I'm looking to downsize soon to an mITX build and I'm looking for something around £30-50. I would like to reuse as much of my current system as possible and just replace the CPU, MB, case and maybe the CPU cooler. MSI 280x 3GB (269x128x34 mm) 1 x 2.5" SSD + 2 x 3.5" HDD if possible my current PSU Corsair RM650 (150x86x60 mm) Looking around it seems that the length of my PSU may be an issue, in particular as it is modular. I want something small enough to take on a plan in my carry on so it doesn't need to be as small or expensive as an NCase M1. If I need to change my PSU, what would I be looking at in terms of cost to replace it on here with something comparable. I'm really trying to downsize without spending too much, hoping to recover most of the cost through selling the parts I will replace. I'm looking to upgrade to a z97 mITX with i5-4670/90k. I may wait until something new comes out and people start selling to upgrade as I don't see many of these CPU+MB sets on here recently. Fractal Design Node 304 looks interesting and I like that the PSU doesn't hang out the back like some of the CM designs. I also like the look of the Antec ISK 600. The Corsair 250D looks OK. For reference, I like the looks of these two cases:
Well I was going to tell you about the CM 110 and the 120 (both of which I own) but you don't like the psu hanging out the back, personally I don't see why people have an issue with it but each to their own . I ordered an Antec ISK600 to replace the CM120 but ended up cancelling it due it having no ventilation holes in the side panel suitable for a dual fan gpu cooler like I was going to install but I really did like the look of it. I settled in the end for a TT core V1 and once I'd gotten the front panel 200mm fan to slow down and thus quieten have fallen in love with it, I can't hear it at idle and the fan noise barely alters while under load. Size wise I'd say it's somewhere between the 110 and the 120.
Corsair 250D would fit the bill perfectly. Plenty of room for PSU, cable routing and high end components. Slightly over buget (unless it has dropped in price since I got mine) but does everything you need.
The front panel has a built in filter and the psu has a removable filter. No room for a Blu-ray though, would have to be external I'm afraid.
Which really it should be seeing as it's £33.50 dearer than the others (£18.50 more than the Fractal Design Node 304) although the OP did mention it but it's also £23.50 over budget.
I'm a grad student and I'm getting married in a few months, so I will be buying the MB and CPU second hand. If I can the case as well. Given the length of my PSU and GPU it seems that I only have a few choices. Corsair 250D X Silverstone sugo sg05/08/13 (can't fit PSU or GPU) Thermaltake core V1 Coolermaster 110/120/130 X Phanteks Enthoo EVOLV mini (too big). It seems that the TT core V1 offer the best value.
EVGA Hadron Air is twice your budget but does come with a solid 500w PSU, easily enough for a good CPU and top GPU, so you may be able to sell your old psu and come in at your original budget. It's almost half the size of the 250D, which is also a solid choice if size isn't the overriding concern.
I've checked online prices and I can pick up a Thermaltake core V1 for £23 the next time I'm in China if I don't find a good deal on something in this forum first.
