Building a good gaming PC requires careful consideration of an individual’s needs and budget. High-end gaming machines tend to come with powerful hardware and components which require a significant amount of capital. So before diving in, it is important to think through the purpose and function of the PC. Today, we’ll look at what it takes to create a good gaming PC that meets the demands of most gamers without breaking the bank.
Components
The core components of a gaming PC should include a CPU and a GPU. Modern CPUs like the Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 are essential in providing good performance. Graphics card, usually in the form of a Nvidia or AMD Radeon, will provide a smooth and responsive gaming experience. The amount of RAM and the type of storage are also important, not only for game and graphics processing but also for responsiveness and multitasking. Finally, a compatible motherboard and the required cables and connections should also be considered.
Coolers and Fans
Due to the powerful hardware used in gaming PCs, it is important to ensure the internal components receive adequate cooling. Fans are used to dissipate heat from the interior; however, it can also be useful to consider air coolers. These are generally more effective than standard fans and are relatively easy to install or replace. It is also worth investing in a good quality power supply, especially for extended gaming sessions.
Software and Games
For any gaming PC, it is important to have an OS that can keep up with the demands of the games being played. Windows 10 is a popular choice but having a Linux install can be more secure, as fewer virus and malware programs exist on the platform. Additionally, gamers need to consider what type of games they want to play. Highly demanding titles will require extraordinary specs while not-so-demanding games don’t require such higher specifications.
Peripherals
Considering extras like a good quality mouse and keyboard, headset, gaming chair and other miscellaneous items can significantly enhance the gaming experience. Good speakers can be an interesting addition to immerse oneself in audio and some may want to include a second monitor to improve the visual experience. Additionally, an eternal hard drive or NAS can be a useful addition for data storage and backup options.
Budget and Quality
When constructing a gaming PC, it is important to consider what you are willing to spend on your system. High-end components are not always necessary and considering a cheaper, but still good-quality build, can be beneficial. Additionally, it is worth considering the return on investment of the components being used, so as to avoid overspending on items that are not essential.
Upgrades and Overclocking
When budgeting, it is important to think about future upgrades. Generally, it is much cheaper to upgrade an item over time than buying the next top-of-the-range component. Overclocking can be done as an alternative when investing in more powerful components isn’t an option. Overclocking can also benefit performance without too much additional cost, although caution should be taken when adjusting the system settings.
Repair and Maintenance
Repairing and maintaining a gaming PC requires suitable skills and knowledge; however, it can be a great option in the long-term. GPUs, CPUs and RAMs tend to last for a long time, but be sure to replace any malfunctioning components as soon as possible. Maintaining the system through regular dusting and avoiding overclocking too often can be beneficial in ensuring longer-term use.
Upkeep and Troubleshooting
Making sure all the components are correctly working correctly is paramount to any PC build. Troubleshooting and diagnosing any potential problem can ensure greater longevity of the PC. Having the necessary tools and programs such as driver programs and partitioning tools can be beneficial when trying to fix minor issues. Regular maintenance should also be done to keep the system running efficient and prolong its life.
Warranty and Return Policies
It is important to consider the warranty and return policies of the components that are being used in the gaming PC. Many companies offer warranties period of time on their products, so it is always worth checking beforehand. If any component is found to be faulty after being delivered, an individual wanting a refund should refer back to the vendor’s return policy. Keeping the original packaging is a great way of ensuring an easier return process.
Research and Reviews
Researching different components before making a purchase is always a good idea. It is essential to understand what the components are capable of achieving and the performance they offer. Reading up on product reviews can give insight into the type of performance the component provides and whether it is likely to suffice in meeting the needs of the user. Additionally, you should make sure that each component is compatible with the system being build and make sure the specs are suitable for the type of games that are intended to be played.
