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🔶DATELINELOCATION, 🔶DATE – Fractal Design’s meshify series, known for its signature crumpled-mesh design, has been a staple in PC cases for eight years.The latest iteration, the Meshify 3 Ambience Pro RGB, introduces an air deflector at the front of the power supply shroud to enhance airflow around the graphics card.
The Ambience Pro RGB model features a USB-based ARGB controller and lighting around the front face, the bottom of the left side panel window, and on the three fans. For those seeking fewer lights, the basic “RGB” version is available for $159.99, while the base “TG” version, without ARGB, costs $139.99. The case comes in white and black, with an additional “Solid” variant in black featuring a steel side panel.
Fractal Design has streamlined the headphone and microphone jacks into a single four-pole connector on the Meshify 3. This connector functions as a standard headphone jack and supports the monaural microphone of a combined headset plug. The reset button has been removed, but the case retains twin USB 3 type-A ports and a single Type-C port. The power-on indicator ring around the power button is now ARGB.
One notable feature is the dust filter located under the power supply’s air inlet, designed to trap inbound dust. It slides out from the side of the case and is partially disguised as part of the rear case foot.The back panel includes vent slots for fan mounting, surface-mounted PCI Express expansion-card slots with replaceable covers, a plastic screw-tab cover with a push tab for easy removal, and a removable power supply bracket secured with knurled screws. The power supply is inserted through the rear panel.
Both side panels are secured with snaps and include tabs with screw holes for added security. A nylon pull tab at the center of the top panel’s back edge allows for easy removal.
While the front ARGB fans have 140mm frames, there is insufficient space to mount a 420mm-format radiator vertically due to the end caps extending the total size. Tho, a 360mm-format unit can be installed by removing the 140mm fans and flipping the fan-mount brackets. these brackets support either 120mm or 140mm fans without hindering airflow.
The top panel is fully removable to facilitate radiator installation, supporting every 280mm-format radiator. A removable cable shroud, adjustable for motherboards up to 10.9 inches deep, is also included.
The lower front fan’s air deflector is removable and can be used with a pair of 2.5-inch drive bays hidden beneath it.
Behind the motherboard tray are two drive trays, three push-in cable clips, and the ARGB controller. The removable card bracket covers and power supply bracket are also located here.
More drive storage is available on the back of the motherboard tray, with brackets configured to hold two 3.5-inch drives or four 2.5-inch drives.The included ARGB controller,secured with a hook-and-loop strap,features USB and PWM input,proprietary combination connectors,and a SATA power connector. The proprietary ARGB/PWM combo connectors are designed to prevent accidental connection to USB Type-C ports.
The ARGB controller includes connectors for the case’s chain of fans and the “Ambience Pro” lighting. the front panel portion of the lighting cable can be easily separated without a tether.
PC Case Feature Trends Explained
PC case design has evolved significantly over the years, with manufacturers focusing on improved airflow, enhanced aesthetics, and user-pleasant features. Here are some key trends:
- Improved Airflow: Modern PC cases prioritize efficient cooling to handle high-performance components. Mesh front panels, multiple fan mounts, and strategic vent placements are common features.
- ARGB Lighting: Customizable RGB lighting has become a popular aesthetic feature, allowing users to personalize their builds. ARGB controllers and software enable synchronized lighting effects across various components.
- Tool-Less Design: Many cases now offer tool-less installation for components like drives and expansion cards, simplifying the building process.
- Cable Management: Effective cable management is crucial for airflow and aesthetics. Cases often include routing channels, tie-down points, and PSU shrouds to keep cables organized.
- Modularity: modular designs allow users to customize the case layout to
