discussion Define S vs Enthoo Pro M - Which is better?

[Dmitry]

On a market for a budget ATX case? By popular demand we do a case showdown between Fractal Design Define S and Phanteks Enthoo Pro M to determine which is better.

Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxxnFjEFeEE&index=1&list=PLknCNmc8uMa4w2kK5ybqLWss2tS3I2VNo

Let us know which one you prefer!

 

[FreeKnight]

I normally like Phantek's cases, but the pro m just doesn't do it for me. I don't like the front, and don't use 5.25" bays anymore. The fractal just looks cleaner and sharper IMO.

 

[Beaverton]

I like the Pro M's looks better as to me the Define S looks a bit too boxy (though I do like the big side window). Also, after briefly owning an H440 I don't like cases with obstructed air intakes and prefer a more free airflow design. The silent part isn't a big deal and I do actually still use a blu ray drive that would push me towards the Pro M.

Does anyone know when it will actually hit stores in Canada? NCIX has it on pre order but they didn't say anything about when it will arrive.

 

[Bond007]

They both have a few compromises, but I think the Define S is the better of the 2.

They really need to bring out a new revision of the arc mini and midi to get the better internals of the newer define line. It would be a closer case to compare to the pro m /pro receptively.

 

[Beaverton]

An updated Arc Midi with the internals and side panel of the Define S would be perfect.

 

['47 Knucklehead]

I normally like Phantek's cases, but the pro m just doesn't do it for me. I don't like the front, and don't use 5.25" bays anymore. The fractal just looks cleaner and sharper IMO.

I agree with this (aside from the 5.25" bay comment).

I just don't like the look of the front air intake, and I don't like the fact about the lack of included hard drive brackets that cost $10 a pop. They should include 1-2 for that price.

 

[MattyMatt]

If the Pro M included the additional cages, it would win, but it's not like Fractal is offering anything else there.

I would've liked a bit more info on the included fans. I typically replace them, but knowing what size, rpm, db, cfm, etc, would be useful

 

[10e]

The included Fractal Design fans are better. The R3 fans are suitable for either air or radiator cooling and are quiet and have good static pressure.

The Phanteks MP fans are some of my favorites, while the SP versions are decent, better than most other included fans, though not quite as good as the Dynamic R3 fans from FD.

I also have to agree with Beaverton. The Arc Midi R3 with 360mm radiator mount up top, removable optical bays and the expansive side window of the Define S would be oh so neat-o. I especially like the movable front 3.5" bottom disk cage, which is a better implementation than the Define R5's.

I very much like the Enthoo Pro-M especially in green, and would definitely consider it if it weren't for the fact that I already own nearly 20 cases already including the bigger brother in white and black.

:doh:

I also like the fact that when outfitted with twin 360mm rads, the Enthoo Pro-M would keep good, solid structural rigidity because of the lower PSU cover, something that the Enthoo Pro (non-M) lacks in spades.

In terms of this comparo, I'd take the Enthoo Pro M. I like the top fan filter, something the Define R5/S lacks, as I use the top rad mount as intake in larger cases like these, and exhaust in smaller cases. I prefer the "S"'s window though, as why go heavy WC without being able to see your nice expensive reservoir, acrylic tubing, and modded pump?