The original post: /r/buildapc by /u/Fermiarras on 2024-06-24 01:03:31.

Context: My M2 MacBook Pro is my main device. I primarily use it for school, work, video editing, and music production. It can do everything I need but run games. I am not a hardcore gamer, so I’m not opting to build a super-expensive PC. I aim to run games such as Minecraft, Elden Ring, and GTA 5 at 1080p at 144fps on low settings. Please tell me if you think my budget is too high/low for this.

Current Setup: 16" M2 MacBook Pro connects to the CalDigit TS4 (a Thunderbolt 4 dock) which connects my:

  • single display (DP 1.4)
  • mouse (USB A 3.2)
  • keyboard (USB A 3.2)
  • audio interface (USB C 3.2)
  • standalone synth (USB A 3.2)
  • modular synth (USB A 3.2)
  • Synology DS220+ (2.5 GbE)

I also have some parts that I was gifted that might be worth using, they won’t go towards the budget if they are used. The parts I already have:

  • AMD Ryzen 7 5700G (AM4 Socket) ~$160
  • Samsung 870 2TB 2.5" SSD ~$165
  • XPG 2x8GB DDR4 3200hz ~(could not find a price)

Guidelines:

  • Motherboard needs ThunderBolt 3/4 connectivity
  • Parts should be considered with the constraints of the FormD T1

Budget is $1000-$202-$195=$603. The budget should to go towards the following:

  • ASRock X570 Phantom Gaming-ITX/TB3 $202
    • This is the only ITX motherboard I could find with with a AM4 Socket and ThunderBolt.
  • FormD T1 Black $195
    • This is a case I plan to use for all future builds I may do.
  • GPU
  • PSU
  • CPU Cooler

Questions I have:

  • Does it makes sense to use the CPU or RAM with the budget I have?
  • Are playing the games I listed above at 1080p, 144z, and low settings realistic with the budget I have?
  • Is latency something I should worry about when utilizing ThunderBolt?
  • Considering the part I already have and the budget above, what others parts should I buy?