I'm planning a compact PC build, aiming for something that can handle heavy FPS gaming for the next five years, especially games like Warzone, Battlefield 6, Elden Ring, and the new GTA. I want to keep the build ultra-compact, similar to the ones featured on the Optimum YouTube channel with the NCASE M2 case. My budget is around $3,000. I already have a Samsung SSD for storage and might pull a 2TB hard drive from my current setup. I want the best performance within my budget while keeping temperatures and noise levels in check. Here are my main questions:
1. What's the best GPU/CPU combination for this budget in a compact case? I was considering a 5080, but I'm wondering if the 4070 Super might be a better option.
2. What's the best cooling solution to use in this tight build—an AIO cooler or air cooling?
3. Are there any must-have recommendations or things to avoid when building a high-end small form factor PC?
4 Answers
Honestly, you don't need to spend all $3K on that build. A solid 240mm AIO cooler will keep things quiet and cool—definitely worth it in a small case since airflow is limited. For storage, grab at least a 2TB NVMe drive, and if your motherboard can handle two, even better! I suggest a high-end CPU, like the 9800X3D. The 5080 is nice, but you're only getting a 10% performance boost over a 5070 Ti or a 9070 XT for a hefty price difference—maybe save that cash for a better power supply or case instead!
I’ve read that the 5070 Ti performs nearly the same as the 5080 but at a lower cost. Might want to consider that too!
Just a tip: if you're looking at the GPU, the 5080 is around $1500 which is half your budget! Consider saving on that for other components. You can get a solid air cooler that requires less maintenance in the long run instead of an AIO if you're worried about upkeep.
Check this list out for a refreshed build: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/Tng9mC. I kept the 9800X3D. I switched to a large air cooler for less maintenance, picked a different motherboard, and used faster RAM. I also opted for a 5070 Ti; its performance is pretty similar to the 5080, but you'll save a lot. Invest that savings into an OLED monitor for an awesome gaming experience!
Glad I could help! For the cooler—double-check the M2 case dimensions; it should be okay, but better to be certain. I chose that mobo because it's reliable and fits your needs. The 5070 Super is still in the rumor phase, so I’d say go for the Ti if you need it now. For OLEDs, I’ve heard great things about the LG models!
Thanks for the adjustments! Keeping the 9800X3D and looking into that better cooling sounds smart. Quick questions though:
* Will that air cooler fit in the M2 case?
* Why did you pick that motherboard over an ITX X670E/B650E?
* Any news about the 5070 Super—should I wait or go for the 5070 Ti?
* Also, any OLED recommendations?
That's a good point about the 5080 being pricey. You might want to reallocate some funds to a quality power supply or a sturdy case instead. I personally prefer military-grade cases without glass panels—that’s just my style!
Very helpful, thanks! I actually set it all up in my PCPartPicker and it did come out to around 3K. Why do you think it could be less?