VIDEO My wife kicked me out so I built an ITX gaming PC!!

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My wife kicked me out so I built an ITX gaming PC!! In an engaging and relatable YouTube video titled "My wife kicked me out so I built an ITX gaming PC!!", the creator shares the journey of constructing a compact ITX gaming setup amidst household challenges. He explains the dilemma of sharing the living room with family members, which often led to his gaming activities being pushed to the sidelines. Seeking a solution, he decided to create a dedicated gaming space in his bedroom with a custom-built ITX gaming PC.

Building the ITX Setup​

The Components:

• Motherboard: He opted for the Gigabyte A520I AC, highlighting its affordability and suitability for moderate gaming without the need for overclocking.
• Processor: The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 was selected for its reliability and performance for the games he intended to play.
• Memory: He sourced 16GB of Thermaltake RAM from Facebook Marketplace, aiming to keep costs low.
• Storage: A 512GB m.2 SATA SSD was acquired at a bargain price, emphasizing that he aimed for a functional, budget-friendly setup.
• Power Supply: An EVGA 750W SFX power supply was chosen, which he deemed slightly overkill but affordable in its refurbished condition.
• Cooling: A Noctua NH-L9A cooler was utilized, selected for its low profile and aesthetic appeal.
• Graphics Card: A Zotac GTX 1070 mini was picked up for 80 dollars, suitable for 1080p gaming and fitting well within the compact case he intended to use.
• Case: The Fractal Node 202 was chosen for its slim design, merging aesthetic appeal with functionality.

Installation and Performance​

The creator details the build process, including the challenges of managing space and ensuring sufficient cooling within the cramped confines of an ITX case. He underscores the importance of airflow and thermals, sharing that the compact design did not compromise performance. Upon testing, the setup proved capable of handling popular games such as "Final Fantasy VII," "Red Dead Redemption," and "Shadow of the Tomb Raider," all running smoothly at 1080p with good frame rates.

Key Takeaways​

1. Cost of ITX Builds: The creator reflects on how ITX components typically cost more than their ATX counterparts, but the convenience of size and aesthetics are compelling reasons for choosing this form factor.
2. Real-World Gaming: He highlights the ability of the ITX setup to meet his gaming needs without breaking the bank, even if it took some effort to piece together the build through various marketplaces.
3. Future Enhancements: While pleased with the outcome, he acknowledges plans for potential upgrades, particularly for the dedicated gaming rig, gearing it towards more demanding titles in the future. This video resonates with many enthusiasts who face similar situations in balancing gaming with family life and speaks volumes about the DIY spirit in the PC building community.
   

   Join the Discussion!​

   What are your thoughts on ITX builds? Have you faced similar challenges while looking to create your own gaming space? Share your experiences or suggest any tweaks and upgrades that could improve a compact build!