A Closer Look - Outside

Right out of the box, some may mistake the Define S for its R5 brethren, especially if you were to look at a solid side panel. Even though the Define S has an identical-looking front, it lacks drive bays and a door. The panel also has the same brushed finish as all other Define cases.


As I mentioned before, there is not much to be said about the front. Featuring a little cutout in the top to allow for the Power LED to shine through at such an angle, it looks identical to that of the latest R series chassis.

Look at the rear and just how wide the unit is becomes apparent as there is plenty of space to the left and right of the PSU bay in the bottom. There are no holes to route water-cooling tubes out the back, but considering the Define S comes with great radiator compatibility inside, there is no real need for such a feature.


We received the windowed version for review. It comes at a $10 premium. The complete lack of drive bays within allows for a generously sized window, which should work well for those looking to show off their liquid-cooling setup. The other side panel is solid and has no openings or vent.


Instead of drive bays, Fractal has designed the Define S for up to three 140 mm fans or a 360 mm radiator. It ships with a single 140 mm unit in the middle, protected by a removable dust filter that is held in place by two very strong magnets.


The PSU bay in the bottom of the rear comes with two sets of mounting holes, so you may pick the direction the fan faces. Above the bay are the seven motherboard expansion slots, each with its own white cover—just as we have come to expect from Fractal Design. A second 140 mm fan has been pre-installed into the very top. Both fans within are of retail quality and can also be purchased on their own.


On top are the power and a tiny reset button, here to the left. There are also two USB 3.0 ports and the usual audio I/O, which is a bit less than in the R5. Part of the frame, the entire top panel is out of metal, while the three solid panels are out of plastic. You may remove one or more of these plastic covers if you need an air vent for a liquid-cooling setup or fans there. However, doing so will greatly reduce noise-encapsulating, all while giving dust a free way to enter the chassis.


Tip the chassis over to reveal the dust filter along its underside. It is easily removed by pulling it out through the back with the chassis in an upright position.