Conclusion
We’ve now come to the end of our test of the Invader X from XPG/ADATA. So, good case or not? We tell you all about it!
A compact aquarium housing!
With its Invader X, XPG wanted to offer us a rather compact aquarium-type case. The gamble paid off, as it takes up less space than a NZXT H6 Flow, for example, while boasting a fairly conventional tower format.
What’s more, this model looks good and offers a highly satisfactory level of finish, although the PCIe covers need to be removed. Clearly, it deserves removable covers.
On the other hand, internally, we have a functional chassis offering cabling assistance. Likewise, the motherboard tray is compatible with Project Zero and BTF models from MSI and ASUS. Finally, the accessories section is complete, and the brand even supplies a PCIe riser and a vertical support for the graphics card. However, these items do add to the price!
Quite a few cables in the version with fans:
As far as mounting is concerned, we didn’t experience any particular difficulty, apart from the storage unit plate, which is right in front of the wide backplate access. In itself, this isn’t a problem, since it’s removable and all you have to do is remove it to proceed with mounting/cabling the configuration.
However, what can be more complicated to manage is the number of basic cables when the case arrives with its five fans. As we’ve seen, these alone almost completely saturate the Velcro strips used to hold the cables in place. Depending on your configuration, whether you have SATA or other storage, this can quickly become complicated. In our case, with an M.2 SSD , it does it pretty well.
Rather high temperatures :
Nevertheless, where the case falls short, in our opinion, is on the thermal front. Admittedly, the temperatures recorded are not catastrophic, but in the face of the competition, it finds itself in a tricky position… All the more so as it has more fans than its rivals, ouch. Nevertheless, it’s hard to say whether it’s the positioning of the fans or the fact that they lack pep that’s at the root of these results.
In any case, despite its fans, the ventilation system proves to be rather quiet. Admittedly, it will be heard at full speed, but in proportions that are far from alarming. We were surprised by the insulation’s efficiency, which is barely less than that of the Dark Base 701.
A high price in spite of everything:
Finally, it only remains to talk about the selling price, which is officially $169.99. This puts it squarely in the high-end sector. Unfortunately, the competition is fierce, and at this price we’re likely to prefer other references with more efficient ventilation in particular. Bear in mind that a PCIe riser is still expensive, even today (between €40 and €50 for a PCIe 4.0 model).
XPG Invader X:
We liked:
- The clear view of components offered by this model
- ASUS BTF and MSI Project Zero compatibility
- Complete accessory section, with the option of vertical CG mounting
- Dust filter accessible from the side of the case
- Five standard fans
- Velcro straps for cable management
- Discreet ventilation
- Effective sound insulation
We didn’t like :
- Impractical opening of the side window
- Asthmatic ventilation
- The rather high price: $170 officially
- Expansion slot covers to be torn off on a $170 case
With this case, the XPG brand offers us an aquarium-type case with a successful design. However, it’s not without its faults, starting with the ventilation, which is at half-mast despite its five mills. On the other hand, the chassis remains functional, and there are a number of useful wiring aids… Although saturated or almost saturated out of the box. Otherwise, the Invader X stands out for its effective insulation and the PCIe riser supplied as standard with the vertical support that goes with it. Unfortunately, this adds to the price.
Many thanks to XPG!
