Building a gaming PC from scratch can be a more rewarding experience than buying a generic pre-built system. To build your own gaming PC, the parts you need will depend on the type and level of gaming experience you want. What follows is a simple guide to the essential parts you’ll need, and what to look out for as you decide on each component.
First and foremost, it’s important to decide how much you’re willing to spend. Keep in mind that building a gaming PC is a more expensive proposition than buying an off-the-shelf machine. You will want to allocate enough funds to ensure you’re getting the best quality components. You may start off with a budget of $1000, give or take, though this can obviously vary depending on your choice of components.
At the core of any gaming PC is the motherboard, which is the main circuit board inside the machine. You’ll want to choose one based on a combination of factors such as the size, quality, and speed. For example, an ATX motherboard is recommended for more advanced gaming setups, while mATX boards are best for standard gaming rigs. A good rule of thumb is to purchase a motherboard that is equal in quality and price to the rest of your build.
The processor, or CPU, is the processor that will power your gaming PC. This is the most important component when it comes to gaming performance, as it affects the amount of data the system can process in a given time. You’ll want to purchase a processor that is capable of running several games at a high frame rate.
Next up is the graphics card, which is responsible for rendering graphics and delivering them to the display. It is key not just for gaming but for watchin HD video and running high-end software programs. Make sure you get a card that matches your motherboard’s specifications and can run the games you want to play.
In addition to these core components, you’ll need to purchase memory (RAM) and storage. RAM is necessary for running multiple programs simultaneously and helps the computer’s processes run smoothly. When it comes to storage, you’ll want to get an SSD drive since these typically offer faster response times than traditional hard drives.
Finally, you’ll need a reliable power supply. Power supplies are rated in wattage and determine how much energy your gaming PC needs to operate. Generally speaking, a power supply of 500W is good for standard gaming PCs and can power peripherals such as sound cards and additional hard drives.
Budgeting for a Gaming PC Parts
So now that you know what parts you need to build a gaming PC, it’s time to start budgeting. It’s important to plan your budget based on the type and complexity of games you plan to play. Keep in mind that more complex titles, such as some new Triple-A titles, can require more powerful components, which will drive up the cost.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can cut costs by looking for deals on refurbished or used hardware. Additionally, you may want to try building a PC using entry-level components such as the AMD Ryzen 3, paired with a mid-range GPU such as the GTX 1660. This will give you a good performance-to-price ratio. However, if you want to play the latest AAA titles, you may need to opt for higher-end components, so bear this in mind when planning your budget.
You should also consider performance versus value when budgeting. CPU performance is often determined by the number of cores and the clock speed, and GPUs are measured by the number of cores (in addition to memory clock and boost clock). Do your research to determine the best value for your gaming needs.
Also, keep an eye out for internal prices when budgeting. For example, a CPU may be cheaper when purchased with a motherboard and RAM, but the end result could be more expensive than buying each component separately. In addition, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different retailers.
Finally, it’s worth considering additional hardware such as a gaming mouse and keyboard. Although these aren’t necessary, they can give you an edge while gaming and make the experience more enjoyable. However, these tend to be more expensive than standard peripherals, so factor them into the cost of the build when budgeting.
Choosing the Right Components for Your PC
Once you’ve established a budget and have an idea of what components you can afford, it’s time to start looking for the right parts. When selecting components, try to keep in mind your own gaming performance needs as well as the quality of each part.
For example, choose a motherboard that not only fits into your budget but also offers enough room for additional components and ports for peripherals. Make sure you look for built-in features, such as on-board video and networking, in order to get extra performance from your gaming PC.
When picking a CPU, consider factors such as the number of cores and the clock speed. Also, research the gaming performance of the processors you’re considering. If you plan to play games such as most triple-A titles you’ll want to get a CPU with four cores or more with at least a high-end single-threaded performance.
When it comes to GPUs, look for something that can handle the type of games you plan to play by consulting the recommended minimum requirements listed on the game’s website. Furthermore, if your budget allows it, try to look for a GPU with as much RAM and as many CUDA cores as you can afford. This will enable you to enjoy the best gaming experience.
Finally, you should consider how much memory (RAM) and storage your PC needs. The ideal amount of memory for gaming is 8GB or more, depending on the type of games you plan to play. As for storage, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you’re a casual gamer, a 250GB solid-state drive should suffice, but more intensive gamers may want to opt for a larger HDD or multiple HDDs.
The Pros and Cons of Building a Gaming PC
The main advantage of building a gaming PC is the ability to do so. Building a gaming PC lets you customize each part specific to your budget and needs. This will allow you to get the best performance for your money.
Another benefit of building a gaming PC is being able to use more powerful components. This is because you are not limited by pre-built machines, so you can use higher-end components than what is typically available in an off-the-shelf system. Additionally, the ability to assemble your own computer allows you to upgrade individual components more easily.
The major drawback of building a computer is finding the time and money to purchase the necessary components. It is labour-intensive and requires quite a lot of research to ensure that all of the parts are compatible. Additionally, there is always a risk of damaging one of the components during assembly or installation, which can be costly to repair or replace.
Finally, another disadvantage is the cost. Building a gaming PC generally involves buying more expensive components than you would find in an off-the-shelf system. However, most people who choose to build their own PC tend to purchase better quality parts, resulting in a more reliable and better performing system.
Safety Tips when Building a Gaming PC
Building a gaming PC is a challenging yet rewarding task, but it’s equally important to take safety into consideration. Since you’ll be dealing with sensitive equipment, it’s important to take the necessary steps to keep yourself and your parts safe.
First, make sure you follow the instructions for each part’s installation properly. Before beginning, read your components’ manual thoroughly, and keep all of the necessary safety tools, like insulated gloves and anti-static wristbands, nearby. It is also a good idea to keep a damp cloth and debris magnet handy to help prevent any dust or chips from entering the system.
Additionally, be mindful of wires and cables while you’re building. Make sure all of the connections are secure and nothing is blocking any of the systems’ fans or vents. You should double-check everything to ensure that all wires are connected properly and the components are secure.
In order to protect your hardware against power surges and other power-related issues, make sure you get a suitable uninterruptible power supply (UPS) or a voltage regulator. These will protect your PC against any power spikes or dips, and also make sure your components are safely shut down in case of a blackout or power outage.
Finally, make sure to regularly back up your data, as a gaming PC is prone to hardware failure and other related issues. Data backup and recovery software can help save you from potential data loss in these situations.
