In the evolving landscape of PC case design, a notable shift has emerged from late 2021 to early 2022, as manufacturers prioritize cooling efficiency—a critical factor influencing computer performance. This renewed focus on airflow dynamics comes in response to the rising thermal output of contemporary processors and the increasing power consumption of graphics cards. Fractal Design has stepped into this arena with its Torrent series, engineered specifically for optimal air cooling. Following our positive experience with the Torrent Compact, we now turn our attention to its larger counterpart, the Fractal Design Torrent.
Specifications
As of early 2022, the Torrent case is available in six configurations, distinguished by color options (black, dark gray, and white), the presence of ARGB lighting on fans, and side panel materials (metal or tinted glass). This review focuses on the FD-C-TOR1A-02 variant in dark gray with lightly tinted glass panels.
| Model | Fractal Design Torrent |
| Model Code | FD-C-TOR1A-02 |
| Form Factor | Mid-Tower |
| Color | Gray (TG Light Tint) |
| Dimensions | 544 x 242 x 530 mm |
| Max CPU Cooler Height | 188 mm |
| Compatible Motherboard Form Factors | E-ATX, ATX, micro-ATX, Mini-ITX, SSI-EEB, SSI-CEB |
| Max GPU Length | 461 mm |
| Power Supply Support | ATX PS2 up to 230 mm |
| Side Panels | Tempered glass, metal, and plastic |
| Expansion Slots | 7 |
| 3.5″ Drive Bays | 2 |
| 2.5″ Drive Bays | 4 |
| Pre-installed Fans | Dynamic X2: 2 x GP-18 and 3 x GP-14 |
| Top Panel Interfaces | USB 3.0 x 2, USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C x 1, combo audio jack, reset button, power button |
| Weight | 11.1 kg (13.7 kg with packaging) |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Packaging
The Fractal Design Torrent arrives in a large, multi-layer cardboard box, measuring 64 x 34.3 x 67.4 cm. The exterior features the model name, a schematic of the case, and technical specifications printed in black ink. A small sticker indicates the color and type of glass tint. Weighing in at 13.7 kg, the box includes cutouts that serve as handles, though the size and weight make it cumbersome to carry alone. Inside, the case is securely held in place with dense foam inserts, while accessories are neatly packaged in separate boxes.
Contents
The case’s spare parts and mounting hardware are organized in branded cardboard boxes. The smaller box (Torrent Accessories) contains screws, a tool for installing motherboard standoffs, a GPU support bracket, ten plastic zip ties, and a microfiber cloth for cleaning the glass panels. The larger box (Torrent Fan Brackets) includes alternative mounts for front fans, allowing users to swap the pre-installed 180 mm fans for 120 or 140 mm variants.
Exterior
In the tech community, the term “Torrent” often evokes associations with the BitTorrent file-sharing protocol. However, this case is designed not for data storage but for efficient airflow. The name “Torrent,” meaning “flow,” reflects the developers’ intention to create a case that facilitates directed airflow for cooling.
This is achieved through a uniquely designed front panel that enhances air intake, complemented by extensive perforation on the rear panel for expelling heated air. Notably, the power supply compartment is positioned at the top, a departure from conventional designs.
The reviewed model features 3 mm thick tempered glass panels with a light tint. While aesthetically pleasing, this design necessitates careful cable management to avoid visible clutter through the glass.
The top of the case is covered by a plastic lid secured with two screws at the rear. Removing this lid provides ample space for the power supply and excess cables, a thoughtful feature that includes a reusable cable tie even in this hidden area.
The front interface includes standard ports: separate 3.5 mm jacks for audio, two USB 3.0 ports, a USB Type-C port, and a power/reset button. The absence of a drive activity indicator is notable.
A large dust filter occupies the bottom of the case, secured in grooves and removable by sliding it forward. However, accessing this filter requires removing the front panel, adding an extra step to maintenance.
Along the sides, there are grooves for installing ARGB strips, complete with rectangular openings for cable passage. The case is elevated on four substantial plastic feet with rubber inserts, providing a 35 mm lift from the surface.
Interior
Both glass panels are easily removable, secured at the bottom with metal clips and at the top with hinges. A plastic finger grip at the top rear aids in panel removal. The main compartment is designed to maximize airflow, accommodating a variety of motherboard sizes, including E-ATX and larger server boards.
Seven expansion slots are available, all covered with reusable covers. The motherboard tray comes pre-drilled for ATX boards, with additional holes marked for other sizes, and includes a hex wrench for easy installation.
Numerous cable management holes surround the motherboard tray, with larger holes fitted with rubber grommets. Convenient cable channels with reusable ties are also integrated into the rear panel.
The power supply has its own compartment at the top, accessible after removing the lid. However, this design may lead to warm air from the CPU and GPU entering the power supply, which is less than ideal for passive cooling models.
Storage options include two quick-release 3.5″ drive bays and up to four 2.5″ drive bays, both located behind the motherboard tray.
The front panel is easily detachable, providing direct access to the front fans and a mesh dust filter attached to the panel itself.
Cooling Support
The case supports various fan configurations:
- Front and bottom panels: two 180 mm fans (pre-installed at the front) or three 120/140 mm fans (pre-installed at the bottom).
- Rear panel: one 120 or 140 mm fan.
Fan installation at the bottom utilizes a removable universal frame compatible with all specified sizes. The front supports both 180 mm fans and alternative mounts for 120/140 mm fans and radiators.
Pre-installed fans include two GP-18 180 mm units at the front and three GP-14 140 mm units at the bottom. This robust setup is ideal for users favoring traditional air cooling, though those opting for liquid cooling will need to adjust the fan arrangement.
A simple fan hub (version 1.1) is included, supporting PWM control for up to nine fans, powered by a SATA connector. When connected to the motherboard, fan speed is managed accordingly, with RPM data relayed from the first fan header.
The case accommodates liquid cooling systems, supporting radiators up to 420 mm in size, with provisions for two such radiators if fans are removed. Potential configurations include:
- Front and bottom panels: one radiator from 120 to 420 mm.
- Rear panel: one 120 or 140 mm radiator.
Mounting holes for reservoir suspension are located on the right side of the motherboard tray, and additional holes for tubing are also present.
Lighting
While the included fans lack ARGB lighting, a subtle illuminated strip runs along the visible edge of the power supply compartment, connectable via a standard three-pin header compatible with most current ARGB controllers.
Assembly Features
The spacious interior and thoughtful design of the Fractal Design Torrent facilitate a comfortable assembly process. However, some nuances warrant attention. The case supports CPU coolers up to 188 mm in height, accommodating most cooling solutions on the market, including larger models.
Graphics cards can measure up to 423 mm with the pre-installed fans or 461 mm without them. The top-mounted power supply compartment enhances aesthetics by concealing excess cables.
Motherboard installation is straightforward, as it can be suspended on the central standoff without needing to lay the case on its side.
The cutout for CPU cooler access measures 194 x 140 mm, ensuring unobstructed access for cooler installation or removal without removing the motherboard.
A GPU support bracket is included to prevent sagging for longer graphics cards, which can be attached to designated slots near the motherboard tray.
However, the placement of the 180 mm fans can obstruct cable routing to the motherboard ports, complicating cable management.
The front fan and radiator compartment is sufficiently deep, allowing for easy installation of cooling systems.
Overall, the case provides ample space for cable management, with up to 32 mm of clearance behind the motherboard tray.
Testing
Temperature readings were monitored using HWiNFO version 7.24, with component stress applied via OCCT version 10.1.7 and CrystalDiskMark version 8.0.4a. Noise levels were measured using an Actakom ATE-9015 meter from a distance of 1 meter.
Test Stand Configuration
| Component Type | Model |
| Motherboard | MSI MEG X570 ACE (BIOS: 7C35v1H from 28.03.2022) |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 5800X |
| CPU Cooling System | Fractal Design Celsius+ S36 Prisma |
| Thermal Interface | Cooler Master MasterGEL |
| RAM | 32 GB DDR4-3200 (2 x XPG Spectrix D60G 8 GB + 2 x XPG Spectrix D50 8 GB) |
| System Drive | M.2 NVMe SSD XPG GAMMIX S70 BLADE 1 TB |
| Data Storage Drive | M.2 NVMe SSD Seagate FireCuda 510 2 TB |
| Graphics Card | MSI GeForce RTX 2060 Ventus OC 6 GB |
| Power Supply | Cooler Master V850 SFX GOLD |
| Cables | XPG PRIME ARGB Extension Cables |
| Case | Fractal Design Torrent |
| Operating System | Microsoft Windows 11 Pro, version 21H2 with all updates as of 26.05.2022 |
| Room Temperature | ~28°C |
Fan Speed and Noise Levels
The case comes pre-installed with five fans. The two 180 mm Fractal Design Dynamic X2 GP-18 fans at the front operate at speeds ranging from 300 to 1200 RPM, with a maximum noise level of 35.4 dBA. However, during testing, noise levels reached up to 44.8 dBA, which can be uncomfortable in close proximity. These fans remain relatively quiet at speeds below 550-600 RPM (~40%).
Three 140 mm Fractal Design Dynamic X2 GP-14 fans at the bottom operate between 420 and 1600 RPM. While generally moderate in noise, peak levels can reach 37.5 dBA. For a quieter build, it is advisable to limit their speed to below 950 RPM (65-70% of maximum).
Component Temperatures Under Load
Temperature monitoring was conducted during three scenarios using HWiNFO 7.16 over 30 minutes:
- Idle state in Windows 11 Pro;
- CPU stress test using Prime95 with Small FFT’s across 16 threads;
- Simultaneous stress testing of CPU and GPU using OCCT and CrystalDiskMark.
No anomalies were detected, and component temperatures remained within typical ranges for this configuration.
Additional tests were performed in games such as FarCry New Dawn and PUBG: Battlegrounds at 2K resolution with maximum settings. Both the GPU and CPU temperatures stayed well below critical thresholds, aided by robust airflow from the front and bottom fans.
