Thermaltake Core G21 Chassis Review

A Closer Look – Exterior

First impressions of the G21 are certainly positive. It’s a bold design and a clean looking chassis. The only downside for some is that it looks extremely similar to some of their older models. However, the addition of that huge tempered glass side panel is the main focus here. A big glass panel is a great way to show off your new hardware, especially if you add some LED/RGB lighting on the interior.

The side panel is mounted using four thumb screws over rubber grommets. This means you can easily access the interior of the chassis, and the panel is securely mounted so it doesn’t rattle about.

On the top, you’ll find a pair of USB 3.0 ports, HD audio jacks, as well as the usual power controls. Nothing fancy, but it’s everything you’ll need.

Even more glass!

Down the right side, you’ll find another tempered glass side panel. Of course, this means your cable routing is going to be on display, so best keep that in check. There’s a PSU shroud on the interior though, so that’ll help keep things neat and tidy. There are downsides, but I do like dual glass panels, as it means that chassis looks stylish from both sides.

The front panel is pretty straight forward, with a somewhat industrial finish. The metal cover has lots of ventilation, and there’s a dust filter hiding behind it. However, there are no pre-installed front fans, so it’s prime for mounting your own or a radiator.

Around the back, you’ll find a 120mm fan mount with a pre-installed fan. This is the only pre-installed fan with this chassis, so do keep in mind you may want to order more if you don’t have any. There are seven expansion slots, each fitted with a ventilated and reusable covers, making it easy to add/remove an expansion card. Finally, you’ll find an ATX PSU mount in the base. you will have to mount it fan down, as there is a PSU shroud, but there’s a dedicated air filter in the base to help with that.

The filters in the base are pretty basic, and just a simply suspended mesh. I would prefer a slide out filter design, but given the price of this chassis, it’s hardly a deal breaker and they’ll still get the job done.