Fractal Design Vector RS review - Final Words & Conclusion

Final Words & Conclusion

It’s time for the conclusion. In theory, the Vector RS is a new product series, but it actually inherited (borrows) most of its solutions and features from the Define R and S series. Luckily, it’s the best of both worlds, with a bit of RGB in it (the strip along the front and top). You can’t forget about the three tempered glass panels, which users who want to show off their gear will surely appreciate.

Features

This time, you receive three 140 mm fans that don’t have any RGB lighting (the model is the Dynamic X2 GP-14 PWM). The fan hub has been downgraded, and instead of up to nine 4-pin (PWM) fans, it’s three PWM fans and six 3-pin fans. You can still mount the GPU vertically if you like, using an additional PCI-Express riser (sold separately), and there is also a new system of storage brackets in place, so you can fit even four 2.5” drives and eleven 3.5”/2.5” one. Liquid cooling fans will be happy about the removable top cooling bracket (you need to change the default tempered glass panel first), and support for radiators up to even 420 mm. The last feature that I would like to mention here is the USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port included on the front I/O panel, which supports fast charging and transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps.

Aesthetics

Looks are always a subjective matter. The design of the new VECTOR RS is quite traditional, but with a bling factor that is in line with the current market trend. Black is the only available color, but you get three tempered glass panels.

The Verdict

The Fractal Design Vecor RS receives a “Recommended” award. It’s an above-normal-sized chassis that offers many features. You can use E-ATX motherboards up to 285 mm wide, extensive water-cooling radiators, and 185 mm air coolers. Theoretically, you can install up to fourteen 2.5” drives or eleven 3.5” plus four 2.5” ones. The “push-to-lock latching mechanism” is a really nice addition, as it eliminates the need for using thumbscrews to secure the side panels (except in transport). This time you won’t find that SATA power extension cables have been included. GPUs can be mounted vertically, but to do that you need to buy a Flex VRC-25 PCI-e riser (unfortunately not included). The 23 mm of clearance for cables behind the motherboard can be an issue for in the case of some builds. The prices of the VECTOR RS are: 179.99 USD/179.99 GBP/194.99 EUR, which mildly put is steep, but on the other hand, you get a chassis with considerable flexibility and of great quality, and you don’t change this component of your PC every year, right (well come to think of it, some of you do)? :-)

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