SL3M 2.9L w/ 4060 LP

Build Specifications

- Case: SL3m 2.9L
- CPU: 14400F
- GPU: Asus 4060 Low Profile
- MB: Asus B760i
- Ram: Corsair Vengeance 16GB 2x, 6000MHz, CL36
- PSU: HDPlex 250W GaN
- Fan: NHL9i

Build Log

This build was kind of an odd downgrade. I had a 5800X with a 4070S in Ncase M1. Since I had been traveling a lot or maybe I just needed an excuse to build something new. I sold that setup to a friend and built this cutie. I was initially concerned since it was shipped from Ukraine, but everything arrived safely.

The biggest challenge in this build was the riser cable. I didn’t like the blue one that came with the case, so I sourced my own. Unfortunately, the mounting holes didn’t line up at all, so I couldn’t screw it in. Luckily, since there wasn’t much internal space, the GPU stayed in position just fine when the case was horizontally positioned. When it's standing vertically, however, most of the GPU’s weight rested on the I/O bracket, which felt a bit risky. Still, the card wasn’t particularly heavy, so it didn’t seem like a major issue.

The original setup from the seller used a Gigabyte 4060 LP, but I chose an ASUS model instead, which was slightly longer; the clearance was very tight. If anyone was planning a similar build, I would’ve recommended the Gigabyte 5060 LP. Most examples online used Gigabyte's 4060 LP, but since the ASUS card (about 5mm longer) fit, Gigabyte's 5060 LP with its power connector positioned further out should’ve fit without a problem.

Cable management for the GPU power cable was also difficult. I had to tie down the other end of the 8-pin connector to ensure it didn’t come into contact with the fan. Routing and anchoring the power cables through the limited space felt more like drilling than building.

Due to suggestions from others, I am planning to lower the voltage to improve thermals and efficiency.

I had planned to use this build as a mini console next to my TV or possibly in a mini rack setup. Around that time, I had also been experimenting with Ollama, which made me want to build another 12–15L ITX machine with a better GPU. I was hoping to find some interesting parts on AliExpress during my trip to Asia in coming July.

You can get SL3M 2.9L here.