Four years after the release of the original Era ITX case, Fractal Design has returned with a thoughtfully redesigned successor that addresses its predecessor’s shortcomings while maintaining its premium aesthetic appeal. The Fractal Design Era 2 represents an evolution in small form factor case design, offering improved thermal performance and hardware compatibility without sacrificing style. I typically struggle with ITX cases, feeling ultimately limited in what I can do, but the Fractal Design Era 2 delivers where it matters most, offering a solid blend of features and style that is hard to replicate.
I have been a fan of the design of Fractal Design’s cases for some time now, and the Era 2 is no different. Continuing the brand’s legacy of using natural materials and solid construction, the case features an anodized aluminum shell complemented by a striking walnut wood top panel, creating a sophisticated two-tone aesthetic that sets it apart from conventional PC cases. With dimensions of 366 x 165 x 314 mm and weighing 4.64 kg, the Era 2 maintains a compact footprint while offering increased internal volume compared to its predecessor.
The case’s exterior design incorporates subtle curves and thoughtfully placed ventilation patterns that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. The front I/O panel, now positioned at the bottom centre, includes one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, and a combination audio jack. The overall design feels incredibly well-thought-out, managing to fit many unique touches in a case that makes use of every inch available.
“The Fractal Design Era 2 represents an evolution in small form factor case design, offering improved thermal performance and hardware compatibility without sacrificing style.”
This level of detail is most notable once you open the case up, and dive into the Era 2’s internal architecture. The case features an innovative adjustable central spine system that allows users to optimize space allocation between CPU cooling and GPU clearance. This flexibility enables support for graphics cards up to 326mm in length and 63mm in thickness, making it compatible with even high-end GPUs like the RTX 4080 or RTX 4090 Founders Edition, even if it will be a tight squeeze.
The case comes equipped with two pre-installed Fractal Aspect 12 PWM fans in the floor position, while supporting up to two 120 mm or 140 mm fans in the top position. For liquid cooling enthusiasts, the Era 2 can accommodate radiators up to 280 mm in the top position. This is all under the wood top grill, which can be easily removed thanks to its magnetic connection and also serves as a nice accent on the otherwise grey metal exterior.
Building in the Era 2 demonstrates Fractal’s attention to user experience. The tool-free chassis access system, featuring a single-piece sliding exterior panel and a push-to-release top bracket, makes component installation and maintenance remarkably straightforward. The included PCIe Gen 4 riser cable comes pre-installed, simplifying vertical GPU mounting. I also appreciate how it is built to be solid while still allowing easy release by pulling out the bottom filter. It is an intuitive design that just works, and I love it.
Thankfully, the thermal performance of the Era 2 managed to be solid, even with the incredibly tight working space. Testing with the NZXT AIO cooler shows the case maintains acceptable temperatures even under heavy load, with the CPU averaging 68°C over ambient when equipped with a 240 mm AIO cooler. The improved ventilation design, including the perforated side panels and optional top radiator support, contributes to this enhanced cooling capability. I am honestly amazed at how well everything worked in the small case considering the limited room, and I have to give the designers at Fractal Design credit for the smart choices that helped make that all possible.
“Thankfully, the thermal performance of the Era 2 managed to be solid, even with the incredibly tight working space.”
Priced at $199.99 USD, the Era 2 positions itself in the premium segment of the small case market, but having built in the case, it feels very much worth it. Fractal Design has used high-quality materials throughout, and the design choices highlight those small touches. While you can get cheaper cases, they will not look or feel this good, and that is without even touching on the design elements like the GPU riser, which made what would have been a difficult build into something enjoyable—something not many cases can claim.
To make things even more interesting, the Era 2 case is available in three different options: Charcoal Grey, Midnight Blue, and Silver, each maintaining the same price point, and each bringing their own unique style well worth checking out.
For users seeking a premium small case that does not compromise on hardware compatibility or cooling capability, the Era 2 presents a striking option. Its sophisticated aesthetic and practical design improvements make it suitable for both high-performance gaming builds and professional workstations where appearance matters. The Era 2 earns its place among the top tier of ITX cases, with Fractal Design maintaining the overall level of quality that makes its cases easy recommendations in all form factors.
- Sleek design with anodized aluminum and solid walnut.
- pace for for up to 3-slot graphics cards of 326 mm length
