Introduction

In the past couple weeks we have taken a look at a good number of SFF systems and today we pit them head to head and take a look at the relative performance between the different implementations. Each of the systems we looked at, the AOpen EZ65, Gigabyte's G-Max CA2, Soltek's Qbic 3401a, and FIC's Condor bring different strengths to the table so the selection for a particular SFF will be dependent on the needs of the end user. Three out of the four systems we look at are based on Intel's 865G chipset with the black sheep being the Gigabyte G-Max CA2 which uses a SiS based chipset. Although the chipsets are common, the features are not, ranging from a barebones setup to the kitchen sink and more.

Evaluating the SFFs strictly from any one particular standpoint is not going to cut it as they cater to different user groups. In our following round-up we're going to attempt to highlight the relative strengths of each particular system and try to help the end user pick the right SFF for themselves.

Aesthetics

Cases and aesthetics are the equivalents of new Barbie outfits in the computing world. Laugh as you will but aesthetics are a big part of the SFF craze. To be brutally honest, the look of a case usually adds little to the functionality but the visual appeal of a case is important hence the need to case mod or drop a couple bills on the latest and greatest from Lian Li or Coolermaster.

In our round up we have a wide range of styles. AOpen's EZ-65 is styled with the flair that you expect from an Apple computer, the no nonsense look of the CA2, the metallic styling of the Soltek and finally the simple is better mantra of the FIC.

Purely based on looks, my vote goes to the Condor hands down. FIC and Intel have done their homework in design class and the Condor is the total package. Everything about it looks and feels right with nothing that stands out like it was an after thought. The contrast of the colors and the integration of the stealthed bays into the design is a step up above the rest of the contestants. The EZ65 comes in a close second with its Apple-esque look; the front bezel and paint on the case are fantastic. There is little to fault AOpen in terms of looks but it is just another basic SFF design where as FIC really stepped outside the box. It was hard to choose between the CA2 and Qbic but the Gigabyte gets the nod for third. The contrast between the plastic and aluminum on the Qbic just did not appeal to me. It also had a porky sort of look (due to expansion capabilities but more on that later).

Condor,EZ65,CA2,3401a