Mini ITX Case Recommendation, My First Mini ITX Build

zealmax on 08/04/2016 - 09:12

I am building a low powered machine using Asrock QC5000-ITX/PH mobo with integrated A4-5000 CPU. Sole purpose of the computer will be to store photos and sync them to Google photos, or other online backup service.

I need 2xHDD + 1xSDD to be able to fit into the case, but would prefer 3xHDD + 1xSDD. I have been looking at Coolermaster Elite 110 and Bitfenix Prodigy. I really like the looks of the the Prodigy, but it seems very big.

Any recommendations on a case for my low powered machine? The CPU is passive cooling, so maybe the larger Prodigy or a very well ventilated case would be the go.

Computing

Comments

plmko on 08/04/2016 - 09:29

The Bitfenix prodigy only looks big because it has those handles. So if that looks big to you then get the Bitfenix Phenom. It's exactly the same layout and internal size minus the handles and DVD drive bay.
- zealmax on 08/04/2016 - 09:37
  
  That looks good. I am a little torn between building a tiny machine vs building a functional machine.
- airzone on 08/04/2016 - 11:53
  
  I built a mini-itx machine with gpu and cpu watercooling inside a prodigy. The black one has much better ventilation than the coloured ones due to the front mesh panel. But a very nice case.
Colombian on 08/04/2016 - 10:55

Streacom is the way to go.
- zealmax on 08/04/2016 - 11:15
  
  Can you recommend any particular model? Where to buy? I had a hard time when looking for mini ITX mobo and cases. It seems they are not as popular as they were couple of years ago.
  - Colombian on 08/04/2016 - 11:28
    
    Mine is the old model of this one without the cd-drive hole.
    
    https://www.lifefx.com.au/Showcase/Streacom-Cases/Streacom-F…
    
    It looks the same, it should have some improvements though. This is the HTPC for home.
    
    There are lots of models for you to choose. They are also expensive.
    
    This one https://www.lifefx.com.au/Showcase/Streacom-Cases/Streacom-F… is very similar to an Apple TV.
    - zealmax on 08/04/2016 - 11:31
      
      That looks cool and expensive. I need something almost as cool and more functional that takes 3.5" HDD.
    - Colombian on 08/04/2016 - 11:54
      
      @zealmax: The FC8 Alpha supports 2x3.5" HDD plus 1x2.5 HDD.
      
      http://www.streacom.com/wp-content/uploads/f7c8_drive_tray_0…
      
      http://www.streacom.com/products/fc8-alpha-fanless-chassis/
futaris on 08/04/2016 - 12:16

Silverstone Sugo SG13 or Fractal Design Core 500
- zealmax on 08/04/2016 - 14:18
  
  I looked at the SG13. It is really compact. Unfortunately I dont think it can fit 3 drives.
  - futaris on 08/04/2016 - 15:55
    
    You can fit 3 2.5" drives easily enough. 4 would be fine if you use double sided tape somewhere.
klaw81 on 09/04/2016 - 13:03

Prodigy is way too big. Coolermaster Elite 110 or 130 would be perfect for your needs.
- zealmax on 09/04/2016 - 23:28
  
  I had a look at the Prodigy today, and it is huge. Maybe good for a NAS case. To me it doesn't make sense to build a mini ITX using this case. Why not just grab a mATX board and a nice mATX case for cheaper.

Mini ITX Case Recommendation, My First Mini ITX Build

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