Hi all, was looking at some small form factor PC as a server and to run some simulation software.
Budget is around $300-$400 but would be great if i can get it under.
Are my options only Dell Optiplex? If so, what gen should I be after?
I do want one with a minimum of 16gb ram.
Would it be better to build my own (AMD)?
Also I am unsure, but can the SFF Optiplex fit a 2.5 inch SSD and 3.5 inch SSD HDD (I have some leftover from my old PC build)?
What bullshit should I look out for on scum tree and evilbay :(
https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/666018
and unrealistic prices, and people claiming to have stock who dont etc etc
Should have also asked when I meant other option other than dell optiplex (hp or lenovo ) or are dell optiplex the gold standard for refurbs on eBay / gumtree
they can be fickle with ram upgrades though :(1
I had no problems upgrading my old Optiplex from 4GB to 8GB of RAM, what problems did you encounter?
compatibility with different brands with same spec.. they would run 1 at a time, but put them together and computer says no…. :(
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and buying "genuine" frmo Dell is ridiculously expensive…
Same with my two Optiplexes. Based on other threads just added any old RAM. Got mine from Gumtree $20
Current gen low end AMD chips are non-existent on the market and even then they're over $200 for the CPU themselves (3300X or 3200G). Ryzen systems aren't generally used in offices still so you won't get bulk refurb/ex office ones. Might find a first gen ryzen but still likely outside your budget.
No such thing as a 3.5" SSD, do you mean 3.5" HDD? Either way if you get something like the Optiplex 7050 SFF it will hold both a 3.5" and 2.5" drive. Just make sure to read the specs for the specific one you buy, they do change. This would be the machine you'd be looking at in that price range, 7th gen SFF. 8th gen tend to go for a bit over $400.
Probably going to have to factor in buying more RAM after, unlikely to get one with 16GB already in it (or you'll overpay the ebay seller for it).
Yes sorry I meant 3.5” hdd
Gotcha on the ram
i5-3470 master race checking in. DDR3 can be had fairly cheap off eBay.
Lenovo Thinkcentres and various HPs are very similar to Dells. They all have the same limitations with proprietary motherboards and PSUs but if it breaks you just buy another for dirt cheap. Just make sure it's got four RAM slots.
You might need a power splitter cable for multiple SSDs but they are cheap.
you could possibly go up to an i5 - 6500 on your budget buying refurbished. You get some real small form factors too and fully licenced windows. maybe being dumped as I don't think windows 11 will support them.
You wont be building much for 300…
We have a stack of Opti's at work and they just keep going… they can be fickle with ram upgrades though :(1
Theres plenty of good spec used PCs on evilbay or scumtree if you can cut through all the bullshit