Packaging
The GX700 is nicely packaged in a typical cardboard package with a large picture of the chassis along with the Antec logo and the series of the case stamped along the bottom.
Each side of the box is loaded with the manufacturer’s details and the highlighted features of the GX700. Inside of the package resides the chassis protected by the typical styrofoam base and topper. The chassis is also protected by a plastic cover to prevent any scratches during shipping. Not seen at first are the included instructions and hardware mounts as they are placed securely inside of the chassis.
Now that we have seen the outer shell that houses this chassis, let take a closer look at what awaits inside!
A Closer Look: Exterior
The front and top panels are what make this case stand out. The top panel has plenty of ventilation allowing for two 120mm or two 140mm fans to be installed. Also located on the top panel are a pair of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports. Under the USB ports are where the front panel audio jacks are located. As you can see in pictures below the only way of telling them apart is the small impression of a microphone underneath one of the jacks. Along with that is the hidden fan control switch. The location of the fan speed switch gives the illusion of hiding a missile launching button! I like the subtle effect Antec accomplished adding this small and very useful characteristic to this case. Having a built in fans speed module is becoming a must for many builders, especially those using liquid cooling. The front bay covers are securely locked into place with hinge like snap features. Removing and installing the bay covers requires a little patience.
The rear panel has a clean finished look. There is a small cover that swings open and closed over the set screws on PCI slots. The chassis comes with a 120mm rear fan preinstalled.
The right side has spot to install a 120mm if you wish to do so.
The left side has your typical solid panel with nothing much else going on.
On the front panel below the 5.25 drive bays are where the location of the power and reset button placed; along with the power and HDD activity lights places next to power button. The front bottom panel is removable and contains a washable filter.
Now that we have covered the exterior of the GX700, let us dive right into the interior!