Building the Ultimate Small Form Factor Gaming PC with the RTX 4090

by Arthur Herring
in News, PC
on 16 June 2024

Are you ready to take your gaming experience to the next level? Look no further than the ultimate small form factor gaming PC built around the monstrous RTX 4090 graphics card. While the RTX 4090 may challenge standard-sized PC cases with its triple-slot size and thick power cable, we have found a way to put this beast of a GPU into the smallest case possible for an unparalleled gaming experience.

The build starts with the powerful AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU, a crucial component for fitting the GPU into a mini-ITX case. While it may not be an easy task, the combination of the RTX 4090 and the ID-Cooling IS-55 CPU cooler allows for a few millimeters of clearance to close the side panels. The space inside the case is used efficiently, leaving no room for cable management.

The Fractal Terra case is the key to making this build possible. With separate chambers for the graphics card and the rest of the components, it provides a unique and compact solution. The adjustable spine of the Terra allows for more room for the CPU cooler or GPU clearance, although maximum GPU clearance may still be required to fit the RTX 4090. Closing the side panel requires some contortion of the case due to a clip catching on the edge of the GPU.

In terms of performance, the RTX 4090 handles the load well, with temperatures staying within reasonable limits. On the other hand, the CPU fan posed a challenge as it ran hot and loud. To address this, undervolting was employed to overclock the CPU while limiting the frequency. This optimization technique moved the voltage curve up, allowing the CPU to hit its boost clock speed at a lower voltage. Undervolting proved to be an effective solution to keep the CPU temperatures in check and reduce noise levels.

Although the build is complete and functioning well, there are lessons learned along the way. The choice of motherboard, Gigabyte B650i Aorus Ultra, turned out to be problematic, interfering with the cooler and lacking a secure fit on the CPU. Alternative motherboard options like Asus ROG Strix B650E-i and MSI MPG B650I Edge provide better clearance and compatibility.

In conclusion, building the ultimate small form factor gaming PC with the RTX 4090 is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. With careful planning, tinkering, and optimization, you can achieve the gaming setup of your dreams. Get ready to experience the power and performance of the RTX 4090 in a compact and efficient package.

Additional relevant facts about building the Ultimate Small Form Factor Gaming PC with the RTX 4090:

1. Power Supply: Given the high power requirements of the RTX 4090, it is important to choose a power supply unit (PSU) that can provide sufficient wattage to support the GPU and other components. A modular PSU can help in managing cable clutter in the small form factor case.

2. Cooling Solutions: Since space is limited in small form factor cases, proper cooling is crucial. Along with CPU cooling, it is advisable to install additional case fans or consider liquid cooling options to maintain optimal temperatures for both the GPU and CPU.

3. Storage Options: Consider the use of solid-state drives (SSDs) for faster boot times and improved overall system performance. M.2 NVMe SSDs can be particularly beneficial due to their small size and high data transfer rates.

Key questions and answers related to the topic:

Q: What are the main advantages of building a small form factor gaming PC?
A: Small form factor PCs are highly portable and take up less space, making them ideal for gamers who frequently attend LAN parties or have limited desk space. They also offer the possibility of a sleek and minimalist gaming setup.

Q: What are the main challenges associated with building a small form factor gaming PC?
A: The main challenges include limited space for components, potential thermal issues due to restricted airflow, and the need for careful planning to ensure compatibility among components.

Key challenges or controversies associated with the topic:

1. Compatibility: Ensuring compatibility between the chosen components can be a challenge in small form factor builds. Components such as the CPU cooler, motherboard, and GPU must be carefully selected to fit within the limited space of the case.

2. Thermal Management: Maintaining proper cooling in a small form factor case can be challenging due to restricted airflow. This may require the use of specialized cooling solutions, such as low-profile CPU coolers or liquid cooling options, to prevent overheating.

Advantages:
– Portability and space-saving design.
– Potential for a sleek and minimalist gaming setup.
– Suitable for LAN parties and limited desk space.

Disadvantages:
– Limited space for components, requiring careful component selection.
– Potential thermal challenges due to restricted airflow.
– Cable management may be difficult in cramped spaces.