Thermal Performance
The CPU temperature was barely affected by the various different case configurations we tested. Removing the glass side and using the high airflow top panel gave us a modest reduction in the GPU load temperature, with the lowest reading coming while the alternate high airflow top panel was installed. So even in its default configuration, the Define 7 Compact provides adequate cooling.
Acoustic Performance
Noise levels followed a similar trend to thermal performance. Removing the front panel brought noise levels up under load and the system was at its quietest with either the top airflow panel installed or with the glass side panel removed. this is due to the GPU running cooler and the fans turning slower which is something we often see when testing the acoustic performance of cases.