The Define XL is the new full tower case offered up by Fractal Design. Fractal have been increasing in popularity fairly rapidly and it seems rightly so. They are producing good-looking cases which are easy to build in.
Specifications:
Full tower case
E-ATX motherboard support
10 3.5” Drive bays
4 5.1/4” Drive Bays
Supports full length graphics cards
What’s in the Box?
To find out what’s included with the case watch the unboxing video here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwTTxQXnpMA&feature=mfu_in_order&list=ULUnfortunately the case arrived slightly damaged from shipping, the lower section of the front-panel having fallen off. Fortunately this didn’t really affect the function of the case too much and I took this into account when writing and recording the review.
When I use cases I am looking for four things: Cable-management, Noise, Looks and Cooling.
Cable Management
The XL has some of the best cable management solutions I have ever used. It has the rubber grometed cable-routeing holes which have become standard on high-end cases. The gromets are well-placed to effectively route cables to appropriate places. On the back side of the case there is ample room to lay cables upon each other and still be able to close the side panel. There are also loops to attach the included zip-ties to. The PSU cables were stretched due to the large size of the case, just reaching. However, this added to the tidy look of the build overall.
Noise
Another area where the Fractal excels. Noise deadening on the side panels and in the front keep the noise in the Fractal XL to a minimum. The case also has the ‘Modu-Vent’ system where you can choose to replace some sound insulation with a fan.
Looks
The XL looks very sleek with its stylish front door. Its all black interior adds to this – a very nice looking case. However, this case is HUGE, unsurprising really from a case called XL. Don’t take the name lightly.
Cooling
Because of the sound deadening the cooling in the XL isn’t fantastic, the thick material contains the heat. You can choose to replace the ‘Modu-Vent’ with a fan to improve temperatures.
Conclusion
Overall, this is a fantastic case which I am going to give my Silver Award. The only thing preventing this from winning Gold and Editors choice is its thermal capability.
To find out why in more detail and to get a better look check out my video review here:
Big thanks to Fractal for sending me this product to review.
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