External Overview
The Fractal Design Core 3000 Mid Tower Case is a rugged case which provides plenty of cooling options. It also has a very simple design, which can be good or bad for some. One thing to note about this case is its support for lengthy graphics cards, PSUs and tall CPU coolers.
The front panel is composed almost entirely of honeycomb mesh backed with a foam filter. Only two external 5.25” drive bays are included with this case; both of which have the same honeycomb mesh as the rest of the front bezel.
On the top of the case you’ll find your front access ports towards the front which include audio/mic jacks, power/reset buttons and four USB 2.0 ports. In this day and age, cases should have at least a single USB 3.0 port, so it’s disappointing to see four USB 2.0s and not a single USB 3.0. Moving further back the case are the two top fan grills which support 120/140mm fans; a single 140mm fan is installed in the back slot.
The side panel is very simple as well and only includes a single fan slot which, like the top two, supports 120/140mm fans.
The rear of the case is similar to that of any other case. You have your bottom mounted PSU slot, seven expansion slots (which include reusable filtered covers), motherboard I/O slot, rear 120mm exhaust fan, and two watercooling holes. The watercooling holes also have rubber grommets installed in them and can be found above the fan.
Both side panels are secured by two black thumbscrews, making removal and installation of the side panels quick and easy.
On the bottom of the case are four plastic feet with rubber stoppers on them to help prevent the case from sliding around. A removable fan filter for the PSU as well as an additional 120mm fan slot can also be found on the bottom of the case.
