How to Build a PC for Portable Mini-ITX in 2027

By James Thompson · Updated: 8 October 2026

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A portable PC is a complete layout decision. I would choose the case, graphics-card dimensions and cooling arrangement together, then build around a restrained AM5 processor and an SFX supply. The result should be straightforward to carry, reconnect and maintain.

Finish the desk with the monitor, work mouse and keyboard. Use an external backup routine for the important files.

Decide what portable means before picking parts. A computer that moves occasionally between rooms can use a larger compact case; a machine travelling regularly needs a smaller footprint, manageable weight and a sensible way to protect it. List the screen, keyboard, controller and cables that travel too. A small tower does not make the entire setup portable on its own.

True Mini-ITX gives you less expansion freedom and two memory slots, so choose the final capacity and connections early. The graphics-card size and CPU-cooler height are linked in a sandwich case such as Terra. I would choose a modest-power CPU and a suitably compact graphics card rather than chase the maximum specification in every category. A slightly larger micro-ATX alternative can be the better overall purchase.

Choose the final two-stick capacity at the start because the ITX board has two memory slots. 32GB is my focused gaming route; buy 64GB if this is also a portable workstation. Keep low-profile cooling clearance in the memory decision.

Crucial Pro 32GB DDR5-6000 is my straightforward two-stick AM5 starting kit. It leaves the PC with useful everyday capacity without buying workstation-sized memory for a project that never fills it.

Choose capacity first, then the profile. Install the kit in the motherboard’s recommended paired slots and establish a stable baseline before enabling its faster memory setting. Keep DDR5 out of a DDR4-only board.

Choose the memory kit for this workload

Plan the RAM capacity for the work kept open together and the supported module arrangement. The profile guide covers setup once all memory is working at defaults.

An NVMe drive keeps the portable machine simpler than a bundle of internal disk cables. Choose enough capacity for the travelling game or project library and keep an external copy of important files at home. The small case is not a reason to leave the only copy on the travelling PC.

The WD Black SN850X 2TB is my active-project drive choice. Its role is to hold the files the PC reads and writes during work, rather than use an expensive SSD as the only home for every finished project.

A motherboard heatsink helps the drive manage sustained work. Check the slot arrangement before installing several M.2 drives, since lane sharing and disabled ports vary by board.

Compare storage for this build · Distinguish memory and storage upgrades

Choose enough working storage, then check the exact SSD format/interface. The PCIe comparison helps decide whether the speed premium serves this build.

The ASRock B650I Lightning WiFi is the true Mini-ITX AM5 route. I would choose it as part of a compact system where the smaller board enables the case, accepting that expansion choices need to be made before assembly.

It has two memory slots and two SATA ports. Choose the final memory capacity as one matched kit and plan extra networking or storage before spending the sole main PCIe slot on a graphics card.

Map the devices you actually plan to connect: displays, USB equipment, storage and expansion cards. Make the CPU, board and memory a matched platform before choosing optional accessories. A thick graphics card can cover a slot that otherwise looks available.

Choose the board and useful features · Understand the connections worth buying

Read the board/platform guide and check the case’s internal connections. PCIe and M.2 sharing keeps the planned drives and expansion cards usable together.

This is the starting basket for the route described here. Choose the alternative parts as a complete matched configuration, keeping the board, memory, cooling and power changes together. The monitor, operating system and any equipment you already own should be counted in the total purchase plan.

For the other decisions in this cluster, use the processor shortlist, the graphics shortlist and the specialist buying guide.

Build the motherboard, memory and low-profile cooler outside the case where the connectors are easier to reach. Follow the case’s assembly order for the riser and PSU, then route the power leads clear of the fans before closing the panels. Use the recommended riser configuration and establish a stable baseline.

Set a restrained CPU power profile if the chosen low-profile cooler needs it, then adjust fan response with the panels installed. Keep the GPU model and Terra spine-position table together in the fit check. For less demanding carrying requirements, compare the A3 micro-ATX route before paying the Mini-ITX premium.

Follow the beginner assembly guide · Check the complete parts fit

Technical references: Terra spine and component-clearance table · NH-L9a-AM5 specification · B650I Lightning WiFi specification.

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