This compact ITX build represents a remarkable achievement in small-form factor gaming. Despite its diminutive size, it is impressively quiet, efficient in cooling, and the can tackle a wide range of games at high settings in 1080p, with capabilities extending to 1440p gaming as well. Its compactness makes it akin to a lunchbox, making it an intriguing option for those seeking a powerful yet space-efficient gaming setup. Let’s delve into the components, assemble this system, and then evaluate its thermal performance and gaming prowess.

CPU: Ryzen 5 5600X

The chosen CPU for this build is the Ryzen 5 5600X, a strong contender within its price range. Despite being on a platform considered technically outdated, this CPU remains robust for gaming purposes and offers a viable upgrade path up to the 5800X3D if needed. Opting for the AM4 platform also presents cost advantages compared to the newer AM5 platform. Its efficient cooling capability is noteworthy, especially crucial for the compact case in use, which accommodates only lower-profile CPU coolers. Priced at approximately $150, the Ryzen 5 5600X features 6 cores, 12 threads, and a boost clock up to 4.6GHz.

Motherboard: Gigabyte A520I-AC

The chosen motherboard is the Gigabyte A520I-AC, selected for its range of USB ports, Wi-Fi capabilities, and the convenience of a q-flash button for BIOS updates, particularly useful for ensuring compatibility with Ryzen 5000 series processors. While ITX motherboards typically command a higher price compared to full-sized ATX boards, this model was secured for around $110. However, it’s worth noting that this board lacks a USB-C header, meaning the USB-C port on the case won’t be utilized. Nonetheless, given the lower price point, this compromise is acceptable.

Storage:  Crucials P3 Plus

Next, the SSD installation takes place. To maintain a budget under $900 and allocate more funds towards other components, I’ve opted for a 500GB Crucial P3 Plus SSD. While this capacity is sufficient for several games, upgrading to 1TB or more is an option for those requiring additional storage. This particular SSD was acquired from Amazon for $30.

RAM: Corsair Vengance LPX DDR4-3200

Now, let’s proceed with the RAM installation. In this build, I’ve selected 16GB of Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4-3200 memory. These low-profile sticks are necessary to accommodate our low-profile CPU cooler. Priced at only $40, they are an ideal fit for this build.

CPU Cooler: ID-COOLING IS-55

The cooler for this build will be the ID-COOLING IS-55. Known for their quiet operation and low profile, these coolers excel at maintaining optimal temperatures despite their compact size. With a total clearance of 57mm, including the 120mm fan on top of the fin stack, it comfortably fits within the 60mm maximum CPU cooler height supported by the case. This can be purchased from Amazon for $40.

Case: S300

The S300 is available on Amazon, priced at $90. It’s compact, measuring just 8.1 liters, and features a convenient leather handle on top. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a portable PC solution, whether for taking it to a friend’s place or LAN parties. While it may not be the most high-end case I’ve used, it boasts a solid build quality and a lightweight design, making it a practical and reliable option.

Power Supply: Corsair SF750 80 Plus Platinum

For the power supply, I’ve opted for the Corsair SF750 80 Plus Platinum model. While you could go for a less expensive option, small form factor power supplies tend to come at a premium, with this one costing around $160 (I got it on sale for $100). Some might consider this level of power overkill for this build, but there are several reasons I chose it. Firstly, I prefer not to compromise on power supplies as they can affect other components if they fail. Secondly, this model is exceptionally quiet and efficient, which helps maintain low noise levels. Lastly, it comes with high-quality braided cables that are flexible and easy to manage in a compact case. The 750 watts of power also provides ample headroom for potential future upgrades, particularly if you plan to install a more powerful GPU down the line.

GPU: RX 6650 XT

For the GPU, I’ve selected the RX 6650 XT. It’s a solid choice for high frame rate gaming at 1080p and offers better performance than the RTX 3060 at a lower cost. While this card is optimized for 1080p gaming, it’s fully capable of handling games at 1440p with some adjustments in settings.

If you’re willing to invest a bit more, consider upgrading to the RX 6700. It offers slightly better performance, a larger memory bus, and comes with 10GB of VRAM compared to the 8GB on the 6650 XT. The extra 2GB of VRAM can be beneficial, especially with newer games that tend to utilize more VRAM, particularly if you plan to game at 1440p.

The case can accommodate a 2.5-slot GPU up to 305mm in length, while the RX 6650 XT I’m using here measures about 274mm, leaving some extra room for a larger GPU if desired.

This build is impressively compact and secure, with the S300 case offering surprising portability thanks to its sturdy handle. Despite its small size, it feels secure and manageable, making it ideal for LAN parties or as a space-efficient desktop or console replacement.

Performance Review

In terms of performance, pairing this build with a high refresh rate 1080p monitor yields excellent results, easily achieving high frame rates in games at ultra settings. While 1440p gaming is feasible, you may need to adjust settings in some titles for optimal performance.

Testing games like Hogwarts Legacy in 1080p at high settings showcases impressive frame rates, well over 100 fps, which is remarkable considering the game’s demands. Even in more demanding areas, the frame rates remain solid around 70-80 fps.

Moving to Cyberpunk, rasterization performance maintains a solid 60-70 fps at 1080p without FSR, dropping slightly in 1440p but easily remedied with FSR set to performance mode for smoother gameplay.

For multiplayer games like Apex Legends, the build excels at 1080p with high settings, consistently hitting well over 100 fps, making it more than capable for competitive gaming.

Temperature management is excellent, with the GPU peaking at 76 degrees Celsius and the CPU comfortably sitting around 65 degrees during gaming sessions. The low-profile cooler performs admirably, keeping temperatures well within acceptable limits.

Synthetic benchmarks further confirm the system’s stability, with CPU temps maxing at 68 degrees in stress tests and GPU temps averaging around 75 degrees after prolonged benchmarking sessions.

Considering the overall performance and component choices, the total cost of around $880 is reasonable. However, opting for a more affordable power supply could bring the cost down to $850 without compromising performance significantly.

Potential improvements could include adding a case fan to further reduce GPU temperatures and considering an upgrade to the RX 6700 for a slight performance boost and the added benefit of extra VRAM, especially for 1440p gaming. Overall, this build offers impressive performance in a compact and portable package.

Step-by-Step Assembly Guide

1. Lower the CPU into the socket, ensuring the arrow on the top right aligns with the socket arrow. Once it’s in place, lower the latch to secure it.

2. Install the Crucials P3 Plus SSD.

3. Install the RAM

Align the pins on the RAM with that of the motherboard and press down until it clicks.

4. Remove the pre-installed mounts from the motherboard by unscrewing the 4 screws and removing them.

5. Leave the existing backplate in place as the cooler uses it. Attach the 2 brackets for AM4 socket CPUs by screwing them into place.

6.  Apply thermal paste in a pea-sized amount in the center of the CPU.

7. Lower the CPU cooler onto the brackets. Use the long screwdriver provided to screw the cooler into place through the fins. Alternate sides every 2 to 3 rotations to ensure even pressure until fully tightened.

8. Wrap the CPU fan cable around and plug it into the CPU fan header.

9. Prepare the Case

Remove the side panels. Install the IO shield from the motherboard by aligning and pushing it into place until fully seated. Unscrew and remove the PSU bracket to make the case more accessible.

10. Install the Motherboard

Feed the PCIe gen 3 riser cable through the middle of the case. Align the motherboard with the 4 standoffs and secure it using the screws included with the case.

11. Plug the riser cable into the PCIe slot.

12. Connect Case Cables and PSU

Plug in the front panel connectors and USB 3.0 cable on the left side of the motherboard. Connect the 24-pin motherboard cable on the left and the 8-pin CPU connector at the bottom right.

13. Route the cables across the bottom and up the left side to the PSU location.

14. Install the Power Supply

Slide the power supply bracket onto the unit and secure it with 6 screws. Plug in the routed cables and re-secure the bracket into the case.

15. GPU Installation

Plug in another 8-pin connector for the GPU and feed it through the middle of the case. Secure the PCIe riser with 2 screws and remove the piece above the slot covers.

16. Connect the power cable to the GPU, unlatch the PCIe riser slot, lower the GPU into the case, align it with the PCIe slot, and gently push until it locks.

17. Secure the GPU, resecure the panels, and ensure everything is properly connected and tightened.

18. Perform cable management to tidy up the interior. Verify all connections and components are secure and properly installed.

  The build is complete!