A Closer Look - Outside

Out of the box, the XPG Defender shares every functional aspect with the previously release Pro version. The front of the non-Pro variant is made up of simpler metal mesh but feels just as sturdy. All major panels are made out of steel, including the front cover, while the window comes with a clean, invisible mounting mechanism.


Looking at the front, the design utilizes a metal mesh cover that has been bent into shape to fit the chassis. It is held in place with magnets, and pulling it off reveals two black 120 mm 3-pin fans behind a fine mesh dust filter. These act as air vents with a metal-mesh layer behind them. In the rear, the layout looks pretty traditional with the PSU bay at the bottom of the chassis.


The glass side panel is essentially clear, so you will see all your installed components nicely, with feet that have a small lip on which you may rest the panel when putting it back into place. Turning the XPG Defender around, there is a solid steel panel on the opposite side of the case.


In the rear, the PSU bay comes with two sets of mounting holes. Above that, you will find the seven horizontal and two vertical expansion slots with removable covers. In the very top is another black 120 mm fan set to exhaust hot air out the back.


At the top of the chassis is an air vent that may hold either two 120 or 140 mm fans or a 240 or 280 mm radiator. The mounting holes are offset to ensure that such a setup won't collide with your motherboard. The XPG Defender comes with two USB 3.0 ports and the usual audio plugs, which is perfectly fine for this enclosure's price point. Due to the fact that the case does not offer an ARGB controller, you once again get a dedicated reset button to use within the Defender, which is a small drawback.


Taking a quick peek underneath the case, there is a dust filter protecting the full length of the PSU bay from dirt and grime; it may easily be pulled out from behind for cleaning purposes.