Test System

Assembly

Installing a motherboard is pretty straightforward as it employs classic screws and spacers. As you can see, the GeForce GTX 2080 still leaves some room for a liquid-cooling setup in the front. Naturally, with the shorter body, you can't be as careless as with the Define 7 when selecting extra-long GPUs in combination with thick radiators, for example.


Adding 2.5" drives may be done by either screwing them down to the 3.5" trays or utilizing the 2.5" plates in the same fashion. Once in place, simply put them back where you found them or screw them down on the shroud to show them off to curious onlookers.


3.5" drives require you to use the separately included rubber rings by screwing the drive into them as an anti-vibration measure. Once filled, slide the back into the cage underneath the shroud or hook them into the spot on the storage plate when utilizing the storage layout.


For the PSU, attach the plate to it and slide it into the Define 7 Compact through the rear. This is an easy and straightforward process. Due to the width of the chassis, it is nicely tugged away with plenty of space for cable routing.


Once everything is installed, the interior of the Fractal Define 7 Compact is extremely clean because of well-placed openings with rubber grommets and, as you can see, the well thought out backside of the motherboard tray.

Finished Looks

Once turned on, it becomes apparent that the Define series still goes for the understated as much as possible. A white LED that lights up in the center of the front to let you know everything is up and running is the only lighting element specific to the Define 7 Compact.


You can see the RGB elements of some parts behind the heavily tinted window, which will be of interest to those who want a bit of bling without it blinding them during everyday use. In the rear, everything is where you would expect it in a modern chassis.


Naturally, you may also opt to use the well-designed vented top covers instead of the pre-installed solid one. Fractal has done an excellent job when it comes to the design. In regards to noise, it results in a tiny increase with the benefit of slightly better temperatures.