Lian Li O11Vision Compact White-Steel-Tempered Glass ATX Mid Tower Computer Case vs View 170 TG ARGB Snow Micro-ATX Case; 3x120mm ARGB Fans Included; Supports Up to

Design and Aesthetics

The Lian Li O11Vision Compact offers a more expansive view with its three-sided tempered glass panels, while the View 170 TG ARGB Snow features tempered glass on the front and left sides with a pillarless design. The Lian Li case includes glass panels on the front, top, and left side, providing an unobstructed view from multiple angles, which is ideal for showcasing internal components. In contrast, the View 170 TG ARGB Snow’s design focuses on a clean, pillarless display on the front and side.

Both cases are finished in white and emphasize tempered glass for visual appeal. However, the O11Vision Compact’s inclusion of a mesh top panel also adds a functional aesthetic element by allowing airflow alongside the tempered glass. The View 170 TG’s design emphasizes RGB lighting with three pre-installed ARGB fans visible through the glass, enhancing its visual flair. Overall, the Lian Li case offers a broader viewing experience, while the Thermaltake case uses lighting as a central design feature.

Cooling and Airflow

When it comes to cooling, the View 170 TG ARGB Snow includes three 120mm ARGB fans pre-installed, which provides immediate airflow out of the box. It supports up to seven 120mm fans and can accommodate radiators up to 280mm on the top panel. This flexibility allows users to configure extensive cooling setups, making it well-suited for systems with higher thermal demands.

On the other hand, the Lian Li O11Vision Compact supports installation of a 360mm AIO radiator on the top mesh panel and features an innovative design that conceals AIO tubing within a second chamber when mounted on the side. This design helps with neat cable management and improves airflow efficiency by separating heat-producing components. While the Lian Li case does not come with pre-installed fans, its mesh top and multi-chamber design optimize airflow and cooling potential for high-performance builds.

Motherboard and Expansion Compatibility

The Lian Li O11Vision Compact supports ATX motherboards, offering compatibility with a broader range of standard-sized boards, including back-connect motherboards—a feature that facilitates rear I/O cable management and cleaner builds. This gives the case an advantage for users wanting to install larger or more common motherboard sizes.

In contrast, the View 170 TG ARGB Snow is designed for Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards, limiting its compatibility to smaller form factors. This restriction suits compact builds but may not accommodate users looking for larger or more feature-rich motherboards. The View 170 also provides four expansion slots, typical for Micro-ATX cases, suitable for moderate expansion needs.

Build Quality and Materials

Both cases employ tempered glass panels, reflecting a premium design focus. The Lian Li O11Vision Compact’s panels cover three sides, emphasizing durability combined with aesthetics. The mesh top panel on the O11Vision Compact further complements the tempered glass with functional ventilation.

The View 170 TG ARGB Snow incorporates 3mm tempered glass on two sides (front and left) and uses SPCC steel for the chassis material. This combination ensures a sturdy build while keeping the case lightweight at 6.35 kg (14 lbs). The Lian Li’s use of steel and tempered glass is implied but not explicitly detailed beyond the tempered glass presence. Both cases balance durability with modern design, but the View 170’s ARGB fans and steel material provide a slightly different tactile and visual experience.

Cooling Features and Fan Support

The View 170 TG ARGB Snow stands out with its inclusions of three hydraulic bearing 120mm ARGB Lite fans, which operate at 1000rpm and produce 22.3 dBA noise each. The case supports up to seven 120mm fans and allows radiator installations of up to 280mm on top and 120mm at the rear, offering versatile cooling options for users prioritizing airflow and RGB aesthetics.

In comparison, the Lian Li O11Vision Compact does not include pre-installed fans but supports a 360mm AIO radiator on the top mesh panel. Its innovative second chamber design helps conceal AIO tubing, improving airflow and internal cable management. While it may require additional fan purchases, the case is designed to accommodate high-performance cooling solutions efficiently.

I/O Ports and Connectivity

The View 170 TG ARGB Snow features two USB 3.0 ports and one HD audio port on its I/O panel, providing essential connectivity for most users. This straightforward arrangement supports typical peripheral connections without overcomplication.

The Lian Li O11Vision Compact’s product details do not specify I/O port configurations, so no direct comparison can be made from the available data. However, given the case’s collaboration with PCMasterRace and compatibility with back-connect motherboards, it likely supports modern I/O standards typical of mid-tower ATX cases.

Price and Value

Price-wise, the View 170 TG ARGB Snow is significantly more affordable at C$94.99 compared to the Lian Li O11Vision Compact’s C$172.40. This nearly 45% lower price makes the Thermaltake case an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking tempered glass aesthetics and ARGB lighting without breaking the bank.

The Lian Li O11Vision Compact commands a premium price reflecting its advanced design features, larger ATX compatibility, and innovative cooling chamber. Buyers prioritizing high-end design and performance-oriented features may find the higher price justified, while those seeking value and essential features may prefer the View 170.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Lian Li O11Vision Compact and the View 170 TG ARGB Snow depends on your priorities. If you want a spacious mid-tower case with a three-sided tempered glass view, ATX motherboard compatibility, and innovative cooling design, the Lian Li at C$172.40 is the better choice despite its higher price. It excels in aesthetics and advanced thermal management options suited for high-performance builds.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more affordable Micro-ATX case at C$94.99 that comes with three ARGB fans pre-installed and supports extensive fan and radiator configurations, the View 170 TG ARGB Snow offers excellent value with solid build quality and vivid lighting. It’s ideal for compact builds where budget and RGB effects are key.

Ultimately, choose the Lian Li O11Vision Compact for premium design and expandability or the View 170 TG ARGB Snow for cost-effective, stylish Micro-ATX builds with integrated ARGB cooling.