1440 Gaming Spec - suggestions?

[DangerMouse1981]

Hi folks,

Looking to build a Mini ITX gaming rig after not building a desktop for quite some time! Last PC was a Intel Q6600 so we're talking a long time ago.

Looking to get back in to PC gaming - tend to go for FPS titles. Recently picked up a LG 27GL850 which is awesome and would like to be able to get the most out of it. Don't plan to go to 4k any time soon.

Processor wise, currently looking at the i5 10600k or one of the new AMD processors at similar price point (I guess this would be 5600?) - thoughts?

GPU selection is proving a little more tricky - suggestions appreciated.

Cheers,

Steve

 

[DangerMouse1981]

Not sure the budget will stretch to a 3080 and as you say there are major availability issues with the 3000 series - not sure I have the patience with the drama!

Normally I'd put a budget in of around 1k but was planning on going pretty small with the Dan Case A4 (https://www.overclockers.co.uk/dan-cases-a4-sfx-v4.1-mini-itx-gaming-case-black-ca-006-da.html) so I know that I'll end up with a bit of a premium on case price, PSU, mobo etc. The price of going mini-ITX I guess.

So back to budget; its more about getting good bang for buck and decent performance for me. Not aiming for the latest and greatest on anything, and probably won't be upgrading regularly. Hopefully 1.2-1.5k should cover it.

Will the 5600x be more thermally efficient than the i5? Planning on sticking with air cooling if possible, no plans to overclock.

Steve

 

[DangerMouse1981]

Thanks Micky - similar to what I mapped out.

Really want to the 3080 (doesn't everyone? ) - is it needed for 1440p gaming?

Inspiration for this build came from this - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AENfa_nNvuI

Wondering if the AMD 5600x will be the better processor option when its available? Haven't been Team Red since Athlon days and wouldn't mind switching away from Intel.

You would have to get the Nvidia RTX 3080 Founders Edition if you wanted to use the Dan A4 as it only takes 2 slot graphics cards.

Good shout. Plus I'm not sure if the cooling on the FE is good when mounted vertically in a small case.

Steve

 

[DangerMouse1981]

Awesome, thanks. Didnt realise that a bundle existed.

The Alpenföhn Alpenfohn Black Ridge Low Profile CPU Cooler - 120mm was already in the basket

Agree - indications are that it makes sense to go with the AMD option if possible.

Steve

 

[DangerMouse1981]

I'm a big fan ( no pun intended ) of Alpenföhn they make quality components at good prices.

Remember to Check the thermal cooling of the cpu you choose.

The m2 drive i sugedted was £90 yesterday so keep an eye out.

Thanks Mick - that does sound like a great price on that.

i'm still on 1080ti and it plays everything i throw at it in 1440p .. but.... i also ordered a 1440p 165hz Dell .. so I am looking for a cheap used 2080ti or 3080 ...
If you want to take full advantage of your new monitor you need at least 100+ frames per second

Makes sense. The whole debacle over the new 3000 series cards is really putting me off even thinking of getting one!

The EVGA XC3 should also fit, I have a Dan case and it will take a 2.2 slot card

Thanks Martin - what do you use in your Dan case? How are the thermals?