A Closer Look - Outside

The Define 7 Nano manages to replicate the modern design of the Define 7, even though it is much shorter and smaller. That smaller size also means it is quite lighter than its bigger counterparts at 7.1 kg. Even though it is an ITX chassis it is not trying to be the most compact, but instead opting for a classic case layout as you will see later on.


The front of the Define 7 Nano comes with a brushed aluminium panel with an embossed Fractal logo in the bottom-left corner. This version of the Define 7 does not offer any 5.25 bays, there is also no front to swing open. Instead, you may pull off the entire front panel to reveal the ability to install two 120 or 140 mm fans, with a single 140 mm retail-grade Dynamic X2-14 pre-installed here. Alternatively, this area provides room for a 240 or 280 mm radiator.


The main side panel of our sample is made out of lightly tinted, tempered glass. There is no alternative dark tint variant unlike with the Compact or original Define 7, but Fractal also offers a version with a solid steel panel if you like. Thanks to the design, there are no visible screws on either side of the chassis, with the other panel consisting of a single unperforated metal panel.


The PSU bay in the rear utilizes a metal frame as you are meant to slide the unit into the chassis from this side, It is then held in place by two thumb screws. Above that are the 2 horizontal slots with individually reusable covers that employ thumb screws for easy access. There is a bit of space underneath these so you should be able to employ 2.5 slot cards without issue. In the very top, behind a cool-looking vent, is a second and final pre-installed retail-grade Dynamic X2 120 mm fan set to push hot air out the back of the chassis. If you look closely, you will see two pull tabs, one on each side, which is a clever way to secure each of the side panels in a nice and clean fashion. Unlike the bigger Define 7 cases, Fractal has opted to keep the Define 7 Nano height to a minimum and as such, there is little room in the very top and no official AIO compatibility in the ceiling.


The top is solid out of the box, but you may pull it off to reveal a fully removable, nicely designed dust filter. Underneath the dust filter is a mounting bracket for up to two 120 or 140 mm fans. The mounting bracket may also be removed, revealing an easily accessible chassis because of the missing crossbar. Due to the sturdy design of the frame, even this missing element does not result in any flex or other issues.


The I/O of the Define 7 Nano is identical to that of its bigger brethren and consists of two USB 2.0, two USB 3.0, the usual audio plugs, and a fully fledged USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C port.


A full length dust filter may be pulled out the bottom for easy cleaning. Even this element comes in a unique design, which is a pretty nifty tidbit.