Building a High-Performance Linux PC for Under 900 Euro
This article details the components and rationale behind building a powerful Linux desktop for less than 900 Euro. This build is ideal for programming, general use, and light gaming, focusing on performance and affordability. It showcases how to assemble a system with high-quality components without breaking the bank.
A Programmer’s Perspective on Building a Powerful PC
This system was designed for programming and general use, prioritizing speed and silence. While not intended for high-end gaming, it handles programming tasks, web browsing, music playback, and even some light gaming with ease. The focus is on maximizing performance within the 900 euro budget.
Prioritizing Value Over Price
The goal was to build a desktop that was not only cheaper than a comparable pre-built system but also offered opportunities for future upgrades. This approach allows for a powerful base system that can evolve with changing needs. The Intel NUC, while powerful, lacked the desired expandability.
Component Breakdown: Maximizing Performance within 900 Euro
The following components were selected to achieve the performance goals within the budget:
17 EUR - HP Laser Mouse
50 EUR - Corsair CX450 Power Supply
57 EUR - AMD Athlon 200GE Processor (includes CPU fan and integrated graphics)
60 EUR - Sharkoon PureWriter TKL Keyboard
69 EUR - ASRock AB350M Pro4 Motherboard (supports NVMe and up to 64GB RAM)
75 EUR - Edifier R1100 Speakers
85 EUR - Cooler Master Silencio 550 Mid-Tower Case
87 EUR - Samsung 860 EVO 500GB M.2 SSD
110 EUR - G.Skill Aegis 2x8GB DDR4 RAM
289 EUR - Iiyama XB3270QS-B1 32" WQHD IPS Monitor
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899 EUR (including VAT)Rationale Behind Component Choices
Each component was carefully chosen to balance performance and price: a budget-friendly laser mouse, a sufficient 450W power supply, a cost-effective AMD Athlon 200GE processor with integrated graphics, a thin and backlit mechanical keyboard, a feature-rich motherboard with upgrade potential, quality speakers with bass control, a quiet PC case, a fast and affordable SSD, budget-friendly RAM, and a large 32-inch WQHD IPS monitor. The absence of WiFi and Bluetooth was intentional. All prices were based on offerings from Dutch web-shops at the time of purchase.
Future-Proofing with Upgrade Options
This 900 euro build allows for significant future upgrades. Potential upgrades include a more powerful AMD Ryzen processor, increased RAM capacity (up to 64GB), a dedicated graphics card, a higher-capacity NVMe SSD, and additional hard drives. A more powerful power supply might also be necessary to support these upgrades. These upgrades can be implemented as needed, extending the lifespan of the system.
Software Considerations for Optimal Performance
For seamless functionality with this hardware, using the latest Linux kernel is recommended (e.g., Ubuntu 18.10 or later). A HDMI-to-HDMI cable is crucial for supporting the monitor’s 2560×1440 WQHD resolution and ensuring high resolution in the BIOS.
Building Your Own 900 Euro Linux Dream Machine
With this comprehensive parts list and rationale, assembling this high-performance Linux PC under 900 euro is achievable. Building your own computer is a rewarding experience that fosters a deeper understanding of its inner workings. The result is a custom-built system tailored to your specific needs.