First HTPC from a bare bones...

Looking to "build" my first HTPC. After looking around at all the technical aspects of this process I am currently planning to work from a barebones system unless convinced otherwise. Did some research and these are two boxes I've hobbled together. I would prefer to go with the cheaper option if people think it will work (I am in group 5 or 6), but I am open to suggestions. I like the small streamlined size of both of these cases.

I am just looking for some suggestions of better ways to go, or if anyone notices anything that isn't compatible.

BOX 1:
http://www.ecosmartpc.com/ei5a63500.html - $324.99
MEMORY:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...6820104259 - $64.99
HARDDRIVE:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...llFullInfo - $99.99
CONTROLER ADAPTOR:
http://www.pulse-eight.com/store/product...apter.aspx - $47.99

TOTAL
$537.96

or...

BOX 2:
http://www.pulse-eight.com/store/product...ebone.aspx - $191.98
MEMORY:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...6820231212 - $28.98
HARDDRIVE:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...llFullInfo - $99.99
CONTROLER ADAPTOR:
http://www.pulse-eight.com/store/product...apter.aspx - $47.99

TOTAL
$368.94

[OPTIONAL for either?] Graphics Card
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...6814133453 - $59.99

THANK YOU!


P.S. does anyone have suggestions on how to run the software. Over windows or OpenELEC+Pulse? Ideas?