Need some advice or recommendations!

[ansemx324]

Hey,

This is my first time building a PC and I just wanted to make sure I didnt forget anything before I put any money down. I thought hearing a few suggestions would be great before buying anything either!

I am trying to build a low power HTPC that may serve as a secondary computer if needed. I didnt want an ATOM system because I wanted the ability to upgrade the CPU and the option of extra umph if needed later.

Let me know what you think of the choices, it is only around $440 together.

I may underclock the cpu for some lower power (and less heat). I was thinking mini itx because of its lower power and small form factor, thats why I didnt go micro ATX. I also was considering an Intel Build, those parts are listed below too if you think that build may be better!

Motherboard: $132
ASUS M4A88T-I Deluxe AM3 AMD 880G------ http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6813131659

Processor: $63
AMD Athlon II X2 250------ http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] -_-Product

RAM: $84
Crucial 4GB (2 x 2GB) 204-Pin DDR3 SO-DIMM DDR3 1066------ http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6820148191

Hard Drive: Bought it for $99!
WD Green 2TB WD20EARS (the new format with 512 sectors)----- http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] tb&x=0&y=0

Case: $60
Foxconn RS233 Black+Light Silver------ http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] nn%20RS233

I REALLY wanted to go with the Antec MI-008 because it was so small and compact, but everyone was saying you have to buy a TERRIBLY slim aftermarket CPU fan and that it just gets too hot. I dont want my system to burn so I was too concerned to get it.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] Tpk=mi-008 ($50)

Intel Build:

GIGABYTE GA-H55N-USB3 LGA 1156 Intel H55 HDMI USB 3.0 Mini ITX Intel Motherboard $112
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6813128448


Intel i3-530 (2.93GHz) $109 (Newegg sale)
WD Green 2TB WD20EARS $99

OCZ AMD Black Edition 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK $67 (with processor)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6820227496

Same two cases, except Id be even more worried about heat with the i3 since its 73 watts...

Thanks!

 

[Timop]

Id say go with the AMD build, the APEX case is actually the same size as the Foxconn, just that its taller while the Foxconn is wider.

How about this case: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811234020?

Finally heres a set of RAM thats $1 cheaper, but a dollar is a dollar.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820226019