Epilogue
The Invader X BTF brings last year’s model up to date with support for the new backward connector trend. All of the good characteristics of last year’s models are carried over. If you get the more expensive version like the one in our review, maybe it’s not such a good deal. XPG has decided to include five fans and an exchangeable PCIe panel for those who want a vertical GPU setup but does not include the riser cable. Maybe it would make more sense to sell a separate vertical GPU kit that includes all the necessary components instead of including just one. A bare variant of the chassis costing less would be a good proposition given the nice build quality, clean look, and ample building space for the category.
In theory, the chassis supports up to two 360mm radiators, one on top and one on the side. Given the extra 10mm of height, we are confident you won’t face issues. However, you might face clearance issues with long GPUs, side-mounted radiators, or extra-deep fans.
The noise-damping rating of the Invader X BTF was A, rated at 5.8 dBA. Compared to the 9.3dBA that Invader X achieved, the difference is significant. Its thermal performance in the noise-normalized 25dBA tests was also lesser than that of the Invader X. The only scenario where the Invader X and X BTF competed was full fan speed gaming testing. Moreover, CPU frequencies were higher for the BTF variant in gaming and full fan speed testing. On the other hand, the fans’ noise profile was quite messy. To achieve 25dBA of noise output, we had to set the fan speed at 45% duty. A bit lower or a bit higher, and the noise went in the 30’s. This behavior is very odd.
- Great build quality
- Good quality tempered glass
- 10mm of additional height
- Use of thumb screws for the top and the side panels.
- Magnetic dust filter on the backside panel
- Removeable PSU bracket
- PSU shroud is perforated both at the top and bottom
- Competitive noise-dampening performance
- Supports reverse connector motherboards
- Large cut-out behind the motherboards for cooler backplates
- Supports up to two 360mm radiators
- Supports up to 10 case fans
- Includes five pre-installed fans
- Includes vertical GPU expansion replacement panel
- Dust filters on all intakes
- Bottom mesh filter removable from the side
- Removable drive mounting plate
- The high-end version (the one we tested) is expensive
- Vertical GPU mount could be sold separately along with the riser cables, passing the savings to the customer
- Side fans and especially radiators may result in clearance issues with long GPUs
- May experience clearance issues if using 140mm wide cooling components on the top
- Mediocre noise performance at low fan speeds
- The original expansion slot covers are of the break-out type.
