Yarasmodai
Description
This was my first build ever. :)
WHAT DO I USE IT FOR? I'm a game developer, but I mostly work on 2D games. I'll also do some video editing, and, of course, play games on it.
PRIORITY #1 : Portability I was looking for a case that was compact and portable, as I tend to travel a lot. I was juggling between the Node 202 and the SG13B. In the end I leaned towards the C-10, as it allowed for a bit more space inside (without it being too big in the outside), hoping that it'll make it easier to install things.
PRIORITY #2 : Expandability My plan was to start with pretty basic components, see how it performs, but still allow flexibility for upgrades in the future. My first instinct was to get a Ryzen 5 2600X and a GTX 1060, but I'm still not sure I'd need that much power (considering it'd up my costs by a whopping 300 euros - that's almost a 50% price increase). So, at 99 euros, the R3 2200G is a steal. It includes a powerful Vega 8 integrated graphics and covers most of my needs for the time being.
RESULT Computer runs super smooth. Every game I've tried plays very well. I'm not the sort of gamer who plays 4K first person shooters at 60fps. I play quite a variety of games (strategy, fps, indie, etc.), and so far it delivers.
Part Reviews
CPU
99 bucks for a powerful processor that includes an equally powerful integrated gpu. I got greedy at first and thought I needed a super powerful CPU and GPU(total of ~400 bucks). But when it comes down to it, if you're not going be doing any crazy gaming or crazy usage in general, this is an amazing option. I also juggled the 2400G, but for an extra 50-60 bucks I didn't quite see a clear 50% increase in benefits. Besides, I'm planning to upgrade in a couple of years, so the less I spend now, the better. Also, easy to install, as it already comes with a cooler and the thermal paste applied.
Motherboard
Had everything I needed. Then again, it's my first build. Only thing I did miss was being able to plug in more fans. So far I've only been able to plug in the CPU cooler and 1 more fan. I'd love it if it had less LED plugs and just one more fan instead.
Memory
So far so good. Pretty white color too.
Storage
So far it's been very fast. I bought it because it was considerably cheaper than the Samsung EVO series and reviews were high. Also, bought this instead of SATA simply because I wanted to be ready for future upgrades. Besides, makes the whole PC lighter to carry around.
Case
I almost got the Silverstone Sugo SG13B instead. It was a hard choice, but I think I'm glad I got this one instead. As a first build, space was already tight. I think the SG13B may have driven me crazy because of its limited space. Additionally, I believe the C10 allows installing bigger GPUs.
Power Supply
Replaced the Sharkoon Power Supply (SFX, 80+ Gold, 500W) for this Corsair. Reason being that some of you raised some concerns. They're both about the same price and wasn't hard to exchange, so wanted to play it safe. Besides, I was getting some static on the Sharkoon. Not sure if that's normal, but just in case. In the end Corsair is actually smaller and lighter, so there's that added value. However, be aware that you may need to move the HDD light at the front of the case, as it conflicts with the PSU. It's not hard to remove and place elsewhere, but it's a thing to keep in mind.
Case Fan
Unfortunately I wasn't able to plug in this fan to the motherboard. Instead, I've plugged in the fan that comes with the case. I've installed it, looks pretty, hope to figure out a way to use it in the future. Talking about fans, the one that came with the case is installed to pull air INTO the case, right above the motherboard. That way I can control the airflow a bit better. Ideally this one should pull OUT the air from the back.
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