Full-Tower vs Small Form Factor PC Cases: Which Should You Buy?
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
Choosing between a full tower vs small form factor PC case depends on your space and build goals. Both the Phanteks Enthoo Pro and SilverStone SG11 offer robust construction and thoughtful layouts for builders. They differ significantly in physical footprint and component capacity. One prioritizes massive expansion and cooling potential, while the other focuses on compact efficiency without sacrificing compatibility. You need to weigh size against performance needs to decide which chassis fits your desk and your hardware.
Key differences
| Aspect | Phanteks Enthoo Pro Non-Window Full Tower | SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case |
|---|---|---|
| Tower Size | Full Tower | Small Form Factor |
| Motherboard Support | Not listed | Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, Mini-ITX |
| Included Fans | 1x 200mm, 1x 140mm | Not listed |
| Radiator Support | Up to triple 120mm/140mm | Not listed |
| Dimensions | 22 x 21 x 10 inches | 19 x 13 x 15 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Phanteks Enthoo Pro Non-Window Full Tower if
- You need extreme cooling capacity with support for large triple-radiator setups.
- You want to include a 200mm front fan for high static pressure airflow.
- You prioritize maximum internal space for cable management and drive expansion.
Choose SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case if
- You are building with Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX motherboards to save space.
- You require an ATX power supply in a compact chassis footprint.
- You need ample room for 2.5-inch drives in a smaller enclosure.
Verdict: The Phanteks Enthoo Pro is the better choice for builders who need maximum expansion, large radiators, and high airflow. The SilverStone SG11 suits those who want a compact Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX build that still accepts an ATX power supply. Your decision rests on whether you value raw capacity or space efficiency.
Full Tower vs SFF Case Comparison
Tower size
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro is a full tower with dimensions of 21 inches in height, 22 inches in length, and 10 inches in width. This large footprint provides ample internal volume for extensive component layouts. In contrast, the SilverStone SG11 is a small form factor case measuring 13 inches high, 19 inches long, and 15 inches wide. Its compact design prioritizes a smaller physical presence on your desk or floor. You must consider your available space carefully, as the Phanteks requires significantly more clearance than the SilverStone unit.
Motherboard support
The SilverStone SG11 supports Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, and Mini-ITX motherboards. This flexibility allows you to use smaller boards within its compact chassis. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro data does not explicitly list specific motherboard form factors, though its full tower designation typically accommodates standard ATX and larger boards. If you plan to use a Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX board, the SilverStone offers a dedicated, optimized build environment. For standard ATX builds, the Phanteks provides the necessary internal space without restriction.
Fan size
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro includes one 200mm fan in the front and one 140mm fan in the rear. These large fans move substantial air volume for efficient cooling. The SilverStone SG11 specifications do not list included fans or specific fan sizes. While the SilverStone features 82mm of CPU cooling height clearance, the Phanteks provides immediate, large-diameter airflow options right out of the box. The 200mm fan in the Phanteks is notably larger than typical SFF fan options, offering superior passive cooling potential for the included hardware.
Radiator support
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro supports extensive water cooling with up to four radiator installation areas. It accommodates radiators ranging from single to triple setups in 120mm and 140mm form factors. This allows for complex cooling loops. The SilverStone SG11 data does not specify radiator support or mounting points. Its focus on Micro-ATX compatibility and 82mm CPU cooler height suggests air cooling or smaller AIOs are the primary design intent. If you require large radiator support, the Phanteks is the clear choice for liquid cooling expansion.
Connectivity
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro features a front I/O panel with two USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C Gen 2 port, a microphone jack, and a headphone jack. This provides modern connectivity options for peripherals and audio devices. The SilverStone SG11 specifications do not list front panel connectivity options. You may need to rely on rear motherboard ports or internal headers if you choose the SilverStone. The Phanteks offers convenient access to high-speed USB 3.0 and USB-C connections directly on the case exterior.
Which case fits your specific needs?
You need massive expansion and cooling options.
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro offers a full tower chassis with a 21-inch height and 22-inch length. It includes a 200mm front fan and 140mm rear fan for strong airflow. You get extensive support for up to four radiator installations. The internal layout allows for hidden power supplies and drives, maximizing space for large components and complex water cooling loops.
You want a compact build with ATX power supply.
The SilverStone SG11 is a small form factor case that supports Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, and Mini-ITX motherboards. It fits an ATX power supply in a compact 13-inch by 19-inch footprint. This design provides ample space for CPU coolers up to 82mm in height. It also offers significant capacity for 2.5-inch drives while keeping the overall system size manageable for smaller desks.
You prioritize extreme liquid cooling capacity.
This full tower chassis provides up to four distinct installation areas for radiators. It supports single to triple radiator configurations in both 120mm and 140mm form factors. The design includes clearance for push-pull fan setups. You can connect all fans through a PWM hub for centralized control. This extensive support allows you to install large radiators without compromising airflow or component clearance.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Phanteks Enthoo Pro Non-Window Full Tower | extensive liquid cooling setups | Check price of Phanteks Enthoo Pro Non-Window Full Tower on Amazon |
| 2 | SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case | Compact builds with large GPUs and many drives | Check price of SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case on Amazon |
The products compared
Phanteks Enthoo Pro Non-Window Full Tower
Best for: extensive liquid cooling setups
- Tower Size
- Full-Tower (what this guide is about)
- Case Type
- Full Tower
- Included Fans
- 1x 200mm, 1x 140mm
- Dimensions
- 22 × 10 × 21 inches
- Weight
- 2.2 pounds
View on Amazon: Phanteks Enthoo Pro Non-Window Full Tower Affiliate link
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro is a full tower chassis designed for extensive cooling and component support. It includes a 200mm front fan and a 140mm rear fan, both using the SP series. The case features a PWM hub for centralized fan control and supports up to four radiator installations. With dimensions of 21 by 22 by 10 inches, it offers ample space for large builds and liquid cooling setups.
Pros
- Includes a large 200mm front fan and 140mm rear fan
- Supports up to four radiators for advanced liquid cooling
- Features a PWM hub for centralized fan control
- Provides multiple mounting options for SSDs and HDDs
Cons
- No window version available in this listing
- Large footprint requires significant desk space
- Only two USB 3.0 ports on the front panel
Good fit if
- You need extensive support for large liquid cooling radiators
- You want centralized fan control via a PWM hub
- You prefer a non-windowed chassis for a stealth look
Skip if
- You require a compact small form factor case
- You need a tempered glass side window
- You have limited desk space for large components
Verdict: Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower is ideal for builders who prioritize cooling capacity and cable management in a spacious chassis. It suits those who want robust liquid cooling support without the visual distraction of a window.
SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case
Best for: Compact builds with large GPUs and many drives
- Tower Size
- Small Form Factor (what this guide is about)
- Motherboard Support
- Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, Mini-ITX
- Case Type
- SFF
- Max GPU Length
- Any length
- Dimensions
- 19 × 15 × 13 inches
- Weight
- 13.5 pounds
View on Amazon: SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case Affiliate link
The SilverStone SG11 is a small form factor case built for Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, and Mini-ITX motherboards. It measures 15 by 13 by 19 inches and weighs 13.5 pounds. You get ample CPU cooling space of 82mm height and support for graphics cards of any length. It also offers strong 2.5-inch drive capacity. This compact chassis suits builders who need a modern layout without sacrificing component compatibility.
Pros
- Supports Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, and Mini-ITX motherboards
- Accepts graphics cards of any length
- Provides 82mm CPU cooler clearance height
- Offers ample capacity for 2.5-inch drives
Cons
- Limited to Micro-ATX and smaller motherboard sizes
- Heavier at 13.5 pounds compared to lighter SFF options
- Does not list support for standard ATX motherboards
Good fit if
- You plan to use a Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX motherboard
- You need to install a large graphics card in a small chassis
- You want a compact build with strong storage drive capacity
Skip if
- You require support for full-size ATX motherboards
- You prefer a full-tower case for maximum expansion
- You need a lighter case for frequent transport
Verdict: SilverStone SG11 Micro-ATX SFF Case fits users who want a compact build with large GPU support. It is a practical option for Mini-ITX and Micro-ATX builders who prioritize drive capacity and cooler clearance.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Phanteks Enthoo Pro Non-Window Full Tower | SilverStone Micro-ATX Small Form Factor Case |
|---|---|---|
| Motherboard Support | not stated | Micro-ATX, Mini-DTX, Mini-ITX |
| Case Type | Full Tower | SFF |
| Included Fans | 1x 200mm, 1x 140mm | not stated |
| Max GPU Length | not stated | Any length |
| Tower Size | Full-Tower | Small Form Factor |
| Dimensions | 22 × 10 × 21 inches | 19 × 15 × 13 inches |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds | 13.5 pounds |
| Color | BLACK NO WINDOW | Black (SG11) |
| Model | PH-ES614PC_BK | SG11B |
Frequently asked questions
Is a full tower case too big for my desk?
Full towers are large chassis designed for maximum expansion. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro measures 21 inches in height and 22 inches in length. You need ample floor or desk space to accommodate this footprint. It is not ideal for cramped workspaces. Small form factor cases offer a much smaller alternative for limited areas.
Can I fit a large GPU in a small form factor case?
Yes, compact cases often support large graphics cards. The SilverStone SG11 is designed for compact builds with large GPU support. It accommodates Micro-ATX motherboards while managing space efficiently. You can build a powerful system without the bulk of a full tower. Check specific length limits before purchasing your graphics card.
Which case type is better for liquid cooling?
Full towers generally provide superior liquid cooling capacity. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro is ideal for builders who prioritize extensive liquid cooling setups. Its spacious interior allows for multiple radiators and reservoirs. Small form factor cases have limited space for complex loop tubing. Choose a full tower if cooling performance is your primary concern.
Do small form factor cases support many storage drives?
Compact cases can still offer significant storage capacity. The SilverStone SG11 is a practical option for builders who prioritize drive capacity. It supports Micro-ATX motherboards while retaining space for multiple drives. You do not always need a full tower for extensive storage. Evaluate the internal drive bays to ensure they meet your specific needs.
Is cable management easier in a full tower?
Full towers typically offer more room for cable management. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro suits builders who prioritize cable management in a spacious chassis. The extra volume allows you to route cables away from airflow paths. Compact cases require more precise cable routing due to tight spaces. Plan your cable paths carefully if you choose a smaller chassis.
What is the weight difference between these case sizes?
Case weight varies significantly based on materials and size. The SilverStone SG11 weighs 13.5 pounds, reflecting its dense construction. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro weighs 2.2 pounds, which seems light for its size. Heavier cases often feel more rigid and stable. Consider the weight if you plan to move your PC frequently.
Which case is better for a quiet office environment?
Both cases can operate quietly with proper fan selection. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro includes a 200mm front fan and 140mm rear fan for strong airflow. Larger fans often move more air at lower speeds, reducing noise. The SilverStone SG11 relies on efficient compact cooling. You can achieve low noise levels in either chassis with careful component selection.