RGB vs LED PC Cases: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between an RGB and LED PC case depends on your lighting goals. Both the Phanteks Enthoo Pro and darkFlash DS900 feature tempered glass panels to showcase your build. The main difference lies in their lighting systems and form factors. One offers integrated RGB control, while the other relies on standard LED fans. We compare their specs to help you decide which fits your setup.
Key differences
| Aspect | Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower Tempered Glass | darkFlash DS900 Mid-Tower ATX Case |
|---|---|---|
| Tower Size | Full Tower | Mid-Tower |
| Lighting | RGB | LED |
| Side Panel | Tempered Glass | Tempered Glass |
| Included Fans | not listed | 1x Non-LED PWM |
| Radiator Support | not listed | 360mm |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower Tempered Glass if
- You need a Full Tower chassis for extensive component compatibility.
- You want integrated RGB lighting that syncs with motherboards.
- You prefer hidden cable management and reservoir mounts.
Choose darkFlash DS900 Mid-Tower ATX Case if
- You prefer a compact Mid-Tower size for smaller desks.
- You want included fans for immediate airflow.
- You need support for large 360mm radiators.
Verdict: The Phanteks Enthoo Pro suits builders who need maximum expansion space and synchronized RGB lighting. The darkFlash DS900 is better for those who want a smaller footprint with included cooling fans. Choose based on your case size requirements and lighting preferences.
RGB vs LED Case Specs
lighting
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro features integrated RGB lighting that works with RGB motherboards and compatible Phanteks LED strips. This setup allows for synchronized color effects across your build components. The darkFlash DS900 lists LED lighting in its attributes but specifies it includes one non-LED PWM fan. The product notes that an RGB hub controller is not included. This means you may need to purchase additional hardware to manage any RGB elements separately. The Phanteks option provides a more cohesive, out-of-the-box RGB experience for users who want immediate color control without extra purchases.
tower size
Form factor significantly impacts your build space. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro is a Full Tower chassis, measuring 21.7 inches in length, 21.1 inches in height, and 9.25 inches in width. It weighs 24.3 pounds. In contrast, the darkFlash DS900 is an ATX Mid-Tower. Its dimensions are 17.1 inches in length, 17.8 inches in height, and 8.5 inches in width, weighing 14 pounds. The Mid-Tower design is more compact and easier to fit on standard desks. The Full Tower offers more internal volume but requires a larger footprint and may be heavier to move.
motherboard support
Both cases support ATX motherboards, which is the standard for most desktop builds. This compatibility ensures that you can use the same range of mainboards in either chassis. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro supports ATX boards within its Full Tower frame. The darkFlash DS900 also supports ATX boards within its Mid-Tower frame. Since both accommodate the same motherboard standard, this aspect does not differentiate the two choices for standard builds. You will have the same board options regardless of which case you select, provided your other component constraints are met.
radiator support
Cooling options differ between the two cases. The darkFlash DS900 explicitly supports radiators up to 360mm in size. This allows for large liquid cooling solutions to be mounted inside the chassis. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro mentions easy radiator installation and reservoir mounts, which suggests support for liquid cooling loops. However, specific maximum radiator lengths are not listed in the provided specifications. If you plan to use a large 360mm radiator, the darkFlash DS900 provides confirmed support for that size, while the Phanteks data leaves the exact limit unspecified.
connectivity
Front panel connectivity varies between the models. The Phanteks Enthoo Pro includes two USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C Gen 2 port, microphone and headphone jacks, a reset button, and an RGB switch. The darkFlash DS900 features USB 3.0 ports and a Type-C interface. Both cases provide modern connectivity options for peripherals and devices. The Phanteks model offers a dedicated RGB switch for direct lighting control. The darkFlash model highlights high-speed data transfer via its Type-C port. Both meet basic connectivity needs for typical users.
Choose Your Case Based on Size
You need a large chassis for big components
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro is a Full Tower measuring 21.7 inches long. It offers ample space for extensive radiator installations and reservoir mounts. Its brushed aluminum look and hidden PSU design provide a clean interior. You get integrated RGB lighting that syncs with motherboards for a unified aesthetic in larger builds.
You want a compact case with good airflow
The darkFlash DS900 is a Mid-Tower at 17.1 inches long, fitting smaller desks. It includes one non-LED PWM fan and supports up to ten fans. The 270-degree tempered glass panel showcases your hardware clearly. Magnetic dust filters help keep components clean while maintaining efficient heat dissipation for gaming.
You prefer integrated lighting control
This Phanteks model features integrated RGB lighting compatible with RGB motherboards and Phanteks LED strips. You can manage colors directly through your system. The front panel includes an RGB switch for quick adjustments. This setup ensures synchronized effects without needing separate controllers, ideal for users who want seamless lighting integration.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower Tempered Glass | Large builds with physical RGB control needs | Check price of Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower Tempered Glass on Amazon |
| 2 | darkFlash DS900 Mid-Tower ATX Case | Clear views with custom lighting setups | Check price of darkFlash DS900 Mid-Tower ATX Case on Amazon |
The products compared
Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower Tempered Glass
Best for: Large builds with physical RGB control needs
- Lighting
- RGB (what this guide is about)
- Case Type
- Full Tower
- Side Panel
- Tempered Glass
- Motherboard Support
- ATX
- Dimensions
- 21.7 × 9.25 × 21.1 inches
- Weight
- 24.3 pounds
View on Amazon: Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower Tempered Glass Affiliate link
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro is a full tower chassis with an ATX motherboard support and integrated RGB lighting. It features a tempered glass side panel and a black brushed aluminum look. The case includes front USB 3.0 and USB-C Gen 2 ports. It is designed for users who want extensive cable management options and easy access to internal components for building or upgrading.
Pros
- Integrated RGB lighting compatible with Phanteks strips and RGB motherboards
- Tempered glass side panel for clear interior visibility
- Front I/O includes USB 3.0, USB-C Gen 2, and an RGB switch
- Full tower size supports large builds with hidden PSU and HDDs
Cons
- Full tower dimensions make it bulky for smaller desks
- Heavy at 24.3 pounds, making relocation difficult
- No mention of wireless control or app integration for RGB
Good fit if
- You need a large case for high-end ATX builds
- You want integrated RGB lighting with a dedicated physical switch
- You prefer a clean interior with hidden power supply and drives
Skip if
- You have limited desk space and need a mid-tower
- You prefer silent operation without any visible lighting
- You want to control lighting via software or mobile app
Verdict: Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower ATX is a spacious build for enthusiasts who value physical RGB controls and a clean, hidden cable layout. It suits those with ample desk space who want a large, sturdy chassis.
darkFlash DS900 Mid-Tower ATX Case
Best for: Clear views with custom lighting setups
- Lighting
- LED (what this guide is about)
- Case Type
- Mid-Tower
- Side Panel
- Tempered Glass
- Included Fans
- 1x Non-LED PWM
- Radiator Support
- 360mm
- Motherboard Support
- ATX
View on Amazon: darkFlash DS900 Mid-Tower ATX Case Affiliate link
The darkFlash DS900 is an ATX mid-tower case with a full-view tempered glass side panel. It includes one non-LED PWM fan and supports up to ten fans or a 360mm radiator. The IO panel features USB 3.0 and Type-C ports. Magnetic dust filters are included. This case is suitable for users who want a clear view of their hardware without pre-installed RGB lighting.
Pros
- 270-degree panoramic tempered glass panel
- Supports up to 10 fans and 360mm radiators
- High-speed IO panel with USB 3.0 and Type-C
- Magnetic top dust filter included
Cons
- Only one non-LED fan is included
- RGB hub controller is not included
- No software control for lighting mentioned
Good fit if
- You want a clear view of your internal components
- You plan to install your own RGB fans later
- You need USB Type-C connectivity on the front
Skip if
- You want pre-installed RGB lighting out of the box
- You prefer a case with included fan hubs
- You need a full-tower size for massive GPUs
Verdict: The darkFlash DS900 ATX Mid-Tower offers a clear view of your build with a tempered glass panel and flexible cooling support. It fits users who prefer to manage their own lighting components rather than relying on pre-installed RGB systems.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower Tempered Glass | darkFlash DS900 Mid-Tower ATX Case |
|---|---|---|
| Case Type | Full Tower | Mid-Tower |
| Side Panel | Tempered Glass | Tempered Glass |
| Included Fans | not stated | 1x Non-LED PWM |
| Radiator Support | not stated | 360mm |
| Motherboard Support | ATX | ATX |
| Tower Size | not stated | Mid-Tower |
| Use | not stated | Gaming |
| Lighting | RGB | LED |
| Connectivity | not stated | Type-C |
| Compatible Device | not stated | Radiator |
| Dimensions | 21.7 × 9.25 × 21.1 inches | 8.6 × 17.8 × 17 inches |
| Weight | 24.3 pounds | 14 pounds |
| Size | Full Tower" | 17.1''L x 8.5''W x 17.8'H |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | PH-ES614PTG_BK | DS900 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between RGB and LED lighting in PC cases?
RGB lighting allows for full color customization, enabling you to select any color and create dynamic effects. LED lighting typically offers a single, fixed color. This distinction affects how much control you have over your case’s aesthetic appearance.
Does the Phanteks Enthoo Pro support motherboard sync?
Yes, the Phanteks Enthoo Pro features integrated RGB lighting that works with RGB motherboards. It also supports compatible Phanteks LED strips. This setup allows for synchronized color effects across your build components, providing a cohesive look.
Is the darkFlash DS900 suitable for custom lighting builds?
The darkFlash DS900 is ideal for users who prefer to manage their own lighting components. It lists LED lighting in its attributes but does not emphasize pre-installed RGB systems. This fits those who want flexible, custom lighting setups.
Do both cases feature tempered glass side panels?
Yes, both the Phanteks Enthoo Pro and the darkFlash DS900 include tempered glass side panels. This design choice ensures a clear view of your internal components. It allows you to showcase your hardware and lighting effects effectively.
Which case is better for large builds with physical controls?
The Phanteks Enthoo Pro is best for large builds requiring physical RGB controls. As a Full Tower, it measures 21.7 inches in length. It offers ample space for extensive radiator installations and hidden cable layouts for enthusiasts.
Can the darkFlash DS900 handle custom radiator setups?
The darkFlash DS900 supports flexible cooling and is compatible with radiators. Its Mid-Tower size measures 17.8 inches in height. This makes it suitable for users who want to install custom cooling solutions while maintaining a clear view of their build.