Fractal Terra Gaming PC Build – Step by Step

The Fractal Terra Gaming PC is a small computer with natural elements that would blend well in a modern home. The Fractal Terra is only 10.4L, taking up minimal space, yet it can fit massive GPU’s for ultimate versatility and performance.

Parts

CPU: AMD Ryzen 5  7600X

In this build, the CPU choice falls on the 7600X for several reasons. Firstly, its compatibility with smaller low-profile CPU coolers, such as the one used in this setup, makes it a practical choice. Additionally, this build is geared towards 4K gaming, where the 7600X, when coupled with a higher-end GPU like the 4080, delivers sufficient performance. While this pairing is suitable for 4K gaming, for those seeking higher frame rates in 1440p gaming scenarios, a more potent processor like the 7700X might be preferable. However, the choice ultimately hinges on the specific games being played and the targeted resolution. The 7600X boasts 6 cores, 12 threads, and a boost clock up to 5.3 GHz, making it a capable performer for gaming and multitasking alike.

Furthermore, the 7600X necessitates a new AM5 motherboard, with the Gigabyte Aorus B650I being the chosen platform for this build. This motherboard impresses with its array of features, particularly for a board of its size. It offers ample USB connectivity, including a 10-gigabit Type-C port, integrated Wi-Fi 6e support, and a backplate that doubles as a heat sink for the board and one of its three M.2 slots. These features not only provide convenience and versatility but also lay a robust foundation for a high-performance gaming system within a compact form factor.

Motherboard: Samsung 980 Pro

This motherboard features three M.2 slots, with two situated beneath a substantial heat sink that includes a built-in fan—one for Gen 5 and the other for Gen 4. The third slot is cleverly located under the backplate. 

Storage: 2TB Samsung 980 Pro

In this setup, a single 2TB Samsung 980 Pro is utilized. It’s worth noting that if you intend to use the back M.2 slot, it’s advisable to do so during this installation phase as accessing it later can be challenging due to the backplate configuration. While 2TB suits the current needs, the flexibility remains to add more storage, with easy access to the second front slot for expansion if required.

RAM: Corsair Vengeance DDR5-6000 Memory

Next, we’ll proceed with the RAM installation. In this build, DDR5 memory is essential, and I’ve chosen a 32GB set of Corsair Vengeance DDR5-6000 memory. These modules are tailored for AMD builds, featuring an EXPO memory profile and operating at an optimal speed of 6000MHz, ideal for 7000 series CPUs. Their lower profile design not only ensures compatibility but also provides ample clearance within the confined space of the Fractal Terra case. While they offer an aesthetically pleasing look, RGB lighting may not be necessary given that it won’t be visible once the case is closed.

Cooler: Noctua NH-L9a

The impressive VRM and M.2. heatsinks on this motherboard not only enhance its visual appeal but also present a challenge in selecting compatible low-profile CPU coolers. However, I’ve discovered that the Noctua NH-L9a fits perfectly in this setup. This updated AM5 version boasts a compact design that remains highly effective despite its small size. With a total height of just 37mm, including the attached 92mm fan, it offers 100% RAM clearance and fits snugly within the specified CPU spacing without overhanging the RAM or M.2 slots, making it an ideal choice for numerous small form factor builds.

If you intend to pair this CPU cooler with a different CPU, I strongly advise consulting Noctua’s compatibility guide to ensure compatibility. For example, while the 7600X I’m using here is compatible, overclocking it when paired with the NH-L9a is not recommended. However, this isn’t a concern for my setup as I don’t plan to overclock. It’s important to keep these considerations in mind when selecting your components.

Being compact, the Noctua cooler fits perfectly in the center optimizing the use of the limited space.

Case: Fractal Terra

The Fractal Terra is our chosen case for this build, representing a recent addition to Fractal’s lineup. This case is notably compact, measuring just 10.4L, and features a modern design highlighted by a walnut wood accent on the front panel. It comes in three color options, and I opted for the black variant to align with my preferred aesthetic.

What sets this case apart is its innovative panel removal mechanism. The panels are hinged, allowing you to lift them from the bottom and unclip one side for removal. For the top panel, simply pull the leather tab away from the case to unlatch it, then lift it off. This design makes accessing the internals of the case effortless and adds a touch of convenience to the overall build process.

One of the standout features of the Fractal Design Terra case is its adjustable spine, providing enhanced versatility in component selection and hardware clearance. This spine adjustment is facilitated by four locations with distinct orange transport locks. Removing these locks reveals screws numbered from 1 to 7. Shifting the spine closer to position 1 increases CPU cooler clearance while moving it towards position 7 offers more GPU clearance.

Initially, I kept the spine at the default position of 4, which seemed suitable for my build. However, I later discovered that I needed to adjust it to 5.5. This adjustment was necessary because the clips on the side panels were interfering with the GPU, particularly if the GPU exceeded a height of 131mm. Therefore, for users employing a similar GPU in their builds, setting the spine to 5.5 proved optimal for accommodating components without any clearance issues.

Fan: Noctua 120mm Slim Fan 

This build will use a 120mm slim fan provided by Noctua. The fan will act as the exhaust at the bottom of the case. Noctua is well known for high-quality fans and CPU coolers, and this is going to help keep the temperatures down in this build.

Power Supply: Corsair SF750 80 Plus Platinum

In choosing the power supply for this build, I opted for the Corsair SF750 80 Plus Platinum model. Renowned for its silent operation and efficiency, this PSU is widely regarded as the gold standard among small-form-factor power supplies. What sets it apart further are the inclusion of high-quality braided cables in the package. These cables not only enhance aesthetics but also make cable management significantly easier, a crucial aspect in compact cases. With a power output of 750 watts, the SF750 meets the demands of a system incorporating a high-performance GPU like the 4080.

GPU: RTX 4080 Founders Edition Card

We’re incorporating the RTX 4080 Founders Edition card into this build. The Fractal Terra accommodates GPUs up to 322 mm in length and a maximum width of 72 mm, depending on the spine configuration. Since the Founders Edition card measures 310 mm in length, it fits perfectly within these specifications.

Acquiring the RTX 4080 is relatively accessible nowadays, and I obtained mine from Best Buy. It’s an impressive GPU, performing comparably to the 7900 XTX in most games, with only the 4090 surpassing it in performance. However, it’s worth noting that the 4080 comes with a substantial price tag, making it a significant investment for many. Nevertheless, when paired with the 7600X, it promises excellent performance for 4K gaming.

Step-by-Step Assembly Guide

  1. Prepare the Motherboard

Lower the CPU into the socket on the motherboard, ensuring proper alignment. Secure it in place with the latch. 

  1. Install the storage and secure it with screws.

If utilizing the m.2. slot on the back, install it during this step, as it will not be easy to access it once installed due to the backplate. 

  1. Install the RAM into the designated slots, following the notch alignment and applying even pressure until they click into place.
  1. Mount the Noctua NH-L9a CPU cooler onto the motherboard.

Remove the pre-installed mounts, unscrewing the 4 screws in the corners. Apply a pea-sized amount of thermal paste on the CPU, align the cooler, and secure it in place using the provided screws. Connect the CPU fan to the motherboard. 

  1. Align the 4 mounting holes to the ones on the motherboard.

Holding the cooler into place with one hand, flip the motherboard over. Now we can re-align the 4 holes and fix the screws into the cooler. Tighten them in an x pattern switching sides every 3 rotations. Plug in the CPU fan.

  1. Install the 120mm slim fan as the exhaust on the bottom of the case.

This will help pull the hot air and pass it through the PSU to exhaust it out the top of the case. This case also includes standoffs to create space between the graphics card fan and the power supply.

  1. Install the Motherboard

Place the motherboard into the case, align it with the standoffs, and secure it using the included screws. Connect the case cables, including USB ports and front IO connections, to the motherboard.

  1. Plug Cables

Plug the USB-A and the USB-C connections from the left side. The front IO connections will be on the Gigabyte board. Use an adapter to connect to the breakout board, and install to connect the power switch.

  1. Power Supply Installation

To remove the power supply bracket, tuse the 2 screws holding it into place. Unscrew and remove that and place the bracket onto the unit.

Fractal recommends facing the fan toward the inside of the case when pairing with a blower-style graphics card. Optionally, you can install the provided standoffs to create more space between the graphics card fan and the power supply.

Plug the 24-pin motherboard and CPU power connectors into the motherboard, and plug the other end into the power supply. Plug in the 12-volt high-power cable for the graphic card.

  1. Fix the power supply unit with the attached bracket back into the case, and organize the cables.

Remove any pre-installed mounts from the case if necessary. Install the power supply into the case, ensuring the fan orientation is toward the inside to help with airflow. Connect the necessary power cables to the motherboard and CPU.

  1. GPU Installation 

Grab the GPU bracket with the attached PCIe 4 riser cable and remove the thumb nuts. Slide the bracket onto the graphics card and into the PCE slot, then secure it with the 2 thumb nuts. Gently lower the GPU with the bracket into the case and resecure it. 

  1. Connect the 12-volt high-power cable and plug the riser cable into the PCIe slot on the motherboard. 
  1. Resecure the top panel. Clip, and secure the side panels.

The build is complete!

After completing the build, I ran performance tests on the new computer. Starting with Cyberpunk at 4K resolution without DLSS or Ray Tracing, it delivers over 60 frames per second. Enabling DLSS and frame generation boosts the frame rate to over 100 fps, albeit with a slight increase in latency, which is manageable for cinematic titles like this.

Moving on to Hogwarts Legacy at 4K, the rasterization performance sits comfortably at 50-60 frames per second on ultra settings. With DLSS and Frame Generation activated the frame rate skyrockets to over 120 fps, showcasing the system’s prowess in handling demanding games.

In terms of temperatures, the CPU averages in the high 60s to lower 70s, while the GPU stays under 60ºC, providing decent thermal performance, especially considering the compact size and the use of the Noctua L9a cooler.

Overall, the Fractal Terra’s aesthetic and the adjustable center spine offer versatility and ease of access during assembly. While some minor inconveniences like non-removable bottom panels and restrictive clips for taller GPUs were noted, they were easily mitigated.