Please help me decide between Evolv ATX and Define S!

[Narada]

Hey guys,

I'm losing my mind trying to decide between the evolv atx (white) and define s. Please help me to decide and tell me which one you would pick and why. I like both cases. I like the fact that neither have 5.25" bays. I do not intend to have SSDs or mechanical hard drives.

My component list is as below.

Asus X99 Deluxe 3.1
i7-5930k
GTX 980 x2 in SLI
Intel 750 Series 400GB
Some AIO cpu cooler (either 2x140mm or 1x140mm)
Corsair AX860

I like clean looking aesthetic colour themed builds with excellent cable management.

Thanks.

 

[Sencha]

First off I don't think you can get the Evolv in white, just grey, black or silver. If you can though let me know!

Having used both case they are both excellent. The build quality of the evolv is far better then the define S though. But that's reflected in the price. I'm just about to get rid of the define s for an Evolv now I've had the taste of a better build case. Performance wise they are about the same.

 

[Narada]

Yeah you're right. The glacier white colour is only available on uATX. Shame. I really liked that colour. How do you feel about the shroud in the evolv? Does it reduce the overall space inside and does it get in the way or is it a good thing? Also are fan placements better on one over the other - I prefer 140mm fan slots? On the Define there's no dust filter on top and on the evolv it's a bit weird how the fans on the front can be part way blowing above the shroud and partly below. Also in terms of the window I take it the define is able to showcase its build better through a bigger window? Sorry - too many questions.

 

[FL630]

I really rate the Evolv ATX, I've been very happy with mine so far. It's not particularly quiet compared to dedicated "quiet" cases, airflow is okay too, but it looks fantastic!!

The window on the Evolv is massive too, the more than ample to show off everything apart from the PSU, but who wants to see that really? The shroud works out nice too, keeps the ugly things away and the nice things showing with barely any visible wiring.

The case will take a 280mm AIO on top or front, with 140mm fans all round, or 120 if you wish. Fan splitter is nice too, some have had problems but mine works faultlessly, makes wiring so much easier!!

Overall, its a superb case and I'd highly recommend it. With that said I'm actually going to sell mine because it's too big for my new flat (aka, box), which is a shame because it is rather nice!

 

[Narada]

Thanks FL630. It really does sound great. There seems to be a fanatical and happy following of the evolv. Yet to hear anyone speaking that way about the define s. Regarding the evolv I loved the white until I realised it was only available for matx. I don't like the black and the grey. The silver is nice but is currently out of stock everywhere. So unless I can find the silver I see no way of actually getting an evolv and may have to fall back to define s which will be a shame.

EDIT: Will however make an effort to like the black and grey if possible.

The case will take a 280mm AIO on top or front, with 140mm fans all round, or 120 if you wish.

Thanks for this. Was wondering exactly this just now. In terms of dust do you think that dust coming in from the top of evolv is a problem as it's physically impossible to put a dust filter on top? Also is it possible to have 3x140mm fans in front and top on evolv?

 

[FL630]

There is a mesh on the slots that face out of the top panel, though I removed mine to promote extra airflow. No issues with dust as I always have the top as exhaust, I personally wouldn't recommend it as an intake. The dust filter on the front is very effective, as is the PSU one. No matter how much I clean, my room gets easily dusty but the inside of my case is spotless.

The paint finish on the case is outstanding, not that nasty black colour, it's got a lovely sheen to it, it really is a cut above the usual stuff you get. If you really want white, there is always spray paint or Plasti Dip

Only possible to have 2x 140 or 3x 120 on top and front. 140 in rear.

 

[Narada]

There is a mesh on the slots that face out of the top panel, though I removed mine to promote extra airflow.

Hey FL630 - I've been reading a number of reports on this forum about the evolv atx becoming like an oven when all panels are closed and resulting in subtantially higher temperatures when gaming or in summer (>10C increase). I also see above you removed the top mesh. At this point I'm scared to be honest. I don't want to have this problem. I would like unrestricted airflow. Any more feedback on this based on your personal experience?