Fractal Design Meshify 3 XL Black Solid – Full Tower High-Airflow Case, Solid Steel Side Panels, E-ATX Support & Multi-Radiator Cooling

The Fractal Design Meshify 3 XL Black Solid (FD-C-MES3X-01) is the no-frills, performance-focused variant of the Meshify 3 XL lineup. With its solid steel side panels, it prioritizes airflow, structure, and compatibility over windowed show builds. Though it lacks tempered glass or RGB lighting, its internal architecture and cooling potential remain top-tier.

Design & Structure

The “Solid” edition features solid industrial steel side panels rather than glass. This gives the chassis a more understated, rugged look while reinforcing structural rigidity. The front fascia retains the signature “rockface” mesh front allowing airflow and visual identity. 

All panels are tool-less with push-to-lock mechanisms for side, top, and front removal—simplifying assembly and servicing. 

Cooling & Airflow

Despite the solid side, the case maintains exceptional cooling flexibility:

• Fan support & mounting: Up to 10 × 140 mm fans or 7 × 120 mm. 

• Radiator support:

  • Front: 280 / 360 mm

  • Top: 360 / 420 mm

  • Side: 360 mm (with brackets)

  • Rear: 120 / 140 mm 

• Air guide: An internal air guide directs airflow toward the GPU zone to optimize cooling performance. 

Even with a solid side, ventilation is maintained via the front and optional side / top openings. For heavy builds or custom loops, users can rely on the multiple radiator positions.

Internal Layout & Hardware Support

• Motherboard / Compatibility: Supports full-size boards including E-ATX (330 mm) and server formats like SSI-EEB and SSI-CEB. 

• GPU Clearance: Up to 512 mm, supporting long flagship cards. 

• CPU Cooler Height: 182 mm clearance allows most tower air coolers. 

• PSU Support: ATX PSUs up to 230 mm length. 

• Drive Bays / Storage:

  • 2 × 3.5″ / 4 × 2.5″ combo

  • Dedicated 2.5″ mounts behind motherboard tray 

• Expansion Slots: 7 full-height slots, suitable for dual-slot or triple-slot cards. 

I/O & Usability

The front I/O is modern and sufficient:

• 1 × USB-C (20 Gbps)

• 2 × USB-A (5 Gbps)

• 1 × Audio combo jack

• Power button 

Further, cable management features include:

• 37.5 mm cable routing space 

• Cable covers, Velcro straps, cable aligners for clean builds 

Strengths & Considerations

Strengths:

• Solid build with less fragility vs glass variants

• Supports massive builds, high-end GPUs, and extensive cooling

• Clean aesthetic suited for setups where internal components aren’t meant to be exposed

• Balanced design—retains airflow focus despite solid panels

Considerations:

• No window or RGB, so internal components won’t be visible

• Side radiator / fan mounting behind solid side may require bracket use and partial removal of the side wall—less convenience vs glass / vented variants

• Solid panels reduce opportunities for ambient lighting (you’ll rely on internal lighting or sealed airflow)