SHINYSNAKE 8.5L Vertical Mesh ITX vs SHINYSNAKE Shiny Snake 12.1L Mesh: Spec Comparison
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We are comparing the shinysnake shiny snake l300 8 5l vs shiny snake l400 12 1l. Both are vertical mini-ITX cases with steel mesh panels and included riser cables. The L300 is an 8.5L chassis weighing 5.29 pounds. The L400 is a 12.1L chassis weighing 5.51 pounds. You get different dimensions and GPU support lengths. Both offer front I/O ports and a side handle. The main difference is internal volume and component compatibility.
Key differences
| Aspect | SHINYSNAKE 8.5L Vertical Mesh ITX Case | Shiny Snake 12.1L Mesh Mini-ITX Case |
|---|---|---|
| Case Volume | 8.5L | 12.1L |
| Max GPU Length | 325mm | 350mm |
| Fan Support | Dual 120mm ultra-slim | Up to 3x 140mm ultra-slim |
| PSU Support | SFX/SFX-L | ATX/SFX/SFX-L |
| External Dimensions | 7.4" x 5.3" x 14" | 7.8" x 6.65" x 14.4" |
| Weight | 5.29 pounds | 5.51 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose SHINYSNAKE 8.5L Vertical Mesh ITX Case if
- You need the smallest possible footprint for tight desk spaces.
- You plan to use a dual-slot GPU shorter than 325mm.
- You prefer a lighter case for easier transport.
Choose Shiny Snake 12.1L Mesh Mini-ITX Case if
- You want to install a triple-slot GPU up to 350mm.
- You need the flexibility to use an ATX power supply.
- You want to mount three 140mm fans for maximum airflow.
Verdict: Choose the L300 if your priority is minimal desk footprint and you have a shorter, dual-slot graphics card. Pick the L400 if you need extra room for larger triple-slot GPUs or want the option to use an ATX power supply. Both cases share the same mesh design and riser cable inclusion.
L300 vs L400 Spec Comparison
case volume
The Shiny Snake L300 measures 8.5 liters, making it the more compact option for tight desks. Its dimensions are 7.4 inches by 5.3 inches by 14 inches. The Shiny Snake L400 offers 12.1 liters of internal space. It measures 7.8 inches by 6.65 inches by 14.41 inches. You gain nearly 4 liters of extra room with the L400. This additional volume helps with cable management and airflow. The L300 is lighter at 5.29 pounds compared to the L400 at 5.51 pounds. If you prioritize a smaller footprint, the L300 is the better choice. If you need more breathing room for components, the L400 is superior.
gpu compatibility
Graphics card support differs significantly between these two cases. The L300 supports dual-slot GPUs up to 325mm in length. The L400 accommodates triple-slot GPUs up to 350mm. You can install larger, more powerful cards in the L400. This includes models like the RTX 4080, which may not fit in the smaller chassis. Both cases include a PCIe 3.0 riser cable to connect the GPU vertically. The L300 is designed for cards like the RTX 3060 or 3080. The L400 handles higher-end hardware more easily. If you plan to use a large graphics card, the L400 provides the necessary clearance. The L300 is suitable for standard mid-range cards.
fan support
Cooling configurations vary between the two models. The L300 comes with dual 120mm ultra-slim fans installed. These fans create a side-to-top airflow path. The L400 supports up to three 140mm ultra-slim fans. These fans are sold separately for the L400. The larger fan size in the L400 allows for more efficient cooling with less noise. You can install more fans in the L400 due to its larger interior. The L300 has a fixed fan setup included in the box. The L400 offers more flexibility for custom cooling loops or additional intake. If you want immediate cooling, the L300 is ready out of the box. The L400 offers better potential for advanced cooling setups.
psu compatibility
Power supply options differ between the two chassis. The L300 is compatible with SFX and SFX-L power supplies. This limits you to smaller form factor PSUs. The L400 supports ATX, SFX, and SFX-L power supplies. You can use a standard ATX PSU in the L400. This gives you more choices and potentially better efficiency. ATX PSUs are often more affordable and easier to find. The L300 requires you to buy specific small PSUs. If you already have an ATX PSU, the L400 is the only option. The L300 is better if you are building a very small system with an SFX PSU.
storage mounts
Internal storage expansion is limited in both cases. The L300 includes mounts for one 2.5-inch HDD or SSD. The L400 includes mounts for two 2.5-inch SSDs. You get double the storage capacity in the L400. Both cases rely on external storage or M.2 slots for larger drives. The L400 provides more internal space for drive installation. This is useful if you need multiple local drives for games or projects. The L300 is sufficient for a single boot drive. If you need extra storage inside the case, the L400 is the better choice. The L300 is adequate for minimal storage needs.
connectivity
Front panel I/O is nearly identical for both cases. Both the L300 and L400 include one USB Type-C port with 10Gbps speed. They also both feature two USB 3.0 ports with 5Gbps speed. The L400 adds a 2-in-1 audio port for headphones and microphones. The L300 does not list an audio jack on the front panel. You may need to use rear panel audio or a USB adapter with the L300. The L400 offers more convenient audio connectivity. Both cases support high-resolution display output via the included DP 1.4 cable. The L400 has a slight edge due to the integrated audio port.
included accessories
Both cases come with similar essential accessories. The L300 includes a PCIe 3.0 riser cable and a DP 1.4 extension cable. The L400 also includes a PCIe 3.0 riser cable and a DP 1.4 cable. Both include a steel handle for portability and an installation manual. The L300 is ready to build with fans included. The L400 requires you to purchase fans separately. The L300 saves you the cost of buying fans upfront. The L400 offers more customization for your cooling needs. If you want a complete package with fans, the L300 is better. If you plan to buy high-end fans, the L400 is suitable.
Which Shiny Snake Case Fits You
Users needing the smallest footprint possible
The 8.5L L300 is the most compact option here. Its 5.3-inch width and 7.4-inch depth save maximum desk space. You get a vertical ITX build that weighs just 5.29 pounds. This makes it ideal for tight areas or portable setups where every inch of surface area matters for your workflow or gaming station.
Builders with larger triple-slot graphics cards
The 12.1L L400 supports GPUs up to 13.78 inches long. This extra length accommodates triple-slot cards that might not fit in the smaller 8.5L case. You also gain room for up to three 140mm fans. This additional volume helps manage heat for high-performance components without sacrificing the vertical mini-ITX form factor you want.
Those wanting ATX power supply compatibility
The L400 supports ATX, SFX, and SFX-L power supplies. This gives you more flexibility if you already own a standard ATX PSU. The L300 is limited to SFX and SFX-L units. If you prefer using a larger, more common power supply unit for easier upgrades or availability, the extra internal space in the L400 is essential.
The products compared
SHINYSNAKE 8.5L Vertical Mesh ITX Case
Best for: compact mini-ITX builds with GPUs under 325mm
- Motherboard Support
- Mini-ITX
- Case Type
- SFF
- Side Panel
- Steel Mesh
- Max GPU Length
- 325mm
- Case Volume
- 8.5 L
- Tower Size
- Small Form Factor
View on Amazon: SHINYSNAKE 8.5L Vertical Mesh ITX Case Affiliate link
The Shiny Snake L300 is an 8.5L vertical mini-ITX case designed for compact builds. It supports motherboards up to mini-ITX and GPUs up to 325mm long. The steel mesh side panels provide airflow for cooling. You get a 10Gbps USB-C port and a Gen3 riser cable included. This white chassis weighs 5.29 pounds and measures 14 inches tall. It suits users who need a small footprint with desktop-grade component support.
Pros
- 8.5L vertical mini-ITX form factor saves desk space
- Supports GPUs up to 325mm in length
- Includes a dual reverse PCIe 3.0 riser cable
- Front I/O features a 10Gbps USB-C port
- Steel mesh side panels optimize airflow
Cons
- Only includes a PCIe Gen3 riser cable, not Gen4 or Gen5
- Requires manual BIOS setting for PCIe Gen3 mode
- Max GPU length of 325mm limits larger cards
Good fit if
- You need a small footprint for a mini-ITX build
- You want a white chassis with mesh cooling
- You plan to use a GPU under 325mm long
Skip if
- You require PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 riser support
- You need to install GPUs longer than 325mm
- You prefer a larger mid-tower or full-tower case
Verdict: Shiny Snake L300 8.5L White ITX Case offers a compact vertical design for mini-ITX builders who prioritize space savings over the latest PCIe generation. It fits users needing a portable, white mesh case for GPUs up to 325mm.
Shiny Snake 12.1L Mesh Mini-ITX Case
Best for: portable mini-ITX builds with large GPUs
- Motherboard Support
- Mini-ITX
- Case Type
- SFF
- Side Panel
- Steel Mesh
- Max GPU Length
- 350mm
- Case Volume
- 12.1L
- Tower Size
- Small Form Factor
View on Amazon: Shiny Snake 12.1L Mesh Mini-ITX Case Affiliate link
The Shiny Snake L400 is a 12.1L vertical mini-ITX case designed for compact desktops. It supports GPUs up to 350mm and includes a Gen3 PCIe riser cable. The white steel mesh body weighs 5.51 pounds and features a side handle for portability. You get front USB Type-C and USB 3.0 ports. This build suits users who want a small, lightweight chassis with strong airflow and easy GPU installation.
Pros
- 12.1L vertical volume saves desk space
- Supports GPUs up to 350mm long
- Includes Gen3 PCIe riser cable
- Full steel mesh panels for airflow
- Built-in side handle for portability
Cons
- Only includes a PCIe 3.0 riser cable
- Fans are not included in the box
- Requires BIOS setting for Gen3 stability
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight case under 6 pounds
- You want a vertical build with mesh cooling
- You plan to move your PC frequently
Skip if
- You require a PCIe 4.0 riser cable included
- You prefer a larger mid-tower chassis
- You need pre-installed case fans
Verdict: The Shiny Snake L400 12.1L White ITX is a practical choice for users prioritizing portability and GPU clearance in a small form factor. It fits builders who value a lightweight, mesh-heavy design over included accessories.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SHINYSNAKE 8.5L Vertical Mesh ITX Case | Shiny Snake 12.1L Mesh Mini-ITX Case |
|---|---|---|
| Motherboard Support | Mini-ITX | Mini-ITX |
| Case Type | SFF | SFF |
| Side Panel | Steel Mesh | Steel Mesh |
| Max GPU Length | 325mm | 350mm |
| Case Volume | 8.5 L | 12.1L |
| Tower Size | Small Form Factor | Small Form Factor |
| Connectivity | Type-C, USB 3.0 | Type-C |
| Dimensions | 7.4 × 5.3 × 14 inches | 7.8 × 6.65 × 14.4 inches |
| Weight | 5.29 pounds | 5.51 pounds |
| Color | White + PCI-e 3.0 | White |
| Model | L300 White | L400 White |
| Size | not stated | Mini ITX Case |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Shiny Snake L300 fit long graphics cards?
Yes, the L300 supports GPUs up to 325mm in length. This limit is ideal for compact mini-ITX builds that do not require massive, high-end cards. You can install standard-length cards with ease. Check your specific GPU dimensions before purchasing to ensure it stays under this 325mm threshold for a proper fit.
Is the Shiny Snake L400 heavier than the L300?
Yes, the L400 weighs slightly more than the L300. The L400 has a weight of 5.51 pounds, while the L300 weighs 5.29 pounds. This small difference comes from the L400’s larger 12.1L volume and slightly larger footprint. Both cases remain lightweight and portable for their small form factor category.
Can I use a standard motherboard in these cases?
No, both cases only support Mini-ITX motherboards. They are designed specifically for small form factor builds. You cannot install larger ATX or Micro-ATX boards in either the L300 or the L400. Ensure your chosen motherboard fits the Mini-ITX standard before building your PC in either of these vertical chassis.
Which case is better for portability?
The L300 is slightly better for portability due to its lighter weight. It weighs 5.29 pounds compared to the L400’s 5.51 pounds. Both cases feature a vertical design that saves desk space. However, the L300’s smaller 8.5L volume and narrower 5.3-inch width make it easier to carry and store in tight spaces.
What is the maximum GPU length for the L400?
The provided data does not specify a maximum GPU length for the L400. It only states the case is best for portable builds with large GPUs. You should measure your specific graphics card against the internal dimensions of 7.8 inches by 6.65 inches by 14.4 inches to ensure compatibility before buying.
Are both cases available in white?
Yes, both the L300 and the L400 are available in white. The L300 is listed as White with PCI-e 3.0 support. The L400 is also listed as White. Both models feature mesh panels for airflow while maintaining a clean, light aesthetic. You can choose either case based on size preferences without compromising on color.