Summary
- Streacom DA6 XL offers modular design for PC modders seeking creative freedom in a sturdy open-air chassis.
- This SFF case allows for varied hardware compatibility with a focus on customization and unique design features.
- Experienced builders will appreciate the challenge of building in the DA6 XL, though tools and prior knowledge are recommended.
When it comes to building a gaming PC, choosing one of the best PC cases is a vital decision that ultimately defines the final look and function of the system. Although the options for PC cases are nearly boundless, Streacom is a reputable brand centered on creating modular, industrial cases and accessories. The DA6 is one such case that utilizes an open-air concept to promote varied hardware compatibility and an easily personalized design.
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One of the greatest things about the DA6 in concept is its user-friendly approach to customization, resulting in a chassis that feels like a PC modder's dream. The DA6 XL, by extension, retains the values set up by the original case, offering a small form factor chassis that distinguishes itself by adding a considerable amount of vertical clearance to accommodate larger GPUs. This makes the DA6 XL a significant choice for Small Form Factor (SFF) enthusiasts looking to find a unique base for an RTX 4090 PC build.
Streacom DA6 XL
- Brand
- Streacom
- Material
- 304 Stainless Steel + 6063 Aluminium
- Motherboard Size (Max.)
- ITX
- Graphics Card Size (Max.)
- Triple Slot, 358mm length
- Power Supply Size (Max.)
- 185mm max length
- Color Options
- Black, Chrome
The Streacom DA6 XL is an open-frame SFF case that utilizes an unbroken wrap-around stainless steel frame to create the shape of the chassis. In conjunction with the DA6's universal brackets, this case can be personalized to an incredible degree that supports many types of cooling in any orientation. Best suited for PC modders and expert builders, this chassis provides a considerable amount of creative freedom while building.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Sleek, open air chassis
- Modular design promotes creativity
- Diverse component compatibility
- Not suited for inexperienced PC builders
- Tools are required
First Impressions
As always, preferences for aesthetics and appearance vary from person to person, and open-air PC cases as a general concept aren't always attractive to everyone. However, even if you are not personally a fan of open-frame PC cases, the industrial vibe and format of the DA6 XL are inarguably unique. This chassis feels fantastic all around; the weight is balanced and sturdy, while the finish has a great texture that doesn't scratch easily. With that being said, however, there was some tarnishing on the motherboard standoffs that is noticeable from certain angles, even in the finished build.
Regardless of minor imperfections, the quality of the DA6 XL was otherwise consistent. Although the DA6 XL is considerably taller than other SFF cases, it maintains the compact form factor well. This case also has a subtle weight to it, with and without components, and is unbelievably easy to carry due to the design of the handles.
What's Included
Inside the box of the DA6 XL, you can expect to find the case itself, along with a bag of screws secured via cable ties to the case's front panel and power cables. These extra screws can be used to mount fans and other hardware to the universal brackets included in the case. We will expand on the build and functionality of these brackets later in the article.
The DA6 XL comes standard with a front panel I/O module that includes a power button and a USB Type-C port. Although this is located at the bottom of the case, this module can easily be unscrewed and moved between four locations, suitable for any orientation that the DA6 XL is placed in, either vertical or horizontal.
Further adding to the modular nature of this case, Streacom offers a selection of front panel alternatives to curate the build to your needs, or expand on the ports available. Alternatives include two Type-C ports, a Windows Hello Sensor, or a power button and a USB Type-A port combo.
Presentation, Design & Features
The versatility of the DA6 XL comes largely from Streacom's Universal Brackets. With these brackets, you are able to choose and adjust the exact placement of cooling components and additional hardware, such as 3.5" and 2.5" hard drives, fans, and SFX/ATX power supplies. The DA6 and DA6 XL come with a total of 8 Universal Brackets, enough for two on each side. For more complicated PC builds, additional Universal Brackets can be purchased separately.
These universal brackets function as two hook-shaped bars that hold onto the steel frame of the chassis on opposite sides. These bars are then secured with a fitting, washer, and an Allen-head M3 screw. By loosening both M3 screws on a bracket, you can raise and lower the bracket easily to fit in components.
Following a similar construction, the DA6 also includes a cable management bracket. Once again, the customization and freedom of placement of this bracket is fantastic, especially for cable management. This bracket can be adjusted or placed anywhere within the chassis to keep the bulk of cables looking tidy.
Finally, one of the best things about the DA6 XL is the broad compatibility of support for large, next-gen GPUs that easily fit in this chassis. This PC case boasts enough room to house 3-slot cards that measure up to 368mm in length. Size limitations do not constrain the width of the card, if you don't mind some of the GPU cooler poking out of the side of the case.
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Ease of Installation
Although not impossible for beginners, the process of building the DA6 XL is better suited to those who have some prior experience building PCs, as it involves some more complicated practices. Those who choose to build in the DA6 XL may also find it necessary to invest in a tool kit, due to the varied sizes and types of screws used.
With that being said, once a general understanding of the Universal Brackets is attained, users should have little difficulty maintaining a flow when building. It should also be noted that the GPU riser cable is necessary to build in the DA6 and DA6 XL, and it needs to be purchased separately from the PC case. This is to allow users the choice of the PCIe Generation for their GPU.
All in all, the process of building in the DA6 is a fun experience. Cable management was a bit of a challenge, but in a good way; it was fun creating a pattern and a design with the cables, rather than just stuffing all the cables into a hidden part of the case. The cable management bracket worked as a way to cleanly integrate zip ties into the case, allowing the cables to mimic the silhouette of the DA6.
Regarding component size compatibility, this case naturally has some limitations that should be verified before deciding components. Coolers and hardware measurements should be verified before building. Given that the DA6 and DA6 XL are designed to be in a small form factor, they prioritize the use of the best mini-ITX motherboards to maintain the compact form factor. This case also supports SFX and ATX power supplies, with the option of mounting it vertically or horizontally.
Final thoughts
Streacom DA6 XL
- Brand
- Streacom
- Material
- 304 Stainless Steel + 6063 Aluminium
- Motherboard Size (Max.)
- ITX
- Graphics Card Size (Max.)
- Triple Slot, 358mm length
- Power Supply Size (Max.)
- 185mm max length
- Color Options
- Black, Chrome
The Streacom DA6 XL is an open-frame SFF case that utilizes an unbroken wrap-around stainless steel frame to create the shape of the chassis. In conjunction with the DA6's universal brackets, this case can be personalized to an incredible degree that supports many types of cooling in any orientation. Best suited for PC modders and expert builders, this chassis provides a considerable amount of creative freedom while building.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra infoIf you're an intermediate or experienced builder looking for a sturdy, open-air PC case that presents itself as a fun and intriguing challenge, then your next build might be suited to the DA6 XL. The open concept of this PC chassis allows for an impressive range of orientations and compatibility, allowing the final build to be especially unique. PC modders and those who enjoy the challenge of custom water-cooled loops are also guaranteed to have a great time building in this chassis.
Overall, the DA6 XL is an objectively interesting case. However, it does fall short in some regards. As with all open-air cases, the DA6 is more susceptible to potential hardware damage and dust buildup. Conversely, it can also be argued that this style of case lends to easier dust management due to visibility.
Furthermore, although the Universal Brackets provide an interesting take on standard mounting mechanisms that allow for more creativity, they are not perfect. Regardless of how tight the screws are, if you apply pressure on either side of the brackets, they can still be shifted up and down. This is a crucial concern when mounting heavy components, such as a power supply or radiator. However, better stability around these components can be achieved by utilizing the cable management bracket.
Assembling the Universal Brackets also proves to be a bit of a pain that comes with a slight learning curve. Many small pieces go into constructing the brackets, and it can be especially time-consuming to reinstall them all if you remove the brackets while installing PC components.
Finally, the price of the DA6 and DA6 XL feels fair regarding the quality and weight of the case itself. Listed at around $170, the DA6 is not ideal for users shopping on a tight budget, and that's completely fine. Instead, this PC chassis lends itself to enthusiasts looking for a stunning frame to put on display.
After having hands-on experience with the DA6 XL, it's safe to say that this feels like a PC case that can be used again and again to create wildly different systems, and that's one of its strongest features. Despite concerns, the DA6 XL still stands unrivaled as one of the most interesting SFF cases on the market suitable for liquid-cooled and air-cooled gaming PCs.
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Related Products
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Alternative Case Options |
Best Choice For |
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Best for small GPUs |
$155 |
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Best Streacom Mini ITX Alternative |
$362 |
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Best Mid-Tower Open Air Alternative |
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Streacom offers a broad variety of PC cases that focus heavily on SFF and mini ITX form factors. The original DA6 is an option that features a reduced length, making it a more suitable option for smaller, last-generation GPUs that don't need as much space. Due to reduced materials, the standard DA6 also features a slight price decrease, making it an attractive option for those who don't want to make a significant investment.
The DA2 V2 is yet another mini-ITX case by Streacom that offers a stylish, modern appearance to your latest SFF build. Although this case sells at a considerably more premium cost than the DA6 XL, it features a thoughtful yet sleek design that prioritizes airflow and noise reduction.
Finally, for those interested in more options for open-air style PC cases, the Thermaltake Core P3 is another high quality chassis that utilizes a larger form factor. Although this case doesn't offer the same creative freedoms as the DA6 XL, the Thermaltake Core P3 is an affordable choice that offers support with larger motherboards.
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FAQ
Q: Is an open case better for cooling?
Open-air cases promote unrestricted airflow, but that doesn't always make components cooler. It is still necessary to utilize coolers and fans to ensure your hardware stays cool.
Q: Are open PC cases loud?
Noise level typically is reflected in the RPM of PC fans and air coolers. Although open concept PC cases do little to muffle noise, utilizing a water-cooling loop will help to keep things cool and quiet.