Performance Analysis

Curious about how the modularity here might affect airflow, we tested the Vector RS in a total of four configurations, first in the default storage layout with tempered glass roof and then with the same layout using the ventilated roof. We then repeated both tests after having converted to the open layout.

The bad news is that despite dual intake fans and vents down the sides of the front panel, airflow to the GPU is really rather restricted in the default layout, and we see some of the worst results thus far on our GTX 980. The size of the case means the GPU is pretty far from any ventilated sections, so it really is relying on air getting to it from the front fans. Sadly, their low speed coupled with the front panel’s restrictive properties, the drive bays in the way, and the distance the air has to cover means things get rather toasty indeed, and this is unaffected by the choice of roof cover.

For the CPU, things are again on the warm side using the default layout, but the single 140mm is still enough to prevent things spiralling out of control. We also managed to improve the temperature by 4°C just by switching to the ventilated roof, allowing heat to rise out instead of building up as much.

The open layout, thankfully, ensures that more air from the front fans is directed into the case, and both the GPU and CPU temperature fall as a result. The GPU is the most affected, although a delta T of 55°C is still on the high side. The CPU is 3°C better off in this layout, and this time switching to the ventilated roof makes no difference, although we’re confident you’d see better results by adding an exhaust fan to the roof above the CPU cooler.

With the three fans capped at 1,000 RPM, noise output from the Vector RS is decidedly low. The sound-insulated side panel and angled vents really do appear to make a difference.

Conclusion

We have mixed feelings about the Vector RS. On the one hand, it’s a little frustrating to see Fractal once again reskinning an existing design, but equally it makes sense both commercially and from a design perspective to reuse good things. The layout still feels suitable for a modern chassis, and the level of modularity is well balanced. Meanwhile, build quality lives up to the standards that the Swedish firm has set itself over the years. The addressable RGB lighting is neatly integrated and not garish, and the features like the nine-port fan hub, multitude of storage options, and USB Type-C are all welcome.

However, much like we did recently with the Be Quiet! Pure Base 500, we have to pull Fractal up on the issue of airflow, although this time it’s with regards to the GPU and not the CPU, which is middling but acceptable and easily improved. If you stick to the storage layout of this case, we highly recommend installing some more powerful fans in the front to make up for all the impedance, as the default ones just don’t seem to cut it. That said, the open layout returns things to an acceptable state, and we do think this is the one most users are likely to prefer these days. Since this layout can be switched to relatively painlessly and doesn’t involve the user having to buy anything extra, we’re still happy to bestow a recommendation for this case, as it’s otherwise well made and nicely specced, but it’s definitely worth being aware of the Vector RS’ limitations when it comes to GPU cooling in its default state.