Test System

Assembly

Installing a motherboard is done by traditional means, with the use of spacers and screws. As you can see, there is plenty of space for long graphics cards with even a radiator and fans installed.


Installing the 3.5" drive within the Define C has not changed at all from previous generations of Fractal Design cases. There is the clear notion that there is no need to re-invent the wheel as the current system works flawlessly. Simply mount the drives with the special screws Fractal includes and slide the filled metal tray into place until it snaps down to secure it within the chassis.


Installing an SSD on the special plate requires you to use traditional tools and screws. Once filled, put it back onto the rear of the motherboard tray with a single thumbscrew that'll secure it in place.


As there is not enough space to insert the power supply through the bottom of the shroud, you have to attach the frame first to then slide the whole thing in through the rear. While most other manufacturers opt for four thumbscrews to hold the frame in place, Fractal Design only uses two. While this may seem too little for some, there is no need to worry as everything is perfectly secure once assembled.


With every part in place and all the cables routed, it becomes apparent that the Define C does not only look really clean - its cable-routing possibilities are also very easy to use.

Finished Looks

With everything assembled and the system turned on, you can clearly see the blue power LED from the top or the front.


Looking at the rear, you will find everything where you would expect it to be. Thanks to the large window, all the important components can clearly be seen, like the motherboard, graphics cards, and any cooling elements.


To show off what the metal-mesh cover would look like, the assembled review system employs it. Thanks to the magnetic strips, it actually holds really well, but you should remove it if you are taking your system to a LAN party, for example - at least for transportation.