Lian Li Lancool 216

Lian Li continues to throw the term “standard” out the window when it comes to case design, and the Lancool 216 is no exception.

I bet you’re asking, “So what’s so special about this case then?” well sit back, get comfy, and I’ll answer your question. First off, the Lancool 216 features the adaptability that Lian Li is famous for. Secondly, the included fans have an ingeniously redesigned shroud for maximum airflow. Third and finally, Lian Li has included the ability to add a dedicated GPU fan, ideal for maintaining even powerhouse GPUs at peak performance.

Some Very LanCool Innovations

With the Lancool 216, Lian Li has evolved its case design to meet modern cooling requirements. Starting with the front of the case, the large easily removed mesh panel conceals an ingenious cooling solution. Hidden beneath this unassuming panel are two 160mm fans housed in a specially designed shroud.

This removable bracket guarantees that 100% of the airflow is fed through the fans. Thus, ensuring that air is efficiently channelled into the chassis with minimal turbulence, for a healthy uptick in cooling performance. Although, there is also the option for a more traditional setup, as you can change the included 160mm fans for a radiator or fans of differing sizes, with up to 360mm of clearance.

Additionally, the back of the case also holds a secret for improving your computers cooling capabilities. Modern GPUs are becoming ever more powerful, and producing more heat. To aid in maintaining optimum GPU temperatures, Lian Li has included a dedicated GPU cooling fan bracket at the rear of this case. Simply install a 120mm fan, and air will be drawn along the graphics card helping to keep it cool.

Adapting your Lancool 216

There are two major ways of customising the Lancool 216. By moving the standoffs, and flipping the I/O bracket around you can adjust the position of the motherboard. The two positions are better suited for different cooling techniques and as such are called Water Cooling Mode and Air Cooling Mode.

With the motherboard in Air Cooling Mode, the CPU in the perfect position to allow air from the front fans to flow freely through a tower cooler. What’s more, you can easily install a fan in the GPU cooling bracket. Meanwhile, in Water Cooling Mode, you free up space in the top of the case to install a radiator alongside a set of fans.

The second way to customise the Lancool 216 is the front I/O. This module is easily removed and can be positioned in one of two locations. The first location is at the top of the front panel, whilst the second is further down on the left-hand side. For those who want even more connectivity and full control of the RGB, Lian Li also has released an ARGB and USB module add-on (sold separately) that can sit in one of these two positions, alongside the standard I/O module.

Lancool 216 ARGB and USB module position

Keeping that Lighting Under Control

Many of us love having a bit of RGB in our gaming PCs. Although it does come with the issue of many brands requiring specialised software to control the RGB of their products. Lian Li is keeping it simple with an ARGB and USB control module for the Lancool 216.

Simply install this module, and you’ll be able to change the colour of the front fans with the click of a button. Each button controls a different aspect of the fans RGB. The buttons on the left side of the module handle the lighting effects of the blades and rim of the fans, while the right-hand buttons manage the colours. Furthermore, you can also set it to sync with the motherboard RGB with a longer press of a button.

This controller comes with ten built-in lighting effect modes, including Rainbow, Warning, Breathing, and Taichi. Additionally, it also features control for up to seven colours, such as purple, blue, green, and white. Overclockers UK, in conjunction with Lian Li, is offering you the chance to win one of these amazing add-on modules, simply click here and enter our Gleam competition.