Lian Li or ASUS? PC Cases Compared in 2026
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You are looking at a lian li vs ASUS PC case comparison for 2026. Both brands offer tempered glass side panels for clear views of your internal components. They also include pre-installed fans and ARGB lighting for aesthetic customization. The main difference lies in their form factor and motherboard support. The Lian Li model is a mid-tower for ATX boards, while the ASUS unit is a full-tower designed for larger E-ATX systems. This size gap changes your build space and component options significantly.
Key differences
| Aspect | Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case | ASUS TUF Gaming E-ATX Full-Tower Case |
|---|---|---|
| Tower Size | Mid-Tower | Full-Tower |
| Motherboard Support | ATX, Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | E-ATX |
| Pre-installed Fans | 3 fans (2x 140mm front, 1x 120mm rear) | 4 fans (3x 120mm, 1x 140mm rear) |
| Radiator Support | Liquid cooling ready | Up to 360mm radiators |
| Carry Handle | Not listed | Woven-cotton carry handles |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case if
- You need a mid-tower case that fits standard ATX, Micro ATX, or Mini-ITX motherboards.
- You prefer a chassis with magnetic dust filters on the top and bottom.
- You want a simpler cable management area behind the motherboard tray.
Choose ASUS TUF Gaming E-ATX Full-Tower Case if
- You are building with a large E-ATX motherboard that requires more vertical space.
- You plan to use a 360mm liquid cooling radiator on the top or front.
- You value integrated carry handles for moving a heavier case up to 65lbs.
Verdict: The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh is the practical choice for standard ATX builds, offering versatile motherboard support and efficient airflow. The ASUS TUF GT501 suits enthusiasts needing room for E-ATX boards and large radiators, despite its larger footprint. Choose based on your motherboard size and cooling needs.
Lian Li vs ASUS Case Comparison
Motherboard support
The ASUS TUF Gaming GT501 supports E-ATX motherboards, which are larger than standard ATX boards. This allows you to install high-end enthusiast boards with extra VRM heatsinks and expansion slots. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh supports ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX boards. It does not list E-ATX support. If you plan to use a large E-ATX board, the ASUS case is the only option. For standard ATX or smaller boards, the Lian Li case works fine. This gives the ASUS a clear advantage for builders with larger motherboards.
Tower size
The ASUS GT501 is a Full-Tower case. It offers more internal volume and vertical space. This extra room helps with cable management and airflow in dense builds. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh is a Mid-Tower case. It has a more compact footprint. This makes it easier to fit on a desk or under a standard table. The smaller size also means it weighs less. The ASUS case is heavier and bulkier. If you have limited desk space, the Mid-Tower Lian Li is more practical. For maximum expansion room, the Full-Tower ASUS is better.
Radiator support
The ASUS GT501 is ready for custom liquid cooling. It supports 360mm radiators mounted at the top or front. It also supports a 140mm radiator at the rear. There are pre-drilled holes for water pump and reservoir mounting. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh is liquid cooling ready. However, the specific radiator sizes are not listed in the provided data. The ASUS case has a clear advantage here because you know exactly what large radiators it can handle. This makes planning a water-cooled loop easier with the ASUS case.
Fan size
The ASUS GT501 comes with three 120mm fans and one 140mm rear fan. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh includes two 140mm front fans and one 120mm rear fan. The Lian Li case uses larger 140mm fans in the front. Larger fans can move more air at lower speeds, which often means quieter operation. The ASUS case mixes sizes, using smaller 120mm fans in the front. This might result in slightly higher noise levels for the same airflow. The Lian Li design prioritizes larger fans for better airflow efficiency. This gives the Lian Li a slight edge in fan configuration.
Lighting control
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh features ARGB fans controlled by a C/M button on the top of the case. This allows you to change colors and modes without software. The ASUS GT501 includes Aura Sync RGB fans. This requires connection to the motherboard for control. The Lian Li button offers immediate, local control. You do not need to enter the BIOS or install software to change lighting. The ASUS approach offers more integration with motherboard ecosystems. However, for simple, direct control, the Lian Li button is more convenient. This is a tie based on preference.
Which PC Case Fits Your Build?
Standard ATX builders seeking airflow
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh supports ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards. Its mesh front panel improves ventilation while magnetic dust filters keep debris out. You get three pre-installed ARGB PWM fans and easy cable management space. This mid-tower chassis balances cooling performance with a compact footprint for most standard gaming rigs.
Enthusiasts needing E-ATX support
The ASUS TUF Gaming GT501 accommodates E-ATX motherboards, offering room for high-end enthusiast boards with extra expansion slots. Its full-tower design provides ample space for large components. You also benefit from vertical GPU mounting and multiple radiator support options, making it ideal for complex builds requiring maximum motherboard compatibility.
Users needing portable heavy cases
Weighing 26.2 pounds, the ASUS TUF Gaming GT501 includes ergonomic woven-cotton carry handles. These allow safe transport for cases up to 65 pounds. If you plan to move your PC frequently or need a robust chassis that remains stable during transit, these integrated handles provide a practical advantage over the lighter Lian Li model.
Compact mid-tower enthusiasts
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh is a mid-tower case with dimensions of 29.2 by 11.6 inches. It fits well in smaller desks or tight spaces. Despite its size, it supports ATX boards and includes tempered glass for viewing. This makes it a practical choice if you want a stylish look without the bulk of a full-tower chassis.
The products compared
Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case
Best for: Standard ATX builds requiring pre-installed PWM cooling
- Motherboard Support
- ATX, Micro ATX, Mini-ITX
- Case Type
- Mid-Tower
- Side Panel
- Tempered Glass
- Use
- Gaming
- Lighting
- ARGB
- Dimensions
- 29.2 × 29.2 × 11.6 inches
View on Amazon: Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case Affiliate link
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh is a mid-tower chassis built for ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards. You get three pre-installed ARGB PWM fans, including two 140mm front intakes and one 120mm rear exhaust. The front panel uses ventilated mesh paired with magnetic dust filters. This setup suits you if you need straightforward airflow cooling in a standard mid-tower footprint.
Pros
- Includes three pre-installed ARGB PWM fans (two 140mm front, one 120mm rear)
- Mesh front panel with top and bottom magnetic dust filters
- Dedicated C/M button provides seven manual lighting modes and motherboard sync
- Swappable top fan brackets and removable SSD mounting brackets
Cons
- Motherboard compatibility stops at standard ATX with no E-ATX support
- Top I/O panel lacks a USB Type-C port, providing only two USB 3.0 ports
Good fit if
- You build with a standard ATX, Micro ATX, or Mini-ITX motherboard.
- You want pre-installed 140mm and 120mm PWM fans out of the box.
- You prefer onboard chassis button control for your lighting modes.
Skip if
- You plan to install an oversized E-ATX motherboard.
- You require a front-panel USB Type-C port on your chassis.
Verdict: Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case suits standard ATX builders who prioritize out-of-the-box cooling through three included PWM fans and a high-ventilation front mesh panel.
ASUS TUF Gaming E-ATX Full-Tower Case
Best for: E-ATX builds needing max space and cooling
- Motherboard Support
- E-ATX
- Case Type
- Full-Tower
- Side Panel
- Tempered Glass
- Radiator Support
- 360mm
- Max GPU Length
- 420mm
- Fan Size
- 120mm, 140mm
View on Amazon: ASUS TUF Gaming E-ATX Full-Tower Case Affiliate link
The ASUS TUF Gaming GT501 is a full-tower case built for E-ATX motherboards. It features a 4mm tempered glass side panel and supports 360mm radiators. The chassis includes three 120mm RGB fans and one 140mm rear fan. Woven-cotton handles allow transport of units up to 65lbs. This case suits builders needing maximum expansion room and robust cooling options for high-end components.
Pros
- Supports E-ATX motherboards
- Includes three 120mm RGB fans and one 140mm rear fan
- Supports up to 360mm radiators
- Features 4mm tempered glass side panel
- Includes woven-cotton carry handles
Cons
- Full-tower size requires significant desk space
- Weight reaches 26.2 pounds
- Dimensions are large for standard mid-tower setups
Good fit if
- You need space for E-ATX motherboards
- You want extensive radiator support
- You plan to transport the case frequently
Skip if
- You have limited desk space
- You prefer compact mid-tower builds
- You want a lighter case for easy moving
Verdict: The ASUS TUF GT501 Full-Tower E-ATX is a spacious option for builders prioritizing motherboard compatibility and cooling flexibility. It fits users with large desks who value transport handles and high-end component support.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case | ASUS TUF Gaming E-ATX Full-Tower Case |
|---|---|---|
| Motherboard Support | ATX, Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | E-ATX |
| Case Type | Mid-Tower | Full-Tower |
| Side Panel | Tempered Glass | Tempered Glass |
| Radiator Support | not stated | 360mm |
| Max GPU Length | not stated | 420mm |
| Tower Size | Mid-Tower | Full-Tower |
| Fan Size | not stated | 120mm, 140mm |
| Use | Gaming | Gaming |
| Lighting | ARGB | RGB |
| Compatible Device | not stated | Radiator |
| Dimensions | 29.2 × 29.2 × 11.6 inches | 215 × 98.8 × 217 inches |
| Weight | 15.5 pounds | 26.2 pounds |
| Size | Mid-tower Case | EATX |
| Color | LANCOOL 205 MESH RGB - ATX - Black | GT501|Grey |
| Model | G99OE764X00 | GT501/GRY/WITH HANDLE |
Frequently asked questions
Which case is better for airflow?
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh is designed for superior airflow. It features a mesh front panel that allows more air to reach your components. This makes it ideal for builders who prioritize cooling performance over a solid, enclosed look.
Can I install an E-ATX motherboard in the Lian Li case?
No, the Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh supports ATX motherboards. If you need to use a larger E-ATX board, you must choose the ASUS TUF Gaming GT501. That case is built to accommodate the larger footprint and additional expansion slots of E-ATX boards.
Do both cases include RGB lighting?
Yes, both cases offer RGB lighting options. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh includes ARGB fans for customizable color effects. The ASUS TUF Gaming GT501 also supports lighting integration, allowing you to match your build aesthetic with compatible RGB components and fans.
Which case is easier to transport?
The ASUS TUF Gaming GT501 is easier to move. It comes with a built-in transport handle, which is useful for moving a large full-tower chassis. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh does not list a handle, making it better suited for a permanent desk setup.
Is the side panel made of glass?
Yes, the Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh features a tempered glass side panel. This allows you to view your internal components clearly. The ASUS TUF Gaming GT501 also uses a glass side panel, providing a similar clear view of your hardware and lighting effects.
Which case is heavier?
The ASUS TUF Gaming GT501 is heavier at 26.2 pounds. This reflects its full-tower size and robust construction. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh weighs 15.5 pounds, making it lighter and potentially easier to handle during installation or relocation.