Lian Li Alpha 550 RGB Tempered Glass Chassis Review

A Closer Look – Exterior

Lian Li has really set out to create something that’s unlike anything they’ve done before with the Alpha 550. It features a huge tempered glass side panel window, showing off that lovely interior.

There’s a second tempered glass window on the front too, allowing you to show off the three lovely RGB fans built-into the chassis.

More Glass!

The fans look awesome hiding behind that dust filter too. It almost looks like a leaded window from an old cottage. Not sure if that was what they intended, but it still looks cool.

As if that wasn’t enough, there’s another tempered glass window up on the top too. Worried about airflow? Fear not! There’s a strip of ventilation down the left and right side of the front panel, as well as the top panel. This indirect airflow should help reduce a lot of unwanted noise too.

RGB

RGB lovers will find an LED strip across the top of the front panel.

There’s even a nice I/O panel hidden in there, which includes a USB Type-C connector.

For added visual kicks, the frosted white fans are also RGB and everything will sync up thanks to the internal hub. There’s even a remote control in the box to toggle effects and colours or turn them off completely. I prefer this, as it means you don’t need desktop software to take control.

Down the right side, you’ll find the fourth and final tempered glass window. Without a doubt, this build is exposed, so cable routing and layout are super important. Your build is going to be very much on show, inside and out, so it’ll be worth taking care to do it neatly.

The glass panel on the right has a blacked out lower section. This means it’ll hide the HDD bays, as well as the PSU mounting area.

Around the back, you’ll find a 120mm fan, which comes with elongated screw mounts for easy height adjustment. This adjustment is beneficial for AIO/Radiator mounts.

10 Expansion Slots!

With E-ATX support, you’ll find room for eight expansion slots, each fitted with reusable ventilated covers. There are two additional mounts for those who want to vertically mount a GPU, although the cables/mount are not included.

Finally, the base of the chassis features two full-width feet that provide excellent stability.

One of my favourite features, however, is that full-length dust filter. It can be removed from the side of the chassis for easy cleaning. I’m amazed more cases don’t let you remove it sideways, instead of from the front or back, as it’s just so much easier this way.