Fractal Design Define 7 Case Review

The Fractal Design Define 7 is, well, a square.  Just a simple box designed to hold computer components.  While that statement is very true for any computer case there are efforts to “break the box” either by adding design elements, color, windows and reallky anything that might break up the cubic nature of a computer case.  In keeping with the minimalistic design aesthetic the case is a simple cube with a flat front panel, tempered glass side panel, flat top panel and standard back panel.

The back side panel mirrors the tempered glass one with a completely flat design and even uses the same latching mechanism allowing the panel to be securely held in place while also making it effortless to remove.

During my reviews we go through the features of the case as they are discovered and the best way to discover what makes the Define 7 special is to dig in.

The rear of the case is typical of an ATX system.  PSU is located at the bottom of the case while the top features a 120/140mm cooling fan and the standard set of seven expansion slots.  You’ll find two more expansion slots in a vertical position near the tempered glass.  While this is typically used for a vertical GPU you’ll have to pick up the brackets separately. 

At the bottom of the case you’ll find that it is fully vented.   This is done to support not only PSU cooling but for an additional two 140mm fans and/or 280 radiator.  To help keep dust out of the case there is full length removable fan filter. 

I’ll have to be honest here, while including a fan filter is super cool and making it easier to remove is even better I found the placement and size of the filter to be an accident waiting to happen.  In fact I almost dropped this case 3 times carrying it around when my hand, which was supporting the front of the case, was disturbed when the fan filter decided to remove itself from the case.

Guess what part of this case will be discarded first?