To build a good gaming PC, you need to start with the basics: a decent processor, graphics card, RAM and storage. These components will provide the core of your gaming experience, so you need to make sure they are up to the task. The processor will be the most important part, as it controls everything that happens in your PC. Look for a processor with multiple cores, as this will provide greater performance when gaming. The graphics card is also vital as this is what provides the visuals you’ll see when gaming. Make sure to get a card with at least 4GB of VRAM. RAM is also important for gaming, so get a minimum of 8GB for optimal performance. Lastly, storage is key for running and loading games, so make sure to get an SSD with enough capacity to store games.
Power Supply
Once you have the core components, you need to make sure they are powered correctly. To do this, you’ll need a decent power supply. Look for one with at least 600-watts of capacity and a high speed, as this will help ensure everything gets enough power when running. Make sure to double-check the details and dimensions so that it fits nicely inside your case.
Case and Cooling
The case is always an important part of any PC build, but it’s particularly important when it comes to gaming PCs. The case should be suitable for housing all the components you’ve chosen, and should also be big enough to include plenty of fans for cooling. Look for cases with fan-speed settings, as this will give you the option to turn down the fans at times when you’re not gaming. You’ll also need to consider CPU and GPU cooling, as these can become hot when running intensive games. Air and liquid-cooling are both suitable, but air-cooling is often cheaper and simpler to install.
Peripherals and Networking
When it comes to gaming, peripherals are just as important as the PC itself. Investing in a good gaming mouse and keyboard can make gaming much more comfortable and enjoyable, so don’t be afraid to splash out on a good one. Additionally, while you don’t need the most up-to-date network adapter, it’s a good idea to get one anyway if you intend to play online. This will ensure you have a stable connection when gaming.
Software
Once you have the hardware sorted, you’ll need to think about software. Most gaming PCs will come with Windows pre-installed, but if you want the absolute best performance out of your PC, you should consider getting an operating system specifically designed for gaming. Other than that, you’ll need games which can be purchased online or in physical stores. Don’t forget to double-check the system requirements of each game, as this is important for ensuring the games run smoothly.
Upgrades and Maintenance
Things don’t end once you build your PC, as you’ll also need to think about upgrades and regular maintenance. To ensure your PC remains in top condition, you should clean out the inside at least twice a year, as this ensures dust and debris stay to a minimum. Likewise, you should also look at upgrading parts when needed. For example, a new graphics card or more RAM may be needed if you decide you want to play more graphically-demanding games.
Installation and Set-Up
This is the final step and can often be the trickiest. Start by carefully installing all the components and then follow the instructions to get everything up and running. For Windows, make sure to do a clean install to ensure your system is completely free from any bloatware. After everything is installed, you should check for any driver and system updates. This will help to make sure the system is optimised for use. Finally, check the settings for each game to make sure they are running as smoothly as possible.
