Page 4 - Installation and Conclusion
If there is anything I learned about computer and building, it is just the fact the smaller you go, the more challenging the project becomes. This is only natural, as working with smaller components becomes quite a bit harder as we move into tighter environments. The SilverStone Milo ML09 provided quite a bit of challenge, especially compared to the Sugo SG13WB, but it was still an enjoyable building experience. The first step I did was to install my minicomputer into this enclosure. I took my Gigabyte GA-Z170N-Gaming 5 motherboard with an Intel Core i5-6600K at the heart and two sticks of Patriot Viper Elite PC4-24000 2x8GB DDR4 RAM mounted in. Cooling the processor was a CRYORIG C7, which was an intentional choice considering the space limitations. As mentioned previously, using the bracket above will affect the clearance of the cooler. Without the bracket, up to a 70mm cooler can be installed, but this gets cut down, especially if you mount something as thick as a 3.5" drive.
My next step in installation was to put the SFX power supply into this case. SilverStone sent us a ST45SF V3.0 450W for review, and I will be looking at this power supply soon. However, as it is not a modular power supply, I ended up removing the four-bay drive caddy, as it really limited the amount of cabling space I had to place the unused cables. You can also see the Patriot Ignite 480GB under this area, and it is actually just sitting on the floor of the case rather than being mounted anywhere. As this is a solid state drive, I do not really worry if any damage would come to it from moving the Milo ML09 around. After plugging all the cables in, I routed the extra cables away from the motherboard to allow as much air to travel through the case. Overall, the installation was a pretty easy installation, and a lot of the space limitations are understandable as the intention is to fit everything into a small area. I still would have liked to see some fans included on the side of the case, as I definitely had the space for them, and they would have calmed any fears I had about keeping the system cool.
From this photo, you can see my final build with the magnetic air filter installed at the top. With the CRYORIG C7 installed, I was unable to mount the included fan, even if it was a slim case. While this could have been solved with a slightly taller case, I am glad SilverStone kept it at this size, as the case really looks subtle under my television. With no fan installed, it does mean I cannot really give a sound rating. I will say though the case does not do a whole lot to suppress any noise created from anything inside. Thankfully, I had no rattling parts. In addition, I doubt this is a huge deal, as the amount of noise makers in a case like the Milo ML09 should be quite low.
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I still think we may have been late with our compact computer reviews, but with the SilverStone Milo ML09, I am glad I can review these products now. All in all, I think SilverStone has struck the right balance of including everything necessary for a media center enclosure. Starting with build appearance and quality, the overall feel of the Milo ML09 is good. It may not have the extras like tempered glass, RGB LEDs, or even thicker aluminum panels, but everything included is appropriate in this context. The plastic front and steel side panels do a good job in making a sturdy little box. Seeing things like the optional optical drive slot is a little bit weird in 2017, but again considering the audience, it is not too surprising either. When we take a look inside, the SilverStone Milo ML09 may be as barebones as they come, but small details like the rubber stands for the power supply, the well-implemented multipurpose bracket, and even the four 2.5" drive bay is pretty neat to see. Installation is also pretty good, though I will say it is a challenge to build in such a small case. If there is anything to suggest, I would have liked to see just a few more extras included with the Milo ML09. Whether this includes extra mesh for other ventilation areas or including smaller fans for the side, I think these things would put the Milo ML09 over the top. Do not get me wrong, the SilverStone Milo ML09 is definitely not for everyone, but rather directed at the media center builders looking for a sleek enclosure for their Netflix, videos, or shows. If you are looking for a small gaming case, I would suggest looking at the Sugo SG13WB instead. For HTPC builders, at a retail price of just under $60 USD, I think SilverStone still could have added a few more extras as I suggested. Even so, the Milo ML09 is a good buy for a sleek option.
SilverStone provided this product to APH Networks for the purpose of evaluation.
APH Review Focus Summary:
8/10 means Definitely a very good product with drawbacks that are not likely going to matter to the end user.
7/10 means Great product with many advantages and certain insignificant drawbacks; but should be considered before purchasing.
-- Final APH Numeric Rating is 7.2/10
Please note that the APH Numeric Rating system is based off our proprietary guidelines in the Review Focus, and should not be compared to other sites.
With the right balance between price and features, the SilverStone Milo ML09 should meet your home theater PC needs.
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Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. Physical Look - Outside
3. Physical Look - Inside
4. Installation and Conclusion
