Lian Li vs HAVN PC Cases: Which Brand Fits You?
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This lian li vs HAVN PC case comparison looks at two distinct mid-tower designs. Both units support ATX motherboards and feature tempered glass side panels for viewing components. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh prioritizes airflow and standard RGB lighting with included fans. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU focuses on a dual-chamber layout for GPU cooling and includes a PCIe 5.0 riser cable. You need to decide which cooling strategy fits your build.
Key differences
| Aspect | Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case | HAVN HS 420 VGPU Mid-Tower ATX Case |
|---|---|---|
| Tower Size | Mid-Tower | Mid-Tower |
| Included Fans | 3 ARGB PWM Fans | not listed |
| Radiator Support | not listed | 420mm |
| GPU Mount | not listed | Vertical (PCIe 5.0 riser included) |
| Weight | 15.5 pounds | 41.9 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case if
- You want pre-installed ARGB fans and simple button control
- You prefer a lighter case that is easier to move
- You need support for Micro ATX or Mini-ITX boards
Choose HAVN HS 420 VGPU Mid-Tower ATX Case if
- You plan to use large radiators up to 420mm
- You want to display your GPU vertically with a included riser cable
- You prioritize a dual-chamber design for focused GPU cooling
Verdict: Choose the Lian Li if you want a ready-to-build case with included fans and flexible motherboard support. Pick the HAVN if you are building a high-end GPU rig that benefits from vertical mounting and extensive radiator options.
Lian Li vs HAVN Case Specs
Motherboard Support
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh supports ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards. This flexibility allows you to build with smaller form factors if needed. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU supports only ATX motherboards. If you plan to use a smaller board, the Lian Li offers clear compatibility advantages. The HAVN is strictly for standard ATX builds. This difference matters if you have a specific motherboard size in mind or want future upgrade options for smaller cases.
Fan Capacity
The HAVN HS 420 VGPU offers extensive cooling potential with eleven 140mm fan slots. It also supports 420mm radiators on both the top and right side. This setup provides robust airflow options for high-end components. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh comes with three pre-installed ARGB PWM fans. It includes two 140mm front fans and one 120mm rear fan. While the Lian Li includes fans, the HAVN provides more mounting points for custom cooling loops or additional air flow.
Included Lighting
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh includes three ARGB PWM fans that are pre-installed. You can control seven colors and seven lighting modes using the C/M button on the top panel. The system can also sync with your motherboard in the eighth mode. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU data does not list pre-installed fans or integrated ARGB lighting controls. The Lian Li offers immediate visual customization out of the box without requiring separate hub purchases or motherboard sync setup.
Physical Dimensions
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh measures 29.2 inches in width and length, with a height of 11.6 inches. It weighs 15.5 pounds. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU measures 10.2 inches in width, 21.5 inches in height, and 21.3 inches in length. It weighs 41.9 pounds. The HAVN is significantly taller and heavier, reflecting its dual-chamber design. The Lian Li is more compact and lighter, making it easier to handle and fit in tighter spaces.
GPU Installation
The HAVN HS 420 VGPU includes a PCIe 5.0 X16 riser cable for vertical GPU mounting. This allows you to showcase your graphics card vertically without performance loss. The dual-chamber design directs cool air from the bottom intake onto the GPU. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh does not list a vertical GPU mount or riser cable in its specifications. It uses a standard horizontal installation. If you prefer displaying your GPU vertically, the HAVN provides the necessary hardware.
Lian Li vs HAVN: Best Pick For You
Small form factor builders needing flexibility
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh supports ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards. This gives you more options for compact builds. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU only accepts ATX boards. If you plan to use a smaller motherboard, the Lian Li is the practical choice for your specific hardware needs.
GPU cooling enthusiasts wanting vertical display
The HAVN HS 420 VGPU features a dual-chamber design that directs cool air directly onto a centrally positioned GPU. It includes a PCIe 5.0 riser cable for vertical mounting. This setup showcases your hardware clearly. The Lian Li lacks this specialized vertical GPU infrastructure and airflow guidance.
Users preferring included fans and RGB
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh comes with three pre-installed ARGB PWM fans. You get immediate airflow and lighting control via the top C/M button. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU lists eleven fan slots but does not mention included fans. If you want ready-to-use lighting and cooling, the Lian Li fits better.
The products compared
Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case
Best for: Gamers seeking airflow and RGB visibility
- 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
This Lian Li mid-tower case features a mesh front panel for improved airflow and a tempered glass side panel. It includes three pre-installed ARGB PWM fans and supports ATX, Micro ATx, and Mini-ITX motherboards. The design offers easy installation with removable SSD brackets and swappable fan mounts. It suits gamers who want visible RGB lighting and solid ventilation without needing complex cable management tools.
Pros
- Mesh front panel for enhanced air ventilation
- Three pre-installed ARGB PWM fans included
- Tempered glass side panel for component visibility
- Supports ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX boards
- Magnetic dust filters on top and bottom
Cons
- ARGB lighting controlled via case button, not software
- Lacks USB Type-C port on I/O panel
- Weight of 15.5 pounds may limit portability
Good fit if
- You want pre-installed fans for immediate RGB lighting
- You prefer a mesh front for better airflow
- You need support for multiple motherboard sizes
Skip if
- You require software-controlled ARGB synchronization
- You need a USB Type-C port on the case
- You want a smaller Mini-ITX specific chassis
Verdict: Lian Li LANCOOL 205 MESH RGB Mid-Tower is a solid choice for builders who prioritize airflow and visual appeal. It fits those who value included fans and a tempered glass window over software-controlled lighting features.
HAVN HS 420 VGPU Mid-Tower ATX Case
Best for: Dual-chamber GPU cooling and cable management
- Motherboard Support
- ATX
- Case Type
- Mid Tower
- Side Panel
- Tempered Glass
- Radiator Support
- 420mm
- Fan Size
- 140mm
- Compatible Device
- Radiator
View on Amazon: HAVN HS 420 VGPU Mid-Tower ATX Case Affiliate link
The HAVN HS 420 VGPU is a white mid-tower ATX case featuring a dual-chamber design for optimized GPU cooling. It supports up to eleven 140mm fans and 420mm radiators on the top and right side. A PCIe 5.0 riser cable is included for vertical GPU mounting. The tempered glass side panel offers a clear view of your build. This case suits builders prioritizing airflow and cable management.
Pros
- Dual-chamber design directs cool air to the centrally positioned GPU.
- Supports up to eleven 140mm fans and 420mm radiators.
- Includes PCIe 5.0 X16 riser cable for vertical GPU mounting.
- Features SimpliCable routing system with top-to-bottom grooved guides.
- Fan brackets use flexible rubber pads to isolate vibration.
Cons
- At 41.9 pounds, it is heavier than standard mid-tower cases.
- Limited to ATX motherboards, excluding E-ATX support.
- Only two fan slots are pre-installed despite eleven available.
Good fit if
- You want a dual-chamber layout for better GPU cooling.
- You plan to use a vertical GPU mount with PCIe 5.0.
- You need extensive fan support for high airflow.
Skip if
- You require E-ATX motherboard support.
- You prefer a lightweight case for easy transport.
- You want a pre-built high fan count without adding more.
Verdict: HAVN HS 420 VGPU White Mid-Tower is a heavy, dual-chamber case designed for builders who want dedicated GPU airflow and clean cable routing. It fits those who value structured cooling over compact portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh Mid-Tower Case | HAVN HS 420 VGPU Mid-Tower ATX Case |
|---|---|---|
| Motherboard Support | ATX, Micro ATX, Mini-ITX | ATX |
| Case Type | Mid-Tower | Mid Tower |
| Side Panel | Tempered Glass | Tempered Glass |
| Radiator Support | not stated | 420mm |
| Tower Size | Mid-Tower | Mid-Tower |
| Fan Size | not stated | 140mm |
| Use | Gaming | not stated |
| Lighting | ARGB | not stated |
| Compatible Device | not stated | Radiator |
| Dimensions | 29.2 × 29.2 × 11.6 inches | 21.3 × 10.2 × 21.5 inches |
| Weight | 15.5 pounds | 41.9 pounds |
| Size | Mid-tower Case | 14 in. (Max) |
| Color | LANCOOL 205 MESH RGB - ATX - Black | White |
| Model | G99OE764X00 | HVN-CA-HS420-07 |
Frequently asked questions
Which case is lighter to move?
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh is significantly lighter. It weighs 15.5 pounds, making it easier to handle during transport or repositioning. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU is much heavier at 41.9 pounds. This added weight comes from its dual-chamber construction and steel frame, which provides stability but reduces portability.
Does either case support RGB lighting?
Yes, the Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh features ARGB lighting. This allows for customizable color effects visible through its tempered glass side panel. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU does not list specific lighting attributes in its provided data. You should check the manufacturer's website for any available LED options on the HAVN model.
Which case is better for GPU airflow?
The HAVN HS 420 VGPU is designed for superior GPU cooling. It uses a dual-chamber layout that separates the GPU from the power supply, allowing dedicated airflow. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh prioritizes general case airflow with mesh front panels. It includes fans for CPU and case ventilation but lacks the isolated GPU chamber.
What motherboard sizes do they support?
The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh supports ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards. This offers flexibility for smaller builds. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU supports only ATX motherboards. If you plan to use a smaller form factor board, the Lian Li option is the suitable choice for your build requirements.
Which case has a tempered glass side panel?
Both cases feature tempered glass side panels. This allows you to view your internal components and lighting setups. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh uses this panel to showcase its ARGB lighting. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU uses it to display its clean cable management and dual-chamber interior design.
Are fans included in the Lian Li case?
Yes, the Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh comes with included fans. The product data notes it is a solid choice for builders who value included fans. This helps establish airflow immediately without purchasing additional components. The HAVN HS 420 VGPU data does not specify fan inclusion, so you may need to buy them separately.
Which case is taller?
The HAVN HS 420 VGPU is taller. It measures 21.5 inches in height. The Lian Li Lancool 205 Mesh is shorter at 11.6 inches in height. The HAVN design accommodates larger radiators and GPUs within its dual-chamber structure. The Lian Li design is more compact in vertical space while still supporting ATX boards.