First let me start by thanking Lian-Li for sending this case to us for review. If it weren’t for the sponsors that send us these products we wouldn’t be cranking out as many reviews.

When you think of aluminum cases usually what’s the first name that comes to mind? Ahh that’s right you guessed it Lian-Li. So who is Lian-Li? Lian-Li has been making computer products since 1983. They make aluminum cases and removable racks as well as many other products most of you have probably never associated with Lian-Li . Of course, they are more noticed for their Aluminum Computer Cases. They aren’t known as the most inexpensive cases on the market as most Lian-Li cases will break the wallet starting over $100.00 and sometimes costing much more. However, as I have said a thousand times, you get what you pay for. Lian-Li, as all case makers, has been keeping a very close eye on the growing trend of case modding. It seems more and more everyday we notice another case manufacturer incorporating something we once considered a mod into a case that any Joe can go buy. Now this leads into two different methods of thinking, and as you are about to read that can be good and bad. Let the Pimp Father explain what I mean before we review.

See, in this growing trend of modding, where the extremist is having a harder and harder time finding the extreme thing to do because the copycat type behavior that exists in this scene is running like a rabid dog in a Stephen King movie. It is growing into two main groups of modder. One is that Extremist I was referring to that will continue to push the envelope regularly doing what was once thought impossible. Like Nick “Wixx” Pelis and the Caffeine Machine. The other is the guy who just wants to fit in and be different to his own clan or his own surroundings. As you know, on PimpRig we have taken this topic to heart. So as you read this review note it’s based on that second frame of mind. It can be used as the basis of your entire mod or merely as the canvas of your next masterpiece. The choice is up to you. Now, having said that... Lian-Li has truly paid attention to the minor details that we have been screaming about for years, and as you are about to find out this is an aluminum case that has some features that rival its predecessor and takes this case to a new level. In my opinion this case could be the next PC60 in popularity. So, with all that in mind, as I always say... Let’s review!!

Manufacturer Specifications (Specs and image courtesy of Lian-Li)

Let’s start with the manufactures specs to cover all the information loving types.

Overall Case Dimensions are 210x450x490mm (W, H, D)
The case has the following:
Drive bays 4x5.25", 3x3.5", 5x3.5" internal
Fan: 4 x ball bearing fans included
It can accept the following M/B type: ATX & Pentium 4 (MAX SIZE: 12"x9.6")
Accessories include Front USB: 2 ports (support USB 2.0) and Custom Blue and Red LED lighting. I also opted for an extra panel including the window cutout. This can usually be picked up form most vendors that will offer the case as an optional charge

You can see the case diagram below shows the basic fit and operation of all areas.

Digital’s Thoughts.

Now that we have covered the manufacturers specs, let me break down a few things I think need to be covered before I give my own thoughts. As I have the FrozenPC60 here to compare this to, which as you know is a Standard Lian-Li Pc 60 modified with window and fans by FrozenCPU.com. The standard Lian-Li things apply to this case. Most of you already familiar with Lian-Li cases will find parts of this review repetitive. For some of you this will be your first. So be patient and we shall endure this journey together. I will include a plethora of pictures for this case to show the basics. And show the new features. Okay I know your saying come on man get on with it already. So what do I think about this case? Let me tell you.

Baby Got Back!

As a different format I decided to start my review at the rear of the case and save the good parts till last. As we look at the rear of the case the power supply mounting plate catches the eye. I noticed from reading several reviews on the PC6085 that some of the other review sites couldn’t understand the reasoning behind the thumbscrews and the need for a removable power supply mounting plate. Well just in case you have one of the backwards power supply’s or for whatever reason, Lian-Li gives you the ability to mount the Power supply either way you want. So no more Enermax fans blowing into the roof of some cases. Now you have a choice. I for one like that idea!

Thumbscrews Galore.

Next thing you will notice is that thumbscrews are EVERYWHERE! The removable motherboard tray comes out after removing the thumbscrews. And just as I have mentioned before, the quick disconnect plug was included in this revision as well. This means that you can actually mount and wire the motherboard outside the case. Then slide it in and plug it up. How great is that? There are a ton of cases out there that say they have removable motherboard trays but require you to take all the motherboard plugs off for hard drive LED’s, etc... Usually requiring you to get the manual out and put them back on. I noticed the thumb screws are even included inside on the slot covers and retainers. As I said, and can’t stress enough, thumbscrews are everywhere. I also noticed on this revision, over previous ones, that they have included a locking bracket. If security is your thing, you can now put a small padlock in the back of this case to keep in the motherboard tray and the side panel from coming off the case. I guess this might be a nice feature if you travel with your PC quite often. I frequent LAN events in the Midwest area and though I feel it’s a nice feature it’s not one I think I will have to use. The standard ATX cover plate was included, however, I usually use the one that comes with my motherboard in most instances. It is a standard size and easily changed if necessary.