Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact Case Review

Meshify 2 Compact: Exterior Review

Upon first impression, the Meshify 2 Compact looks very similar to the Meshify C. The front of the case still contains the same aesthetics as its predecessor with its angled mesh design. The tempered glass side panel no longer requires four screws on each corner to hold it onto the case. Instead, both side panels include a top latch. This allows them to simply pop off the case without compromising aesthetics.

One major difference with the Meshify 2 Compact is that it includes a hinged removable steel mesh panel. This is different than the older snap-in-place removable steel mesh panel since the hinged panel can open as a door to allow for more airflow. The panel can also be removed completely from the case.

With the front panel open, we can see the large fan mounting surface area. The Meshify 2 Compact is capable of supporting a 280mm or 360mm radiator at the front. From the factory, it does include two GP-14 140mm fans. These fans are capable of 1000 RPM at a sound level of just 18.9 dBa and a maximum CFM of 68.4. On the rear, it includes a GP-12 120MM fan. It is capable of 1200 RPM at 19.4 dBa with a maximum CFM of 52.3.

Because the side panel on the Meshify 2 Compact no longer has the four thumbscrews on each corner to hold it in place, all we see now is just plain tempered glass panel. It is slightly tinted, which is a hit or miss depending on personal preference. We can see the latch towards the top rear of the case. This allows the side panel to pop off the case without the hassle of removing several thumbscrews to do so.

The top of the case looks mostly identical to its predecessor aside from the front I/O ports. What we may not notice off the bat is the ability to remove the top cover completely; similar to what is on the Define 7 XL we reviewed a year ago. This allows for easy access to the top fan mounts and other internal components when building with this case.

The front panel I/O ports have been updated to include a USB Type C port. Everything else still remains the same with its two 3.5mm jack for headphone and microphone, a large power button, reset switch, and two USB 3.0 ports.

Taking a look at the bottom of the Meshify 2 Compact, we can see it no longer has the old circular design on its feet. The removable dust filter now has an abstract-like design. It still slides out from the front of the case, which makes it easy for cleaning. In terms of fan support, this case will support a 120mm fan at the bottom with the hard drive cage removed.

In the next section, we will take a look at what the interior of the Meshify 2 Compact has to offer.