Basic [parts] build for work (web+office+videos), $270 budget

[davesp]

Hi,

I want to build a PC for just very basic needs (internet, working with documents, and watching videos here and there). I do want it to be fast so I'm looking for something with an SSD. Beside that I'm only interested in buying the critical parts: CPU, motherboard, RAM, HSF, PSU, ODD (not critical), and the case. I will also be buying an OS (Win10). I don't need peripherals (monitor/keyboard/mouse/printer), wifi, and other cards beside the motherboard ones (GPU, sound, ethernet). I'm planning to use it with my TV screen (HDMI).

I'm having trouble deciding which of the critical parts are good enough for my needs. Can anyone please advise?

My budget is $270.

Thanks!

Edit: I forgot to mention I'm looking for something small (less than 25cm tall). So I'm guessing I need a Mini ATX.

 

[FD2Raptor]

Unfortunately, I believe I'll have to be the bearer of bad news, that budget is not workable with new parts and your requirement list.

A half way decent build w/o Windows, monitor, peripherals, ODD, dedicated gpu or a decent SSD would still cost ~$320 (and that's with more pedestrian mATX 336mm tall case; the smaller ITX build would be even more expensive as they are a specialized market with lower sale volume) after rebate. The mATX MB is already ~24cm long, unless the case is, again, an exotic design which, again, drive up its price, you're not going to see 25cm tall mATX case for cheap.

At that budget, your best bet is to scrounge the second hand PC market...