Lian Li A3 mATX PC Case vs Jonsbo NV10 ITX Mini Desktop Case 3.3mm Aluminum Alloy Chassis Shell Support 1U

Design and Build Quality

The Lian Li A3 has a distinctive wood and mesh front panel design, while the Jonsbo NV10 emphasises premium aluminium alloy with walnut trim and a sandblasted finish. Lian Li’s case features a wooden slat front panel over high-airflow steel mesh, creating a stylish yet functional aesthetic. The Jonsbo NV10 utilises a 3.3mm aluminium alloy chassis shell with North American walnut accents, lending it a minimalist and refined look.

In terms of materials, the Jonsbo NV10’s aluminium construction at 3.3mm thickness suggests a solid and durable build, matched with a lightweight design of just 1.5kg. The Lian Li A3’s use of steel mesh combined with the wood front panel balances sturdiness and unique style, although exact material thickness isn’t specified. Overall, both cases offer premium design elements but with very different stylistic approaches—natural wood versus sleek aluminium.

Size and Form Factor

The Lian Li A3 is a micro-ATX case with a volume of 26.3 litres, substantially larger than the Jonsbo NV10’s ultra-compact 4.5-litre Mini-ITX form factor. The A3 measures approximately 321.5mm in height (or 306mm without feet), 194mm wide, and 443mm deep, providing a spacious interior for various components.

Conversely, the Jonsbo NV10 is designed for highly compact builds, supporting only Mini-ITX motherboards, with a small footprint ideal for minimal or portable setups. Its tiny 4.5L capacity and light weight make it one of the smallest desktop PC cases, perfect for users prioritising space-saving but limiting component size and expandability.

Component Compatibility and Expansion

In terms of component support, the Lian Li A3 offers far greater flexibility with compatibility for GPUs up to 430mm in length and CPU tower coolers up to 167mm tall. It also supports multiple PSU types, including ATX, SFX, SFX-L, and Lian Li Edge PSUs up to 220mm, with multiple mounting positions and adjustable elevation, accommodating a wide range of builds.

The Jonsbo NV10, by comparison, supports Mini-ITX motherboards only and half-height GPUs up to 190mm via the included PCIe 4.0 riser. It is designed mainly for 1U FLEX power supplies, which limits options but suits low-profile, compact setups. Its component support is therefore more restrictive but adequate for small form factor builds.

Cooling and Airflow

Cooling and airflow are handled differently by these cases. The Lian Li A3’s wooden slat front panel is overlaid on high-airflow steel mesh, which balances aesthetics with ventilation to keep components cool. This design encourages good airflow through the larger internal volume of 26.3L.

The Jonsbo NV10’s compact 4.5L aluminium chassis does not specify airflow design in detail but its materials and sandblasted finish may aid heat dissipation. However, the very small volume and half-height GPU support imply that cooling capacity is limited compared to the Lian Li A3, making it more suitable for lower power or efficient components.

Connectivity and I/O Features

The Lian Li A3 includes standard front I/O ports with USB and audio jacks, providing essential connectivity options for most users. Its front panel offers modern conveniences and intelligently placed cable routing channels and modular panels to optimise internal organisation.

The Jonsbo NV10 stands out with a front I/O panel that includes a USB Type-C port, reflecting a more modern connectivity approach. Its design supports dual orientation—both standing and lying flat—adding flexibility for workspace placement. This makes the NV10 slightly more versatile in terms of external access and positioning.

Weight and Portability

The Jonsbo NV10 is significantly lighter and more portable, weighing just 1.5kg due to its compact 4.5L aluminium shell. This makes it ideal for users who want a minimalistic or mobile PC setup that can easily be moved or transported.

The Lian Li A3, being a micro-ATX case with a much larger volume (26.3L), is heavier and more suited to a stationary desktop environment. Its size and component compatibility make it less portable but more capable of housing high-performance parts.

Price and Value

The Lian Li A3 is priced at £69.95, making it a more affordable option considering its size and compatibility with full-sized GPUs and multiple PSU types. It offers good value for users who want a stylish yet spacious case with flexibility for high-end components.

The Jonsbo NV10 costs £99.49, reflecting its premium aluminium construction, walnut accents, and compact design with modern features like PCIe 4.0 riser and USB Type-C. While more expensive, it caters to a niche of enthusiasts seeking a minimalist, portable Mini-ITX case with high-quality materials.

Which should you buy?

Your choice depends primarily on your build needs and priorities. If you require a case that accommodates larger, more powerful components such as GPUs up to 430mm and tall CPU coolers within a spacious, stylish enclosure, the Lian Li A3 at £69.95 is the better value and more versatile option. It suits users building a micro-ATX desktop with flexible PSU support and enhanced airflow.

Alternatively, if you prioritise a compact, lightweight, and premium aluminium Mini-ITX case with modern connectivity like USB Type-C and a PCIe 4.0 riser cable for half-height GPUs up to 190mm, the Jonsbo NV10 is the ideal choice. Its £99.49 price reflects a focus on portability, minimalist style, and premium materials, perfect for small form factor builds where space saving and aesthetics are key.

In summary, opt for the Lian Li A3 for expansive compatibility and traditional desktop setups, or the Jonsbo NV10 if you want a compact, refined Mini-ITX case with modern design and portability.