View 170 TG ARGB Snow Micro-ATX Case; 3x120mm ARGB Fans Included; Supports Up to vs Lian Li A3-mATX-WD-26.3L Micro Form Factor Chassis-No Fans Included-Supports 360

Overview of the Thermaltake View 170 TG ARGB Snow and Lian Li A3-mATX-WD-26.3L

The Thermaltake View 170 TG ARGB Snow and the Lian Li A3-mATX-WD-26.3L are two micro ATX cases that cater to gamers and PC builders looking for stylish and efficient chassis. The View 170 TG ARGB Snow is priced at C$94.99 and comes with three ARGB fans included, while the Lian Li A3 is available for C$119.99 but does not include any fans. Both cases boast impressive features, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of a PC case can strongly influence a builder's choice, and both the View 170 TG ARGB Snow and the Lian Li A3 offer distinct aesthetics. The View 170 features a front and side view tempered glass pillarless design, providing an unobstructed view of internal components and RGB lighting. Its white finish adds a clean, modern touch. On the other hand, the Lian Li A3 has a unique wood front panel paired with steel mesh side and top panels, giving it an elegant and industrial look. While the View 170 is designed for vibrant RGB lighting, the Lian Li A3 focuses on a sophisticated, minimalist design.

Cooling Potential

Cooling capabilities are crucial for maintaining optimal performance in any PC build. The View 170 TG ARGB Snow comes equipped with three 120mm ARGB fans, which are pre-installed for immediate cooling efficiency. It supports additional fan installation, accommodating up to seven 120mm fans or a combination of fans and radiators. In contrast, the Lian Li A3 does not include any fans but supports a robust cooling system, allowing the installation of up to ten 120mm fans and a top-mounted radiator of up to 360mm. While both cases offer strong cooling potential, the View 170 provides immediate cooling solutions, whereas the Lian Li A3 relies on the builder to provide their own fans.

Build and Material Quality

Quality materials can enhance the longevity and durability of a PC case. The View 170 TG ARGB Snow is constructed from SPCC (Steel Plate Cold-rolled Coil) and features tempered glass side panels, which not only enhance its visual appeal but also provide sturdy protection for internal components. In contrast, the Lian Li A3 uses a combination of steel mesh and a wood front panel, which adds robustness and unique design elements. While both cases are well-built, the choice between them may come down to personal preference regarding material aesthetics and feel.

Expansion and Compatibility

When building a PC, compatibility with various components is paramount. The View 170 TG ARGB Snow supports a maximum VGA length of 340mm and can accommodate Mini ITX and Micro ATX motherboards. It features one 3.5” drive bay and two 2.5” drive bays. The Lian Li A3 supports M-ATX and ITX motherboards and allows for a larger GPU clearance of up to 415mm, making it more suitable for high-performance graphics cards. Additionally, it features drive support for two 2.5” SSDs and one 3.5” HDD. The Lian Li A3 offers more flexibility in terms of GPU size, which could be crucial for high-end builds.

I/O Ports and Connectivity

Connectivity is vital for modern PC builds, particularly for gamers and content creators. The View 170 TG ARGB Snow is equipped with two USB 3.0 ports and an HD audio port, providing essential connectivity options for peripherals. The Lian Li A3, however, offers a more extensive I/O panel, including two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, one USB 3.1 Type-C port, and separate audio jacks for microphone and headphones. This added versatility can be particularly beneficial for users who rely on multiple devices or accessories.

Noise Levels

Noise levels can significantly impact the user experience, especially in quiet environments. The View 170 TG ARGB Snow features three 120mm ARGB fans, with a rated noise level of 22.3 dBA at 1000rpm, ensuring that it operates quietly while still providing adequate airflow. The Lian Li A3 does not come with pre-installed fans, which means that the noise level will depend on the fans selected for the build. However, given its larger cooling capacity, users might opt for quieter, high-performance fans. The View 170 might appeal more to users prioritizing low noise out of the box.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermaltake View 170 TG ARGB Snow and the Lian Li A3-mATX-WD-26.3L ultimately depends on individual preferences and specific needs. If you value immediate cooling capabilities, attractive RGB aesthetics, and a lower price point of C$94.99, the View 170 is a compelling choice. Conversely, if you seek a high-quality build that supports larger GPUs, offers extensive fan and radiator options, and features a stylish design at C$119.99, the Lian Li A3 is worth considering. Both cases have their merits, so your decision should align with your priorities in design, cooling, and compatibility.