[Red Ice Player]

Originally Posted by I_H8_Crawford

Hi all,

Just looking for some advice - want to set up simple HTPC box to hook into my TV so I can watch movies easily.

Want to do it as cheap as possible - what would I be looking at in terms of processor, etc?

Want to have HDMI connection, it will be outputting audio to my 5.1 setup, and will be used to watch 1080p movies.

Is i3 processor enough, or should I bump it up to an i5 (or AMD equivalent)?

How about video card? Those are the 2 most expensive pieces, but it will be used strictly for movies, no gaming.


I already have HDDs, OS, case, and Power Supply.

Thanks!

I use an i5 for my HTPC, but an i3 will definitely be sufficient for streaming HD, especially since you won't be gaming. If I was building a box like you are, I would just look at the relative costs between i3 and i5 motherboards. If it is close, I would choose the i5. Its always nice to have that extra computing power if the cost difference isn't significant.