It is important to consider what specs are needed for gaming PC. This guide will provide an overview of the key components of a gaming computer and explain the importance of each. The goal is to provide an informative introduction to the topic of gaming PC specifications, so that you can make an informed decision when building or purchasing a gaming rig.
The main difference between a gaming PC and an average desktop PC is the amount of processing power and graphical capacity required. A gaming PC should have at least an Intel Core i5 processor, or an equivalent AMD processor, and should feature a dedicated graphics card. This is because a dedicated graphics card provides enhanced graphical performance, particularly in the case of complex and visually intensive video games.
Another key component in a gaming PC is the RAM. When it comes to RAM, more is typically better. It is recommended that a gaming PC has at least 8GB of RAM, with 16GB being the ideal amount for gaming at the highest settings. This amount of RAM will allow for smooth game play and will allow gamers to run multiple intensive applications simultaneously.
In addition to RAM, it is important to consider the storage capacity of the gaming PC. The most common storage solutions for gaming PCs are Solid State Drives (SSD) and Hard Disc Drives (HDD). SSDs provide faster loading times than HDD and have less of a tendency to freeze than HDD, while HDD are larger and can store more data.
It is essential to have a good monitor to enjoy a quality gaming experience. It is recommended to purchase a monitor with a resolution of 1920×1080, or higher if you have the budget, as this will provide sharp and detailed graphics. Furthermore, it is important to consider the refresh rate as this is a key factor in providing smooth and responsive gaming graphics.
Finally, there should be no compromise when it comes to cooling. Investing in a good quality cooling system should be a priority for any gaming PC. This includes fans to keep the system cool, as well as a CPU cooler to reduce temperatures from the processor.
Choosing the Right Graphics Card
The graphics card is arguably the most important component within a gaming PC as it is responsible for how the game looks and performs. Dedicated graphics cards with powerful processors create a stark contrast compared to non-dedicated options. Good graphics cards for gaming PCs include Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Ti, AMD Radeon RX 580 and GTX 1070.
It is important to consider the cooling system, the power supply, and the form factor of the graphics card, as these factors have a huge impact on the performance of the gaming PC. If a dedicated graphics card is too expensive, there are lower end alternatives that can provide an acceptable gaming experience without requiring the latest and greatest GPU.
It is worth considering overclocking the graphics card, as this can potentially improve the performance of the gaming PC, although this should be done with caution as it can void the warranty of the graphics card. Additionally, the chosen graphics card should be supported by the motherboard, otherwise this will affect the overall performance.
Optimizing the Components
Once the gaming PC is assembled it is crucial to optimize the components. This involves updating the BIOS, tuning the display settings and installing the appropriate drivers. Additionally, it is possible to tweak settings within the games to ensure a smooth playing experience. This can involve increasing the frame rate or lowering the graphics settings if necessary.
One popular PC gaming optimization technique is to turn off window animations. While this may not improve performance much, it does speed up load times and can make the gaming experience smoother. It is also important to defragment the hard drive and uninstall unwanted programs to free up space and optimize the performance of the gaming PC.
Ensuring that the gaming PC is running at full power requires regularly cleaning and maintaining the hardware. Dust will accumulate on the components over time, so it is important to clean the fans, the case, and the other components to ensure proper airflow and cooling.
Another way to monitor the performance of the gaming PC is by researching the benchmark scores. This will give an indication as to how your gaming PC is performing compared to others. Regularly checking the benchmark scores will also ensure that the gaming PC is being fully utilized.
Upgrading PC Components
If performance is still not as desired after optimizing the settings, it may be necessary to upgrade the PC components. Upgrading the RAM or graphics card are the most popular upgrade options. These upgrades can improve the gaming experience, but must be chosen carefully to ensure they are compatible with the motherboard.
Additionally, it is important to consider the power supply when considering upgrades, as upgrading the graphics card may require a more powerful power supply in order to support the extra load. If the power supply is not powerful enough, the upgrade will not result in an improvement in performance.
When looking to improve the performance of a gaming PC, the most cost effective option is often to upgrade the RAM. Increasing the amount of RAM to the recommended 16 GB can greatly improve the gaming experience without spending a lot of money.
If budget is not an issue, a more comprehensive upgrade may involve replacing the processor, graphics card and possibly the motherboard. This is not as simple as upgrading one component, as all must be compatible and optimized to ensure maximum performance.
Considering the Heat Generation
Heat is a major issue when it comes to gaming PCs and can have a detrimental effect on performance. A good cooling system is essential to prevent the components from overheating. The system should include several fans, as well as a CPU cooler. If there is insufficient cooling, the components may become damaged due to thermal throttling or even manufacturer defect.
It is also important to pick the right case for the gaming PC. The case should allow for good airflow as this will help in keeping the components cool. Additionally, good airflow also helps to reduce noise from the fans, although some gamers prefer higher airflow which can be more noisy.
Finally, it is important to clean the fans regularly and make sure that the air intake is not blocked by dust. As with all components, regularly cleaning the gaming PC will help to maintain its performance and maximize its lifespan.
Summary
When building a gaming PC, it is important to consider a number of factors, such as the processor, the RAM, the storage capacity, the monitor, and the cooling system. Additionally, it is also essential to consider the graphics card, as well as the power supply and form factor. Optimizing the settings and keeping the hardware clean are also essential to ensure a smooth gaming experience.
Upgrading the components is a cost effective way to increase the performance of the gaming PC. When selecting new components, however, it is important to ensure they are compatible and do not exceed the capacity of the power supply. Additionally, it is important to consider the heat generation when gaming and ensure that the cooling system is sufficient.
