jimmysmitty :
avarice :
An opinion - if the small case does not allow for clean cable pulls and such then a window to show off a less than ideal cable job may not be as attractive as you may want.
A larger case will provide more options to pull cables away and to better show off your hardware. A larger case will also provide for better airflow.
Just my opinion.
A small case done properly can have great air flow and cable management. The Air 240 for example has space for things behind the motherboard tray.
Large cases, while I like them too, if improperly designed will have heat issues if the air flow is not strong enough.
I agree completely with your insight. If done correctly by someone who knows what they are doing - it can be very effective and aesthetic. However this person is asking about case selection - which (pardon my observation) might not speak volumes about his ability and experience.
Of course a large case has more volume of air by definition. Without fans, a larger case volume will allow a PC to run longer than a smaller volume before thermal shutdown. Now - consider if both theoretical cases have the same fans moving air in and pulling air out. You will still have a thermally advantageous situation with the larger case.
I will admit that if the smaller case has better fan placement than the larger one there would be an advantage. However if both have proper fan placement - pulling air over the CPU, MOSFET, memory and video card - the larger case will be the better solution - all other things being equal.
Another thing to consider is the nuances of the fluid dynamics. Eddies and currents of airflow can be more predictable when there are larger spaces for the air to move. Tight spaces can create stagnant pockets that then rely upon thermodynamics to dissipate the heat.
Fundamentally, however, you are still correct. If both are done right there is little concern with either choice.
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