Last updated at 16/09/2026 21:56:14
Fractal Design Define R5 - Mid Tower Computer Case - ATX - Optimized for High Airflow and Silent - 2X Fractal Design Dynamic GP-14 140mm Silent Fans
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Fractal Design Define R5 Black ATX Case, No PSU, USB 3.0
Delivery $34
Fractal Design Define R5 - Mid Tower Computer Case - Atx - Optimized
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Fractal Design Define R5 - Mid Tower Computer Case - ATX - Optimized for High Airflow and
Delivery $446.08
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
I'm definitely not the first to say it, but the Fractal Design Define R5 makes for a quiet and roomy NAS case.In 2024, most PC cases either feature glass sides or are ITX-sized. Thankfully, the Define R5 has neither of those, instead sporting sound-dampening foam to quiet otherwise noisy HDDs and fans.The directions can be confusing at times, and the sides are a little challenging to reattach, but otherwise, this is a good case.
originally posted on walmart.com
Very heavy! Very strong! Solid design! Extremely quiet with its two large fans! I added a liquid CPU cooler and my GPU has two fans as well but it’s still whisper quiet! I purchased two of these cases in building myself and my brother systems. Main reason for this model selection was the two optical drive bays… I have and would definitely recommend this case to any system builder! I really can’t say enough about it!
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
I debated between the Define R5 and the newer Define 7 cases for my new server. Went with the older but still completely reliable R5 as it was both cheaper and included more HDD sleds included by default in contrast to the newer model. I also appreciated the dual 5.25 external bays so that I can mount two optical drives that I can use for reading in multiple DVDs/Blu-ray discs if I want.The R5 is also a more manageable size, the newer Define 6 and 7 are just very large for a workstation/home server application which is what I think the Define series is best suited for. My one complaint was that there is a compatibility issue with 280mm radiators and clearance with some motherboard VRM heat spreaders. It would be nice if the warning about this issue was a bit more ... MoreI debated between the Define R5 and the newer Define 7 cases for my new server. Went with the older but still completely reliable R5 as it was both cheaper and included more HDD sleds included by default in contrast to the newer model. I also appreciated the dual 5.25 external bays so that I can mount two optical drives that I can use for reading in multiple DVDs/Blu-ray discs if I want.The R5 is also a more manageable size, the newer Define 6 and 7 are just very large for a workstation/home server application which is what I think the Define series is best suited for. My one complaint was that there is a compatibility issue with 280mm radiators and clearance with some motherboard VRM heat spreaders. It would be nice if the warning about this issue was a bit more prominent on the product description pages as it is present in the case's manual.
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| Total Fan Mounts | 9 |
| Top Fan | 3 x 120 / 140 mm |
| Bottom Fan | 2 x 120 /140 mm |
| Side Fan | 1 x 120 /140 mm |
Fractal Design Define R5 - Mid Tower Computer Case - ATX - Optimized for High Airflow and Silent - 2X Fractal Design Dynamic GP-14 140mm Silent Fans
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Fractal Design Define R5 Black ATX Case, No PSU, USB 3.0
Delivery $34
Fractal Design Define R5 - Mid Tower Computer Case - Atx - Optimized
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Fractal Design Define R5 - Mid Tower Computer Case - ATX - Optimized for High Airflow and
Delivery $446.08
I'm definitely not the first to say it, but the Fractal Design Define R5 makes for a quiet and roomy NAS case.In 2024, most PC cases either feature glass sides or are ITX-sized. Thankfully, the Define R5 has neither of those, instead sporting sound-dampening foam to quiet otherwise noisy HDDs and fans.The directions can be confusing at times, and the sides are a little challenging to reattach, but otherwise, this is a good case.
Very heavy! Very strong! Solid design! Extremely quiet with its two large fans! I added a liquid CPU cooler and my GPU has two fans as well but it’s still whisper quiet! I purchased two of these cases in building myself and my brother systems. Main reason for this model selection was the two optical drive bays… I have and would definitely recommend this case to any system builder! I really can’t say enough about it!
I debated between the Define R5 and the newer Define 7 cases for my new server. Went with the older but still completely reliable R5 as it was both cheaper and included more HDD sleds included by default in contrast to the newer model. I also appreciated the dual 5.25 external bays so that I can mount two optical drives that I can use for reading in multiple DVDs/Blu-ray discs if I want.The R5 is also a more manageable size, the newer Define 6 and 7 are just very large for a workstation/home server application which is what I think the Define series is best suited for. My one complaint was that there is a compatibility issue with 280mm radiators and clearance with some motherboard VRM heat spreaders. It would be nice if the warning about this issue was a bit more ... MoreI debated between the Define R5 and the newer Define 7 cases for my new server. Went with the older but still completely reliable R5 as it was both cheaper and included more HDD sleds included by default in contrast to the newer model. I also appreciated the dual 5.25 external bays so that I can mount two optical drives that I can use for reading in multiple DVDs/Blu-ray discs if I want.The R5 is also a more manageable size, the newer Define 6 and 7 are just very large for a workstation/home server application which is what I think the Define series is best suited for. My one complaint was that there is a compatibility issue with 280mm radiators and clearance with some motherboard VRM heat spreaders. It would be nice if the warning about this issue was a bit more prominent on the product description pages as it is present in the case's manual.
For use as a home server chassis or for anyone who still needs or wants optical drives, the R5 is still unbeaten, even by the R6 or Define 7. It is as solid as a rock, modular and has the best system for securing hard drives and optical drives I've come across. It's a testament to the engineering and planning that went into designing this model that no other company and not even Fractal itself can top it all these years later. I have only a couple of quibbles (no EATX support; no tempered glass available if you are into that; top panel not removable for watercooling if you prefer radiators, which I do not), but they are incredibly minor. I returned a Define 7 to stick with this one because it is still the superior case.
Built a computer using this case and a Supermicro motherboard for one of our labs here at work. While the case is sturdy and has lots of good drive mounting options it has some disappointing shortcomings that bring into question whether I'll be ordering more of them. First, there's only a bare minimum of places to screw in the motherboard mounting studs...the case only supports one arrangement of mounting holes. If your motherboard happens to have its mounting holes located outside of this one "norm" you're out of luck. The Supermicro MB I have has 3 holes in the "wrong" place. Any other case will have mounting holes in these locations, but not this particular case. There's zero reason why they can't include more mounting holes to support more motherboards. Second, ... MoreBuilt a computer using this case and a Supermicro motherboard for one of our labs here at work. While the case is sturdy and has lots of good drive mounting options it has some disappointing shortcomings that bring into question whether I'll be ordering more of them. First, there's only a bare minimum of places to screw in the motherboard mounting studs...the case only supports one arrangement of mounting holes. If your motherboard happens to have its mounting holes located outside of this one "norm" you're out of luck. The Supermicro MB I have has 3 holes in the "wrong" place. Any other case will have mounting holes in these locations, but not this particular case. There's zero reason why they can't include more mounting holes to support more motherboards. Second, there are removable plates on the top of the case for exposing vents (which is a nice feature) but once you remove them the exposed grillwork is so wide open that small objects could easily fall into the computer. Fractal's Meshify C cases include a magnetically attached screen that covers the grill to prevent this from happening...this case badly needs one of these as well. Third is an issue I've NEVER seen on any other of the hundreds of cases I've bought, irregardless of price. The prep work on the steel is bad in places and that's caused bubbles in the black paint on the top of the case. Whether or not the paint will eventually peel off in these areas only time will tell. Overall, a nice case that, with some more attention to workmanship and a few small tweaks, could be a great case
Case was a bit bigger than what i wanted, but for the whole row of hdd's it made sense. the manual was good in the way it described how more drive cages could be added. but wasn't the clearest so had to go to youtube for a couple items. some of the tolerances on the trays for the drives weren't so there's already scratches going in an out. Sounds dampening is good but i'll probably remove the front panel for better airflow. the removability was a plus. Same with the removable top. wish the cables from the top were more easily reachable and arrangeable.
Very well built case. It's wide, wider than the old ATX standard but it makes it nice and easy to load up the motherboard and hard drives. Speaking of hard drives, I would only recommend this case if you have lots of legacy hard drives. I do, and most of the cases now are not equipped to handle more than one old 3.5 inch spinning drive. This case can handle a boatload. I have 4 old drives and a Bluray burner and they all fit nicely, as I skipped a space for each drive to give them plenty of breathing room. It has room for 8 drives I think. The construction is top notch, all the necessary hardware is nicely packaged in separate see thru bags. I'm very pleased with this purchase, just what I was looking for.
I needed a case for my makeshift server. A bench testing and I have to say that this has a lot of space for 8+2/4 2.5-3.5 drives. 2 5.25 bay for optical or additional HDD, hence the +2 or +4 if using 2.5 SSD.Fractal has been making quality cases for some time now and this is a great case. Minimal look, not to flash, gets the job done. It comes with all the fasteners that you will need for this case. The side panel as a bit hard to take off, just a little force needed.
Overall I like this case. I really like the left-hand side vent that allows installation of 120 or 140mm fan to exhaust air right next to the GPU.The cable guides allow easy routing of cables behind the mother board.I like the configurable set up for 3.5/5 drive bays and optical drive slots. There are two fans that can be mounted in the front to draw air in.The mounting with my motherboard was good but not perfect - the hole alignment with my MSI B660 board was not quite aligned on one hole, but it was not an important screw so I felt fine leaving it off.The case did cut me at one point, so I would wish for a little more finish on the case, but overall it's not a vicious case - most finish is quite safe.The case has good sound insulation on many of the ... MoreOverall I like this case. I really like the left-hand side vent that allows installation of 120 or 140mm fan to exhaust air right next to the GPU.The cable guides allow easy routing of cables behind the mother board.I like the configurable set up for 3.5/5 drive bays and optical drive slots. There are two fans that can be mounted in the front to draw air in.The mounting with my motherboard was good but not perfect - the hole alignment with my MSI B660 board was not quite aligned on one hole, but it was not an important screw so I felt fine leaving it off.The case did cut me at one point, so I would wish for a little more finish on the case, but overall it's not a vicious case - most finish is quite safe.The case has good sound insulation on many of the surfaces.The key benefits: great airflow and quiet. These two things are hard to get together. The main idea is that I was able to install a lot of fans and run all those fans at very low speed (which is quiet) and still get good airflow. Playing a modern game, my CPU temps never exceeded 65C.The two provided case fans are not PWM, so I removed them. They were not too loud.I was able to fit a Be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 CPU cooler into the case (it's a very big cooler but it fits fine). I would not recommend this cooler though - pick something else. But this case is big enough to fit even this monster.
case is engineered well. everything is modular so you can create a machine to fit your needs. If I'm making disc copies say of a wedding for multiple people, I don't want to have to be waiting to put in the blank disc and hit enter. I want it done automatically. Thus the need for two Optical drive bays. You can't find dual optical bays anymore but you can remove one or both if desired and use for something else. Only downside is case has been discontinued, but B&H has them. No USB-C on the front, but new motherboards have them built in.
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| Total Fan Mounts | 9 |
| Top Fan | 3 x 120 / 140 mm |
| Bottom Fan | 2 x 120 /140 mm |
| Side Fan | 1 x 120 /140 mm |
Fractal Design Define R5 Black
What sets the Fractal Design Define R5 case apart? Elegant appearance and robust construction. The Fractal Design Define R5 is a computer case that immediately catches the eye with its understated elegance. The special feature of this case is not only its stylish look but also its high functionality. It is very sturdy, well-crafted, and stable. The front door can be mounted to open either left or right, which greatly simplifies the installation and handling of various components. Ample space for your hardware. The Fractal Design Define R5 accommodates a wide range of hardware, and the case benefits from its high modularity. This allows you to flexibly, easily, and quickly install and remove components. You have seven expansion slots, four ModuVent panels (one on the side and three on top of the case), as well as nine spots for fan installation and ten drive bays for HDDs/SSDs.
What sets the Fractal Design Define R5 case apart? Elegant appearance and robust construction. The Fractal Design Define R5 is a computer case that immediately catches the eye with its understated elegance. The special feature of this case is not only its stylish look but also its high functionality. It is very sturdy, well-crafted, and stable. The front door can be mounted to open either left or right, which greatly simplifies the installation and handling of various components. Ample space for your hardware. The Fractal Design Define R5 accommodates a wide range of hardware, and the case benefits from its high modularity. This allows you to flexibly, easily, and quickly install and remove components. You have seven expansion slots, four ModuVent panels (one on the side and three on top of the case), as well as nine spots for fan installation and ten drive bays for HDDs/SSDs.
What sets the Fractal Design Define R5 case apart? Elegant appearance and robust construction. The Fractal Design Define R5 is a computer case that immediately catches the eye with its understated elegance. The special feature of this case is not only its stylish look but also its high functionality. It is very sturdy, well-crafted, and stable. The front door can be mounted to open either left or right, which greatly simplifies the installation and handling of various components. Ample space for your hardware. The Fractal Design Define R5 accommodates a wide range of hardware, and the case benefits from its high modularity. This allows you to flexibly, easily, and quickly install and remove components. You have seven expansion slots, four ModuVent panels (one on the side and three on top of the case), as well as nine spots for fan installation and ten drive bays for HDDs/SSDs.
What sets the Fractal Design Define R5 case apart? Elegant appearance and robust construction. The Fractal Design Define R5 is a computer case that immediately catches the eye with its understated elegance. The special feature of this case is not only its stylish look but also its high functionality. It is very sturdy, well-crafted, and stable. The front door can be mounted to open either left or right, which greatly simplifies the installation and handling of various components. Ample space for your hardware. The Fractal Design Define R5 accommodates a wide range of hardware, and the case benefits from its high modularity. This allows you to flexibly, easily, and quickly install and remove components. You have seven expansion slots, four ModuVent panels (one on the side and three on top of the case), as well as nine spots for fan installation and ten drive bays for HDDs/SSDs.
in 4 offers
The lowest price for Fractal Design Define R5 Black right now is $209.00 at Scorptec, compared across 4 retailers.
The all-time low was $178.12 on 16 Jan 2026 — today's price is 17% above the lowest ever. That's a little above the best price we've seen.
Prices last updated 16 Sept 2026.
