Lots of really cool builds in this thread. Appreciate everyone sharing their work.
Just finished building my new system last weekend. Nothing too special, but it's my first complete build, getting back into PC's after 8 years of console gaming, so I'm very proud.
😀
Built it to be a fast and capable gaming machine for years to come, all for under $1000 CDN (including OS). I think I did pretty good in terms of performance per dollar. I'm never going to overclock, hence the decision to save some money by not going with the 4670k and Z87 motherboard.
😉
CPU - Intel Core I5-4570 (Haswell)
CPU Cooler - Stock Intel
Motherboard - Gigabyte H87N Wifi mini-ITX
RAM - Kingston Hyper X Black 8GB (2 x 4) 1600
GPU - Gigabyte Windforce HD7950 3GB DDR5
Storage - Samsung 840 120GB SSD (Will be adding more very soon)
PSU - Cooler Master GX RS650W 80+ Bronze non-modular
Case - Fractal Design Node 304 (Black)
OS - Windows 8
The cabling looks a little messy, but I assure you, there is order in that chaos.
😉 Air is free to flow right through the case and all cables are well-clear of any fan blades. Besides, I don't really care what it looks like on the inside as long as it performs, which it certainly does!
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If any one is wondering... this case has great airflow and even with the stock CPU cooler, core temps sit around 30*C +/- at idle and hover around 45*C while gaming. Same goes for the Windforce HD7950 GPU. Best of all; I love the fact that this is just as fast as my friend's $1400+ full tower ATX monster gaming PC but only 1/4 the size! hehe.
😀