Lian Li V100 ATX Mid-Tower PC Case vs Lian Li LANCOOL 217 INF Black Infinity Mirror Computer Case

Design and Aesthetics

The Lian Li LANCOOL 217 INF offers a more visually striking design compared to the Lian Li V100, featuring a tempered glass infinity mirror front panel that creates a unique lighting effect. This case’s standout feature is its infinity mirror, combined with two large 170mm ARGB fans, which not only enhance airflow but also provide a dynamic, modern look. In contrast, the V100 takes a more subtle approach, with a slanted front PSU shroud that includes a display platform for collectibles, complemented by an integrated 26-LED ARGB strip for full spectrum colour control.

While the V100 focuses on a clean, streamlined look ideal for showcasing figures or decorations, the LANCOOL 217 INF emphasizes eye-catching illumination and a bold front glass panel. If you prioritise a flashy, contemporary aesthetic, the LANCOOL 217 INF’s infinity mirror and larger front fans (170mm versus 120mm on the V100) deliver a more dramatic visual impact. However, the V100’s elegant ARGB strip and display platform cater to users wanting both style and subtlety.

Cooling Performance and Airflow

Cooling is a key strength for both cases, but the Lian Li V100 comes with four pre-installed 120mm PWM-controlled ARGB fans, running at up to 1900 RPM with a maximum airflow of 75.5 CFM each, supported by hydraulic bearings to keep noise down to 28 dBA. This setup ensures adaptable airflow with daisy-chain connectivity for easy fan control, and it supports high-performance graphics cards up to 415mm in length.

The LANCOOL 217 INF includes three ARGB fans: two large 170mm fans at the front and one 140mm fan at the rear. The larger fans are designed to provide strong airflow with precision-cut intake openings, optimising cooling without sacrificing style. This case’s airflow design focuses on a balance between powerful cooling and a sleek look, enhanced further by the infinity mirror hub integrated into the fans.

In summary, the V100 offers more fans at a higher RPM and with more granular speed control, which might translate to better airflow and cooling for intense builds. The LANCOOL 217 INF’s fewer but larger fans and airflow-optimised intakes focus on quieter, visually enhanced cooling performance.

Lighting and Customisation

When it comes to lighting, the LANCOOL 217 INF’s infinity mirror front panel combined with ARGB fans creates an unmistakable visual effect that sets it apart. The three pre-installed ARGB fans can be synchronised with motherboard software or controlled wirelessly via L-Wireless and L-Connect 3, offering flexible lighting management. Additional convenience comes from the M1 and M2 buttons on the relocatable I/O module, enabling easy control of front panel and fan lighting without software.

The V100 also features vibrant lighting with its integrated 26-LED ARGB strip, fully synchronisable with motherboard software, and four PWM-controlled 120mm ARGB fans with daisy-chain connectivity for straightforward setup. Though it lacks wireless control or physical lighting buttons, the V100’s lighting system provides a comprehensive RGB experience suitable for users who prefer software control.

In essence, the LANCOOL 217 INF edges out in lighting customisation due to wireless control options and physical buttons for quick adjustments, while the V100 focuses on high-quality, software-synchronised RGB lighting with a subtle LED strip accent.

Internal Layout and Component Support

The Lian Li V100 is designed with practicality in mind, featuring a back-connect motherboard layout compatible with ATX and Micro-ATX boards, which can easily accommodate GPUs up to 415mm in length. Its unique slanted front PSU shroud also doubles as a display platform, providing a creative space while keeping the case tidy. Tool-less panel removal on both sides simplifies access to internal components, streamlining the build and upgrade processes.

In comparison, the LANCOOL 217 INF offers two PSU mounting orientations, supporting power supplies up to 220mm long, allowing users to select the best position for cable management and airflow. Its modular front I/O panel can be installed either at the top or bottom of the case, providing additional flexibility based on individual setup preferences.

While both cases support standard components well, the LANCOOL 217 INF’s dual PSU mounting and modular I/O give it a slight advantage in adaptability. The V100, meanwhile, excels with its large GPU support and innovative display platform, catering to builders who value aesthetics and spaciousness inside the case.

Build Convenience and Accessibility

Ease of building is a strong point for the V100, thanks to its tool-less side panel mounting mechanism that allows quick access to internal hardware without the need for screws or tools. This feature can significantly speed up the installation and maintenance process, making it appealing to users who frequently upgrade or tinker with their PCs.

The LANCOOL 217 INF focuses more on modularity with its relocatable I/O panel, allowing users to position the front controls at the top or bottom of the case to suit their needs. However, the product information does not specify tool-less panel removal, which may imply a more traditional approach to accessing the interior.

In this category, the V100 provides a more user-friendly building experience with tool-less panels, whereas the LANCOOL 217 INF offers flexibility in I/O placement but potentially less convenience in panel removal.

Price and Value

Price-wise, the Lian Li V100 is significantly more affordable, priced at C$104.99, while the LANCOOL 217 INF carries a premium price tag of C$195.78. This price difference of nearly C$90 reflects their differing feature sets and target audiences. The V100 provides a robust package with four PWM-controlled ARGB fans, a unique display platform, and solid cooling capabilities at a budget-friendly cost.

On the other hand, the LANCOOL 217 INF justifies its higher price with a distinctive infinity mirror front panel, larger ARGB fans, wireless lighting control options, and modular design elements like the repositionable I/O panel and dual PSU mounts. These premium touches cater to users seeking a high-end case with advanced lighting effects and flexible configurations.

Ultimately, the choice between these two cases will depend on whether the user prioritises cost-effectiveness and straightforward features or enhanced aesthetics and modular design at a higher price point.

Compatibility and Expansion

Both cases support common motherboard sizes, including ATX and Micro-ATX for the V100, with the LANCOOL 217 INF presumably supporting standard ATX boards given its airflow-focused design. The V100 supports large GPUs up to 415mm, making it suitable for high-end graphics cards, while the LANCOOL 217 INF’s focus on airflow and PSU flexibility suggests strong compatibility with a variety of components.

The LANCOOL 217 INF’s dual PSU mounting options accommodate power supplies up to 220mm in length, providing extra flexibility for users with different PSU sizes. This can be a significant advantage for builders with specific power supply requirements and cable management preferences.

In summary, both cases offer solid compatibility for mainstream PC builds, but the LANCOOL 217 INF’s PSU mounting options give it an edge in flexibility, while the V100 supports longer GPUs, appealing to gamers and content creators using large graphics cards.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Lian Li V100 and the LANCOOL 217 INF depends mainly on your priorities regarding budget, aesthetics, and build flexibility. The V100 is ideal for users seeking an affordable mid-tower with strong cooling from four PWM-controlled 120mm ARGB fans, a unique display platform, and tool-less panel access. At C$104.99, it delivers solid airflow and component support, including GPUs up to 415mm, making it a practical choice for mainstream builds.

In contrast, the LANCOOL 217 INF, priced at C$195.78, targets users who want standout design features like the tempered glass infinity mirror and larger 170mm ARGB fans. Its wireless lighting controls, modular I/O placement, and dual PSU mounting options offer enhanced customisation and flexibility. If you prioritise visual flair and advanced modularity and are willing to pay a premium, the LANCOOL 217 INF is a compelling option.

Ultimately, for budget-conscious builders focused on airflow and easy maintenance, the V100 is the better buy. For enthusiasts who want bold aesthetics and flexible design features, the LANCOOL 217 INF justifies its higher price.