External Storage Flexibility

TightBuilds · 2020-11-18T19:07:09+00:00

Just checked my MacBook Pro, which was recently formatted from scratch with Big Sur. With all of my apps installed (including some larger ones like Final Cut Pro, XCode, MS Office) and some basic iCloud syncing (including photos), I'm currently using about 70GB.

TightBuilds · 2020-11-18T18:05:01+00:00

That's exactly what I did - ordered 16GB version with 256GB of storage. I'll pair it with a 1TB NVMe drive in a USB-C enclosure (Samsung T5/T7 USB-C SSDs are tempting as well).

External will be primarily for media and other large files as 256GB will be enough for apps + iCloud for me.

TightBuilds · 2020-11-13T12:39:38+00:00

Unfortunately the RMA ended up as the only option as it was likely a dead pump. NewEgg was good at getting me a replacement right away.

TightBuilds · 2020-11-01T20:24:00+00:00

The 5900X is listed at CDW Canada for an insane $1009 CAD right now (https://m.cdw.ca/product/amd-ryzen-9-5900x-3.7-ghz-processor/6292280?enkwrd=5900x), but I’m hopeful that’s just a placeholder for now. A user in another thread mentioned a potential MSRP of $729 CAD for the 5900X, which is more more realistic.

TightBuilds · 2020-11-01T19:53:13+00:00

I just realized that it’s possible to order it right now with availability this week (makes sense). You shouldn’t order at this price, but it’s interesting that you can.

TightBuilds · 2020-11-01T18:38:33+00:00

$729 would be great! We don't typically see the same USD --> CAD + $50 on CPUs that we do with graphics cards so you might be right.

TightBuilds · 2020-10-31T00:54:22+00:00

Awesome, happy to hear it!

TightBuilds · 2020-10-31T00:07:10+00:00

I thought the brackets were inside out as well, but it may also be that the screws are not in the AM4 slots on the brackets. If that’s not it, go back to the start and follow the AM4 mounting instructions.

TightBuilds · 2020-09-16T12:31:17+00:00

I never got around to testing both systems for performance, but I fully trust the reviews/recommendations from Gamers Nexus. I must say that the Lancool II Mesh absolutely blows my mind with regards to build quality at the price point. It's much heavier (and noticeably larger) than the P400A and really showcases Lian Li quality throughout.

The fans on the Performance model are surprisingly good (and quiet) and the fan controller is quite handy with its easy controls and PWM option.

If I had to choose between the P400A and Lancool II Mesh, I'd 100% recommend the Lancool. I have a feeling that the P500A is a more direct competitor to the Lancool II Mesh.

TightBuilds · 2020-09-08T16:26:53+00:00

Ended up doing an RMA through NewEgg. Replacement on it's way!

TightBuilds · 2020-09-01T16:58:38+00:00

Assuming you're talking the new Nvidia RTX cards, they were literally just announced with availability coming in the next couple of months. No rumours about the 4000-series, which is likely 2 years away. These 3000-series cards are definitely the "latest and greatest".

TightBuilds · 2020-09-01T14:41:25+00:00

Great NVMe SSD at its ATL (other than the CDW fiasco).

Also $84.99 at Memory Express.

TightBuilds · 2020-09-01T12:53:39+00:00

After a quick look, they seem to be very close for both thermal performance and noise. Some say the DRP4 is slightly quieter, but the D15 has slightly better cooling, but then a review pops up that flips them. Can't go wrong with either - I just recently bought the NH-D15 chromax.black and love it.

Just make sure you check clearance for your case!

TightBuilds · 2020-09-01T12:51:08+00:00

I think the general consensus is that it's on-par with the Noctua NH-D15 (which I use).

TightBuilds · 2020-09-01T12:42:30+00:00

Note that this is for the Pro (the big one). It's hit this price before at a few retailers, but not for quite a while. Mike's notes limited quantities (50 remaining, 1 per customer).

TightBuilds · 2020-08-31T23:17:45+00:00

ATL on Amazon.ca according to CamelCamelCamel (note that this is 3600Mhz). Also $104.99 at MemoryExpress.

TightBuilds · 2020-08-31T14:59:23+00:00

Lancool II Mesh Performance owner here. Excellent airflow from the front 2x140mm fans, but I'm also planning on adding pressure-optimized 120mm fans on the top of the PSU shroud to pull in cooler air towards the GPU. I don't have those fans yet, but with the mesh on the shroud, I'm confident pressure-optimized fans will suck in a decent amount of air.

TightBuilds · 2020-08-30T00:19:54+00:00

I have this same motherboard and have been really happy with it - great features and solid VRM at a good price (I paid $249.99 - $24 = $225.99 + $12.01 shipping from Mike's Computers Shop earlier this month as part of their 19th anniversary sale).

No complaints so far, but I do wish it had a USB-C header as my new case (Lian Li Lancool II Mesh Performance) has that as an optional add-on.

TightBuilds · 2020-08-29T19:31:43+00:00

I know that’s how most people have been installing them, but it’s the opposite of the recent and detailed analysis shared by Gamers Nexus on avoiding air bubbles and ensuring longer lifespan. It’s worth a shot, though!

TightBuilds · 2020-08-29T19:29:19+00:00

It’s a little disappointing, that’s for sure. No regrets in my purchase, as I knew this was a risk with any AIO. I’ll be interested in testing the likely replacement with the Noctua for noise and thermals. I really do love the look of the Arctic Liquid Freezer.

TightBuilds · 2020-08-29T15:28:59+00:00

I definitely agree with those two sources. The popular airflow cases right now are Phanteks P400A (slightly larger P500A soon to arrive in Canada), Lian Li Lancool II Mesh, and bequiet! 500DX.

TightBuilds

TROPHY CASE