[Dimension]

I'm in the process of putting together what I want for my next system. I'm not a heavy gamer or anything but do play now and then. Heres what I have on my to buy list:

Processor: E8400
Motherboard: ASUS P5Q
RAM: Crucial Ballistix DDR2-6400(800) 4GB(2x2)
GFX: Nvidia EN9600GT ASUS 512MB GDDR3
HDD: WD Caviar Blue 500GB
CD-ROM: LG GH22NS50
PSU: Corsair VX-450W

For the case, I was looking at the Cooler Master 690. From some of the review I've read it looks pretty good. Just wondering if it would be too much of an overkill for my specs? I do like the idea of the screwless setup and cable management.

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i can give u two options:
the antec illusion 300/ or antec 300
NZXT Guardian 921 (tho this might be overkill 2)
but last but not least:
NZXT Beta Series CS-NT-BETA-B (has cable management)

[bluegang6]

i can give u two options:
the antec illusion 300/ or antec 300
NZXT Guardian 921 (tho this might be overkill 2)
but last but not least:
NZXT Beta Series CS-NT-BETA-B (has cable management)

[Dimension]

I don't really need a pc case with a side windows. I would like to have a case that doesn't require screws which is what made me think about the 690. Well, that and its good looks. I really don't know what to do... :S

[Neil Jones]

I don't really need a pc case with a side windows. I would like to have a case that doesn't require screws which is what made me think about the 690. Well, that and its good looks. I really don't know what to do... :S

Which case you buy is up to you.
Screwless designs have a tendency to end up in such a state after a while of fiddling around that you end up having to use screws. Plus they tend to be of flimsy design, though since I only buy cheap cases I would hope the more expensive cases are better in this regard.

[Dimension]

And do you think my proposed specs are adequate?

Also, how quiet is the CM 690?

Edited by Dimension, 11 September 2009 - 04:58 PM.

[edge2022]

The CM 690 is a very good case for your needs and should run quietly.
The Antec 300 or 300 Illusion (If you want some lights) are also good cases.
This case is also good: http://www.newegg.co...6-025-_-Product

[Dimension]

Think I'll get that then. Thanks for the help.

[edge2022]

All right... let us know how your build comes out!

[Dimension]

just had a look at the dimensions... looks to be bigger than i first thought. better than the case i have now anyway.

a little off topic here but do you think the 450w psu is enough for my build? just want to doublecheck

[edge2022]

It should be more than enough... the Corsair PSUs are built very well.
This is a great PSU as well: http://www.newegg.co...1-016-_-Product
Get it NOW... 10% off promo.

[mighttuss]

Yeh I go with the Cooler master 690 as well.

[Dimension]

i might bite the bullet and get the 690 then, despite its size.

my last question, what do you think of my choice of graphics card for the build? Nvidia EN9600GT ASUS 512MB GDDR3

Should i go with that or can you recommend something better? i was going to go with ASUS because they are a good brand...

[edge2022]

The 9600Gt should be able to do some mild gaming for a good price.
You might also want to consider an ATI 4850 or 4870: http://www.newegg.co...amp;Order=PRICE
They have really good gaming capabilities for the price. The ATI 4800 series gets hot so look for a card with a good heatsink.

I also suggest the OCZ PSU I mentioned earlier, since it will have 2 PCI-E connectors if you want to get a 4870.

[Dimension]

I don't want to spend too much on a graphics card because I won't be gaming all the time. If the 9600 can play the latest games then thats fine with me.

Also that PSU is a bit too expensive for me, thats why I went with the Corsair. I also thought the best way to decide on a case is to go and look at them. I have also been looking at the Antec 300 and will go and see them both to compare.

[edge2022]

Also that PSU is a bit too expensive for me, thats why I went with the Corsair

It's only $45 with the rebates and discount... it doesn't matter really b/c the Corsair PSU is great too.

I also thought the best way to decide on a case is to go and look at them.

It's helpful to have a look at cases before you buy... make sure you get a solid case with standard front panel connectors and plenty of room and ventilation. The 9600 should do if you are a casual gamer.