MicroATX Case Final Thoughts

As for a basic build, the Fractal Design Core 1100 does a great job and will satisfy the needs of a very basic user. Since it supports graphics cards of up to 350mm long, this case can also be used to build a small gaming PC for some enthusiasts. When we tested the EVGA GeForce 780Ti graphics card with this case, we found out that there was more than enough space to add a 120mm water cooling radiator along with a fan. It may not have all the water cooling capabilities or fancy features offered in the more expensive cases, but that is because the Core 1100 was not built to that standard.

Fractal Design Core 1100 Conclusion

In terms of performance, the Core 1100 comes preinstalled with a single 120mm front fan. I would have liked to see a preinstalled 80mm or 92mm rear exhuast fan as well. Without the rear fan, the only way for warm air to actively exhaust from the system would be through the power supply. This is not ideal since warm air from the internal components will enter the power supply and make it run hotter than normal. This will cause it to degrade quicker over time. If you are building a high-end system with this case, a 92mm rear exhaust fan is required if you do not want to burn out the power supply and catch your house on fire.

The aesthetics look great from a business stand point. The brushed aluminum finish, the simple and primitive design, and the black overall look makes the Core 1100 suitable for a professional environment. This gives it a modern style and allows it to match almost any type of setup. To some, it may look too simple since it lacks LED fans and a side panel window. These are what appeals most for some gamers and the younger generation.

The construction on the Core 1100 is not the best, but it is certainly not the worst either. The motherboard tray was strong enough to prevent itself from flexing while installing the motherboard. The side panels and the 5.25 inch drive bays are the weak areas since they are made of very thin aluminum. They can be easily removed by just taking off a few thumbscrews. It is only normal to think since this case is the successor to the Core 1000, there would at least be a CPU cutout on the motherboard. Disappointingly, no motherboard cutouts are present for the CPU or even cable management. Not only that, the hard drive bracket will only fit one hard drive if a large graphics card were to be installed. This is a disadvantage of the vertical hard drive bracket when compared to traditional hard drive bays. Most basic computer users do not bother about large graphics cards or switching CPU coolers, but do keep in mind that future upgrades will be limited and difficult to overcome.

The Core 1100 functions just like most basic micro-ATX cases should. Because only two 3.5″ hard drives can be installed on the vertical hard drive bracket, this does not give a lot of room for multiple storage drives. If a large graphics card was installed, only one hard drive can be mounted. Because of this, I do not see a reason why Fractal Design decided to keep the vertical drive bracket when the Core 1000 already had this problem. Luckily, the 120mm front fan runs quietly and the front I/O ports can now be easily accessed since they are actually on the front, hence front panel I/O ports.

As of October 2014, the Fractal Design Core 1100 sells for only $27.99 (Newegg | Amazon). At this price range, it competes very well with some of the more basic computer cases from competing manufacturers. When it comes to value, the Core 1100 has everything a basic system builder needs but does lack the flexibility for future upgrades.

The Core 1100 makes a great case for a small office or a professional business environment. This will make a great case for someone who is upgrading from an OEM case or is looking to replacing a very old computer case. It will also make a great case for small gaming PC’s. Keep in mind that water cooling and cable routing capabilities are very limited. What is really disappointing about the Core 1100 is there really is not a lot of improvements over this compared to its predecessor. I do not see a reason why someone should upgrade to the Core 1100 when they already have the Core 1000. A smarter upgrade would be to jump to the Core 1300 or the Core 2300. Although there is not much improvement over the Core 1000, the Core 1100 will still get the same job done.

Pros:

+ Professional and simple design
+ Sturdy construction throughout the exterior
+ One quiet 1200RPM 120mm fan preinstalled
+ Front panel I/O ports are actually on the front
+ Side panels are very easy to take off
+ Easy to build for both enthusiasts and beginners

Cons:

– No CPU or cable routing cutouts on the motherboard tray
– Limited storage capabilities if large graphics card is installed
– PSU mounts on the top instead of the bottom
– Thin side panels can potentially cause bending and vibrations
– Vertical hard drive bracket can cause limitations for some users

Ratings:

• Performance: 8.00
• Appearance: 9.50
• Construction: 7.00
• Functionality: 7.50
• Value: 8.75

Final Score: 8.15 out of 10.

COMMENT QUESTION: What do you like or dislike about the Fractal Design Core 1100 micro-ATX computer case?