DeepCool has shown off a small form factor (SFF) PC prototype that allows the installation of full-size CPU coolers without increasing the overall chassis size. It looks like an interesting idea when it comes to widening compatibility, though it somewhat negates the benefits of a compact machine.
Presented at Computex 2026, this unnamed mini-PC prototype aims to offer the same CPU cooler compatibility as a full-size chassis, while keeping a reduced overall footprint. Instead of increasing the internal volume to accommodate larger tower coolers, such as the DeepCool Assassin V used here, this concept cuts a hole in the top panel to make room for a large cooler. This allows it to accommodate practically any height of air cooler, since it will effectively live outside the case.
Understandably, this approach comes with multiple downsides. First, while the rest of the system remains inside the compact case, having a massive cooler poking outside the chassis negates the space saving you get from choosing an SFF build. Secondly, having a huge hole in the case is an invitation for dust to accumulate, especially considering that air will be constantly circulating near it. On the plus side, the Assassin V at least has its fan in between its heatsink towers, so it’s not going to attack your fingers.
Also, by having access to fresh air, the cooler should be more effective than in a closed-case installation, resulting in lower CPU temperatures, as long as you keep it well-maintained. The other advantage of this concept is that cooling performance is no longer constrained by chassis dimensions.
Cooler compatibility aside, this prototype has another interesting feature up its sleeve, modularity. The chassis was designed to be stackable on top of another similarly sized compartment, where you can install a large graphics card. The latter connects to the motherboard via a PCIe riser cable located on the side.
From an aesthetic standpoint, this concept looks a lot like a modded Xbox One or Xbox Series S console that’s been augmented with a PC tower cooler. Depending on your preferences, you may or may not like this approach, potentially preferring a traditional case design.
While it’s unclear if and when DeepCool intends to release this concept, and how much it intends to charge for it, there will likely be a couple of SFF enthusiasts charmed by its cooling potential.
