Micro ATX questions

[klocwork]

Hi all,

I was planning on my first build as an i5-2400 in a Fractal Design Define R3 case. However, I have discovered that the case will not fit in the space I have available. Now I need some advice on how to proceed.

I was thinking of switching cases to the Define mini (as I like the looks and soundproofing), which would just barely fit. Any suggestions on other cases that are slightly smaller?

If I do go with the Define mini, I would need a micro-ATX motherboard. I was hoping to start with one 6850, with the option of crossfire in the future (not sure if I will do this, but for $20-30 it seems worth it to keep the option open).

The only x16, x8 boards I can find are quite pricey…
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813188081

…or don’t leave room for a second dual slot video card.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128495

I have found the following at x8 x8. How would one 6850 in that compare to one card at x16? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813130612

Thanks for any advice you can provide.

 

[boiler1990]

There aren't many differences between x16/x8 and x8/x8. I'm on my phone so I can't find the chart with the performance comparisons, but it's not a truly significant difference. Since mATX boards are generally cheaper than ATX boards, could you go up to the 6870? That'd make a big difference as well.

 

[klocwork]

Thanks boiler.

From some articles I found on Tom's it looks like a single x8 may be 7-8% slower than a single x16.

I guess I could scrap the plans for crossfire. A 6870 would fit in the case if I remove one hard drive cage. However, I was a little worried about a bigger (and presumably hotter) card in a smaller case with less air.

 

[boiler1990]

Here's a chart I found on HardOCP. There are some charts around Tom's I believe, but all of them will show you that there isn't a very significant difference in performance. Dual card set ups are completely worth it.

http://www.hardocp.com/article/2010/08/23/gtx_480_sli_pcie_bandwidth_perf_x16x16_vs_x8x8/1