Planning another build in this one soon! If you like tiny cases you might also like: Custom loop in the Dan A4-H2O: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ibBdEFtBvQM.html GPU undervolting guide: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-FqpfYTi43TE.html Build and review in A4-H2O (thermals at end vs. T1): ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-69UJCLJ9E4Q.html
Hey Ali, very glad to see you review the v2! I was wondering if you would have any interest in revisiting your 3090 + 5950x build but this time in the v2, using tx240, 2 full size fans, and maybe an alloycraft LOBO. I'm sure a lot of people would be excited to see that :)
I wish Formd made a nice compact ATX mid tower, but with the same great build quality and design as something like this. I will never go SFF due to higher noise, SFX psu, etc so I would love something like this if it was bigger
I will never understand these chassis myself. It will cost more than an equivalent standard midi tower, it will run hoter and perform worse and likely due to heat push fan speed higher. For instance a reference RTX 3080 in a good standard chassi will run 100-200MHz higher in clock speed and obviously similiar results for the processor. Then you can't add more drives for mass storage and you are limited in gpu size and a million other limitations. The only reason for a chassi like this is if you live in a cupboard or think it looks "cool" 🤦♂
@@logirex or if you need to move your setup often, maybe because you live in 2 different places or go to lan parties often. Believe me, it's NOT fun carrying around a 15kg full ATX tower. Everyone has different needs
@@logirex I would say the majority of people would do this either out of appreciation that it simply exists or to look cool/a combination of both..at least that's why I'm going to do it. - Arguably, it's less aesthetic than RGB, yr aesthetic mid-tower but darn it if it's not top level clean in presentation.
They are actually! It's a collab between Ncase and FormD. Basically, imagine the Reference layout, but larger and better compatibility. It's called the NCASE M1EVO
I think people will have no trouble with 4000 series GPUs if the newest rumors are true that the 4080 is 325w TDP. The coolers won't be that big then. Welp…
Happy to finally see this review live! The T1 Sandwich is a great case, hope to see a build of yours with an AIO or custom loop in it soon. The reference does have worse temperatures, but you can squeeze in a couple more fans to help with temperatures, and it does save a bit of money. The reference should also be able to fit a 280mm AIO, whereas the sandwich can only do 280 rads as part of a custom loop. The sandwich can now do a 240 + 280 rad for a custom loop. Sandwich can also do 2 25mm fans on a TX240 now, as there is 46mm above the motherboard. For standard AIO rads (27mm) you do still need a slim fan. I personally run 1 A12x15 and a T30 above the PSU. There's also two PSU mounting options, standard one you showed off, as well as an alternative 90° mount. The second one allows for some really clean custom cables. You can fit something crazy like a 64 core epyc in there too with ASRock's Deep ITX motherboard.
The problems with ITX cases is how you'd be changing it quite often since every case seems fine until you think smaller is better. And then you want to get smaller and smaller and whoops now too hot and need a bit larger. The never ending ITX struggle.
Maybe for some sff enthusiasts but I'm personally fine with what works best, as long as it performs like an atx tower I'll go as small as possible. Since the Formd T1 can fit two rads thats pretty much the limit tbh.
On the reference layout your Noctua cooler fan should be pointing the same direction as the T30 beside it. They should both be exhaust (or intake), since what you have now is a feedback loop. No surprise the temps are awful. Great video otherwise, this case is sick
@@thomast6907 Agreed. Exhaust the air from the blow-through Nvidia graphics card, and exhaust hot air from of the CPU. My point was that anything is better than recycling hot air!
I think most test show pulling cold air in over a heat sink always wins compared to trying the exhaust hot air and keep the ambient case temp lower. Certainly that’s what Ali’s testing in the NCASE showed and that’s what I have seen in my DAN-A4 and NCASE.
I tried both intake and exhaust, I spent a full day trying to optimise the airflow for that layout and nothing made a significant difference other than the side fan. Setting the C14S to exhaust was only slightly better, but then temps for the CPU were noticeably warmer. It was the worse orientation.
@@optimumtech That is peculiar, on the Discord we've got quite a few people with ref builds, and they're not seeing temps this bad. They also saw a marked improvement by setting the c14s fan to exhaust. Did you run your tests with the GPU on the bottom or up top?
I'm also curious what performance would be of the reference case if you had a traditional GPU cooler design with side exhaust. And maybe a noctua fan swap to get some better overall airflow
I have a ghost s1 and the different between the standard feet and some 3d printed feet I have around 3cm in high along with a 25x125 fan set to exhaust my temps dropped around 3 degrees- plus over all case temp had a significant decline.
Love this case so much! You actually got me into itx PCs and was gonna build an ncase until I saw your formd t1 video! Two years later, I finally built my first ever custom pc/itx pc with the v2 sandwhich. It definitely feels satisfying (and exhausting) to finish building in this case. And that power button on the front panel is just cherry on top. Feels very satisfying too
hey man, would you consider doing a review of the tecware fusion? It claims to bring matx components to a compact form factor, and seems like a reasonable path to explore small form factor pc builds without the more expensive components
mATX? yes. compact? yes. BUT the Tecware Fusion has so many limitations when built with mATX and even worse if being paired with ATX PSU (since this is the most go-to config for those that wanted to downsize their build from standard mATX/ATX cases) in the end you still need to build with ITX board and SFX PSU in order to get the max potential from Tecware Fusion, but with such config you better just stick with NR200
It's a bigger NR200 with MATX compatibility and some nifty features like a removable top fan bracket and an included ATX PSU bracket. There isn't much else to say. Using a MATX mobo introduces issues with the bottom fans afaik. If you're using it with ITX mobo and SFX components you have a capable NR200 competitor that is just a hair bigger. I used it for awhile and eventually went back to my NR200 because I didn't need the extra size and wanted a smaller gap between my bottom intake fans and my GPU.
Actually, you can do the same offsetting you did in the T1 also in the A4-H2O! It comes with stand-offs included to put a 2-slots GPU closer to the side panel. Indeed, I have one with a 3080FE mounted on the 2 outer slots (+ 2 top exhaust fans) and temperatures are the same of the T1 (sandwich). So it's not true that you're forced to GPUs with regular cooler designs 😉
Can you, only if you want, please share your thoughts on how much nicer the Formd T1 is compared to the A4-H2O? I'm debating between the two, I feel like the Formd is tiny bit nicer but way more expensive in Europe. Thanks!
@@mikeymaiku Thanks for your reply. In Europe not much different. With current exchange rates around 350,- euros vs 150,- for the A4-H2O. Are you happy with your case? How does it look in person? I'm still not sure what to do haha.
@@tr4nnel752 I do not own a T1 personally, my thoughts on the temps were based on what Ali showed in the video. Anyways, I'm very happy with the A4-H2O especially if you consider the huge price difference (I'm in Europe and you also need to add custom fees and import taxes here). I'm in a completely air-cooled build, but I'm happy I could switch to a standard size 240 AIO if I wanted to. I also prefer having the power button on the front because I move my build around and it sometimes ends up in small spaces where accessing the back could be a problem. I guess the only advantages of the T1 are the smaller size (if you really need something that small) and the build quality (not that the A4 is bad, but the T1 looks simply un-matchable). FYI my build runs a 3080FE + 5600X, 72C max for the GPU, 76-78 max for the CPU (both slightly undervolted). Cheers!
Congrats on the engagement! Maybe I’m behind the curve but this is the first time I’ve heard of it. The only problem is finding a wedding photographer with better camera skills than you.
I'd love to see the classic layout re-tested with a Silver Soul 110 or NH-D9L, intake from the back and exhaust out the side. I wonder the effect on the GPU temps in that config. Great work as always!
I'm so glad you reviewed this version because I recently bought it! It was an experience putting it together but it was so worth it! Thanks for the great vids!
Your builds are so clean. I love that you, like me, are an ITX guy. I use a 10.8 liter case that I've built 4 different ITX rigs in. I know these massive ITX cases like the NR200 & NR200P are popular but they are dramatically larger than a lot of ITX builders want. While I complain about ITX having fewer options for PSUs and Motherboards, it all disappears when anyone sees my tiny ITX and wishes they had my computer. My ITX sits unnoticed behind one of my monitors. It's half the volume of an NR200. Now the trick for me is getting a beast of a GPU into my next build. This Formd T1 case is great but I hate spending $200-$250 on a case. The margins these manufacturers are making at these prices is just obnoxious. The case probably costs about $40 to build if they are in low volume. Add $5 for packaging. $10 for shipping. And you get an idea of their actual cost to build & ship the case.
What are some itx sub 10L cases you would recommend atm? It's been 2 years since I've build a PC and haven't keep up with new cases and I have an itch to build another one again.
Meshlicious data if someone is wondering: 3080 Ti FE at 69 degrees @ 315W (just 90% power limit, + 175 Mhz on the entire curve), with the 20 mm GPU standoff mod. 13045 Port Royal. Also Cinebench on the 12900K @ 241W keeps at 75-80 degrees with a 240 EK-AIO with T30 fans in negative pressure mode.
I’m still pretty darn satisfied with my setup but man this channel makes me want to do a smaller setup so bad lol. His aesthetic matched with this beautiful case is super clean..It’ll have to happen eventually, prob when these prices are fully back to normal/straight up reduced.
@@plasmancer6104 lol, definitely. Almost every vid he does with an itx case makes me go dammit I want one! lol - This case has to be the most aesthetic yet tho. A liquid cooled itx with (hopefully little sound) just sounds like the move.
After I got my Intel 4th Gen i7-4790K cpu I switched to SFF ITX builds many years ago and never looked back. I love my SFF builds and the sleek versatility of these builds and their ability for easy transportation and compact gaming setups 😍🥰😇👍. My NR200, Skyreach Mini S4, Evolv Shift XT & N-Case M1 make up my collection of mini pc’s 😱
Thanks for doing an updated review. I brought a T1 when they first came out and been running a 5950x and 3090 ftw3. Recently I had to RMA my GPU and now have a 3080ti founders. I'm seriously thinking about swapping the ek 240 aio I have for the noctua L12S as the temps you show here seem a lot better than I'm getting!
Finally a use for zen 5's slightly lower power draw - the CPU in both cases was limited by thermals but if zen 5 can run flat out with 20% less power that makes this case practical for a no limits air cooled 9800X3D build once it arrives!
Completely unrelated but I think you might be interested in checking out fractal designs pop mini air, It's a very 'small' matx case, you'll probably find it interesting
Built my T1-ref a couple weeks ago and have been extremely happy with temps and performance @1440p 240hz on a 5950x/c14s/3080 fe after some undervolt tweeks. My pc and my keyboard(wooting60he) are endgame for my gaming time lol^
I'm debating between this and the A4-H2O, I assume you also think this case is a class above anything else? I'm trying to justify the hefty premium haha.
I do like the Formd T1, almost bought one, but it's just a little too big for my use and is even bigger if you add the vertical stand. I ended up going with the Velkase Velka 5. Granted the Velka 5 doesn't support as much cooling, but it's a lot easier for me to travel with. Still, I definitely appreciate the thought and engineering that went into the T1.
Ali, your videos are so well made that I always feel the need to sit down and play them on my big screen TV to fully appreciate them 😂. Keep up the great work!
The quality in these videos are insane! Just started building my first ITX PC and I have watched a LOT of your videos to help make major decisions and expand my knowledge. Thanks for the amazing content!
Oddly enough, I have the reference case but not a C14s - I’m using an L12S cpu cooler and dual 12x25 fans as exhaust on the side panel. It made a huge difference for GPU temps for me but it’s definitely a weird setup!
I'm definitely interested in seeing your objective thermals. I am currently using an air-cooled v1.1 and have a v2 REF on the way but with the initial builds I have seen, there is plenty of room for thermals to improve esp when compared to Sandwich version.
Well Ali, you content motivated me so much that I built my own mini-itx case and beat the whole market in terms of small form factor. Keep up the good work, take care.
Other option in the a4-h²o everyone keeps ignoring: Put the radiator in the GPU side, and the GPU on top. Yes, that requires more customization, but 280 mm radiator suddenly become very much a possibility. With regular AIO radiator sizes of 30 mm width + 25 mm fan width, there is still about 1 cm of spacing left. cu, w0lf.
With inspiration from your channel over the last 6 months I'm finally doing an itx build. I ordered the coolermaster NR200 Max and I cant wait to get it in and start on it.
Such an underrated channel. Really love the sobre tone and "lack of over the top excited superlatives" that you see everywhere including in thumbnails... Everywhere else: "UNBELIEVABLE IMPOSSIBLE GPU FIT IN TINY TITANIUM CASE" Here: "This seems like the best tiny case"
Really hoping in seeing you build another Meshlicious custom loop but now with dual 280/240mm rads with the iceman pump res combo like the one in your Ncase From what I've seen on the internet, it looks challenging but definitely doable so I'd to see your opinion on this one and maybe even switch from your current setup.... especially with new hardware coming around the corner
Don’t mean to sound like a noob but what options would one have running this exact setup for storage ? Are you restricted to only having m.2 Nvme pcie storage or can you also fit a second SSD in the case ?
Hey Optimum, I just wanted to thank you for making these videos and putting in the effort of making all these different bu8lds work that you've done. The first ever video of yours I saw was the Liquid Metal worth it? Video, and then saw your skyreach video right after. Ever since then I've been interested in SFF itx PCs, and you've a majority of that influence. So thank you for introducing me to this very interesting hobby, which just might be a little expensive.
As always great video! Do you plan to review the Jonsbo VR3? I think it would be an interesting review to compare since it competes with the SSUPD Meshilicious, NZXT H1 v2 and other similar ITX cases. Also I enjoy the charts you usually add comparing all the SFF cases you’ve reviewed. I’m sure your next video will have these. Liked and subscribed!
Awesome review! Seems quite fair and reasonable, I agree with almost every point. You mentioned the GPU, but have you tried under-volting your 5800X3D? Mine was completely stable with a -30 all core under-volt, which seems common (maybe because of the lower clocks compared to 5800X?). Using this in my SW, I was able to prevent hitting that 90C cap while running Cinebench. It's surprising to me how well the L12S + top exhaust stacks up against the larger C14.
I loved my T1 v1.1 but it isn't without its flaws, major ones being not enough clearance between mb and gpu backplate, gaps between panels that don't sit flush, random beveled corners in the front interfering with radiator ports, not being able to fit full size fans with TX240 without sanding, not to mention minor ones like anodizing inconsistencies and flaking paint jobs. Also feeling kinda burned when all the promises for accessories and parts never came. Well they came but only for the v2 which isn't compatible with v1 users, and they're still constantly oos. I was originally quite put off when Jimu came in with their D+ which is practically a T1 clone, but with their v2 it looks like they really improved upon the design so much they practically reinvented it. If I make up my mind to replace my T1 I'm leaning towards getting this.
As an older T1 owner I have been waiting for this video! Overall I don’t see a need to upgrade, especially after seeing the thermal performance of the reference layout. Cheers mate!
The elephant in the room is getting the proper motherboard / CPU air cooler combination for this box. I would love, love, love for a reviewer to cover all the options, rather than saying "it's a problem with newer motherboards." I have the T1 Reference version on order and will be attempting to recycle a Ryzen 5800X but I need to figure out the cooler / MB options.
No magnetic air filters ?. I mean it makes sense if those air filters need to be replaced because of breaking. But it could save on cleaning. Also issue with FE cards is that they now have fans which are on opposite direction, also GPU run really hot in small cases so separating is good but it doesn’t have any fans outside of the card blowing are on and off, off the card therefore likely being even hotter than a normal open case layout. One solution could be to make the case have a front a back fan in the GPU compartment but that would mean the CPU / motherboard doesn’t have the ability to push air up and only down and back of the case. Basically cutting 33% of the cooling fans. I think the smart move would be separating the power supply and then having a top, bottom and front layout pushing air from front up with the upper fans and down with the lower fans, therefore stabilising CPU and GPU temps. Idk. I think size is important but considering the inefficiencies in ambient and fan cooling for the GPU and CPU means more power draw and worse off for power efficiency. + it’s basically a mini oven.
I loved my T1, but the batch I received it from had all kinds of issues. Some QA, some design related. Poorly fitting side panels, missing motherboard standoffs, no PCI gen 4 cable. I hope this new version will do better.
ATX PSU compatible ITX cases should increase in popularity since next gen components will draw more power. I'll be getting a 4090 but with the power spikes a SF750 isn't enough I don't think
I bought the Thorzone Mjolnir which is similar to the Formd. Less customizable, but still very optimised as long as you're careful with what components you buy. Performance is high but not the best. Its the best looking case on the market which is a big selling point.
I’d really love to see a follow up comparison for the cooling between the v1.1 and the v2 - particularly with the 3090 FE. How much of a difference does the .25 slot space you could open up with the v2 make?
Good day, help me: - which of these 2 options is better made, better quality and worth paying attention to? 1. Corsair SF750 Platinum 2. Seasonic Focus SPX-750 Platinum
