[Trendy]

I'm looking to build a HTPC for running XMBC as cheaply as possible.

Is it possible to build a HTPC that is cheaper than something that is already prebuilt. (Eg. something pretty standard like an Acer Aspire Revo)

What components would you recommend using? What systems are you guys currently running and getting good results on?

Many thanks for any help you can give.

[Irish2685]

I'm guessing you'd be pretty hard pressed to build something cheaper than one of the little prebuilt solutions. If anybody has any suggestions, though, I'd like to see them as well.

[Trendy]

I'm guessing you'd be pretty hard pressed to build something cheaper than one of the little prebuilt solutions. If anybody has any suggestions, though, I'd like to see them as well.

This is what I had imagined.

The last time I built a PC was a fair few years ago now, but it was possible to build one for cheaper than the standard packages then. Just willing to listen to any suggestions.

Also if that's the case, I'd appreciate any advice regarding which pre-built system to choose for XBMC. Anything you'd recommend/suggest I avoid?

[poofyhairguy]

It would be easy to make a Micro-ATX HTPC with a junk case/PSU with a combo CPU+Mobo that can get below what a prebuilt system cost if you hunt deals.

With that said, if you want small, then it will cost you more and the best options are premade systems.

Here is a cheap HTPC with the only concern being price (just for fun):

First: Cheap CPU+Mobo combo:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealD...mbo.406204

Anything with a PCI Express slot works here- any CPU will do.

$90

Next: Cheap 2GB RAM:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...6820161677

$47

Next, Cheap HD:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...6822148231

$36

Next, cheap HTPC case plus power supply:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...6811192086

$36

Last and most importantly, a modern Nvidia GPU with an HDMI out:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...6814500127

$41

That brings us to a total of: $250 before shipping or mail in rebates.

Seeing as how that is almost exactly what a Revo costs, as you can see it is hard to beat the price fo prebuilt machines.

One way it is cheaper to just build your own is if you have some of this stuff already (aka an old HD or case). Honestly as long as you have 1+GB of RAM and that GPU ANY system (even an old 775 Pentium 4) is enough for 1080p playback.

Hope I helped...