Build an HTPC on the Cheap for Under $250 (2011)
Note: This build is from 2011. The parts, prices, and retailer links below are long gone, and the goal itself (a cheap box for 1080p streaming) is basically solved by any current mini PC. The general shopping logic (spend on CPU/GPU, keep it small and quiet) still holds if you’re building something similar today, just not this exact parts list. So you want an HTPC (Home Theater PC / Media Center) but you’re not Mr. Money Bags? That’s fine — you can still build a great one. ...