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00:00:00 – 00:28:36
The video discusses the Dan A4 H2O mini-ITX case known for liquid cooling, highlighting its features like impressive GPU thermals and airflow management. The case is compared to options like Fractal Tera and Cooler Master nr200p. Discussions touch on test methodology development and the importance of honest case measurements. Installation ease and considerations for components like GPUs and power supplies are covered. The Dan A4 H2O's thermal performance, airflow path benefits, and overall design competency are emphasized. The Ncase M1 ITX case is also mentioned as a competitive option with good thermals for high-end components. Challenges with traditional fans in smaller cases and the importance of cooler dimensions are highlighted, leading to viewer suggestions for future reviews.
00:00:00
In this segment of the video, the focus is on reviewing the Dan A4 H2O mini-ITX case designed for liquid cooling. The case accommodates a 240mm liquid cooler, boasts impressive GPU thermals, and features clever airflow management. It is priced at $155, competing with options like the Fractal Tera and Cooler Master nr200p. The Dan A4 H2O is a sandwich-style mini-ITX case that has become a staple in the market. The video also mentions the exploration of test methodology development for ITX reviews. The review of the Fractal Tera is recommended for more details on the approach. The Dan Case build is showcased, featuring compartmentalized design and different thermal characteristics compared to other cases.
00:03:00
In this segment of the video, the reviewer discusses the Dan A4 H2O case, pointing out that it is a larger version of the original A4 SFX case to accommodate modern hardware like a triple slot GPU and a 240mm liquid cooler. The liquid cooling system is a key focus, offering improved thermal control and cable management features. The case’s removable bottom panel with access ports for cables and SSD mounting is highlighted as a useful feature for ease of installation. Manufacturing details by Lian Li, the supplier of boutique case manufacturers, are also mentioned, emphasizing the impact on thermals and overall component performance in the case.
00:06:00
In this segment of the video, the reviewer discusses the dimensions of a case, highlighting discrepancies between the advertised size and the actual measurements. The case’s volume is calculated at 12 L rather than the advertised 11 L, emphasizing the importance of considering protrusions like screws and case feet. The discussion touches on the feedback received regarding including a footprint figure to measure a case’s desk space, but the reviewer argues that length and width measurements are more relevant for visualizing a case’s size. The importance of honest and accurate measurements in reviewing cases is emphasized.
00:09:00
In this segment of the video, the focus is on the ease of installation of the Dan Case, emphasizing that it is designed for a specific type of build – including a large liquid cooler. The power supply and radiator mount to removable brackets within the case, providing flexibility and ease of use. The motherboard side of the chassis fits components snugly, optimizing space. Tips are provided for installing both the power supply and GPU, with suggestions on managing cables and ensuring accessibility for power switches. Installing the GPU is simplified when flipping the case upside down. Overall, the design considers factors like gravity and component size to ensure efficient functionality.
00:12:00
In this part of the video, it is mentioned that installing a vertical GPU in a traditional case upside down does not significantly affect cooler performance. The A4 H2O’s main complaint is the lack of cable management features, making it challenging to tidy up cables, especially in an ITX case. The case has a straightforward construction with good rigidity, with some thinner areas but overall sturdy. The CPU cooler clearance is 55mm, suitable for liquid coolers, as the case supports dual 240mm liquid coolers. It is important to consider clearance for the CLC pump block.
00:15:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses deep cool coolers with unique designs and the need to pay attention to cooler dimensions. They mention the Arctic Liquid Freezer 240 not fitting due to size constraints and the need for experimentation with mounting locations. GPU fitment is described as spacious with support for large cards like the Asus Strix Vega 64. The speaker talks about the ease of GPU installation and the possibility of accommodating GPUs of various lengths. Feedback on power supply choice is mentioned, with a shift to using SFX power supplies for ITX cases due to their sufficiency for most builds.
00:18:00
In this segment of the video, the presenter discusses using the standard SFX power supply for thermal and baseline testing in the A4 H2O case, as it supports SXL models with reduced cable management space. They recommend sticking with regular SFX for optimal space. The thermal and acoustic analysis reveals that the A4 H2O directs airflow efficiently through the top-mounted cooler, resulting in good cooling performance. Changing fan speeds and positioning, like flipping the PSU or adjusting GPU placement, showed minor temperature improvements but did not significantly affect CPU or GPU thermals in default setup. The default setup provided acceptable load temperatures for the GPU, although minor tweaks like flipping the PSU saw slight improvements.
00:21:00
In this segment of the video, the outer mounting position for two Slot Cards is highlighted as beneficial for reducing thermals by 6.8 to 8 degrees without changing fan speed, allowing the GPU to draw fresh air directly from outside the case. The improved airflow path enhances efficiency and decreases noise levels. The video compares noise characteristics between different cases, specifically focusing on the impact of GPU positioning. Shifting the GPU to the outer position in the Dan Case does not significantly affect acoustics but provides notable thermal benefits. Overall, the Dan Case A4 H2O is praised as a competent and small mini-ITX case that excels at specific tasks rather than offering extensive design flexibility.
00:24:00
In this segment of the video, the narrator discusses the Ncase M1 ITX case priced at $155, highlighting its competitive positioning relative to other options. The case is praised for its design and manufacturing, accommodating large components like a 240mm CLC with good thermals for its size. Despite being cheaper than some alternatives, it is noted that the materials used may not be of the highest quality. The case is recommended for users looking to build with higher-end components in an ITX form factor, especially on the CPU side. The compact size allows for effective cooling with a pressure system to extract hot air pockets.
00:27:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses the challenges of fitting traditional fans in smaller cases like the Tera. They recommend using a larger cooler for higher-end CPUs. Liquid cooling might not be necessary unless aiming for extremely low fan speeds for minimal noise. Issues with cable management may arise when the case is filled. The speaker mentions ongoing development in ITX case reviews and asks for viewer suggestions for the next review. Viewers are encouraged to up vote suggestions and can support the channel through purchases or Patreon.