A gaming PC is a specialized desktop computer tailored to the hardware needs of gamers, with unique features that no other computer can provide. It is the perfect machine for serious gamers who are looking to get the most out of their gaming experience. So, what exactly makes a good gaming PC in 2018?
Performance and specs are the most important criteria to consider when buying a gaming PC. Look for a processor that offers powerful performance, with a clock speed of at least 3 to 4 GHz. The processor should also be over-clocked, as this enables higher performance and faster frame rates in games. Memory is another essential factor; the more the merrier. The minimum RAM requirement should be 16GB, with at least 32GB recommended for smooth gaming. Graphics is an important consideration too; choose a GPU that supports the latest and greatest games. A good GTX 1080 is an excellent choice. Furthermore, the PC’s motherboard should be able to handle all your peripherals, such as high-end mice, headsets and keyboards.
Design and expandability are crucial building blocks for a gaming PC. The gaming rig should have ample ports and a good power supply. The power supply should provide ample energy for all your components, including overclocking options. This will ensure that your gaming experience stays smooth. Additionally, opt for a compact design that won’t take up too much space. This enables you to upgrade and add more components, if needed, without having to re-arrange the components.
Cooling is an important factor in any gaming PC. Despite the advent of water cooling solutions, it is vital to keep in mind that the cooling is an integral part of the PC. A good cooling system consists of a combination of fans, radiators and heat sinks that ensure that the processor and graphics card stay within the optimal temperature range. This will ensure that they stay at their peak performance levels, while reducing the risk of any potential hardware damage or instability.
Finally, look for a gaming PC with customizable features. This could include a unique design, custom-made hardware, pre-installed software and more. This will enable you to customize the gaming PC to match your preferences, and make it truly one-of-a-kind.
CPUs and Graphics
CPUs and Graphics Cards are important components of a good gaming PC. The processor is the brain of the PC, and it’s essential to choose one that is suitable for gaming. A processor with multiple cores and at least 4GHz of clock speed is ideal for gaming. Additionally, choose a GPU from an AMD Radeon or Nvidia GeForce series – these are especially popular with gamers. It’s also essential to have Multi-GPU support, which allows you to attach multiple graphics cards to your PC. This will greatly increase the performance and visuals of your gaming experience.
Furthermore, the GPU should come with dedicated memory, or VRAM. This is a type of memory built directly into the graphics card and is used to store high-resolution textures and other data. Dedicated memory is essential for gaming and should provide at least 4GB or more. Investigate the total memory bandwidth of the GPUs, as this will provide an indication of how much data it can process in a given second.
The GTX 1080 is a powerful GPU and provides fantastic performance for all gaming needs. It showcases 8GB of GDDR5X VRAM and has a total memory bandwidth of 320GB/sec – that’s more than enough for any demanding gaming experience. Alternatively, the AMD RX 480 is a good choice for those on a budget. It provides excellent performance for its price, with 8GB of GDDR5 VRAM and 256GB/sec of total memory bandwidth.
When choosing the GPU and processor, always consider the future-proofing of your system. Investing in one of the latest GPUs ensures compatibility with upcoming games and consoles. In addition, opt for a processor with Hyperthreading or multi-core support, which enables the processor to handle task-intensive games and multiple threads simultaneously.
Finally, the GPU should come with optimized drivers that match its specifications. This will ensure that there are no software limitations on performance, and the driver will be compatible with all the latest games.
Storage and Memory
When it comes to storage and memory, the PC should be equipped with the right components. You should purchase enough RAM to meet the gaming needs of your system. Typical requirements for gaming are a minimum of 8GB, but 16GB is recommended for smooth game play. In terms of storage, aim for a minimum capacity of 256GB. For high-end gaming, choose an SSD with at least 512GB of storage.
HDDs are an ideal choice for gaming due to their lower cost and large capacity. While they are slower than SSDs, they provide plenty of storage space for multiple games and large game files. Meanwhile, SSDs offer faster loading speeds and better response times than HDDs. They are becoming increasingly popular for gaming due to their improved performance and shorter loading times. However, due to their limited storage capacity, SSDs are only recommended for gamers with enough resources to maintain multiple accounts.
When building a gaming PC, one should also remember to choose a suitable PSU. The power supply is responsible for supplying energy to the PC, and choosing a wattage higher than the minimum requirement will ensure better performance and reliability. Aim for a wattage that is slightly higher than the recommended requirements by the manufacturer, as this will provide an adequate margin for upgrades and alterations. It is also important to purchase a PSU with a high efficiency rating, as this saves energy and results in lower power bills.
Another factor to consider is the type of memory used by the PC. There are two main types of memory used in gaming PCs – DDR3 and DDR4. DDR3 is cheaper and slower compared to DDR4, while DDR4 provides improved performance and higher speeds. For optimal performance and reliability, it is recommended to opt for a gaming PC with DDR4 RAM.
Finally, opt for a gaming PC with good expandability. This could come in the form of additional PCIe slots, or additional hard drive or memory slots for upgrades. Expandability adds future-proofing to your gaming PC, allowing you to upgrade components without having to invest in a brand new system. It also ensures that your PC can handle games from the latest generations, making it the perfect choice for ambitious gamers.
Peripherals
Finally, good peripherals are essential for a great gaming experience. A good gaming keyboard is a must, as it provides improved accuracy and precision when playing. Mechanical keyboards are especially popular amongst gamers due to their durable construction and tactile feedback. A good gaming mouse should also form part of the gaming setup. Look for a mouse with a good sensor, adjustable levels of sensitivity and multiple settings. This provides gamers with maximum accuracy and greater control over their gaming.
A good headset can greatly enhance the gaming experience. Aim for a model with virtual 7.1 or surround sound that provides plenty of clarity and superior sound quality. Gaming headsets that come with a noise-cancelling microphone are also much appreciated by gamers. They ensure that your team mates can hear you clearly and that your presence can be felt in the game.
The peripheral setup should also include a gaming mouse mat, as it eliminates the possibility of slippage when using the mouse. They come in different sizes and materials and should match the size of the mouse. A good mouse mat also comes with non-slip rubber backing that offers stability and prevents the mouse from moving when in use.
Finally, a good monitor should also be part of any gaming setup. Aim for a large screen with a high refresh rate that provides superior visuals. Look for a monitor with a higher resolution like 4K, as this will greatly enhance the gaming experience. However, bear in mind that higher resolutions may require a powerful graphics card to run.
Along with the monitor, opt for a good gaming chair. It should be ergonomically designed and provide the necessary level of support and comfort. Additionally, ensure the chair is adjustable and has the right levels of padding. A good gaming chair could go a long way in improving your gaming posture, eliminating fatigue and increasing productivity.
Software
The gaming PC should be equipped with the right software in order to function optimally. To start with, a good operating system is essential. Windows 10 is one of the most popular choices for gaming and provides plenty of features and options. Linux is an excellent alternative for those who are looking for an open-source OS. It is lightweight and customizable, and the overall performance is slightly better than its Windows counterpart.
It is also useful to install software for monitoring and optimizing system performance. There are many such programs available online; CCleaner is a popular choice amongst gamers. It can delete unnecessary files from your computer, freeing up valuable disk space. Additionally, use programs like MSI Afterburner or EVGA Precision X to overclock your GPU and ensure that it runs at maximum performance.
When it comes to gaming, you should only install games that you intend to play. Some gamers install several games in advance, but it is much wiser to wait until you actually need them. This will not only save you money, but it will also prevent clutter and keep your PC running smoothly. Additionally, you should install antivirus software in order to protect yourself from viruses and other malicious software.
Along with these, consider purchasing a gaming headset with specialized software that offers a range of customization options. This will allow you to control the sound quality, virtual surround sound and audio settings to suit your needs. Additionally, it can enhance the gaming experience by providing realistic sound effects and allowing you to connect with people from around the world.
Finally, update your PC’s drivers regularly with the latest versions. Check the official website of the graphics card’s manufacturer for the updates or use specialized software to scan your system for outdated drivers and automatically update them. This will ensure that your system runs optimally and that you experience the latest features and changes.
