Mini ITX Gaming Project

Introduction

From ATX to Micro ATX and today I was able to build a new gaming rig based on Mini ITX. At first I was doubting about this project since I could not believe that Mini ITX is usefull when we talk about gaming. Worth to find out? Lets get to it then….

Hardware

I tried to investigate what the best solution is and basically there is no best solution. The tip here is to look and search on google what others say, what their experiences are and not to forget you want te get the best out of it. The only problem I had was to find the right cooler on the CPU. Because of the space and all I was not sure what to choose. Always investigate the dimensions of the cooler you would like to use, this can fit or not and it just depends on all other hardware you choose. Anyways maybe I do take it too serious but I am sure some will get in trouble and have to go back to the shop to exchange.

CPU: Intel 7700K
COOLER:
MEMORY: Crucial 2x8GB 2400Mhz
SSD: Liteon 120GB
MAINBOARD: MSI 250BM PRO GAMING
CASE: Antec “The Cube”
PSU: Antec NeoECO 650W
VIDEO: MSI 1050 ti 4GB

Installing hardware

In the beginning I was a bit sceptic about installing this gaming rig. I was not sure if this was going to be a hard installation due to the fact everything is way smaller then I was used to do with normal ATX. Actually the Antec case gave me the chance for a good overview and an easy handling for installing the components. The cable management is one big plus. Not to forget that the side panels are using a screwless solution, meaning you can easy remove the side panels in just a click.

The hardest part was installing the cooler and memory, it basically just fits and is really tidy, lucky enough I choose the right memory. If the memory was 1mm higher it would not fit at all.

The Antec “The Cube” case

Now I believe the case you choose is very important. It basically will cool your hardware and since your hardware is your most valuable asset you agree with me that the case is important too. Now besides cooling it is also needed to make sure that your cable management and airflow fits all together. And the “The Cube” case offers you all this. Not only that it is extremely easy to build your PC with this case.

The sidepanels are very easy to de-attach from the chassis, so no screws needed at all. Imagine you are able to install new hardware in a couple of minutes. I personaly hate the screws to hold side panels…. at least not my favorite :).

The side and top high densed windows are very cool because you will be able to have a little see through, LEDs will make look the internal hardware very nice.

Benchmarking

And then….. lets head over to some benchmarking.

Conclusion

In overall I had really fun to build this together. No real problems here and the result is FANTASTIC! A mini ITX gaming PC is possible with the right setup it will be just fine!