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Kindly help me to complete my new PC build...

Joined
Feb 15, 2009
Messages
711 (0.12/day)
Location
Norway, which means Amazon is not available...
System Name Winter v3.2024
Processor Intel i7 12700K (since november 2021)
Motherboard Gigabyte Z690 Gaming X (since november 2021)
Cooling Air Liquid Freezer II 360 with LGA1700 kit (since november 2021)
Memory Crucial Ballistix 2x16gb 3600mhz C16 (since november 2021)
Video Card(s) Gigabyte RTX 3060 Ti Gaming OC Pro LHR - Rev3.0 (since july 2022)
Storage 1x Kingston NV2 2 TB m.2 nVMe (since december 2024), 1x Seagate 4TB SATA
Display(s) 1x 55" LG C1 4k OLED, 1x Gigabyte 32" M32Q and 2x AOC 27" CG1
Case Fractal Design Define R6 (since 2018 and still working like a charm!)
Power Supply Corsair RM850x black (since august 2022)
Mouse Razor Deathadder v2 (since december 2021)
Keyboard Varmilo VEA109 v2 MX Silent Red (since august 2022)
Software Windows 11 Pro
The noob is back at it again with another "new PC build"-thread, but this time, I have listened to you lot and will simply just buy a whole new PC and let my current PC become my "backup/parts" PC (the one in specs). I promise that I won't be pestering about a new PC anytime soon. This will be my final "new PC"-thread, at least for a few years....

My field of use is mainly multitasking/multi browsing, a lot of office related stuff and SOME EASY video editing as well as rendering (I record a lot of smaller videos and audio stuff since I am a freelance voiceover artist). There will be some very low-key, casual gaming, but only some retro and smaller, indie Unity games. No big titles/FPS/high refresh rate-focused games etc., so kindly don't recommend me "gaming setups".

No, I am not looking for a pre-built PC. I will build it meself. :)

Other requirements:
- BUDGET: €1300-1500. I don't need the system to be overly fancy nor expensive.
- Intel or AMD is fine. Which ever gives me bang for buck and works best for my purposes.
- NO wifi needed on the mobo! It's not a dealbreaker if the mobo has wifi, but I'd prefer the mobo to not have wifi. I'll only be using it with a cable anyway.
- As for the case, I have some perhaps peculiar requirements for it:
* NO RGB! I want it to be as blackout as possible! The case will be "hidden" underneath the table, so it'd help a lot if the case is blackout.
* I value a lot of QUIETNESS! My current PC is very quiet already, so something in those lines.
* I also value practicality vs. looks!
* It would also help if the case is rather spacious that's easy for a noob like me to setup/get around/work with. mATX cases gets too small/narrow for me.
* At least 2+ USB ports on top/front! This is not a must, but it would be useful.

I got some great advices on my "looking for an upgrade-thread", so that helped me to land with the following parts: https://www.prisjakt.no/list/pc-2025--l2242868
- Yes, I have 2 CPU's listed there, because both were recommended for me to buy, but I am unsure which one to go for that will benefit me and my use. Is the 14700K that much better than the 265K that it's worth the €50 extra, or?

Some words on the parts I need and parts that I already have and won't be needing to get right now, but that I will acquire later on:
- I have the Corsair SF1000 PSU listed there as well, but I will use my current PSU (see specs) until CF1000 gets back to "special offer" price again.
- The memory sticks I've found should be fine, yes?
- I am very happy with Arctic Liquid Freezer II, and while I was recommended the Noctua NH-D15 G2, I have gotten an offer on the ALFIII for about €100 cheaper, so that would be a no brainer for me to go for the ALFIII instead of the Noctua cooler, yes?
- I also recently bought the Lexar NM790 4TB drive, but wouldn't the 2TB work fine for my OS, which will be Windows 11?
- I also recently bought the ASUS Dual GeForce RTX 5060 TI OC 16GB that I will be using on my new PC, that I was also recommended to get. Like I said: I do not need something too overpowered.
- Regarding a mobo, I am not sure which one to go for one. Which one would you suggest me to get?

I hope I have covered all the necessary details.

So, it seems like I'd only need a mobo, case and figure out which CPU to go for... Do you have any suggestions, comments and/or thoughts about this and the build, or?
 
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Replacing 12700K isn't going to gain you much without an unsatisfied hardware component requirement inside a program or use I'm just not seeing here. DDR5/PCIe 5.0 mobo is the extent of what you could accomplish having already updated your gpu.

DDR5 RAM + B760 mobo + 12700K
Asus 5060 TI
Will let someone else suggest a case that will be silent.
 
Replacing 12700K isn't going to gain you much without an unsatisfied hardware component requirement inside a program or use I'm just not seeing here. DDR5/PCIe 5.0 mobo is the extent of what you could accomplish having already updated your gpu.

DDR5 RAM + B760 mobo + 12700K
Asus 5060 TI
Will let someone else suggest a case that will be silent.
Interesting. But... I will not be replacing my CPU. The 12700K that I already have, will be on my backup PC. I was thinking that perhaps for my newer PC, I should get something newer when it comes to CPU, or did you mean that I should go for 12700K on the new PC too? :O

Also, which B760 mobo is it that I should go for? I see that majority of the mobo's offer WIFI, so there's no way to go without it, but that's ok. I can live with WIFI, sure. :)

Yes, let's hope someone comes with an input on the case. Peculiar case that is....
 
I was thinking that perhaps for my newer PC, I should get something newer when it comes to CPU, or did you mean that I should go for 12700K on the new PC too? :O

Is there actual need for a nearly identical backup PC? 12700K and a 12th - 14th gen or core ultra.

This would be simpler to understand if you wanted to try AMD and put a newer gpu on Intel side. Or your work was time critical enough you are investing in the possibility one system going down would lose a minimum of time and recent work.
 
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I got some great advices on my "looking for an upgrade-thread", so that helped me to land with the following parts: https://www.prisjakt.no/list/pc-2025--l2242868
- Yes, I have 2 CPU's listed there, because both were recommended for me to buy, but I am unsure which one to go for that will benefit me and my use. Is the 14700K that much better than the 265K that it's worth the €50 extra, or?
Absolutely not. 265K all the way, there is no reason to consider the 14700K especially when it's more expensive, even at the same price it would be a worse choice.

That 6000 MT/s C38 RAM is cheap but for good reason after looking at those latencies.
I think these would be a better fit:
- I am very happy with Arctic Liquid Freezer II, and while I was recommended the Noctua NH-D15 G2, I have gotten an offer on the ALFIII for about €100 cheaper, so that would be a no brainer for me to go for the ALFIII instead of the Noctua cooler, yes?
100% stay away from Arctic LF3 on LGA1851.
Higher chance of not fitting well in the case because of the thickness, and extra hassle and care during mounting which you probably don't need.
I recommend the Montech Hyperflow Silent 360.
But an AIO isn't the only option, depending on the case an aircooler might be a better fit.

This user chose an LGA1851 platform and went with an aircooler.
That's a Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO which was recommended here:
So there is more than one option for either cooling type.

I'll go looking at the mobos and cases and report back.
 
Absolutely not. 265K all the way, there is no reason to consider the 14700K especially when it's more expensive, even at the same price it would be a worse choice.

That 6000 MT/s C38 RAM is cheap but for good reason after looking at those latencies.
I think these would be a better fit:

100% stay away from Arctic LF3 on LGA1851.
Higher chance of not fitting well in the case because of the thickness, and extra hassle and care during mounting which you probably don't need.
I recommend the Montech Hyperflow Silent 360.
But an AIO isn't the only option, depending on the case an aircooler might be a better fit.

This user chose an LGA1851 platform and went with an aircooler.
That's a Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO which was recommended here:
So there is more than one option for either cooling type.

I'll go looking at the mobos and cases and report back.
Wow, what a reply! Thank you so much for the detailed reply! I loved the fact that you provided me with prisjakt.no links as well! :)

I shall await your suggestions on the mobo + case then. Until then, how does this setup look, if I'd go for an AMD setup? I initially wanted an Intel setup, but I am open for an AMD setup as well, and would this be a good enough setup perhaps -> https://www.prisjakt.no/list/pc-2025--l2242868 - But would you recommend me to go for an Intel or AMD setup? I know I gave you an example of an AMD setup, but you mentioned the 265K... How would that be vs. the AMD I have in my "cart"?

I'd also need a PSU suggestion. Maybe 850W should be ok, or?
 
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I initially wanted an Intel setup, but I am open for an AMD setup as well, and would this be a good enough setup perhaps -> https://www.prisjakt.no/list/pc-2025--l2242868 - But would you recommend me to go for an Intel or AMD setup?
At this moment the 265K is similar in price to the 9700X but similar in overall performance to the 9900X, I think that settles any debate.

Motherboard
For a motherboard, you can definitely fit a Z890 in your budget. That way you don't miss on any features.
The Aorus Elite is cheaper, the white might be a drawback, although it should be a minor one, the quality and features of the board itself should have priority.
The Tomahawk is more expensive, but arguably a slightly better board. I have it, don't regret it, would buy it again:
Going more expensive than this makes little sense.

Case
Regarding the case I reckon the Montech Air 903 Base is good:
Going for example with the older Lian Li Lancool 216, which is more expensive, doesn't seem like the best option:
I mean it's not that the Lancool doesn't have better features, but it's 66% more expensive and overall it's not 66% better.

Comparing the two, there is a clear price difference but the performance/features difference I would argue it's smaller.
The temperature testing shows the Montech performing well, it is noisier however, so it matches the Lancool in temps by being louder.
The Lancool 217 is even more expensive, but at least it's an updated design:
This one is noisier than the Montech but has excellent temps meaning it can sacrifice some thermal headroom for quieter operation.
I'll keep looking for other examples.

PSU
For a good quality PSU the Corsair RM850x v.2024 gets my vote.
I see some buyers got bad samples, I don't think it's indicative of a general issue.
Others valid options, from Super Flower:
850W:
1000W, I have this one, it's good:
However you could stretch to get the RM1000x v.2024, 100% overkill for your setup, but probably the best 1000W PSU available today.

About the SSD, there might be worth mentioning the WD Black SN7100 which is similar in price to the NM790.
Performance wise, they're very close, I wouldn't give a definitive verdict so I'll let others share their thoughts on whether you should go for the SN7100.
The point is you're not making a mistake with either one.

So with the Z890 Tomahawk, SF XG 850W and Air 903 Base added to the first parts, you get 15371 kr which converts to 1291 euros without shipping.
 
At this moment the 265K is similar in price to the 9700X but similar in overall performance to the 9900X, I think that settles any debate.

Motherboard
For a motherboard, you can definitely fit a Z890 in your budget. That way you don't miss on any features.
The Aorus Elite is cheaper, the white might be a drawback, although it should be a minor one, the quality and features of the board itself should have priority.
The Tomahawk is more expensive, but arguably a slightly better board. I have it, don't regret it, would buy it again:
Going more expensive than this makes little sense.

Case
Regarding the case I reckon the Montech Air 903 Base is good:
Going for example with the older Lian Li Lancool 216, which is more expensive, doesn't seem like the best option:
I mean it's not that the Lancool doesn't have better features, but it's 66% more expensive and overall it's not 66% better.

Comparing the two, there is a clear price difference but the performance/features difference I would argue it's smaller.
The temperature testing shows the Montech performing well, it is noisier however, so it matches the Lancool in temps by being louder.
The Lancool 217 is even more expensive, but at least it's an updated design:
This one is noisier than the Montech but has excellent temps meaning it can sacrifice some thermal headroom for quieter operation.
I'll keep looking for other examples.

PSU
For a good quality PSU the Corsair RM850x v.2024 gets my vote.
I see some buyers got bad samples, I don't think it's indicative of a general issue.
Others valid options, from Super Flower:
850W:
1000W, I have this one, it's good:
However you could stretch to get the RM1000x v.2024, 100% overkill for your setup, but probably the best 1000W PSU available today.

About the SSD, there might be worth mentioning the WD Black SN7100 which is similar in price to the NM790.
Performance wise, they're very close, I wouldn't give a definitive verdict so I'll let others share their thoughts on whether you should go for the SN7100.
The point is you're not making a mistake with either one.

So with the Z890 Tomahawk, SF XG 850W and Air 903 Base added to the first parts, you get 15371 kr which converts to 1291 euros without shipping.
Awesome that you are taking time to find all these parts for me! Much appreciated.

So, I was thinking about something... What if I would keep my current FD R6 case blackout (the case is quite spacious, so would the Z890 fit inside that case?), the 850W PSU and the NM790 4 TB and then I just buy the other remaining parts that you suggested, resulting in this list: https://www.prisjakt.no/list/pc-2025-intel--l2250006 - That would save me some money + it would be a solid upgrade from the system that I already have, right? What do you reckon? I can then either keep my current setup and build it into another case later on or just sell the parts.

PS: I chose the correct CPU, yes?
 
What if I would keep my current FD R6 case blackout (the case is quite spacious, so would the Z890 fit inside that case?)
Sure.
The motherboard is ATX so yes, no problem.

After getting acquainted with the case I have some mentions.
I see that it has offset radiator mounting in the top panel which is great.
What's not great is the low height of the ceiling.
That means the bottom of the AIO will sit lower than the top edge of the motherboard (as can be seen in the reviews, in the finished build pics), they won't interfere due to the offset mounting, you getting a 120mm wide AIO will ensure compatibility.
From the official page video the offset mounting actually has two possibilities for 120 width, completely to the side or a bit closer to center. The one at the edge surely clears all heatsinks on the motherboard.

I just wanted to point this out, if it fits there's no problem, if you're okay with the look and the slight congestion regarding space at the top of the case again no problem.
With that said I wouldn't necessarily recommend against an AIO in this situation, seems it's still a valid choice.

The Kitguru review has a Fractal Design Celsius S24 which is 56mm thick (31 rad + 25 fan).
The Tweaktown review has an NZXT Kraken X62 which is 56mm (30 rad + 26 fan).
The Montech Hyperflow is 55mm (27 rad + 28 fan).
So you can have a visual reference how far down it will go.

This is the last CPU review that has both the 12700K and the 265K along with many others.
It's definitely better not just regarding performance but also when looking at the power draw and temps. You are basically getting more performance with the same power draw and temps.

Now if it's worth it? I can't answer that question for someone else, honestly the alternative would mean waiting for about two years.
The next CPU gens from both companies will apparently launch in H2 2026, that is roughly a year from now, but to wait until then there are two options.
Either to get the current gens for cheaper than today, or to get the latest and greatest (at higher prices) given the longer wait (assuming the next CPUs will be great).
To get the next gens for more reasonable prices would mean waiting until Q2 2027 so almost two years from now.
Some people are ready to wait, depends partially on what they currently have.

Compared to your previous PC with 12700K + 32GB DDR4 + RTX 3060 Ti the new one with 265K + 64GB DDR5 + RTX 5060 Ti will definitely be an upgrade in every regard.
About the previous thread, the arguments for waiting the next gen are also valid. I mean compared to what other people have, your build still has steam. So only you can decide if you need the upgrade, because you're the one using the PC and the one affected by its limitations.

Just saying you have options, you haven't bought anything yet, so you can buy or not. If you buy it you use it, that becomes the only option. So I'm not going to change your mind about what to do, if you've made up your mind this sort of platform is the best bang for buck for your use case right now in my opinion.
 
Sure.
The motherboard is ATX so yes, no problem.

After getting acquainted with the case I have some mentions.
I see that it has offset radiator mounting in the top panel which is great.
What's not great is the low height of the ceiling.
That means the bottom of the AIO will sit lower than the top edge of the motherboard (as can be seen in the reviews, in the finished build pics), they won't interfere due to the offset mounting, you getting a 120mm wide AIO will ensure compatibility.
From the official page video the offset mounting actually has two possibilities for 120 width, completely to the side or a bit closer to center. The one at the edge surely clears all heatsinks on the motherboard.

I just wanted to point this out, if it fits there's no problem, if you're okay with the look and the slight congestion regarding space at the top of the case again no problem.
With that said I wouldn't necessarily recommend against an AIO in this situation, seems it's still a valid choice.

The Kitguru review has a Fractal Design Celsius S24 which is 56mm thick (31 rad + 25 fan).
The Tweaktown review has an NZXT Kraken X62 which is 56mm (30 rad + 26 fan).
The Montech Hyperflow is 55mm (27 rad + 28 fan).
So you can have a visual reference how far down it will go.

This is the last CPU review that has both the 12700K and the 265K along with many others.
It's definitely better not just regarding performance but also when looking at the power draw and temps. You are basically getting more performance with the same power draw and temps.

Now if it's worth it? I can't answer that question for someone else, honestly the alternative would mean waiting for about two years.
The next CPU gens from both companies will apparently launch in H2 2026, that is roughly a year from now, but to wait until then there are two options.
Either to get the current gens for cheaper than today, or to get the latest and greatest (at higher prices) given the longer wait (assuming the next CPUs will be great).
To get the next gens for more reasonable prices would mean waiting until Q2 2027 so almost two years from now.
Some people are ready to wait, depends partially on what they currently have.

Compared to your previous PC with 12700K + 32GB DDR4 + RTX 3060 Ti the new one with 265K + 64GB DDR5 + RTX 5060 Ti will definitely be an upgrade in every regard.
About the previous thread, the arguments for waiting the next gen are also valid. I mean compared to what other people have, your build still has steam. So only you can decide if you need the upgrade, because you're the one using the PC and the one affected by its limitations.

Just saying you have options, you haven't bought anything yet, so you can buy or not. If you buy it you use it, that becomes the only option. So I'm not going to change your mind about what to do, if you've made up your mind this sort of platform is the best bang for buck for your use case right now in my opinion.
Now I surely understand why so many praise your advices and help, as do I. Much appreciated that you're taking time to help.

Just out of curiosity, is the 265K better for productivity and my use in general, since I am only going to game minimalistic (and no big titles either, and certainly no FPS games), rather than the 9700x, which is more gaming-aimed CPU, right? I ask this just to having things on the clear, so I get the best suitable CPU for me. But, out of curiosity, how would 9700x work vs. the 265K for my use? That CPU is much cheaper + AMD mobo's are cheaper as well, but are they that much worse than the 265K, or? I am just trying to understand so I know.

Regarding the case, are there any similar cases like the blackout R6 I have? See, I would like to have a complete blackout case, since I am a non-rgb soul. And I really like the R6, simply because it's rather spacious and whatnot. But, mounting bigger GPU's there is sometimes quite challenging. So, are there any similar blackout cases available, or? I should also mention that I live in a place where it's rather cold most months of the year, so I am usually sitting on quite low temps, since the PC is quite close to the window as well. So heat, even on summer days, is not a problem.

Well, I do want to upgrade, and it seems like I want to go for a new CPU + mobo + RAM + Montech cooler. Most likely a new case too, so I can add the new stuff into that case instead of transferring them into this case. That way, I can use my current setup as a backup...or sell it.

But yeah, I do wanna upgrade now and then wait a few years.

So, almost across the finish line with this, it seems.

Thank you again.
 
Just out of curiosity, is the 265K better for productivity and my use in general, since I am only going to game minimalistic (and no big titles either, and certainly no FPS games), rather than the 9700x, which is more gaming-aimed CPU, right? I ask this just to having things on the clear, so I get the best suitable CPU for me. But, out of curiosity, how would 9700x work vs. the 265K for my use? That CPU is much cheaper + AMD mobo's are cheaper as well, but are they that much worse than the 265K, or? I am just trying to understand so I know.
The 9700X is 3889 kr, the 265K 3749 kr and its closest AMD equivalent, the 9900X, is 5189 kr.
So again, things are as clear as can be.
There's no point in practically comparing the 265K to the 9900X because there is a considerable price difference.

Regarding your requirements:
I use my PC for livestreaming, video editing and some rendering. Minimal to zero gaming, though...
At the time of its review, the 265K was somewhat wrongly compared with the 9700X instead of the 9900X, at that time the price was closer to the 9900X, but somehow it turned out right because today price wise it compares with the 9700X. Almost like a prophecy.
One aspect that is not readily apparent in reviews is the contribution of the iGPU. In this regard the 265K has a distinct advantage.

We should be comparing equivalent motherboards, if we compare a budget chipset to a premium one there will be a price difference because there is a feature/connectivity deficit on the budget one.

X870E Aorus Elite - 3757 kr
Z890 Aorus Elite (Ice) - 3103 kr

X870E Tomahawk - 4115 kr
Z890 Tomahawk - 3492 kr

B850 Steel Legend - 2778 kr
B860 Steel Legend - 2378 kr

And if the plan is to keep the build for several years, then sacrificing on features for immediate cost savings might be detrimental in the long run.
Regarding the case, are there any similar cases like the blackout R6 I have?
Well, the one you have will definitely work. But if you want to keep the current as a backup then yeah you need an extra case.
For selling not necessarily, although I suppose it could make the whole package more attractive as it would be ready to use once purchased.

I'll keep looking, I thought the Pop XL Air would be a good option until I saw that awful top panel.
Pity, they ruined what looks to be an otherwise great chassis.
If you are getting a new one the point is for it to be overall better than the old one, at the very worst on par regarding some stuff.
 
The 9700X is 3889 kr, the 265K 3749 kr and its closest AMD equivalent, the 9900X, is 5189 kr.
So again, things are as clear as can be.
There's no point in practically comparing the 265K to the 9900X because there is a considerable price difference.

Regarding your requirements:

At the time of its review, the 265K was somewhat wrongly compared with the 9700X instead of the 9900X, at that time the price was closer to the 9900X, but somehow it turned out right because today price wise it compares with the 9700X. Almost like a prophecy.
One aspect that is not readily apparent in reviews is the contribution of the iGPU. In this regard the 265K has a distinct advantage.

We should be comparing equivalent motherboards, if we compare a budget chipset to a premium one there will be a price difference because there is a feature/connectivity deficit on the budget one.

X870E Aorus Elite - 3757 kr
Z890 Aorus Elite (Ice) - 3103 kr

X870E Tomahawk - 4115 kr
Z890 Tomahawk - 3492 kr

B850 Steel Legend - 2778 kr
B860 Steel Legend - 2378 kr

And if the plan is to keep the build for several years, then sacrificing on features for immediate cost savings might be detrimental in the long run.

Well, the one you have will definitely work. But if you want to keep the current as a backup then yeah you need an extra case.
For selling not necessarily, although I suppose it could make the whole package more attractive as it would be ready to use once purchased.

I'll keep looking, I thought the Pop XL Air would be a good option until I saw that awful top panel.
Pity, they ruined what looks to be an otherwise great chassis.
If you are getting a new one the point is for it to be overall better than the old one, at the very worst on par regarding some stuff.
Ahh, thanks for lighting it up clearly for me.

Did you manage to find a suitable case?

So, in order to not experience any detrimental happenings in the long run, Z890 Tomahawk would be a good choice since it's feature packed and overall a good mobo for Intel? Also, I could only find MSI MAG Z890 Tomahawk, is that the one, or?

And yeah, 265K + 32x2 GB DDR5 RAM + new mobo + Montech cooler + new case and I am good to go! :)
 
Did you manage to find a suitable case?
Is close to 2000 kr acceptable?
Around that price I have two examples, the Define 7 (which is like an updated R6) and Lancool 3.
The cheaper Lancool 217 mentioned previously I post #7 is not great because the front I/O connectors are near the bottom (which is optimized for having it on a desk).
Also other cases.
Phanteks P600S:
Antec Flux SE:
Antec Flux:
So, in order to not experience any detrimental happenings in the long run, Z890 Tomahawk would be a good choice since it's feature packed and overall a good mobo for Intel? Also, I could only find MSI MAG Z890 Tomahawk, is that the one, or?
Yes that's the one.
Well you could always save some money by going with a budget chipset, but you would lose some features along with the 200S Boost function. Given you're getting an unlocked CPU it's nice to be able to use an "overclocking" feature that's as simple as enabling the XMP.
 
Is close to 2000 kr acceptable?
Around that price I have two examples, the Define 7 (which is like an updated R6) and Lancool 3.
The cheaper Lancool 217 mentioned previously I post #7 is not great because the front I/O connectors are near the bottom (which is optimized for having it on a desk).
Also other cases.
Phanteks P600S:
Antec Flux SE:
Antec Flux:

Yes that's the one.
Well you could always save some money by going with a budget chipset, but you would lose some features along with the 200S Boost function. Given you're getting an unlocked CPU it's nice to be able to use an "overclocking" feature that's as simple as enabling the XMP.
Ooooh! I have been googling left and right, up and down all day long, and so far, only you have mentioned the Antec Flux SE, which looks like a case that properly challenges the R6! Although Flux SE is a bit pricey, I am willing to stretch that far, if it fills my requirements. And it is now that I prooobably should mention some things I should've mentioned a while ago:
- I will NOT have my PC on my desk! It will be stationed a bit away from my desk (to avoid liquid accidents), so having a top-placed IO connectors definitely helps a lot.
- I value quietness/silent cases vs. good airflow, simply because I live in a place that's rather chilly all year long and them winters are long and cold. During the summer days, the room is well airconditioned too.

So yeah, out of those cases you've brought up, the Flux SE seems to be the best choice so far. Another one I did take a look at was the FD Meshify 3 solid: https://www.prisjakt.no/product.php?p=14671446

Or maybe even better; FD Torrent Compact:

Any thoughts about those vs. the Flux SE, or? The Flux SE surely seems to be a great choice.
 
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The Torrent is great for air cooling. if you're going with an AIO, you end up having to replace some of the bigger fans that come with it that make the case as good (and quiet) as it is, which mostly defeats the purpose, unless you're really just buying it because you like the way it looks or something.

One other brand I haven't seen discussed here is be quiet! I like their cases as I've built in a few different models and the build quality has always been fantastic. Their customer support is also good in the limited cases I've contact them (mainly trying to buy or acquire accessories). It's a little more expensive than the others here I think, but the Shadow Base 800 DX fits the 360mm radiator in the top and comes with three fans, so you can mount those in the front and have good intake air for the system. Personally, I don't care for the RGB, and I'd likely turn it off or solid white or something, but overall the case is nice. Their 802 has been a top class case for years, but is probably aging a little at this point.

I also like the Antec Flux and Fractal Meshify 3 cases. Sometimes it comes down to a little feature or two, or some visual difference as you are the one that has to look at it lol.
 
the Antec Flux SE, which looks like a case that properly challenges the R6! Although Flux SE is a bit pricey, I am willing to stretch that far, if it fills my requirements.
As I understand it the difference between the Flux and Flux SE is the glass side panel on the Flux and the solid panels with noise dampening on the Flux SE.
- I will NOT have my PC on my desk! It will be stationed a bit away from my desk (to avoid liquid accidents), so having a top-placed IO connectors definitely helps a lot.
Yes I got that impression when you previously said that it will be placed close to the window.
- I value quietness/silent cases vs. good airflow, simply because I live in a place that's rather chilly all year long and them winters are long and cold. During the summer days, the room is well airconditioned too.
Got it. One thing I tried to go for is a case that comes with preinstalled fans so that you don't buy extra ones. Front and back basically, in this regard pretty much all of them check that box.
The Phanteks P600S also has sound dampening, but that Antec Flux SE seems like it has a lot going for it.
Or maybe even better; FD Torrent Compact:
After reading the resident review I don't think this one is such a good choice.

There are plenty of good options, perhaps even some great options, also be quiet! is a notable brand as @Bobaganoosh suggested.
Makes it harder to decide to be honest.
 
The Torrent is great for air cooling. if you're going with an AIO, you end up having to replace some of the bigger fans that come with it that make the case as good (and quiet) as it is, which mostly defeats the purpose, unless you're really just buying it because you like the way it looks or something.

One other brand I haven't seen discussed here is be quiet! I like their cases as I've built in a few different models and the build quality has always been fantastic. Their customer support is also good in the limited cases I've contact them (mainly trying to buy or acquire accessories). It's a little more expensive than the others here I think, but the Shadow Base 800 DX fits the 360mm radiator in the top and comes with three fans, so you can mount those in the front and have good intake air for the system. Personally, I don't care for the RGB, and I'd likely turn it off or solid white or something, but overall the case is nice. Their 802 has been a top class case for years, but is probably aging a little at this point.

I also like the Antec Flux and Fractal Meshify 3 cases. Sometimes it comes down to a little feature or two, or some visual difference as you are the one that has to look at it lol.

As I understand it the difference between the Flux and Flux SE is the glass side panel on the Flux and the solid panels with noise dampening on the Flux SE.

Yes I got that impression when you previously said that it will be placed close to the window.

Got it. One thing I tried to go for is a case that comes with preinstalled fans so that you don't buy extra ones. Front and back basically, in this regard pretty much all of them check that box.
The Phanteks P600S also has sound dampening, but that Antec Flux SE seems like it has a lot going for it.

After reading the resident review I don't think this one is such a good choice.

There are plenty of good options, perhaps even some great options, also be quiet! is a notable brand as @Bobaganoosh suggested.
Makes it harder to decide to be honest.
Ok, thanks for the great information both of you! It's then decided: Antec Flux SE it is. Yes, I need the blackout/solid version. The more I read and look at the Flux SE, the more I am at ease with that case. :)

Also, I contacted Proshop regarding the RAM in my "to buy"-list, which you can see here: https://www.prisjakt.no/list/pc-2025-intel--l2250006
They told me that they do not know when they will get the Patriot Viper sticks back in store again... "Unexpected date", they said. So, what other alternatives do I have for 2x32 GB DDR5 that matches the Patriot Viper Venom sticks?
 
For your use-case, I don't think the memory speed is super critical. Looking at performance/money at the site you've been using, these seem like the best options to me:

From most expensive to least expensive:
Team Group T-Create 64GB, 6400, CL34, 2852
G.Skill 64GB 6000, CL30, 2799
Team Group T-create 64GB, 6000, CL34, 2724
G.Skill 64GB 6000, CL36, 2452

Based on the other messages here, I went with 64GB and just looked for at least 6000MT/s. I also took a look at the QVL for the motherboard and all these look to be on it, so hitting the XMP profile should be no issue. The specs on this Kingston memory are very good for the price (compared to the others), but I have no experience with their memory. It is on the QVL, but I just don't know that company's reputation for quality so I can't speak for it one way or the other.
 
@Bobaganoosh

I agree that either of those kits will be fine. I don't think Kingston has any issue.

Also do you have some thoughts on my previous dilemma regarding the SSD? NM790 or SN7100? It's probably trivial but still.
About the SSD, there might be worth mentioning the WD Black SN7100 which is similar in price to the NM790.
Performance wise, they're very close, I wouldn't give a definitive verdict so I'll let others share their thoughts on whether you should go for the SN7100.
The point is you're not making a mistake with either one.
 
For your use-case, I don't think the memory speed is super critical. Looking at performance/money at the site you've been using, these seem like the best options to me:

From most expensive to least expensive:
Team Group T-Create 64GB, 6400, CL34, 2852
G.Skill 64GB 6000, CL30, 2799
Team Group T-create 64GB, 6000, CL34, 2724
G.Skill 64GB 6000, CL36, 2452

Based on the other messages here, I went with 64GB and just looked for at least 6000MT/s. I also took a look at the QVL for the motherboard and all these look to be on it, so hitting the XMP profile should be no issue. The specs on this Kingston memory are very good for the price (compared to the others), but I have no experience with their memory. It is on the QVL, but I just don't know that company's reputation for quality so I can't speak for it one way or the other.

@Bobaganoosh

I agree that either of those kits will be fine. I don't think Kingston has any issue.

Also do you have some thoughts on my previous dilemma regarding the SSD? NM790 or SN7100? It's probably trivial but still.
If you two would pick 2 out of those 4, which one's would you go for that'd benefit me the most and that'd be most suitable for my setup? I take it that none of them are RGB, correct? Because I do not wish any RGB, heh. Price is only few 100 NOK, so I'll survive that.

Regarding the M.2, I actually have not made up my mind yet, because both the SN7100 and NM790 2TB seems to be equal in terms of speed and price, heh. Good reviews on both as well. So yeah, I can choose in blind or which one would you tell me to go for? You probably know it more than I do anyway, hehe.

So COOL! It looks like I am finally reaching the finish line in terms of these upgrades! SO happy about that, for sure.

Thank you both for not giving up on me with this, despite my 12934897 Q's about this and that! Much appreciated.
 
If you two would pick 2 out of those 4, which one's would you go for that'd benefit me the most and that'd be most suitable for my setup? I take it that none of them are RGB, correct? Because I do not wish any RGB, heh. Price is only few 100 NOK, so I'll survive that.
The fact that all are present in the QVL is a big plus. No RGB, another plus.
Again the Kingston looks good, the price is clearly in its favor.
From the other four I would choose the TeamGroup 6400, I know it's the most expensive but at least it has slightly higher frequency.
One advantage it has over the Kingston is the slightly lower voltage. Probably not enough to compensate for the price gap.

So between these two:

KF560C30BBEK2-32 (2x32GB) - 2199 kr
6000 MT/s 30-36-36-80 1.4V 2Rx8 DS Hynix-A

CTCED564G6400HC34BDC01 (2x32GB) - 2852 kr
6400 MT/s 34-44-44-84 1.35V 2Rx8 DS Hynix-A

30% more expensive for... not much. I'm leaning towards the Kingston. It's too much, for 10% I would've said differently but 30% is too much.
 
The fact that all are present in the QVL is a big plus. No RGB, another plus.
Again the Kingston looks good, the price is clearly in its favor.
From the other four I would choose the TeamGroup 6400, I know it's the most expensive but at least it has slightly higher frequency.
One advantage it has over the Kingston is the slightly lower voltage. Probably not enough to compensate for the price gap.

So between these two:

KF560C30BBEK2-32 (2x32GB) - 2199 kr
6000 MT/s 30-36-36-80 1.4V 2Rx8 DS Hynix-A

CTCED564G6400HC34BDC01 (2x32GB) - 2852 kr
6400 MT/s 34-44-44-84 1.35V 2Rx8 DS Hynix-A

30% more expensive for... not much. I'm leaning towards the Kingston. It's too much, for 10% I would've said differently but 30% is too much.
Then it is such an easy choice for me: Kingston it is!

Aaand that is about it! I am done with this thread now. I have landed on seemingly great parts now at a very affordable price point for me. BIG thanks to @Sol_Badguy for being so thorough and detailed with all the different choices in this. Really. For a noob, it is difficult to navigate through this maze, but I certainly learned a lot in this serach. Much appreciated, Sol! Thanks to @Bobaganoosh too for some useful and helpful suggestions in the end. :)

Thread SOLVED!
 
@Bobaganoosh

I agree that either of those kits will be fine. I don't think Kingston has any issue.

Also do you have some thoughts on my previous dilemma regarding the SSD? NM790 or SN7100? It's probably trivial but still.
NM790 is better, according to reviews.
 
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