Fractal Design Vector RS review - Introduction

Fractal Design Vector RS review
Best of the two (Define R and S) worlds?

This round, we’re checking out the Fractal Design VECTOR RS, a mid-tower PC chassis from a new series (not Define this time). The name is a notch different, but the principle behind the beast are similar, and this chassis is trying to combine the best of both worlds (R for the more silence and air, and S for performance and a liquid-oriented approach). You can take a look at the Define S2 (and the RGB version), as well as the Define R6 for the reference. The first thing that you notice is the RGB strip along the front. What’s else is new, then?

“Sharp angles, uncompromising design, and a no-nonsense attitude combine to create a case quite unlike any built before it. An expressive ARGB strip wraps the front and top in a synchronized, continuous run, customizable via your RGB motherboard or via the included Adjust R1 controller. The counter-angled air intakes are designed to trap noise without restricting airflow, giving you a case that breathes like it’s open – but sounds like it’s closed. But looks only go so far. What about the inside? Storage is a non-issue – with eleven HDD and four SSD positions (six + two brackets included), the Vector RS is ready to take on any build you want to throw at it. An intelligent modular layout adapts to maximize airflow, water-cooling, and component headroom to realize every ounce of potential in your build. The TG top panel easily swaps with the included ventilated steel cooling bracket to shift Vector’s affinity from ultimate display piece to performance powerhouse with nine total fan positions. With customizable effects, adaptable layout, and interchangeable elements, Vector becomes what you want it to be: The perfect showcase for your system.”

The new chassis is available in two variants:

• VECTOR RS  - Blackout TG
• VECTOR RS  - Blackout Dark TG  

The only difference is the light/dark tinted tempered glass. Fractal Design provided us with the first variant for this review. The key features of the VECTOR RS include:

VECTOR RS:

• Tinted, bolt-free tempered glass on three sides
• Interchangeable top panel easily converts between tempered glass and filtered ventilation
• Counter-angled intake vents designed to trap noise with minimal airflow resistance
• Customizable ARGB LED effects wrapping the top and front panels in a synchronized, continuous span
• Set colors and effects via standard 5V RGB motherboard connection or included Adjust R1 controller
• Six HDD and two SSD mounts included with a total of 11 HDD and 4 SSD positions (additional Type-A brackets sold separately)
• Three pre-installed Fractal Design Dynamic X2 GP-14 140 mm fans for optimal airflow
• Up to nine fan positions with clear airflow paths for maximum cooling capacity
• Extensive water cooling support with room for radiators up to 420 mm in the top, 360 mm upfront and 280 mm in the base
• Ventilated PSU shroud conceals cables and provides additional SSD mounting options
• Modular design easily converts from a storage-focused standard layout to a cooling-centric open layout
• Nexus+ fan hub manages up to nine fans via your motherboard
• Vertical 2.5 slot GPU support via Flex vertical PCIe riser (sold separately)
• USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C with fast charging support and speeds up to 10Gbps

The Fractal Design VECTOR RS is a not small chassis considering the fact that it supports E-ATX motherboards up to 285 mm wide. It measures 552 × 233 × 498 mm (64.05 l), which is exactly the same as the regular VECTOR RS and weighs 12.64 kg. According to the specification, it’s fitted with six universal 3.5”/2.5” drive mounts which you can fix in one of 11 positions and two dedicated 2.5” drive brackets which you can install in one of 4 positions. Below, you can find a side-by-side comparison of the VECTOR RS Blackout TG and VECTOR RS Blackout Dark TG:

On the front, you will find the following ports:

• USB 3.0 (2 x),
• USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C (1 x),
• 3.5 mm HD audio jacks

The Fractal Design VECTOR RS has many cooling options, with support for radiators up to 360 mm at the front, 360 mm on the top (with cooling bracket in use), 280 mm at the bottom, and a 120 mm radiator in the rear. Dust filters are available in the front, on the top (when the appropriate panel is installed), and at the bottom. The Swedish manufacturer provides users with three Fractal Design Dynamic X2 140 mm fans.  

Here is their specification:

• Size: 140 x 140 x 25 mm
• Bearing: High-grade LLS (Long Life Sleeve)
• Rotational speed: 1000 RPM
• Sound level: 18.9 dBA
• Airflow: 68.4 CFM
• Static Pressure: 0.71 mm H2O
• Actual input power: 1.32W
• Max rated input current: 0.2A
• 100,000 hour MTBF
• Counter-balanced magnet reduces axial  tension on the bearing
• Optimized fan geometry balances airflow and static pressure
• Aerodynamic stator with embedded wiring reduces turbulence
• Notched blade edges eliminate fan hum
•  Trip Wire technology increases blade efficiency and decreases noise

The prices are as follows: 

That’s a lot of info to process for page 1 eh? Let’s check it out then, shall we?