Review: Lian Li PC-Q07B mini-ITX case

Sam Varghese
Wednesday, 24 February 2010 11:18

Computers

The mini-ITX motherboard has made it possible for anyone who so wishes, to have a neat small form-factor PC, instead of the monstrously oversized desktop or tower cases that are the norm.

And the PC-Q07 cases from Lian Li - which appear to be aimed at those needing a little media server  and accommodate these little boards - are second to none when it comes to looks. Internally, however, it could do with a few improvements.

The case measures 193 mm (length) by 208 mm (width) by 280 mm (height). It is made of aluminium and weighs around 1.1 kg. It can take a 5.25 drive; if that is not used then one is supposed to be able to fit in both a 3.5" and a 2.5" HDD. (manual)

There is no PSU in the case, one has to buy a stock standard ATX supply. The manufacturer's site indicates that the case is available in six colours, four on special order; the one I got was black.

The case has two USB ports on the front and the on-off and reset switches are designed very neatly. It has provision for one add-on PCI card. The side panels are removable and the screws that hold them on couldn't be more unobtrusive; as I said, when it comes to looks, this is Miranda Kerr.

Internally, however, there are a few problems. The case offers a cage at the bottom for a 3.5" drive; one has to use four screws with rubber washers - to avoid vibration - and then slide it in. No screwdriver needed.