Fractal Design Define XL Computer Cases Ultra

Now available in Xtra Large, the Define sets new standards in PC case technology. Quietness, tidy internals and quality construction - this case has it all!

As the name implies, Define XL is the larger sibling of the acclaimed and award winning Define R2/R3 case. It is similar to the Define R2/R3, and offers a number of interesting functions with a very stylish appearance. It is a case focused on low noise level, without neglecting other important features such as cooling, expandability and ease of use.

Define XL Black Pearl

Define XL Titanium Grey

The XL is pre-fitted with dense noise absorbing bitumen material, covered with a soft foam texture. This material effectively absorbs noise generated by the components and fans inside. Paired with other noise preventing features such as a covered top panel with a 180mm fan mounted at an angle to blow out air in the rear and silicone grommets for hard drive mounting, the XL truly excels in delivering a low noise solution.

Side views of the Define XL

An important feature of the XL is the division into three thermal chamber designs. This enables the user to freely choose the best thermal configuration suited for their needs.

1. The upper main chamber, contains most of the components, such as motherboard, ODD and one HDD cage. This main chamber is cooled by one 140mm fan in the front (included), one 120mm fan in the front (optional), one 140mm fan in the rear (included), one 120 or 140mm fan in the side panel (optional) and one 180mm fan in the top (included). The top 180mm fan is mounted at an angle, blowing out hot air through the rear side of the case. As mentioned earlier, the top cover has a clear acoustic advantage in that it prevents noise being emitted from the top of the case.

2. The second thermal chamber (PSU chamber) is connected to the main chamber with a removable lid. Due to the lid being removable, it is possible to turn the PSU upside down which will then expel air from within the main chamber. Alternatively the PSU can be installed with the fan facing the bottom of the case. Air is then brought into the PSU from underneath the case through the supplied air filter.

3. The third chamber is the lower HDD chamber, consisting of room for six hard drives. This chamber is cooled by an optional 140mm fan at the front. By default the air flows over the HDDs and therefore becomes warm. It then exits the system behind the right side panel (seen from the front) and out of the rear of the case. However, the user can decide to remove the dividing metal panel between the lower HDD chamber and the PSU chamber, to let the air flow over the PSU and out of the rear ventilation holes.

Another unique feature with the XL is the ModuVent™, inherited from the Define R2/R3 case. This is a cover fitted with noise absorbing material, mounted in the side panel fan aperture, allowing the user to choose between an optimal low noise level, having the cover mounted or optimal airflow by removing the cover and mounting a fan for air intake.

Image showing the possible install positions for main chamber HDDs

Apart from all these features, XL also offers excellent cable routing possibilities, with large holes and enough space for cables behind the motherboard plate. The cable routing holes are lined with silicone covers, effectively hiding the cable clutter.

Also supplied is a fan controller. This uses a spare expansion slot at the rear of the case. It is capable of controlling up to three fans with one dial.

Image showing top 180mm and side 140mm cooling fans