Finding the best starter gaming PC depends on several important considerations. Budget and desired performance both come into play when selecting a gaming PC, as well as any desired additional features. To ensure the best performance possible, buying an appropriate central processing unit (CPU) is paramount. The CPU is the brain of the computer, so a knowledgeable decision is necessary for a powerful and satisfying gaming experience. In regards to additional features, necessary items such as a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) and RAM, need to be taken into account. Before any purchase is made, it is important to review the aforementioned components to have the right gaming PC.
The best and most effective starter gaming PC will have the hardware to support the most commonly used games nowadays. Many modern games like Red Dead Redemption 2 requires an up-to-date setup to operate properly. Look for a gaming PC that comes with the right specs to run your favorite games and features the newest hardware available so that future gaming experiences remain satisfying. Additionally, the rate of updates offered by the vendor should be an important factor when selecting a brand.
When selecting the central processing unit, Intel is the dominant force in the market. Although AMD processors can provide great performance, Intel crams more transistors and compute power in a single socket, which gives Intel processors the edge. Intel’s Core i5 and Core i7 processors are the best for gaming PCs, as they provide stronger single-threaded performance for games. Opt for the i7 processor if it fits within the budget, although the additional expense may not be required for a starter PC.
The graphics processing unit is one of the most important components in a gaming PC. It provides video outputs, accelerates 3D graphics, and offers additional features such as PhysX support. Many modern games can easily be played with just a mid-range card, like an AMD Radeon 5700 or an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650. High-end cards such as the Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 and the AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT are more suited for high-level professional gaming and can cost a hefty sum.
Physical memory, often referred to as RAM, is needed to support gaming and the additional programs running on the PC. Additionally, virtual memory created from the hard drive is used to help with multitasking. An adequate amount of RAM is needed to help reduce video stuttering, depending on the game being played. Generally speaking, 8GB of RAM is advisable for heavy gaming use. Consider buying 8GB of RAM with the option to upgrade to 16GB in the future if needed.
In addition to the specs mentioned above, think about the kind of monitor needed, peripherals such as a mouse, keyboard and headphones, and the operating system. Windows 10 is the dominant operating system used by gamers today and can offer features that can improve gaming performance. Finally, a good warranty should be taken into consideration, as it will protect the user from any possible hardware defects.
Types of Cases
When it comes to choosing the case for a gaming setup, there are several options. The traditional full tower is a large chassis that provides extra space for additional components and powerful cooling systems. A full-tower case, however, can be bulky and expensive. A mid-tower, on the other hand, is suitable for medium-sized gaming PCs and is more affordable. Mini-ITX cases are the most compact and provide the least space for storage and upgrades. Lastly, custom-built cases have become increasingly popular as they offer options that can improve a gaming setup’s look and performance.
Cooling Systems
Cooling is essential for optimal gaming performance. Without proper cooling, the components of a gaming PC can overheat and shut down. High-end hardware generates a large amount of heat and requires the use of fans, liquid cooled systems, or both. Most cases come with at least one fan pre-installed, but some have more, depending on their size. Liquid cooling is a popular option and can provide better temperatures for overclocking. A closed-loop liquid cooling system will provide the most effective cooling as it absorbs and dissipates heat better than air systems.
Storage Capacity
Choosing the right kind of storage is necessary for a good gaming experience. Most games are large and require plenty of storage. Many gamers prefer to have an SSD as their primary storage device, and a mechanical hard drive as their secondary. SSDs have significantly faster read and write speeds than hard drives and can load games quickly. However, they can be expensive and offer limited capacities compared to hard drives. A good combination for a starter gaming PC would be a 250GB SSD for the operating system and a 1TB hard drive for games and other files.
Networking
Having a reliable and fast connection is crucial for a gaming PC, as no one wants laggy online experiences. Wired connections usually provide better speeds and stability, as they are less prone to interference than wireless ones. If a wired connection is not available, then a strong WiFi connection should be sought out. A router with dual-band technology and at least AC1200 WiFi speeds is recommended for gamers, as it will provide the best speeds and stability.
Conclusion
Choosing the right starter gaming PC requires a lot of research. Many factors need to be taken into account, such as the type of CPU, GPU, RAM, case and cooling system. The right combination of these components will guarantee a powerful and satisfying gaming experience. Additionally, the availability of other components like a monitor, keyboard and mouse, and a good connection, must be taken into consideration.
