The gaming world has changed drastically in the past decade, as powerful CPUs and GPUs have enabled players to appreciate incredible realistic gaming, as well as dazzling graphics. With all this in mind, when looking for the best gaming PC specs, there are a few key considerations to make. Firstly, consumers should pay close attention to the CPU and GPU they choose, as they both play a major role in determining how smoothly a game runs and how visually appealing it is.
With regards to CPUs, a gaming processor should have four to eight cores and a clock speed at least above 2.5GHz. A reliable brand such as Intel or AMD should also be looked for. As for GPUs, there is no one set requirement, but in general the more powerful and the more cores, the better.
In addition to CPU and GPU, the RAM, motherboard, and storage should also be taken into account. RAM, or Random Access Memory, is especially important for gaming as it helps to process data quickly, reducing loading times and preventing lagging issues. It is recommended to purchase at least 16GB of RAM for gaming computers.
The motherboard is the central piece of the PC that connects all of its components. Having a good motherboard will ensure the smooth operation of the GPU, CPU and RAM, and so it is important to get a branded motherboard with latest ports and slots.
For storage, hard drives with 7,200RPM are ideal for gaming PC specs, as they are fast and reliable and provide enough capacity for a large collection of games. An additional Solid State Drive can also be added in order to reduce game loading times.
Finally, in order to enjoy a lag-free gaming experience it is necessary to have a good quality monitor and sound system. Bigger screens are preferable for improved gaming quality and widescreen gaming, and for surround sound headsets are recommended.
Graphics card
The graphics card is arguably the most important component for a gaming PC, as it provides the graphic power for games. When buying a graphics card, the most important things to consider are how many pixels it can process, the number of cores, and the size of the video RAM. A card with at least 1GB RAM, a speed of 900MHz, and multiple cores are necessary to ensure smooth gaming performance.
It is also important to look out for models with dual graphics card capabilities. These cards offer improved performance by combining their cores and VRAM, helping to boost graphics speed even further. Furthermore, these kinds of cards are becoming increasingly affordable, making them an attractive option for gamers on a budget.
When buying a graphics card, features such as connections and outputs should also be taken into account, as these can affect what kinds of monitors and devices are compatible with the gaming PC. Again, it is a good idea to go with a trusted brand such as AMD or NVIDIA, as this will help guarantee a good quality product.
Cooling System
Having a good cooling system is another essential component when building a gaming PC. As gaming PCs contain multiple components that heat up during intense gaming, it is important to have efficient cooling solutions to ensure the computer remains at a reasonable temperature. A combination of high quality fans and liquid coolers are recommended, as this will help keep the components running at optimal levels.
The type of fans and coolers also plays an important role. For example, pulse-width modulation (PWM) fans are best for gaming PCs as they can be modified to control the RPM and hence vibration or noise levels. On the other hand, AIO coolers are preferable for liquid cooling, as they come with one unit that is relatively easy to install. While these choices may add to the cost of the PC, the improved performance is often worth it.
Power Supply Unit
In order to keep all components running, the gaming PC needs to have a reliable power supply unit. The wattage requirement of a gaming PC varies depending on the type and number of components, so it is important to visit a reliable website such as OuterVision and use their calculator to accurately determine the right PSU. It is also a good idea to buy a PSU with a high efficiency rating and some headroom, as this ensures the system has enough power to run consistently in all scenarios.
The brand of the PSU is also an important factor to consider. Although there are many good quality brands, some famous names such as Corsair, EVGA and Seasonic offer premium products that are well worth the additional cost. Typical PSU lifespans are around three to five years, so it is important to choose a reputable brand with warranty.
Operating System and Software
Another important component for a gaming PC is the operating system and associated software. In general, Microsoft Windows is considered the best choice. Windows 10 is the latest and most widely used, providing a robust internal system with many creative and gaming-related features.
Microsoft Office is also essential as it provides essential productivity tools, essential for players post-gaming or who need to be productive. An Antivirus program such as AVG or Avast is also a good idea to prevent malicious software from invading the PC.
When it comes to gaming software, Steam is one of the most popular choices due to its wide selection of games and features, as well as its relatively low cost. Other popular choices include GOG, Origin and Uplay, which are similar to Steam but have smaller libraries.
Budget
Having a good budget is perhaps the most important thing when building a gaming PC. As gaming PCs require many strong components to run effectively, they are usually quite expensive. Generally speaking, a good quality gaming PC will cost around $1,000 to $1,500, but depending on the components chosen it can be more or less.
It is also a good idea to set a strict budget before shopping, regardless of the total cost. This prevents buyers from going overboard and spending more than they can afford. Of course, a few extra dollars can be invested if the system requires it, but having a budget and sticking to it is essential in order to get the most out of the gaming PC.
Conclusion
Building the best gaming PC requires making some important choices and researching your options carefully. When choosing the individual components, from the CPU and GPU to the storage and RAM, it pays to invest in good quality brands and products. Other important elements to consider include the cooling system, power supply unit, operating system and budget. By carefully balancing each of these elements, gamers can create a powerful, custom gaming PC without breaking the bank.
