Fractal Design Node 304 - Black - Mini Cube Compact Computer Case - Small form factor - Mini ITX – mITX - High Airflow - Modular interior - 3x Fractal Design Silent R2 120mm Fans Included - USB 3.0

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With the exception of a vented intake area at the front that runs the width of the case, the top panel of the NODE 304 is completely solid. In summary, regarding motherboard and CPU installation, the Fractal Node 304 offers notably more space and cooling versatility than the N2, notwithstanding the decade gap in their respective release dates. Up next, we’ll explore PCIe installation, highlighting another key distinction between the two models. Jonsbo N2 vs Fractal Node 304 NAS Case – PCIe Upgrades A large part of this difference stems from how each system is oriented in terms of its intended use. The Fractal Node 304 is much more focused on storage than on other cloud server applications. This orientation allows the system to be considerably more compact, emphasizing ventilation, with the storage cavity occupying roughly 30 to 40% of the entire enclosure’s physical space. After a detailed analysis of the Jonsbo N2 and the Fractal Node 304 NAS cases, it becomes clear that each offers unique advantages tailored to specific user needs. For the modern enthusiast or DIY builder who values sleek design and appreciates newer features like direct-injected storage bays, the Jonsbo N2 is a fantastic choice. Its design, though limiting in some aspects like PCIe upgrades, still offers sufficient versatility for those who don’t require expansive graphics or connectivity solutions. It’s well-suited for users who desire a NAS for standard use without aggressive expansion plans.

Befitting the Fractal Design Node 304's simple aesthetic is an equally simple assembly, but there are definitely measures that could've been taken to make it easier still. In its own way this is par for the course with Fractal Design's cases; they're easy to build but they could've optimized things even further. CPU Cooler: Intel heatsink from combo OR CoolerMaster V4 GTS (Optional) - I've it already from old PCA notable distinction lies in their USB connectivity. The Fractal Node 304 offers two USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gb/s Type A connections, whereas the newer N2 provides a mix of USB Type A and Type C, alongside 10 gigabit USB 3.2 Gen 2 connections. It’s essential to ensure that your ITX motherboard has the appropriate front panel connectors (or you have an adapter card). This difference is one of the subtle quality-of-life enhancements resulting from the N2’s more recent release. nice video, as usual, however you could have added N3 to this comparison – volume wise NS is very close to 304 (volume of 304 = 19.6, volume of N3=18.9) Whether you're looking to build your very own NAS or a more compact cube PC, the Fractal Design Node 804 is a solid choice. It has excellent cooling performance thanks to its array of vents and countless fan mounts. The ability to install up to 10 3.5-inch drives is also a highlight feature, especially for servers with a lot of data to hold.

Fractal Design's Node 304 is in many ways a surprising jump forward in case design. We've seen SilverStone, BitFenix, Lian Li, and Cooler Master all try their hands at mITX cases with varying degrees of success, but there's just no set design language when you get down this small. The conventions we take for granted in ATX case design don't really apply here, but Fractal Design has tried for something fairly different with the Node 304, even by mITX standards. Long-term scalability and upgrades of your NAS server aren’t considerations exclusive to businesses. Even the most casual enthusiast should factor in potential future changes. Whether you’re contemplating upgrading your local area network, enhancing your private server with lightning-fast m.2 SSD storage, or even venturing into adding a graphics card down the line, PCIe upgrade slots on your chosen NAS server will undoubtedly be a critical aspect, whether on day one or day 1,000. Choosing the appropriate NAS case, ensuring it allows you to effectively scale via PCIe expansions, is a foundational decision. It’s a choice that, years down the line, you’ll either commend or regret. The N2 seems to offer fewer considerations for PCIe upgrades, which is surprising given the decade difference in release dates compared to the Fractal Node 304. On the other hand, the Fractal Node 304, with its decade-old legacy, stands out for users prioritizing versatility and upgradability. Despite its older design, it offers more room for CPU coolers, greater flexibility in PCIe card selection, and superior ventilation—making it ideal for power users and those looking to build more aggressive server setups. Moreover, businesses and hobbyists inclined towards regular expansions will find the Node 304’s forward-thinking design a significant boon. Ultimately, choosing between the two boils down to individual requirements. The N2 serves as a modern, efficient solution for standard builds, while the Node 304 caters to those seeking maximum flexibility and growth potential. The video discusses the differences between two PC cases in terms of storage, size, and scalability.The 304 case supports full-length double depth full-height U PCIe cards, allowing users to maximize their PCI card usage.

We've said it before but it bears repeating: desktop systems are getting smaller. ATX is becoming less and less necessary, and mini-ITX-based machines more and more offer the same performance and features that their bigger brothers do. That's just the direction of the technology industry as a whole, cramming everything we need into a space half as large. What's specific to cases is their own evolution running parallel with the technology we're putting into them. This table succinctly encapsulates the strengths and weaknesses of both NAS cases, aiding potential buyers in making an informed decision based on their specific needs. The Fractal Node 304 can accommodate virtually any PCIe card, regardless of its height, length, or depth. Designed during the peak of GPU cryptocurrency mining, the Node 304 mitigates the single PCIe slot limitation inherent in M-ITX motherboards by providing ample space for almost any card—eliminating the need for a riser or expander card. This flexibility is not just due to its generous physical dimensions but also its thoughtful design: the side housing the PCIe slots boasts a large, ventilated, mesh-protected panel, which significantly boosts active airflow. as a “side” effect of having there inside ESP32 I have all the data from NAS on my Home Assistant as well

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both N2 and N3 if with Topton mobos … forget about front panel connectivity – you will have to buy adapters (btw why would you need audio on NAS?) Lastly, not all PSU;s are created equal. So you're not necessarily guaranteed even 50% of the power total provided on the 12v rail. Assuming a single rail PSU. Most that I would trust being made by seasonic, while being branded by different companies. Antec comes to mind ( earthwatts 500 ) I've owned one now for 4-5 years and am perfectly happy with it. Granted, as stated above, i do not require a massive GPU.. Mostly i opt for mid range.

For many, these limitations might not deter them from selecting the Jonsbo N2, which remains an excellent choice for a DIY NAS enclosure. However, it’s undeniable that the seasoned Fractal Node 304 provides more space and versatility for expansions. Conclusion: Jonsbo N2 vs Fractal Node 304 NAS Case

It’s no surprise to our regular readers and other TG staff members that I go coo-coo crazy over cases, even going so far as to change my forum title here at Techgage to “basket chassis”. What really blows my skirt up though, is when a case comes along with a fresh design that looks good while remaining functional. After all, a good-looking case that doesn’t do what’s needed is just a fancy box. While the maximum size support for motherboards is microATX, you can get a good deal on older boards that work with powerful Intel processors for running Plex Media Server, virtual instances, and other server-related tasks. There are also some good gaming motherboards in this segment that will make for great PC foundations. The newer Jonsbo N2, with its more compact design, arguably offers a streamlined ventilation approach due to the significant space occupied by the 3.5″ bays. In the N2, most ventilation can be channeled along a singular path. As long as there are ample spaces between components, the fans can efficiently direct airflow through these cavities, exiting through passive ventilation outlets. Specifically, the N2 offers ventilation on both sides, across the top (directly above the motherboard and CPU fan), and at the rear where a large 120mm fan is positioned behind the storage drives. The long hard drive activity LED is diffused somewhat, making for a pleasant blue glow. The white power LED underneath the bezel shines brightly downward like a spotlight and is blinding when viewed directly. We recommend leaving it disconnected. Included with the NODE 304 is the installation guide, the usual assortment of screws including longer screws to feed through the rubber dampeners to secure 3.5″ drives, and a handful of zip ties.