Tough choice.

[Mikeybike]

Hey everyone,

So i'm split between buying the Fractal Define S or Phanteks Evolve atx glass edition.

I'm looking to build my first water cooled loop early next year, so i'm making a parts list now. I'd like to be able to get two 360 size rads in the case so i can run low fan speeds.

Hardware wise a Zen CPU if it turns out any good and a 1070gtx or vega equivalent to be in the loop.

Does anyone have experience of those two cases or advice.

Thanks

 

[Dawelio]

I personally have the Fractal Design Define S and I can say it's a lovely case to both have and to work in. Loads of space and it was a pleasure working both in it and with it.

Obviously with any build there were some frustrating moments, but weren't due to the case itself, but rather for example the PSU cables not going the way I wanted etc.

One thing that I'd like to have with the Define S though is an PSU cover, if it had one, it would complete in my eyes. Other than, really lovely case. Specially for water cooling

 

[Kushiro]

The Define S is a tad easier to build in. Though the Phanteks is a tad sturdier.

 

[Mikeybike]

Hmm, i see.

Of the two i think the Phanteks is a really good looking case though. Not your typical box.

I wonder what kind of modding options there are for the two.

 

[NeverBackDown]

Having owned the Define S and the Phanteks Evolv ITX version, I'd probably say the Define may be easier to build in with a loop. But the Phanteks isn't no slouch. Personally I prefer FD over any case company, but that's because I like the minimal design and they always build quality cases. However, that's not to say I am being biased here, just my honest opinion.

Between the two, I love both external designs. But where it really changes for me is the internal layout. I love both, but while one is "fancier" with the PSU shroud, you are paying a LOT more money for it. The Define has the super convenient water bracket mounts for a res/pump that would make the end result still look fantastic and would probably show off more of your loop. I originally planned for a loop inside the Define, consisting off 2 slim 360's so there would be enough room at the top of the case where the rads would meet and then a D5 with a tube res. I can say it still would have looked somewhat empty. Doing this with the Evolv, just feel like it would look cramped. To me that looks worse. So in the end it's up to you and how you can be creative and imagine the end result

 

[Mikeybike]

Well thanks for you reply's, i'm still none the wiser though.

Damn it...if the Define had a glass panel i'd get that. Probably.

 

[NeverBackDown]

Mod it!

 

[Kushiro]

I switched it out to a nice piece of tempered glass. Did it on my NZXT Switch 810 and just couldnt stand not doing it for the define S as well. Sure its heavier, but you cant scratch it no more.

 

[Mikeybike]

Hmm was it expensive though to get that made.

 

[Mikeybike]

I think this may help me decide.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vy9GZlxCHjY