First Timer: Gaming Mini-ITX @ Around $1200

Hardware Build a PC
#1

Hi, this is my first time building a PC and due to an absolute lack of space, I have decided to go for a Mini-ITX build. I have a budget of around US$ 1200. These are the parts I have currently decided on minus cooling and power supply which I need help on deciding.

I'm aware that this is probably over budget but I don't know which parts can afford to be downgraded.
I am currently living in Singapore so the prices are kind of wonky in comparison to the US but I am open to any suggestions and comments.

Thanks in advance.

Specifications:

Processor: Intel i5 3570k  

Graphics Card: GeForce GTX 660ti Video Card  

RAM: Corsair Vengeance 1600 MHz 8 GB (2x4)  

Motherboard: ASRock Z77E-ITX 

Storage: HDD: WD 2TB Caviar Black 

                SSD:  OCZ Vertex 4 

Power Supply:

Cooling: Air?: Water?: 

Case: Bit Fenix Prodigy  

 

#2

http://pcpartpicker.com/p/xmw3

#3

Just a question.



Are there any AMD alternatives for the videocard/processor I might want to look into? I heard that they are usually cheaper but are hotter and are less stable, especially their drivers. 

#4

Pretty similar specs to the one I am building. Even tho I can't stand the Prodigy case.

For PSU you can get one of the Antec EarthWatt Platinum. I believe there's a 450W model, you won't need more then that. Just make sure it has two 6-pin PCI-e connectors for the GPU. But you can't go wrong with SeaSonic.

For such a PSU size limited case I would recommend a non-modular powersupply. Modular cables makes the PSU 1" longer. No good for tiny space.

#5

the FX8350 apparently smokes the i5 in most games, and A 7870 will be better then the 660ti unless you're doing heavy editing in Photoshop. also- hotter, sometimes. AMD tends to use more wattage then Nvida, ergo they might run 1-5c hotter, how ever- the 7870 is not only gonna be slightly faster, it's also gonna be slightly cheaper.

#6

"slightly faster" ? http://www.anandtech.com/bench/Product/548?vs=647

I want you to look at DX11 games. Who is still playing Crysis Warhead anyways?!

Without a doubt, HD7870 is a better price/performance choice, but a GTX 660 Ti is faster ;)

#7

Do I need any extra fans to help with airflow?
I'm guessing with a small case there might be a problem.

Also, regarding the processor, what is a good amount to overclock, assuming I get an H100 or H100i,

 

#8

4.5 GHz easy. Depends on how your motherboard reacts to overclocking.

The Prodigy is a flexible case. I would have the H100i in the top of the case, and use the fans as intake pull-config. You might as well get a fan in the front for cooling the GPU. I can't remember if it's included with the case or not.

EDIT: If you're overclocking any higher than 4.2 GHz, DO NOT get the Antec EarthWatt Platinum series. They're cheap and efficient, but lack stable voltage output. I can highly recommend SeaSonics G-series PSU models: 80+ Gold, great build quality and probably the tightest voltage output for a budget PSU.

#9

AMD has newer drivers since then, so yeah probably faster or equal to in everything besides those Nvidia specific games like Bf3.

#10

Nvidia has also improved their drivers so your argument is rather grey.

#11

Dont get the H100i. get air cooling, the airflow in m-itx cases isnt all too great mostly and you need a good airflow, get like a phanteks low profile cooler. Itll save you money to spend on the GPU or other stuff.