How Much Does it Cost?
I think these are both very similar and competitive cases. They both have the same hardware support for all your core components, with the only major difference being that the CH170 supports some additional fans should you feel the need for them. But for a pair of mini-ITX PC cases, there’s one strong deciding factor, and that’s the price.
The DeepCool CH160 Tempered Glass Black SFF Mini-ITX Gaming Case is just £49.98. Yes, that’s right, it’s under fifty quid for this lovely tempered glass wonder with a built-in handle. The DeepCool CH170 Digital Black SFF Mini-ITX PC Gaming Case is just £64.99, which is fair given that it has that base section and digital display, but at the time of writing, it’s on sale for just £54.98, so only £5 more! Do you need more airflow and that digital panel? CH170, do you like the tempered glass and handle? CH160!
Overview
DeepCool has delivered two compelling mini-ITX cases that cater to slightly different needs. The CH160 stands out with its tempered glass side panel and integrated carry handle, making it an attractive and portable option for gamers and those who frequently move their systems. The CH170, with its full mesh design and vertical orientation, prioritises airflow and a smaller footprint, further enhanced by its unique digital display for system monitoring. Despite their differing aesthetics, both cases offer surprisingly good hardware compatibility for their size.
Build Quality
For their price point, both the CH160 and CH170 exhibit a commendable level of build quality. While the side panels are secured with screws rather than being tool-free, this contributes to a more robust feel. The inclusion of foam strips on the tempered glass of the CH160 is a nice touch, preventing unwanted vibrations. The key differentiators between these two cases lie in their design and intended use. The CH160’s standout feature is undoubtedly its built-in carry handle, coupled with the visual appeal of the tempered glass side panel. In contrast, the CH170 offers a vertical orientation for space saving, enhanced airflow thanks to its all-mesh construction, and a practical digital display for real-time system stats. While both support similar core hardware, the CH170 offers slightly more flexibility for additional fans and potentially easier cable management due to its bottom-mounted I/O panel.
Ease of Use
Building in a mini-ITX case is inherently more challenging than in a larger ATX chassis, and these DeepCool offerings are no exception. Space is at a premium, requiring careful planning for component placement and cable routing. However, both cases offer enough room to accommodate reasonably sized components, including long dual-slot graphics cards and tall CPU coolers. The inclusion of a PSU extension cable in the CH170 is a thoughtful addition. While not offering extensive cable management solutions behind the motherboard tray, the focus on airflow means cables can generally be tucked away to avoid obstructions.
Impressive Airflow
Both the CH160 and CH170 prioritise airflow, a crucial aspect for compact, high-performance systems. The extensive use of mesh panelling on both cases ensures a steady supply of fresh air to components. Even without additional fans, the design facilitates good passive airflow, and there are options to mount extra fans where needed. The open design should prevent thermal throttling even with demanding hardware, albeit this offers little in the way of sound deadening.
Should I Buy One?
The DeepCool CH160 and CH170 present excellent value propositions in the mini-ITX case market. If portability and showcasing your components through a tempered glass window are priorities, the CH160 is a fantastic option, especially at its tempting sub-£50 price point. For those who value a smaller desktop footprint, maximum airflow, and the added utility of a digital system monitor, the CH170 is equally compelling, particularly with its current sale price bringing it very close to the CH160. Ultimately, the choice comes down to individual needs and aesthetic preferences, but you’ll be getting a well-built, feature-rich mini-ITX case either way.
