on efficiency and mobility, and processors that do even more with much less power consumption, it is a trend that will probably continue.

Actually would make a great quiet-running file server; HTPC or high-end gaming system; Three fans with included fan controller; One of the smallest enclosures that can still fit high-end GPUs; Still keeps those high-end GPUs cool; Intelligent layout; Fits full size ATX PSUs; Simple; clean and...

Have to cherry-pick a PSU if building a high-end gaming rig; Must choose between full-length GPU and six HDDs; Cable management always a struggle; Odd shape for an HTPC (Hard to place with other home theater components

KitGuru says: A good first attempt at an ITX case from Fractal Design but it needs some tweaking before we would recommend it hands down.

Attractive design; Well built; Quiet running

Limited choice of compatible power supplies; Expensive

Overall, Fractal Designs has a solid case on its hands. What you have on the outside is what Fractal was going for, a sleek, minimalistic design. On the inside you have the ability to fit a full-sized, to a limit of course, video cards, ATX power supplies under 160mm, and up to six hard drives.

Where the Fractal Node 304 lacks in terms of cable management or other niceties, it makes up for by just getting out of the way-both internally and in external style. It's also very solidly built and shows no sign of flex or bend anywhere in the structure.

In the world of home-theatre and small form factor PC's, the Mini-ITX form factor is becoming increasingly popular amongst those seeking big things in a small package. With an ever growing demand for Mini-ITX based systems, case manufacturers are working hard to capitalize on the sudden demand for...

One area that has seen substantial growth over the past 18 months is the mini-ITX case market. The realisation that these mini-motherboards can be the basis for some pretty powerful PCs has started to dawn on people, not least the chassis manufacturers.