A Closer Look - Outside

Looking at the chassis, the Meshify C looks quite different to anything we have seen from Fractal Design in the past. While the form factor is nothing new, the company is clearly trying to cater to the user who values a bolder design with the edgy metal mesh cover.


Looking at the front, It is made out of metal mesh, which has been shaped into polygons. This actually looks really cool and should appease those who want a proper modern look - a change to Fractal Design's previous stance which was clearly not geared towards pushing the envelope when it comes to looks. In the rear, everything looks pretty standard with the PSU bay at the bottom of the chassis.


Fractal Design offers the case with a glass or solid side panel. We got the former for review so that you can peek into the finished interior at the end of it; the side panel on the other side is completely solid.


The front of the Meshify C doesn't have any drive bays or I/O. The only interesting aspect you will find here is the fairly visible Fractal Design logo. This is also a deviation from what the company has done in the past in regards to chassis branding. Fractal Design used to stay clear of obvious branding choices to appease system integrators. You may pry the front off to reveal the fan/liquid-cooling mounting holes. Unlike the Define C, the I/O of the Meshify C is a part of the front panel, which may make disassembly a bit more difficult.


The PSU bay in the rear comes with a single set of mounting screws, which usually dictates that the fan needs to face downward to pull cool air in through the bottom. However, two thumb screws hold the PSU's frame in place, which means you will have to install the power supply by sliding it in through the rear. You may also change the orientation of these mounting holes during installation. Above that are the seven motherboard expansion slots Fractal Design protects with their reusable covers. In the very top is a 120 mm fan set to push air out through the rear. You may adjust its vertical placement to perfectly align it with the motherboard's CPU socket area.

You may note that the signature white elements are no longer present in the Meshify C. Fractal Design has chosen to go with completely black expansion slot covers and fans instead.


The very top holds the magnetic metal mesh dust cover. Underneath it are various mounting holes which allow you to place two 120 or 140 mm fans or even go for a thick 280 mm radiator setup. The I/O, which is at the front's top edge, consists of the usual audio plugs and two black USB 3.0 connectors. In the middle are the large circular power button and, next to it, a smaller reset button.


The entire underside of the chassis is protected by a large dust filter you may pull out with a firm tug at the front, without having to tip over the Meschify C.