Small form factor Case VS large case

Hbbrig

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Feb 16, 2014
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Small form factor case vs regular-large case?

I am not sure which would be more beneficial. I was using this argument based around the Prodigy M case

http://www.pccasegear.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=24730

I am not worried about upgrading much as the most I will upgrade is maybe the graphics card which is why I got a mother boar and owner supply powerful enough to support future upgrades. I think it is small, but really elegant as it would suit my office more than a big black chunky gaming case.

What do you guys think? Could you guys recommend a build which would fit inside this case for around 1600$ I have a part list already but I am trying to look around at others.
 
Solution
That's a very nice looking case but that's not the reason to buy one. A mid tower is what I prefer as you can get ATX instead of micro-atx. Obviously heat dissipation and cool air flow is superior in a mid tower vs a micro or mini atx small form factor case. However, if that's what you really like then just get it. Just understand the disadvantages. Like you said, you're probably not going to upgrade much other than the gpu. So as long as you are 100% sure you won't want to go sli ever then it's really a no brainer. Get the case you like. However if you want upgradability you know what you'll be missing out on if you don't go for a larger case. I'm not a fan of full towers and those people could make the same arguments against me...

jnewegger23

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That's a very nice looking case but that's not the reason to buy one. A mid tower is what I prefer as you can get ATX instead of micro-atx. Obviously heat dissipation and cool air flow is superior in a mid tower vs a micro or mini atx small form factor case. However, if that's what you really like then just get it. Just understand the disadvantages. Like you said, you're probably not going to upgrade much other than the gpu. So as long as you are 100% sure you won't want to go sli ever then it's really a no brainer. Get the case you like. However if you want upgradability you know what you'll be missing out on if you don't go for a larger case. I'm not a fan of full towers and those people could make the same arguments against me on my preferences for mid-towers. That all said, I hope this still helped!

Here's a build to strive for along the lines of what you are looking for that's about $300 over budget:
http://pcpartpicker.com/p/2XeSp
I'll update with something in your budget later but wanted to give you something to shoot for.
And there's this which is only $43 over budet:
http://pcpartpicker.com/p/2XeWv
With the first pick I thought you'd like the Corsair Platinums more for looks but they are a pretty penny. Reliable but not the best bang for your buck. Hope this helps!

UPDATE:
http://pcpartpicker.com/parts/partlist/
This one has the Corsair H80i liquid cooler. If you can fit an h100i in there then I would recommend that for just $20 more. I have an H80i and it's awesome but the H100i the one to get if you can have it fit.

Thanks,

Justin S.
 
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Hbbrig

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Feb 16, 2014
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Now both those builds look absolutely amazing, would there be room for liquid cooling if I want to overclock? Tbh I might use your entire guide lmao it looks great. You think it can average over 60fps on ultra settings In game for the 1900$ build? Main reason I wanted a small form factor case is so I can take it where I go (mates LAN parties etc..) but I didn't want to sacrifice any power.
 

jnewegger23

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I just updated with a third that has the h80i liquid cooling system. I believe you can put an h100i in but do your homework to make sure on that; research prodigy m owner's clubs and what not; google images aren't enough as some guys mode their rigs and if you're not ready for that I'd hate to see you disappointing or messing up a gorgeous rig.
60fps should be easy with the 1900 rig for sure assuming full HD 1920x1080p! Glad to help! Have fun!