The Phanteks NV5 is the objective winner of this comparison, securing more category wins across the evaluated specifications. Its most significant advantage over the competition is the inclusion of fans, which provides a 33% improvement in out-of-the-box cooling hardware. While the Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact offers fewer overall spec wins, it remains a specialized alternative for users prioritizing storage capacity, as it provides a 100% advantage in available 3.5" drive bays.

Users should choose the Phanteks NV5 if they prioritize a pre-equipped cooling setup that reduces the need for additional component purchases. Conversely, the Fractal Design Meshify 2 Compact is the superior choice for builders who require extensive internal storage configurations. By selecting based on these specific hardware advantages, users can ensure their chosen case aligns with either a focus on thermal readiness or a high-density drive storage requirement.