What CPU and Motherboard for ITX build?

pumaz · 16 Mar 2011 at 21:04

I'm in the process of building a Mini-ITX HTPC and Gaming @ 1360x768 Rig.

I plan to buy a Sugo SG05 Case as this seems to look and offer the best for my needs.

Parts I've got so far:-

4GB Corsair XMS3 1600C9 DDR3
Corsair H50-1 Cpu Cooler
ATI 5770 Video Card
Corsair Force 60GB SSD (Boot Drive)
2TB Samsung HD (Media and Games)

I'm considering buying a i3 540 and a Gigabyte H55N-USB3. These will cost me around £160.

For up to £200 is there a better CPU + Mobo than the one above?

Any critique on my proposed build welcome as this is my first ITX!

Thanks

pumaz · 16 Mar 2011 at 23:01

Think I'll see how i get on with the 5770 first, I''l be gaming on the lounge TV at 1360x768 or maybe just 720p (1280x720). Will be mostly racing games like Trackmania, Grid, F1 and Dirt2.

Just wanted to make sure i got the best motherboard and cpu i can get for ITX with my budget. Would AMD be an option?

pumaz · 18 Mar 2011 at 21:53

I decided to go for the i3 540 and a Gigabyte H55N-USB3 as it's a proven combination, I also ordered a Sugo SG05-450 and should be able to start my build Monday

pumaz · 19 Mar 2011 at 23:30

I have bought a slim optical drive but may not use it, what's more of a concern at this point is fitting a 3.5" HD as well as a 2.5" SSD. I've trawled the web looking for examples of a H50 + 3.5" HD in an SG05 but not found any info as everyone sticks to 2.5" drives which are not big enough for my needs.

I would like a 460 eventually but i'm always amazed at how well my sons 5770 + Q6600 copes with games like Dirt 2 and Black Opps @ 1680x1050 and i'll only be gaming on my ITX @ 1360x768 Max So i would expect it to be decent