Hey everyone! I'm planning my first mini ITX build and I could use some advice. I want to downsize from my full-size PC because I'll be moving around a lot in the next few years. My budget is around £2000, but I'd prefer to spend less if I can. Currently, the estimated cost is about £1900 after removing the M.2 drives I already own. Here's what I'm looking at:
- **CPU**: AMD 9700x (upgrading from a 3700x, but I don't see much value in going to a 9800x3D at this price point).
- **CPU Cooler**: Noctua NH-L9a-AM5 (I trust Noctua, but I'm a bit unsure if it'll provide enough cooling).
- **Motherboard**: ASRock B850I Lightning WiFi Mini ITX (I need 2 M.2 slots and WiFi, any other board would be fine).
- **RAM**: G.Skill Flare X5 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6000 CL36 (never used DDR5 before, so looking for recommendations).
- **Storage**: Using my current 2 M.2s.
- **GPU**: PNY OC GeForce RTX 5080 16 GB (I'd prefer a Founders Edition, but it's out of stock; currently have a 3070ti).
- **Case**: Fractal Design Ridge PCIe 4.0 Mini ITX (it's compact, but I'm concerned about thermals, and I'm open to suggestions).
- **PSU**: Corsair SF750 (2024) 750 W 80+ Platinum Certified.
Any advice would be super helpful. Thanks!
4 Answers
The ASRock B850I is a solid choice for a mini ITX board. Just make sure you've considered any future upgrades you might need. Also, confirm that any cooler you choose will fit, as those compact cases can limit your options!
Make sure to double-check your clearances! The PNY GPU might be too big for the case. Also, you should consider a different GPU if size becomes an issue, or just make sure there’s enough room.
Why are you choosing a compact case? If it's about portability, an mATX case might be a better route. They don’t take up much space, can fit larger coolers and power supplies, and won’t compromise performance as much. For reference, your selected Fractal Ridge case is 16 liters, while mATX cases are around 25 liters and can fit larger parts without restriction.
It's a bit of both; I'm starting a new job and will be moving around, so I need something smaller.
Would switching to an mATX case really not increase the size that much?
For the cooler, if the Noctua doesn’t feel right, take a look at the IS-67-XT or IS-55. Also, consider getting RAM with a CL30 rating if you can find it. Check the height before you buy though, there's a height spreadsheet you can find on the small form factor PC subreddit that can help you out!
I appreciate the RAM tip! I'll definitely have a look at those coolers. I initially went with the PNY because I thought it was a good deal, but I might look for alternatives like the Gigabyte Windforce SFF instead.
Thanks for the heads-up on the size! I checked and it looks like there's about 7mm clearance, but I could look for a smaller card if needed.