Building a gaming PC has become a task for both casual gamers and hardcore enthusiasts alike. In the era of “plug and play”, custom-made gaming rigs provide an array of advantages, from an optimized performance to powerful and immersive visuals. Assembling the parts correctly is essential though. Therefore, understanding which pieces are essential for the build is key.
CPU, or central processing unit, is arguably the most important component of a gaming PC. It processes data from storage and RAM to calculate calculations, actions and inputs. Choosing a CPU among the available models in the market can be perplexing, however. It is recommended to opt for a processor that boasts an array of cores and high clock speed. It’s also advisable to pair it with a solid cooler and make sure it has no trouble keeping the processor at steady temperature.
Graphics cards are a must-have for any gaming machine. They’re responsible for rendering and relaying the image to the monitor. Its power derives from its own processing unit, streaming processors and the on-board Random Access Memory (VRAM). GPUs tend to be quite an expense so it’s wise to look into the card’s specs before acquiring one. Additionally, a powerful PSU is also required here, so make sure it can handle the load.
The system’s RAM is responsible for running applications and coordinating requests. A suitable amount of RAM paired with aCPU of the same speed can exponentially boost performance. However, it is important to keep in mind that the type of RAM and its clock speed must match the motherboard’s specs.
A motherboard provides a connection layer between all the components, so it’s important to think about things such as size, brand and port compatibility. When selecting one, make sure the form factor matches the case and the CPU socket is compatible with the processor’s brand and series. Furthermore, a good platform should offer enough expansion slots for further upgrades.
Hard drives are another mandatory part of a gaming PC. While they don’t necessarily add to performance, they’re responsible for storing and accessing data. Solid State Drives (SSD) are higher performance-wise, however they are much more pricy, so it’s important to get the right balance between performance and cost.
Last but not least, the power supply (PSU) is the backbone of an efficient gaming machine. A solid power supply ensures a steady and safe flow of electricity to all components, preventing malfunctions and compromising the performance. Assembling a quality gaming PC requires selecting a dependable PSU of a suitable wattage.
Operating Systems
Choosing the right operating system, or OS, is essential when building a gaming PC. Besides providing the base infrastructure and libraries, it is also responsible for user interface and compatibility with various applications. Currently, Windows 10 and Linux are two of the most popular OS’s among PC gamers, with their strengths and weaknesses.
For instance, Windows 10 offers a massive library of native and third-party applications, it’s easy to learn and use, and most hardware components are supported directly. However, it’s not free and can require constant upgrades. Linux, on the other hand, is an open-source OS meaning it’s free and guarantees security. Nonetheless, it can be harder to install and use, and it may not support certain features and hardware.
Therefore, depending on the specific needs, budget, and even experience with each type of system, one should go for the OS that’s best fit for the PC. An additional option is to dual-boot two systems, so users can enjoy the advantages of both platforms.
Cases
Besides functionality, cases are also important when it comes to cooling and aesthetics. While most cases will work, different types are suited for different parts depending on the size and design. For instance, full tower ATX cases boast superior interior space well suited for powerful towers, while Micro ATX cases are more convenient with their size while still maintaining compatibility with most components.
At the end of the day, cases are mainly chosen based on design, brand and material preferences, as well as budget constraints. Keep in mind that size is a general indicator of potential cooling capacity, so it deserves special attention. If aesthetics are important, consider having a theme or color scheme in mind when buying one, as certain components come in specific models.
Monitors
Choosing a monitor is a critical part of building a gaming PC. They come in different sizes and configurations, from embedded monitors to curved, ultra-wide and Dual Monitor setups. Monitors also offer varying resolutions, refresh rates, viewing angles and input lag. It is important to pick one with the right balance of performance and cost.
Ultra-wide models are best suited for a personalized gaming experience, however they require more powerful GPUs and CPUs to run properly. 4K monitors also provide a vivid image, however they tend to suffer from input lag, making them poorer choices for gaming. Among all models, 1080p displays might offer the clearest visuals without the need of more powerful components.
Moreover, it is important to ensure the monitor is certified with the GPU’s technology. Furthermore, the GPU’s max resolution should also be taken into account. Also, keep in mind if the monitor has an integrated speakers and if you will require a dedicated sound card to have a full sound experience.
Peripherals
Keyboard and mouse are probably the most essential peripherals for a gaming PC. The difference between an average model and an high-quality device lies in the input lag, tracking speed and build quality. In terms of keyboards, mechanical models are the most popular ones, however there are also gaming keyboards with an array of multimedia and backlight options.
As for pointing devices, a good gaming mouse should relatively accurate and boast several buttons that can verified to respond in milliseconds. Furthermore, the shape is also important since it will determine how comfortable the user feels when using it. Also, if the user’s desk space is limited, it might be a good opportunity to get a wireless one.
Other accessories such as gamepads, steering wheels, and headphones are often very game dependent. Some gaming rigs may benefit from additional devices such as capture cards, streaming microphones and specialized cooling solutions such as case fans.
Budget
When building a gaming PC, budget is an important factor, especially in a market where some of the components can be very pricy. It is important not to sacrifice reliability and quality to save some money, as selecting inferior parts can compromise the system’s performance.
Before starting to acquire components, it is advisable to determine a budget and start researching for reliable models. Deals for certain models also sometimes arise and can give buyers a chance to get better parts at a much better price. Also, in some cases, waiting for a sale may prove to be beneficial.
On the other hand, opting for used components could be an option too. Depending on their state, they can be reliable and may be a better economic option than brand new parts. The challenge, however, is to check that they are in proper condition and compatible with the rest of the components.
Maintenance
Lastly, it is important to keep a gaming PC in good condition to continually gain the utmost out of its performance. There are several practices which can maintain the machine in an healthy condition, such as keeping clean the components’s fans, using specific cleaning liquids, and properly maintain the rig.
It is also important to avoid having the PC near sources of heat or dust, as these can damage the components over time and limit their performance. Dust also heats up the system and must be cleared out regularly. Additionally, leaving the PC running excessively can shorten the lifespan of the components, so it is advisable power it off when not in use.
Assembling a gaming PC is a task that requires knowledge and good decisions. Balancing performance, cost and quality for each part is essential to build a machine that can last for years. Remember that the criteria for selecting components can vary between gamers, but all should strive for a dependable assembly.
