Let’s build a gaming PC smaller than an Xbox Series X, capable of hiding behind your monitor, fitting into a backpack, and being used in various situations.

While we hopefully won’t need it for self-defense, there are still numerous benefits. This PC can be upgraded over the years, offers more freedom in usage, and takes advantage of those irresistible Steam sales.

Parts

Though this build will be more expensive than the Xbox Series X, which is hard to beat at $500, the exact cost will depend on the parts chosen. There is no budget for this build; rather, the aim is to maximize performance. 

CPU: Ryzen 7 7800X3D

This build will begin with the fastest gaming CPU available: the Ryzen 7 7800X3D.

This CPU might be overkill, but it’s an incredibly efficient chip. Most users would be fine with a Ryzen 7700, 7600, or even an Intel 14600 for higher resolutions. The 7800X3D has 8 cores, 16 threads, and a boost up to 5GHz, outperforming AMD’s more expensive 7950X3D in gaming.

Motherboard:  ASUS ROG Strix B650E

This build will use the ASUS ROG Strix B650E motherboard. It’s a personal favorite due to its well-rounded features and understated aesthetics. It has 8 USB ports, including 2 Type-C, built-in Wi-Fi 6E, and 2 M.2 slots. 

One slot is under the included heatsink at the front, and the other is hidden at the back. It is advisable to populate the back slot now, as it will be difficult later. 

SSD: 2TB 980 Pro Drive

This build will use a 2TB 980 Pro drive in the primary front slot, typically available for around $100 on Amazon.

RAM: 32GB DDR5-6000 CL36 Kit

For RAM, we’ll use a 32GB DDR5-6000 CL36 kit from Crucial’s Pro Series, which includes an EXPO memory profile for easy speed optimization in the BIOS. The low-profile, stealthy heatsinks are ideal for this build.

CPU Cooler: Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Copper Edition

Given the 47mm cooler clearance, we have limited options for maximizing space. I chose the Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Copper Edition for its superior thermal performance. While it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing, its pure copper heat pipes should provide the best cooling. I’ll replace the orange fan with a black one for a cleaner look.

Case: Velcase Velka 7

This build will use the Velka 7 from Velkase. It’s the largest of the Velka series and supports SFX power supplies and larger CPU coolers. This case is of premium quality, the front panel is made of a thick single sheet of rigid steel. The sides, considering the amount of hole-punching on them, are also quite rigid, with no apparent bend.

GPU: RTX 4070 Super Founders Edition

For the GPU, an RTX 4070 Super Founders Edition will be installed. Only 2-slot GPUs fit in this case, and Velkase has a compatibility list for reference. Despite the unconventional cooler layout, the Founders 4070 performs well, keeping temperatures under 70°C during gaming.

The system, pulling 200 watts, performs admirably in games like Horizon Forbidden West and Cyberpunk 2077 at 1440p, maintaining high frame rates and low temperatures. The 4070 Super is well-suited for a 1440p high refresh rate monitor and performs decently at 4K with DLSS and frame generation.

With everything connected and the case reassembled, the build is complete. The Velka 7’s build quality is impressive, offering extra CPU cooler clearance and robust protection for components during transport.

The Thermalright AXP90-X47 performs well, keeping the 7800X3D under 65°C during gaming and maxing out at 81°C during a 10-minute Cinebench stress test. System noise is minimal, making it a quiet and efficient build.

Power Supply: Corsair SF750

A benefit of the Velka 7 over the 3 and 5 is that we can use a standard SFX or SFX-L power supply. This makes it much easier to find a quality and quiet power supply. This build will use the SF750. This power supply is easily my favorite and is currently one of the best on the market.

I’ve paired this PC with a portable monitor attached via a magnetic mount, offering a flexible and ergonomic setup. This configuration is convenient and ensures no interference with components. A short USB-C to DisplayPort cable or Micro HDMI, along with a USB-C power cable, completes the setup.

While this isn’t the smallest 4070 build, opting for a smaller CPU cooler and a Flex ATX power supply could reduce the size further.

Step-by-Step Assembly Guide

1. Load the motherboard

• 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.
• Install the SSD and secure it by gently screwing it in.
• Align the pins on the RAM with that of the motherboard and press down until it clicks.

2. To install the cooler, swap out the Intel brackets with AMD ones, apply thermal paste, place the cooler over the CPU, and flip.

3. The standoffs should go right through the backplate, making it possible to secure it with the AM4 backplate and nuts.

4. Once the CPU fan is plugged in, the motherboard is ready for the case.

5. Remove the screws and open the case. Remove the 2 side brackets and the motherboard tray. 

6. Secure the motherboard to the tray and plug in the riser cable. 

7. On the other side, remove these 3 pre-installed brackets, put them aside, and route the riser cable at an angle to the mounting points. 

8. There are 2 positions to place the riser cable, but for this build, I chose to use the ones furthest from the edge to allow enough room for an internal display extension cable. Use the spacers with long screws to secure it down.

9. The piece that secured the riser cable can be shifted as needed. If you shift that and use these included standoffs it can create more room for display inputs if you need it.

10. Resecure all of the brackets. Position the bar piece over the riser cable, and then the GPU bracket. 

11. Install GPU into the riser cable and secure it.

12. Take the GPU and install it into the PCIe riser cable, then with the last angled piece that was removed earlier in the build, secure it with a few screws at the top, and secure it at the bottom with a single screw.

13. Plug in this internal display extension cable. It helps clean up the build. There are dedicated holes on the back of the case for up to 4 of them.

14. Install the 24-pin motherboard, CPU, and GPU power cables to the SF750 power supply. It slides right into the case with no problems. Secure it from the back.

15. Connect the power cables to the board and GPU. Then put our case back together.

16. Plug in the power button to the front panel connectors.

That’s the build complete!

Performance Review

The build process for the Velka 7 is not the simplest, requiring meticulous attention to track all the pieces and screws. However, the result is undeniably worthwhile. Few cases compare to the Velka in terms of design and functionality.

The build quality of the Velka 7 is exceptional. It provides ample protection for components during frequent transport and offers additional CPU cooler clearance. The ability to use a 47mm cooler expands CPU options for compact builds.

The Thermalright AXP90-X47 Full Copper Edition cooler performs impressively. Despite the power efficiency of the Ryzen 7800X3D, it maintains a comfortable 65°C in gaming, using the default fan profile from the ASUS Armory software. After a 10-minute multicore stress test in Cinebench, the maximum temperature reached is only 81°C, which is satisfactory for such a small cooler.

System noise is also minimal with the standard fan profile, measuring 42dB, which is hardly noticeable. Even at full speed, where the noise level increases to 45dB with a higher pitch due to turbulence, the cooler remains adequate without needing high fan speeds.

For such a compact build, the performance is quite impressive. I’ve been using it with a portable monitor attached via a magnetic mount. The back of the monitor features a threaded hole compatible with various camera and lighting equipment. I’m using a mount that came with one of my lights, which includes a rubber protector over the magnet, preventing scratches on the case.

The magnetic mount is surprisingly strong, and based on my research, there should be no risk of damaging internal components with an external magnet, provided common sense is used. Avoid blocking fans or placing the mount where it could interfere with other components. I position mine at the top corner for a comfortable, ergonomic height, resulting in a fantastic experience.

The monitor connects with a short USB-C to DisplayPort cable or Micro HDMI and can be powered with a short USB-C cable if the monitor’s battery is drained.

While this isn’t the smallest RTX 4070 build, opting for a smaller CPU cooler and a Flex ATX power supply could reduce the size further. For a more compact build, check out my Velka 5 video. Thank you for watching.