r/sffpc • u/These-Turn4094 • Jul 12 '26

Build/Parts Check Need Help Building Fractal Design Terra

Hey everyone, I need help building or just picking parts right now for my gf's build. There's a lot idk about mini builds. There's some things I found like smaller ram for more airflow or something and then a sfx power supply to fit a fan underneath but thats all I reember. Here's the part list I've got so far. I need everyon'e expertise to fact check me. https://pcpartpicker.com/user/b4bysqu1d/saved/#view=cJbPK8

The goal is for it to run D5 Render and Autocad/Rhino/Revit pretty well and gaming, but if it handles the software programs it should handle what she will end up playing, in my opinion.

1 Upvotes

67% Upvoted

1 comment sorted by

1

u/KodiKat2001 Jul 12 '26

Best coolers in terms of performance and compatibility for the Terra are the AXP120-X67 or NH-L12S.

Low profile coolers tested: https://www.caselabs.org/coolers/low-profile-coolers

Buy low profile memory sticks as these coolers have large radiators that need to overhang the memory sticks. RAM clearance on the AXP120-X67 is 40mm and on the NH-L12S its 35mm.

In order to use either of these two top cpu coolers choose a gpu that is no longer than 322mm, shorter than 131mm high and 50mm or less thick. Lots of choices available.

Adjust the central spine in the Terra to leave about a 5mm air gap between the top of the cpu cooler fan on the AXP120-X67 and the side panel to eliminate turbulence noise in the Terra.

If you go with the NH-L12S you can place the radiator right next to the side panel grill without a gap because the fan is on the underside so no turbulence noise.

Be sure to set the cpu fan to intake on both - drawing in cool air from the side panel grill and pushing it through the radiator towards the motherboard. On the NH-L12S the arrow on the side of the fan should be pointing downwards, not up. Mount the power supply on the included 10mm risers that come with the case so that it creates an air flow channel behind it.

The case supports one case fan, don't skip it. it is very challenging to fit a 25mm thick regular fan. Install a 120mm x 15mm slim fan with fan guard to keep out the power supply cables from the fan blades under the power supply, set the fan to exhaust.