Ok I am trying to consider going mini itx or full atx sized build. If i was to go full size i would go with fractal define r5 and if I were to go mini itx I would go for the bitfenix phenom. As for the motherboard mini itx- asus maximus vii gene and full atx-asus maximus vii hero. Apart from that the specs would pretty much be the same, i7 4790k, 970 strix gpu, g.skill 16gb 2133mhz ram e.c.t. Another thing is that my desk is quite small and my budget is 1800 to 2000 dollars with monitor (I could probably go over). so what do you think I should go for, what would you choose?
Both are great choices for cases. It really depends on your application for the case/computer and the portability / space requirements. If your like the Bitfenix Phenom case, I would recommend the μATX version. It'll allow you to get another GTX 970 SLI later and make sure to get a compatible PSU and MOBO. A mITX Phenom would be good if you wanted massive storage or custom liquid cooling.
Do you think that because the mobo can support sli would I be able to get two 970 strix gpu's in there. and if not could I fit the two mini versions in?
Yes it should be able since it has a 16X and an 8X PCI-E slot. The motherboard also includes a 2-way SLI bridge. You might not be able to utilize the M.2 slot to its full potential since the 4790K is limited to 16 PCI-E lanes and each card will be taking 8x PCI-E lanes.
which formfactor you should go is realy a matter of personal taste. i would personaly choose for just ATX, because you simply get more space to work with, and it has more upgradeabillity, and better airflow.
But M-atx is definitely not a bad choice if you lack on space of course.
ok then what do you think about the fractal design define r5? and if you have any other atx case options that would be awesome. Do you know of any small full atx cases?
With that hardware/budget I'm going to guess you're in australia?
As far as size it depends on you ATX usually gives you more options, itx tends to be annoying to build in, though obviously the advantage is it's small.
Although the phenom case you're looking at seems a bit large for ITX. Being 13x14x9
If you wanted some alternative cases you should check out the coolermaster elite series. the 130 comes in at 8x15x9, but it still supports large graphics cards, and the stacker series from them has neat utility.
Man - you can really fill that thing up with drives and coolers.
One mod I did was to drill out some ventilation holes on the left panel for the VGA. I also taped off the area around the front fan intakes to give it better airflow.
